A government shutdown could really stress out the air travel system — and its passengers
. The 800,000 furloughed federal employees, including Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents and air traffic controllers, mean that nearly one-third of the TSA’s employees would be sent home without pay, resulting in longer wait times and flight delays. Additionally, essential personnel such as air traffic controllers will have to work without pay and potentially in unsafe conditions with fewer resources. This could mean that some flights will be cancelled altogether. Moreover, maintenance regulation and inspection will be undermined. without adequate oversight, air carrier safety operations cannot be guaranteed – leading to further flight disruptions. Of course, the passengers’ experience could suffer as line lengths, flight delays, and other risks increase. Moreover, many public services desired by travelers, such as those at national parks, airports, and borders, will be closed or disrupted too. Furthermore, the government would not collect taxes and fees, such as those imposed by airlines, and delays in refunding fees would be likely. Thus, travelers can expect serious disruption in air travel due to a government shutdown.