Australia Issues Travel Advisory Over Severe US Flight Delays During Government Shutdown
Australia has released a travel alert warning citizens of extensive flight delays and airport disorder in the United States as a result of the ongoing government shutdown. Passengers are urged to brace for disruptions to flights, crowded terminals, and longer wait times as federal resources and staff shortages impact the aviation sector. The government’s caution applies to all airlines and airports in the US with no set end date for the incident.
Was your flight affected?
The Australian Government has formally warned travelers heading to the United States to prepare for significant disruptions at major airports caused by an ongoing US government shutdown. The advisory comes amid reports of widespread flight delays and considerable chaos within airport terminals, prompted by resource constraints and staffing shortages resulting from the governmental impasse.
Australian officials caution that air passengers can expect delayed flights, expanded queues, and operational challenges at US airports for the duration of the shutdown. With federal agencies running on reduced capacity, services such as security screening and air traffic control have been impacted, leading to longer waiting times and uncertainty for travelers across the country.
Authorities urge all outbound and connecting passengers to monitor the status of their flights regularly and arrive at airports with additional time to manage expected delays. The travel alert applies to all flights operating within, into, or out of the United States, regardless of airline. While the disruption is ongoing, travelers are advised to consult with their airlines and remain attentive to further updates as circumstances may change.
No specific airlines or airports have been singled out in the advisory, reflecting the nationwide scale of the disruption. Both the start and estimated end dates for the disruption remain unspecified, as the situation evolves with the ongoing government shutdown.
Know your rights
In situations such as a technical outage or a government shutdown, it’s important for passengers to understand their rights and available options during travel disruptions.
While these events are generally beyond the control of airlines and airports, passengers still have certain protections under U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations.
Refund or rebooking
If a flight is canceled or experiences a significant delay, passengers are entitled to a full refund if they choose not to travel. Most airlines also offer rebooking on the next available flight at no additional cost.
Food and essential care
Some airlines may also provide additional assistance — such as meal vouchers or hotel accommodation during overnight delays — but this is not required by law and varies depending on the airline’s individual policies
Quick facts
Disruption:
Delay
Cause:
Other
Compensation:
Not eligible for compensation
Status:
Current disruption
Checked by:
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated:
October 9, 2025