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With a government funding deadline looming, three of the industry's largest trade associations are urging Congress to resolve differences between competing continuing-resolution spending bills for the fiscal year 2027 and avoid a federal shutdown that could disrupt travel operations ahead of the fall travel season.
The U.S. Travel Association, Airlines for America and the American Hotel & Lodging Association sent a joint letter calling for a stopgap funding measure before the Sept. 30 deadline. The groups pointed to the last government shutdown, which lasted a record 43 days and delayed or canceled more than 9,000 flights, disrupted travel for more than 6 million passengers and cost the U.S. travel economy an estimated $1 billion per week.
"Americans have endured this government malpractice before: flights disrupted, shipments delayed and essential aviation workers forced to work without pay," said Chris Sununu, president and CEO of Airlines for America.
In the letter, the organizations warned that another funding lapse could have immediate consequences for travelers and destinations. Transportation Security Administration officers and Federal Aviation Administration air traffic controllers would once again be required to work without pay, potentially worsening staffing shortages and increasing the risk of longer security lines, flight delays and cancellations. The groups also said a shutdown could stall air traffic controller hiring and training efforts, slowing progress on broader aviation modernization initiatives.
Beyond transportation, the organizations noted that national parks, museums and other federally operated attractions could close or operate with limited services during a shutdown. Those disruptions could affect destinations that rely on visitor spending and meetings groups that incorporate federal attractions into event and incentive travel itineraries.
Building on event success
The letter also highlighted the travel industry's recent success in handling increased demand tied to major international events, including the FIFA World Cup. The groups argued that allowing another shutdown to disrupt travel operations could undermine progress made in strengthening the United States' reputation among international visitors at a time when the industry is working to rebuild inbound travel.
The organizations continue to push for long-term reforms that would ensure Transportation Security Administration officers and Federal Aviation Administration personnel continue to receive pay during future funding lapses. They cited several legislative proposals, including the Keep America Flying Act and the Aviation Funding Stability Act, as potential solutions to protect critical travel operations from future shutdowns.