Baton Rouge airport operations steady despite government shutdown

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — As the federal government shutdown continues, questions about its potential impact on air travel are growing. But at Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR), operations are running smoothly, even as travel picks up for LSU and Southern University homecoming weekends.

“We haven’t had any disruptions to our operation, and we don’t anticipate any immediate disruptions,” said Aviation Director Mike Edwards. “Typically, during big game weekends, we’ll see anywhere from a five to ten percent uptick in passenger volume.”

Despite the uncertainty in Washington, key personnel such as TSA security officers and air traffic controllers are still reporting to work. Edwards said those employees are considered essential workers, meaning they’ll continue working through the shutdown, though their pay could be temporarily delayed.

“This Friday will be the last day, I’m told, that federal employees will receive paychecks,” Edwards said. “Assuming the shutdown doesn’t resolve soon, they could go without pay at some point.”

So far, Baton Rouge has seen no flight cancellations or major delays. However, nationally, staffing shortages at airports have led to increased wait times and some disruptions.

“It is a difficult time for our federal partners, but we just really appreciate their hard work and dedication,” Edwards added.

Airport officials say they’re staying in close contact with federal partners to monitor the situation and will continue updating travelers if any changes occur. For now, flights in and out of Baton Rouge remain on schedule.

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