MMJ
TEXARKANA, Texas – As the government shutdown stretches into the second month, travelers across the country continue to face widespread flight delays and cancellations.
The FAA says having fewer flights in the sky is an attempt to relieve pressure since air traffic controllers have gone without pay since the beginning of this record long shutdown.
“Definitely pack your patience if it comes in handy, especially during this time in travel,” said David Warrick, East Texas Travel Center travel agent.
East Texas Travel Center has been in business in Texarkana for 50 years, and in the last several days, Warrick says he’s been fielding lots of calls from clients and people in the community for travel advice concerning the shutdown.
“Right now, with the clients that we have that are traveling, only one fortunately has run into a problem, and that’s only been a one-hour delay,” said Warrick.
Across the country, nearly 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 security screeners have been working without pay.
“With TSA being so busy right now and shorthanded, get to the airport to get checked in earlier than the two hours that is recommended by the airport right now,” said Warrick.
Warrick also recommends monitoring flights closely, staying informed, expecting longer lines and giving yourself ample time for connecting flights.
“So, make sure you have a long enough layover, especially now in order to possibly handle that delay on your previous flight into your connecting flight,” said Warrick.
The U.S. Travel Association estimates the travel economy is losing $1 billion every week the shutdown continues.
For more tips on navigating travel during the shutdown, go to aaa.com.
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