Travel Disruptions Amplify as US Government Shutdown Enters Third Week
The ongoing US government shutdown, now in its third week as of October 18, 2025, is causing significant disruptions in the travel industry. Flight delays are on the rise, and immigration lines at US airports are experiencing congestion levels akin to peak travel periods.
As reported by the US Travel Association, the shutdown is draining America’s travel economy, with an estimated $1 billion in lost spending per week. Approximately 800,000 federal employees are directly affected. Critical agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) continue to operate with unpaid staff, potentially leading to morale issues and staffing shortages.
While some travel agencies report limited disruptions in transatlantic flights, travelers are advised to anticipate delays and consider alternative routes for international travel. The National Park Service and Smithsonian Institution websites are providing updates on closures and operational changes. Industry experts caution that additional disruptions are probable if the shutdown persists, particularly affecting the traditionally busy October travel period coinciding with British term holidays.
Source: Travel and Tour World