How the Government Shutdown is Affecting Travel

Kevin Hinton of the U.S. Travel Association addresses the effects of long wait times, flight delays and more in this IMEX America interview. 

Lisa A. Grimaldiby Lisa A. Grimaldi
October 14, 2025

 

Kevin Hinton, CAE, managing director of group travel, for the U.S. Travel Association and a 2025 Northstar Meetings Group Influential #Eventprof, spoke with NMG editor Lisa Grimaldi from the IMEX America show floor about the impact of the ongoing government shutdown on the travel industry, concerns over increased airport security wait times and the toll on federal employees.

Hinton also discussed the temporary delay of the proposed visa-integrity fee and other challenges affecting international inbound travel. Despite these setbacks, he noted the strong momentum in the meetings industry and optimism surrounding major upcoming events, including the FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. Watch the full interview above.

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