The government shutdown has caused widespread flight disruptions nationwide, unsettling numerous travelers’ plans. This situation is expected to intensify as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches.

On Wednesday, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced a demand for a 10% reduction in flights at 40 major airports, citing safety concerns. These reductions are scheduled to commence on Friday.

Duffy explained that the measure aims to ease the strain on air traffic controllers, many of whom have been compelled to work without pay for weeks due to the ongoing shutdown. A scarcity of active controllers has resulted in flight delays across the nation, affecting some of the busiest airports. For instance, by early Thursday afternoon, Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey recorded approximately 288 delays, according to flight-tracking platform ; at the , there were about 177.

As the shutdown’s conclusion remains uncertain, the duration of these flight disruptions is unknown. For those planning air travel in the near future, here are practical steps to consider—and options available if your flight is canceled.

Stay informed about your flight’s status

Prior to departing for the airport, it is advisable to confirm your flight’s status with your airline to ascertain any delays or cancellations. Additionally, you can consult the website or to determine if your departure airport is experiencing significant delays or cancellations, providing insight into potential congestion. Consider arriving at the airport earlier than usual to allow for extended security wait times.

Signing up for phone or email alerts from your airline is another option to receive automatic notifications regarding any flight disturbances. have indicated their intention to promptly notify customers whose flights are affected by the cuts. Upon arrival at the airport, verify your flight’s status on the available display screens.

Should your flight be canceled, contact customer service

Upon receiving a cancellation notification for your flight, your immediate action should be to contact the airline’s customer service, whether by phone, online, or directly at their airport help desk. Some passengers have successfully reached their airlines via the social media platform X. In the wake of Duffy’s announcement, airlines including and have released details on rebooking options for impacted customers or pledged to provide such information to those with canceled flights. asserted that it would “automatically” rebook passengers in the majority of situations.

Once you connect with customer service, they will rebook you on an alternative flight at no cost. However, patience is advised—if numerous passengers are facing disruptions, airlines may struggle to rebook everyone promptly, potentially requiring you to wait several days for another flight.

Should your airline cancel your flight and you opt not to be rebooked, the airline is obligated to refund the cost of your original ticket, regardless of whether it was non-refundable. You may also be reimbursed for any additional expenses incurred for your initial flight, such as baggage fees or seat upgrade charges.

Evaluate rescheduling your journey or choosing alternative transportation

Travel experts suggest that if your trip is not time-sensitive, rescheduling it could help you circumvent the inconveniences of air travel during the shutdown. Alternatively, if feasible with your itinerary, consider traveling by train, car, or bus instead.