U.S. Travel Warns of Thanksgiving Travel Chaos if Government Shutdown Continues
The U.S. Travel Association, along with nearly 500 organizations across the travel industry, has called on Congress to reopen the government ahead of the Thanksgiving travel rush. Thousands of federal workers, including air traffic controllers and TSA officers, remain unpaid, causing delays and cancellations for travelers.
“Air travel’s number one priority is safety and while safety will be maintained, travelers will pay a heavy and completely unnecessary price in terms of delays, cancellations and lost confidence in the air travel experience,” said Geoff Freeman, U.S. Travel Association President and CEO.
Thanksgiving travel is a vital part of the American economy, with more than 20 million passengers flying last year during Thanksgiving week. This period generates billions in spending and supports jobs, small businesses, and tax revenue nationwide.
“Thanksgiving should be about spending time with family, not worrying about flight disruptions or canceled plans,” Freeman added.
The coalition’s letter emphasizes the urgency of resolving the shutdown to prevent worsening travel disruptions and economic harm during one of the busiest travel seasons.
Author's summary: The ongoing government shutdown threatens significant travel delays and cancellations during Thanksgiving, impacting millions of passengers and the broader economy.