Roberta Aguirre
While states cannot shut down airports, a government shutdown can cause significant disruptions to airport operations and air travel. In the event of a government shutdown, essential employees at airports, including air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers, would be required to work without pay. This can lead to longer wait times at airports due to reduced staffing and increased absences, as well as potential delays in the deployment of advanced security technology. The impact of a government shutdown on airports highlights the importance of timely funding and the potential consequences for travellers and the economy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can states shut down airports? | No, but a government shutdown could cause airports to be closed. |
| What happens to airport employees during a government shutdown? | Essential employees, such as air traffic controllers and TSA agents, would have to work without pay. |
| How does a government shutdown impact air travel? | It can cause delays, cancellations, and longer wait times at airports. |
| Are there any alternatives to air travel during a shutdown? | Yes, individuals may consider delaying their travel or opting for alternative modes of transportation, such as renting a car. |
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What You'll Learn
- Air traffic controllers and TSA agents deemed essential but work without pay
- Delayed deployment of advanced security technology
- Shutdowns disrupt safety of airspace and cause delays
- Air traffic controllers and TSA officers experience increased absences
- Shutdowns during peak travel periods cause longer wait times
Air traffic controllers and TSA agents deemed essential but work without pay
While states do not have the authority to shut down airports, a government shutdown can significantly impact air travel and safety. During a government shutdown, air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers are deemed essential employees, which means they are required to work without pay. This situation can cause financial hardship for these employees and disrupt the safety and efficiency of the nation's airspace.
Air traffic controllers and TSA agents are critical to ensuring the safe and smooth operation of airports and air travel. They are responsible for guiding aircraft safely through congested airspace, conducting security screenings, and facilitating efficient passenger processing. However, during a government shutdown, they are classified as "excepted employees," who must continue performing their duties despite not receiving paychecks.
In the event of a government shutdown, air traffic controllers and TSA officers are expected to work without pay. This situation can create significant financial challenges for these employees, who may have to dip into their savings or worry about their next paycheck. As a result, it is not uncommon for sick days and unscheduled absences among these workers to spike during shutdowns. During the 2018-2019 government shutdown, for example, the national rate of unscheduled absences for TSA agents reached 10%, leading to lengthy wait times at TSA checkpoints.
The impact of working without pay during a government shutdown can extend beyond the financial strain on individuals. It can also disrupt the safety and efficiency of air travel. As seen in previous shutdowns, a reduction in staff due to absences can result in longer lines at airports, increased wait times, and potential delays for travelers. This disruption can occur during one of the busiest travel periods of the year, affecting millions of Americans and causing significant inconvenience.
The classification of air traffic controllers and TSA agents as essential employees during a government shutdown underscores the critical nature of their roles. However, the financial burden placed on these employees and the potential consequences for air travel safety and efficiency highlight the importance of swift action by elected leaders to fully fund the government and prevent prolonged shutdowns.
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Delayed deployment of advanced security technology
Airport security technology has been evolving, with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) deploying advanced security equipment and systems to enhance threat detection capabilities and improve traveller experience. However, the delayed deployment of such technology can have significant implications for airport operations and traveller safety.
One example of advanced security technology is Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), which allows for near real-time ID authentication, reservation verification, and Secure Flight pre-screening at airport checkpoints. Another is CT scanning equipment, which provides detailed 3D images of baggage contents, improving on traditional 2D imaging and allowing travellers to keep their laptops and liquids in their bags. This technology enhances threat detection capabilities and speeds up the screening process.
AI-powered systems are also being tested to enhance threat detection, with potential deployment in international airports by 2025. These systems use advanced behavioural analysis to streamline security checks. Additionally, biometric security, including facial recognition and fingerprints, enables faster and more accurate identity verification, improving security and the overall travel experience.
However, the delayed deployment of these technologies can result in several issues. Firstly, it can lead to longer wait times at airports, especially during peak travel seasons. This was evident during the 2018-2019 government shutdown, where long lines formed at airports due to increased callouts and absences among TSA agents. Delayed deployment of advanced security technology can also impact the safety of the nation's airspace. With air traffic controllers and TSA agents working without pay, there is a risk of disruptions and decreased efficiency in managing air traffic and securing transportation systems.
Moreover, the aviation industry is highly susceptible to cyberattacks due to its reliance on interconnected IT, OT, and IoT systems. Delayed deployment of advanced security technology can leave airports vulnerable to cyber threats, which can have far-reaching consequences, impacting travellers, airlines, logistics, and supply chains. To mitigate these risks, airports should implement multi-factor authentication, identity and access management solutions, and continuous real-time monitoring to ensure only authorized personnel access sensitive systems. Regular vulnerability assessments and network segmentation can also help contain potential breaches and enhance overall cybersecurity.
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Shutdowns disrupt safety of airspace and cause delays
Government shutdowns can have a significant impact on air travel, causing delays and disruptions to the safety of the nation's airspace. Air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers are considered essential employees, which means they would continue to work even during a shutdown. However, they would do so without pay, which can lead to a spike in sick days and absences, as seen in previous shutdowns. This results in longer wait times at airports and potential delays in air traffic.
