As the U.S. House wrestles with a funding plan that will stop the federal government from shutting down at 12:01 a.m. ET Saturday, Americans who are flying for the holidays could experience delays. 

While the U.S. Department of Transportation says air traffic controllers are necessary to protect life and property, they would have to work without pay during the shutdown. Transportation Security Administration agents would also need to work without pay. The agency warned that an extended government shutdown could mean longer wait times at airports during what could be the busiest holiday travel season on record.

What You Need To Know

  • If lawmakers don't agree on a funding plan to keep the federal government open, Americans who are flying for the holidays could experience delays

  • Air traffic controllers and TSA agents are considered essential workers and would need to work without pay while the government is closed

  • The TSA said an extended government shutdown could mean longer wait times at airports

  • The Transportation Security Administration estimates its officers will screen at least 40 million people during the holidays through Jan. 2

The Transportation Security Administration estimates its officers will screen at least 40 million people during the holidays through Jan. 2. The American Automobile Assn. expects a record 119.3 million people to travel at least 50 miles between Dec. 21 and Jan. 3 — about 3 million more than in 2023. 

“A prolonged government shutdown threatens holiday travel disruptions that American won’t tolerate,” U.S. Travel Assn. President Geoff Freeman said in a statement. “It’s hard to see how anyone in Congress wins if they force TSA workers, air traffic controllers and other essential employees to work without pay during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.”

A recent Ipsos survey found 60% of Americans will consider changing their travel plans if the government shuts down.