Thousands of British travelers bound for the United States are encountering significant delays or flight cancellations due to the ongoing US government shutdown. Travelers planning trips to or from the US are being warned about potential disruptions following the Trump administration’s reduction in air traffic control capacity. This shutdown is not only impacting travel logistics but also affecting airport staffing and access to popular tourist sites.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued updated guidance for UK travelers, advising them to expect longer queues, flight delays, and limited services at US airports. Visitors are urged to verify the status of famous landmarks, national parks, and museums in advance as many are federally funded and may have restricted access or be closed entirely.
The current US federal government shutdown, which began on October 1, has resulted in unpaid federal workers, reduced services, and political gridlock between Democrats and Republicans in Congress. The FCDO’s travel advisory cautions of potential travel disruptions, flight delays, and longer wait times at airports due to the shutdown, emphasizing the importance of staying informed through travel providers.
While transportation security and air traffic control services are operational during the shutdown, staffing shortages due to unpaid or absent employees could lead to increased delays, especially at major international airports like JFK, LAX, Orlando, and Atlanta. Domestic travelers within the US may also experience heightened security checkpoint wait times, impacting connecting flights and causing delays nationwide.
The closure of federally-managed tourist attractions, including national parks like the Grand Canyon and museums in major cities such as Washington DC, could also occur if funding is not restored. Travelers are advised to check opening hours beforehand and remain flexible in their plans, especially for multi-stop itineraries.
Despite the ongoing shutdown’s impact on government operations and public services, flights between the UK and US are still running, and privately-run businesses like hotels and restaurants are unaffected. However, travelers are urged to exercise caution and not assume that all services will operate normally amidst the political impasse in Congress.
The government shutdown is a result of disagreements in Congress over public spending, with Republicans advocating for cuts to public services and Democrats opposing these measures to safeguard the economy and welfare programs. As the funding deadlock persists, non-essential federal programs remain suspended, and many federal employees are on unpaid leave until a resolution is reached.