During the 2018-2019 government shutdown, the national rate of unscheduled absences for TSA agents reached 10%, causing long lines at airports with wait times of over an hour in some places. This situation not only inconveniences travellers but also stretches the resources of those who do show up for work, potentially impacting their performance and the overall safety of the airspace.
In addition to the immediate impact on airport operations, a shutdown can also delay the deployment of advanced security technology and training for air traffic controllers, a role that is already facing a shortage. The U.S. Travel Association estimates that a shutdown would cost the country's travel economy $140 million per day, affecting livelihoods and jobs across the industry.
The prospect of essential employees working without pay during one of the busiest travel periods of the year has been criticised as unacceptable, with lawmakers urged to find a resolution to avoid disruptions to air travel and the economy. The public deserves a properly functioning government that serves as a good steward of tax dollars, ensuring the safety and efficiency of critical infrastructure like airports.
While commercial airplanes are still scheduled to fly during a shutdown, travellers may experience longer wait times and potential delays or cancellations. It is advisable for travellers to be prepared with alternative travel plans or flexible rebooking options to navigate the potential challenges posed by a government shutdown.
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Air traffic controllers and TSA officers experience increased absences
Air traffic controllers and TSA officers are considered "excepted employees", meaning they perform jobs critical to national health, safety, emergency response, and other essential functions. During a government shutdown, these employees would have to work without pay. This has happened during previous shutdowns, with air traffic controllers and TSA officers working without pay during the 2018-2019 five-week partial government shutdown.
As a result of working without pay, air traffic controllers and TSA officers experienced increased absences. Sick days spiked almost immediately after the 2018-2019 shutdown, with the national rate of unscheduled absences for TSA agents reaching 10%, up from just over 3% the previous year. This caused significant disruptions to air travel, with long lines at airports and increased wait times to get through TSA checkpoints. In some cases, airports were forced to temporarily close terminals due to the shortage of staff.
The increased absences among air traffic controllers and TSA officers also raised concerns about the safety of air travel. During the 2018-2019 shutdown, it only took 10 air traffic controllers calling out sick to temporarily halt travel at LaGuardia Airport in New York City and cause delays at several international airports. The FAA continues to face a shortage of air traffic controllers, which has resulted in flight delays and further stressed the system.
The financial difficulties caused by working without pay are a significant factor contributing to the increased absences. Many employees may have missed shifts due to the need to work second jobs or cover expenses like childcare. Additionally, TSA officers face additional challenges due to their pay lagging behind their counterparts in other government agencies, as they don't receive routine raises or have the same collective bargaining rights.
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Shutdowns during peak travel periods cause longer wait times
Shutdowns during peak travel periods can cause longer wait times and significant disruptions to air travel. Peak travel times refer to periods of high travel activity, typically during specific times of the day, week, or year, such as rush hours, holiday seasons, and the start and end of weekends. During these periods, airports are crowded, roads are busier, and there is an increased demand for flights and accommodation.
When a government shutdown occurs during these peak travel periods, it can result in longer wait times and delays for travellers. This is due to several factors, including staffing shortages and reduced operational capacity. Air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers are considered essential employees and are expected to work without pay during a shutdown. However, as seen in previous shutdowns, this has led to increased sick days and callouts, causing disruptions in the nation's airspace and longer wait times at TSA checkpoints.
For example, during the five-week partial government shutdown in 2018-2019, there was a significant increase in unscheduled absences by TSA agents, reaching a national rate of 10%. This led to long lines at airports, with wait times exceeding an hour in some places and even forcing the temporary closure of terminals in some airports. Similarly, during the 2024 government shutdown, TSA officers were expected to work without pay, and an extended shutdown was anticipated to result in longer wait times at airports.
The impact of shutdowns during peak travel periods extends beyond traveller inconvenience. It can also have economic repercussions, with potential losses for businesses reliant on air travel and tourism. According to the U.S. Travel Association, 86% of respondents in a survey indicated that government shutdowns inconvenience air travellers, and 83% agreed that they negatively affect businesses dependent on tourism.
To mitigate the challenges posed by peak travel periods, advance planning, flexibility in travel dates, remote options, and clear corporate travel policies can help optimize travel budgets and reduce stress for travellers and employees.
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Frequently asked questions
Essential employees, including air traffic controllers and TSA agents, are required to work without pay. This can lead to longer wait times at airports and flight cancellations, diversions, and delays.
The U.S. Travel Association estimated that a shutdown would cost the country's travel economy $140 million per day.
Travellers can download airline apps to stay updated and rebook flights quickly. They can also consider alternative travel options like delaying their trip or renting a car.
There is a 49% chance that US states with two or more international airports will shut down all their international airports simultaneously for an extended period beyond regular hours by the end of 2025.
Indicators include widespread flight cancellations, diversions, and delays across the state. Typically, there will also be official announcements citing reasons such as weather, war, or instability.
