U.S. Travel Warns of Thanksgiving Travel Chaos if Government Shutdown Continues
The U.S. Travel Association, along with nearly 500 industry groups, urged Congress to reopen the government before the Thanksgiving travel surge, warning of severe disruptions if the shutdown persists.
Impact on Air Travel
Thousands of federal workers, including air traffic controllers and TSA officers, are currently unpaid, leading to significant delays and cancellations in flights. Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, emphasized that:
“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, cancelations and lost confidence in the air travel experience.”
Economic Significance of Thanksgiving Travel
Thanksgiving travel is a critical contributor to the American economy. Last year, more than 20 million passengers flew during Thanksgiving week, generating billions in spending. This period supports local economies by sustaining 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.
Coalition's Call to Action
- Immediate government reopening is crucial to avoid travel chaos.
- Protect federal employees working without pay.
- Ensure smooth operations during one of the busiest travel seasons.
This pressing situation showcases the essential link between government functionality and the reliability of the U.S. travel industry during peak holiday periods.
Author's summary: The ongoing government shutdown threatens to cause severe delays and cancellations during Thanksgiving travel, jeopardizing safety, economic spending, and crucial family connections nationwide.