Planning a US trip? What you need to know as the government shutdown enters week two

With the United States government shutdown entering its second week, airline passengers and visitors to national parks are preparing for increasing disruptions. Nonessential federal operations came to a halt at midnight on October 1 after Congress failed to pass a funding bill.

Many federal employees in aviation and security, including air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration ( TSA) staff, have been required to work without pay. The US Travel Association estimates the shutdown has already cost the economy about $1 billion in lost travel spending.

“This shutdown is doing real, irreversible damage,” said Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the US Travel Association. “Travel keeps America moving. When travel is delayed and services are disrupted, the ripple effects reach every corner of our country.”

Air travel impact
The Transportation Department said that around 61,000 TSA workers and more than 13,000 air traffic controllers are continuing to work without pay. Their first missed paydays will fall on October 24 and October 28, respectively.

Flight delays have been limited so far, but staffing shortages are emerging. Burbank Airport’s control tower was temporarily closed this week due to a lack of controllers, delaying flights by more than two hours. Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, told NPR that even one or two absences can increase workloads and delay flights.

Union leaders have stated that there is no organized protest among air traffic controllers or TSA agents, warning that skipping work would be unlawful. However, some airports have already reported an uptick in sick calls.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), flights continue to operate normally for now, though some airports have experienced intermittent delays. The shutdown has also paused hiring and field training for new air traffic controllers, which could worsen staffing shortages if the impasse continues.

Travellers should anticipate longer security lines and potential last-minute schedule changes at major airports, particularly in cities such as New York, Chicago, and Philadelphia. Smaller regional airports may face greater disruption if support staff shortages spread.

Passport and visa services
Passport and visa processing continue for now, as the State Department’s consular operations are funded through service fees rather than congressional appropriations. The American Immigration Lawyers Association has cautioned that if these fee-based funds run out, only emergency and diplomatic visas would be processed.

The US Embassy in India confirmed that scheduled passport and visa services will continue “as long as circumstances allow.” However, visa operations could face delays or limited capacity if staff are affected by furloughs or if funding reserves are depleted.

In addition, systems dependent on the Department of Labor, such as E-Verify, have been suspended. This could affect new work authorisations, immigration filings, and employment-based visa processes that rely on Labor Department certifications.

Amtrak operations
Amtrak, though partially funded by the government, operates as an independent entity and will maintain normal services during the shutdown. “Passengers planning to travel on Amtrak trains in the Northeast Corridor and across the country can be assured that Amtrak will remain open for business,” said W. Kyle Anderson, an Amtrak spokesperson.

National parks and monuments
Most national parks remain open, but services are limited. Parks that charge entry fees are generally free during the shutdown. Some major attractions, such as Independence Hall in Philadelphia and the Gateway Arch’s observation deck in St. Louis, are closed.

States including Utah and West Virginia have used local funds to keep their parks operating. Utah committed to maintaining visitor centers at all five of its national parks, while West Virginia allocated nearly $100,000 to sustain operations at New River Gorge and Harpers Ferry.

The National Parks Conservation Association reported that the park service has already lost 24% of its permanent workforce since January, adding pressure to the system. Reduced staffing could lead to delayed maintenance, limited guided tours, and fewer ranger patrols in popular areas.

Museums and cultural sites
The Smithsonian Institution said its museums and the National Zoo will remain open through Saturday. After that, they will close to the public, though animals will continue to be cared for. The Smithsonian, which receives over half of its funding from the federal government, operates 23 museums and research sites across Washington and New York.

Outdoor monuments, including the National Mall, remain accessible, though restrooms and information centers are closed.

Border operations
All US entry ports by land, air, and sea remain open. The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that immigration, customs, and border operations continue, as most employees in these departments are classified as essential.

Travellers should note that Trusted Traveler Programs, including Global Entry and SENTRI, may face delays in processing or interviews during the shutdown. Those arriving at major ports of entry should expect longer wait times.

What travellers should keep in mind

• Flight delays may grow if controller absences continue. Travellers should monitor airline notifications and airport advisories closely.
  
• Training and hiring for controllers remain suspended, potentially increasing long-term disruptions.
  
• Visa and passport services are ongoing, but could slow if self-funded reserves are depleted.
  
• E-Verify and some work-related immigration services are paused, which may affect employment-based travel.
  
• Essential border and customs services are active, though with possible slowdowns.
  
• National parks and monuments may have limited access, closed restrooms, or halted guided tours.
  
• Travellers are advised to confirm schedules with airlines, consulates, and local authorities before departure.