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By Jeanne Bonner, Tami Luhby, Maureen O’Hare, CNN
(CNN) — The looming threat of a federal government shutdown in the United States is sending ripples of concern through various sectors, especially in travel and tourism. If US congressional lawmakers cannot reach an agreement on a spending package by the new fiscal year starting on October 1, the repercussions could be significant, not just for the government, but also for millions of travelers.
A shutdown could lead to extended wait times at airports, changes in travel itineraries, and even the closure of some of the country’s most beloved national parks. This comes at a critical moment for the US travel industry, which is still recovering from previous downturns and a noticeable decline in Canadian tourists, many of whom have expressed reluctance to visit the US during politically charged times.
Impact on Airline Travel
Air travel will continue, but travelers should brace for potential disruptions. While key aviation personnel, such as air traffic controllers and TSA employees, are classified as essential and will still report for duty, they will do so without pay. This precarious situation raises concerns about staffing shortages, which have historically led to flight delays and cancellations.
Past government shutdowns have already demonstrated how such a scenario can affect air travel. For example, during the January 2019 shutdown, a sudden rise in employee callouts contributed to significant delays at major airports like New York’s LaGuardia and New Jersey’s Newark. With over 13,000 air traffic controllers potentially working unpaid, many worry that similar situations could arise again, leading to longer security lines and delays across the board.
Impact on Train Travel
Travelers relying on Amtrak for their journeys can breathe a little easier, as the rail service is expected to remain operational even in the event of a shutdown. Amtrak operates as an independent agency, receiving some public funding but not entirely reliant on it. A spokesperson confirmed that service across the Northeast Corridor and beyond will continue uninterrupted, ensuring that train enthusiasts and commuters can still utilize this vital transit option.
Exploring National Parks
The impact on national parks could be profound, affecting access to some of the most picturesque and well-known sites across the country. As of now, the National Park Service is finalizing plans that could lead to widespread closures if a government shutdown occurs. Reports indicate that approximately 433 park sites may shut their gates, preventing visitors from enjoying their natural beauty.
With local economies heavily reliant on park tourism, the consequences could be severe. Parks that remain open might not offer any visitor services, leading to an experience that could frustrate many eager explorers. Some states, such as Utah, have expressed intentions to keep their popular national parks accessible, even should the federal government falter. They are prepared to allocate state funds to maintain access to stunning locations like Arches and Zion National Parks.
Museum and Monument Access
Beyond natural scenery, a government shutdown could also affect many cultural institutions. For instance, the Smithsonian Institution, which includes the National Air and Space Museum among its 21 venues, may face closures that lessen public access to these cultural treasures. The potential abrupt closures of these educational facilities would disappoint many visitors eager to explore America’s art, history, and innovation.
Additionally, iconic monuments like the Statue of Liberty, which falls under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service, may also close. While officials have remained mum about definitive closure plans, visitors are encouraged to stay updated through the National Park Service’s website as they monitor the evolving situation.
Traveling and Visa Services
Despite concerns regarding airport and park operations, the State Department has assured travelers that consular services will continue as normal. Both domestic and overseas operations, including passport and visa processing, are expected to remain unaffected by the shutdown. This means that those planning international travel or needing immediate consular assistance can proceed without worry.
In summary, with a potential government shutdown looming, travelers, industry stakeholders, and local economies are all bracing for possible setbacks. With a mixture of operational continuities and looming disruptions, the travel landscape remains uncertain as the new fiscal year approaches.