Thanksgiving is always one of the busiest travel weeks in the United States — but this year, millions of travelers may face one of the most unpredictable holiday travel seasons in recent memory.
With the federal government shutdown dragging into its second month, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are reporting widespread staffing shortages, mandatory overtime, and mounting fatigue among critical airport workers.
The result? Thousands of delayed flights, long security lines, and calls from travel experts urging Americans to stay flexible — or consider hitting the road instead of the skies.
Holiday Travel Could See a “Meltdown”
The U.S. Travel Association, joined by nearly 500 tourism groups, has warned of a potential “Thanksgiving travel meltdown” if the shutdown continues into late November.
Last year, more than 12 million people passed through TSA checkpoints during the Thanksgiving weekend — a record high — and over 232,000 flights took off nationwide. This year, officials expect those numbers to rise even further.
That means travelers could face a perfect storm of problems: record passenger numbers, understaffed control towers, and unpredictable weather — all converging on the same few days.
A System Under Strain
According to FAA data, more than 8,800 flights were delayed nationwide on Oct. 26, with an increasing number of cancellations expected as air traffic controllers and TSA agents continue working without pay.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned on Face the Nation that these disruptions could worsen the longer the shutdown continues.
“We work overtime to make sure the system is safe,” Duffy said. “You’ll see delays, we’ll have flights canceled to make sure the system is safe.”
Roughly 13,000 air traffic controllers are currently working without pay, while the agency remains short about 3,000 staff members from pre-pandemic levels. TSA workers — about 50,000 nationwide — face similar stress.
Sun., Oct. 30, Southwest Airlines delayed 47% of its flights, while American Airlines delayed 36%. The Department of Transportation said 44% of all delays that day were due to controller absences, up from the typical 5%.
How to Prepare: Flexibility First
With delays almost certain, travel experts say the best strategy is to stay flexible — mentally and logistically.
1. Build in extra time.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before domestic flights and three for international. Expect longer security lines due to limited TSA staffing.
2. Avoid tight connections.
If you haven’t already purchased your tickets, choose direct flights when possible. If you must connect, allow several hours between flights — not the minimum 45-minute layover.
3. Pack for patience.
Bring snacks, medications, chargers, and entertainment in your carry-on in case of long waits or tarmac delays.
4. Stay connected.
Download your airline’s app and enable notifications. Rebooking online or via an app is often faster than waiting in airport lines.
5. Be kind.
Remember that air traffic controllers and TSA agents are working unpaid during the shutdown. Courtesy and patience can go a long way in a tense travel environment.
Should You Just Drive Instead?
If your destination is within about 300–400 miles, driving may actually save time — and stress.
Traveling from Wichita to Kansas City, Oklahoma City, Dallas, or Omaha, for instance, takes roughly the same amount of time by car as by plane when you factor in airport check-in, boarding, and potential delays.
Driving also gives travelers more control over their schedule, luggage, and food — without the risk of cancellations. Gas prices are holding steady, and AAA expects most Midwest highways to remain clear for Thanksgiving week.
Air Travel Still Safe — Just Slower
Despite the disruption, Secretary Duffy emphasized that U.S. air travel remains safe, though efficiency will continue to suffer until the shutdown ends.
“I can’t guarantee your flight will be on time,” Duffy admitted. “It depends on our controllers coming into work every day.”
With no agreement in Congress to reopen the government, travelers should prepare for delays stretching through Thanksgiving — and possibly into December.
The Bottom Line
If you’re flying this Thanksgiving, expect delays and plan accordingly.
If you can drive, it may save time.
If you must fly, the best travel plan is one built on patience, flexibility, and realistic expectations.
And remember: the people guiding planes and screening bags are doing their best under extraordinary pressure. As one Kansas travel agent put it, “The most important thing to pack this year is grace — for yourself, and for everyone else trying to get home for the holidays.”