Navigating Flight Disruptions During the US Government Shutdown: Passenger Rights and Action Plan

Check your airline's app or flight websites before heading to the airport to confirm your flight is still scheduled.

The federal government shutdown has now stretched into its second week, causing air traffic controller shortages that are disrupting flight operations across multiple US airports.

Reagan National Airport recently reported delays due to staffing issues on Wednesday. Earlier this week, airports in Chicago, Newark, Denver, and Nashville experienced similar problems, while Burbank, California's tower had to cease operations for several hours.

Industry experts and union representatives for air traffic controllers and security personnel warn that disruptions could worsen significantly if the shutdown continues and employees miss their paychecks.

Here's what passengers should know about their rights and how to manage flight disruptions during this period:

Avoid being stranded at the airport by verifying your flight status through airline apps or websites before departing for the airport. The FAA website provides information on widespread delays at specific airports.

Kyle Potter, Thrifty Traveler's executive editor, recommends closely following news updates if you have upcoming travel plans.

"Congress could potentially reach a deal any day, which would quickly resolve the uncertainty surrounding air travel," Potter noted.

If you're already at the airport when disruptions occur, immediately seek alternative flights. Approach customer service representatives in person while simultaneously contacting the airline's reservation team online or by phone. Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) can also provide quick assistance from airlines.

Airlines will rebook you on later flights at no additional cost. The current non-peak travel period increases your chances of securing seats. However, the upcoming holiday season will make rebooking more challenging, potentially causing days-long waits for new flights.

If disruptions become more widespread, consider alternative transportation like trains, cars, or buses. However, predicting when and where staffing shortages might occur remains difficult, as even a small number of controller absences can create significant problems due to the critical ongoing shortage.

Potter emphasizes that unlike situations where only one airline experiences problems, the shutdown affects entire airports simultaneously.

"As problems expand during a prolonged shutdown, it's unlikely one airline will maintain punctuality while others fail. The entire system will be affected over time," he explained.

While you can request booking on another carrier, airlines aren't obligated to accommodate such requests. Major airlines except Southwest and budget carriers may offer partner airline options, though success varies.

Jeff Klee, CheapAir.com's CEO, suggests researching alternative flights while waiting to speak with an agent.

If you decide to cancel your trip or find alternative transportation, airlines are legally required to refund your money, even for non-refundable tickets, when they cancel flights.

"When an airline cancels your flight, you can request a refund instead of accepting travel," Potter advised. "It's important to receive your payment back rather than settling for potentially short-lived airline vouchers."

Refunds should also cover baggage fees, seat upgrades, and other unused extras.

US airlines aren't currently required to provide additional compensation or cover accommodations and meals for stranded passengers, even when cancellations result from airline issues.

The Biden administration had proposed rules requiring airlines to compensate passengers for delays and cancellations in more situations, with payments ranging from approximately $200 to $775. However, the Trump administration recently eliminated this proposal, earning praise from airlines.

Each airline has different policies. The US Department of Transportation provides a website where consumers can review each carrier's commitments regarding refunds and expense coverage for canceled or significantly delayed flights.

Travel insurance might help if purchased when booking or if offered through your travel credit card, but Potter warns against assuming coverage. Check policy details to confirm coverage for worker shortage-related disruptions.

During mass cancellations, airline agents quickly become overwhelmed. If traveling in a group with someone holding elite status in the airline's loyalty program, call using their frequent flyer number for potentially faster service.

Consider calling your airline's international support number, which often has shorter wait times and can be found on their website.

Remember to be courteous. Agents are helping many frustrated travelers, and the cancellations aren't their fault. Treating them respectfully increases your chances of receiving assistance.