Government shutdown impacts air travel Columbus Day weekend

WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. (WWLP) – It’s the 10th day of the government shutdown, and concerns are on the rise about its impact on air travel this Columbus Day weekend.

As the shutdown continues, flights are still taking off, but the aviation sector faces numerous challenges, resulting in delays and cancellations for travelers.

Air Travelers are beginning to fly out or land for their Columbus Day weekend plans, but since the government shutdown, air traffic controllers and TSA security have had to start working without pay, leading to staffing shortages. This caused the Federal Aviation Administration to reduce the number of flights in and out of airports to handle all the air traffic safely.

Those landing at Bradley International Airport said they didn’t see an impact on their flight. “Our flight went off perfectly. So we were really lucky flying out of Tampa,” said Jackie Siegel of Florida.

But they are worried about the flight home if the shutdown persists. “We’re going to Boston, so we’re a little nervous about going out of there,” expressed Connor Smedberg of Florida.

Governor Maura Healey released a statement that the shutdown has led to nearly 2,000 TSA agents and air traffic controllers working without pay at Boston Logan airport. She stated in part, “These public servants have families to provide for and bills to pay – and they’re continuing to show up to do their jobs. I want them to know that we see them, we appreciate their service, and we are going to fight to make sure they get the pay they have earned.”

A spokesperson for Bradley International Airport told 22News they’re also seeing an impact on air traffic controllers and TSA, but they aren’t seeing any operational impacts or widespread delays. They add, “Flight schedule changes are at the discretion of each individual airline – not BDL. There’s really no way to predict schedule changes ahead of time. It’s important to note that not all flight delays can be attributed to the current government shutdown. There are several factors that can contribute to a flight status change, such as weather, maintenance, and crew scheduling.”

If a flight change is made, put into place the FAA Reauthorization Act will ensure that passengers will be provided timely and hassle-free refunds from airlines. “Airlines have a responsibility under my law to compensate 100%, every passenger,” said Senator Ed Markey, who pushed this law forward.

If a passenger does experience a flight status change – either a delay or cancellation – it’s recommended to contact their airline to see what their options are. They are also encouraged to check the status of their flight before coming to the airport.

Table of Contents

Toggle

Local News Headlines

Massachusetts Senate advances menstrual product bills

Government shutdown impacts air travel Columbus Day weekend

Springfield’s biggest Oktoberfest celebrates 90 years

State House Spotlight: Law and order

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Download the 22News Plus app on your TV to watch live-streaming newscasts and video on demand.