International flights continue during a shutdown, but with real delays and staffing gaps

International flights do operate during a government shutdown, but they run with reduced staffing and face unpredictable delays. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stays open because it is considered essential to safety, so air traffic control towers remain staffed. However, many support functions shut down—including some of the people who inspect planes, process international paperwork, and handle security screening at gates.

The result is slower processing, longer lines at customs and immigration, and occasional flight cancellations when staffing falls too short. If you are flying internationally during a shutdown, expect delays of one to three hours on the ground, and plan to arrive at the airport earlier than usual.

Key Takeaways

  • Air traffic control continues during a shutdown, so planes can still take off and land, but with fewer controllers available in some regions.
  • Customs and Border Protection officers work without pay during a shutdown but still staff international arrival gates, though processing slows.
  • TSA security screeners are considered essential and continue working, but staffing shortages can create longer checkpoint lines.
  • Plane maintenance inspections and some safety certifications may be delayed because FAA inspectors are furloughed.
  • Airlines may cancel flights if they cannot get required inspections or clearances completed before departure.

Which airport workers stay on the job during a shutdown

The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) keeps security screeners at checkpoints because screening is considered essential to safety. These workers continue their jobs but do not receive paychecks until the shutdown ends. During past shutdowns, some screeners have called in sick due to financial hardship, which has created longer lines and occasional checkpoint closures at smaller airports.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers also remain on duty at international arrival gates and passport control. They process returning U.S. citizens and foreign visitors without interruption, though the volume of paperwork and reduced staffing can slow the process significantly. You may wait 45 minutes to two hours to clear customs during a shutdown, especially at major hubs like New York, Los Angeles, or Miami.

Air traffic controllers in FAA towers and radar facilities continue working. However, the FAA furloughs many support staff—including people who schedule controller shifts, maintain equipment, and handle administrative tasks. This can create bottlenecks in busy airspace and occasional delays while planes wait for clearance.

What stops or slows down during a shutdown

FAA safety inspectors are furloughed during a shutdown. These inspectors certify new aircraft, approve maintenance work, and conduct routine safety checks. If your plane needs an inspection before departure and the inspector is not available, the airline may delay or cancel the flight. This is rare for regularly scheduled commercial flights on major carriers, but it can happen on charter flights or when unexpected maintenance is discovered.

International flight approvals and paperwork processing slow considerably. Airlines must file flight plans, obtain overflight permits for certain countries, and coordinate with international aviation authorities. During a shutdown, some of these approvals take longer because the FAA has fewer staff to process them. This rarely cancels a flight, but it can add delays of several hours.

Baggage screening for international flights may also slow down. The TSA screens checked bags at the ticket counter and in baggage handling areas. With reduced staffing, this process takes longer, which can delay bag loading and push back departure times.

Delays you are likely to experience

Most international flights depart on time or with delays under one hour during a shutdown. However, you should expect longer waits in three specific places: at the security checkpoint, at the ticket counter (for baggage and international documentation), and at customs upon arrival.

Security checkpoint lines can grow to 30 to 45 minutes longer than normal, especially in the early morning and evening when flights cluster. Arrive at least three hours before an international departure during a shutdown, rather than the standard two and a half hours.

At your destination, clearing customs and immigration can take one to three hours longer than usual. This is especially true at major international hubs. If you have a tight connection, a shutdown can push you into missing your next flight.

What airlines are doing to manage shutdowns

Most major carriers—United, American, Delta, Southwest—have contingency plans for shutdowns. They may reduce the number of flights on certain routes, consolidate passengers onto larger aircraft, or adjust schedules to avoid peak times when staffing is most stretched.

Airlines also communicate with the FAA and CBP to coordinate which flights can depart and when. If an inspection is needed and no inspector is available, the airline will either delay the flight, cancel it, or reroute it to an airport where an inspector is working.

Check your airline's website or call their customer service line to ask whether your specific flight is affected. Some carriers post shutdown-specific updates on their homepage or in the flight status section of their app.

If your international flight is delayed or cancelled

If your flight is delayed more than three hours due to a shutdown, you are may have access to to a rebooking on the next available flight at no extra cost. If the airline cannot rebook you within 24 hours, you may be may have access to to compensation under the Department of Transportation's rules, though shutdown-related delays are sometimes treated differently than mechanical failures.

If your flight is cancelled, the airline must rebook you on another flight or refund your ticket. Keep documentation of the cancellation and any shutdown-related announcements from the airline or FAA, as this may support a compensation claim later.

For international flights, also contact your travel insurance provider if you have coverage. Some policies cover shutdown-related cancellations or delays, though this varies by plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still fly to another country during a shutdown?

Yes. International flights operate normally in terms of takeoff and landing. The shutdown affects processing speed and staffing, not the ability to fly. Expect longer waits at security, customs, and immigration, but your flight will likely depart and arrive as scheduled or with minor delays.

Will my international flight be cancelled?

Cancellations are uncommon during shutdowns. Most major carriers operate their full schedules. Cancellations happen only when required safety inspections cannot be completed or when staffing shortages force the airline to consolidate flights. Check your airline's website for updates specific to your flight.

Do I need a passport during a shutdown?

Yes, exactly as you normally would. A shutdown does not change passport requirements. However, passport processing at government offices is suspended, so do not plan to renew or replace a passport during a shutdown.

Will customs take longer when I return to the U.S.?

Yes, customs processing typically takes 45 minutes to two hours longer during a shutdown because CBP officers are working without pay and staffing may be reduced. Arrive at the airport with extra time to clear customs before any connecting flights.

What if I have a tight connection during a shutdown?

Tight connections are riskier during a shutdown because customs and security delays are unpredictable. If you have less than two hours between arrival and departure, contact your airline before your trip to discuss rebooking options or to ask whether they can hold your connection if you are delayed.