ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – With the partial federal government shutdown continuing and Thanksgiving just a month away, travelers are facing potential disruptions that could cost them money and little recourse for compensation.
The uncertainty centers around Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staffing levels and what happens if workers don’t show up for their shifts, creating long security lines that could cause passengers to miss flights.
If airlines cancel flights due to the shutdown, the U.S. Department of Transportation requires carriers to issue refunds, even for non-refundable tickets. However, if TSA worker shortages create delays that cause passengers to miss their flights, travelers are not entitled to refunds.
For travelers who have booked expensive vacations or cruises, the financial risk could be substantial if disruptions occur.
Most travel insurance policies cover trip interruptions, but the terms are very specific. Missing a flight due to long security lines typically is not covered under standard policies.
Major travel insurers like Allianz and Berkshire Hathaway offer various coverage options, but government shutdowns are not specifically covered unless travelers purchase policies that allow cancellation for any reason. Even with those premium policies, refunds for flights, hotels, and excursions may only cover 50% to 75% of non-refundable costs.
For a government shutdown, the best option may be a “Cancel Anytime” policy, which allows travelers to cancel up until departure. For Allianz, it’s an upgrade available to Prime and Premier members and reimburses 80 percent of nonrefundable costs.
The AARP recommends checking TSA wait times online and staying in contact with airlines throughout the travel process. Many carriers will send text updates about flight delays.
Even travelers with TSA Pre-Check should prepare for potential delays, as no one can predict what security line conditions will be like as the shutdown continues.
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