The U.S. faces the possibility of a federal government shutdown on October 1 if Congress fails to pass a new spending package. Such a shutdown could disrupt travel across the country.
Air travel would continue, but staffing shortages among unpaid air traffic controllers and TSA agents could cause delays and cancellations. The FAA’s training of over 2,000 new hires would also be halted, stalling efforts to modernize air traffic control.
“A looming U.S. government shutdown could deliver a devastating blow to the nation’s travel economy, costing an estimated $1 billion every week, according to a new warning from the U.S. Travel Association.”
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) September 26, 2025
Democrats are intent on inflicting economic harm on the American people. pic.twitter.com/86RS9KcKRk
Amtrak trains would continue to run, though national parks could see widespread closures.
The National Parks Conservation Association warned that communities depending on park tourism would lose millions in revenue. Museums such as the Smithsonian and landmarks like the Statue of Liberty may also close.
Government Shutdown Would Cost U.S. Travel Economy $1 Billion Per Week, Say Industry Officials—Here’s What To Expecthttps://t.co/Z9kRbxiYpf pic.twitter.com/3vu08b3WaU
— Forbes (@Forbes) September 26, 2025
Passport and visa services would remain operational since they are not reliant on annual appropriations. The tourism industry, already weakened, faces further losses if the deadlock continues.
