As the federal government shutdown drags on, air travel is buckling under the strain, with reduced air traffic control staffing driving longer TSA lines, flight delays, and missed connections at major hubs. FAA staffing gaps have triggered multi-hour delays at airports including Orlando, Newark, and Washington Reagan, with officials warning of ground stops when facilities can't be staffed safely.
Against that backdrop, anxious travelers are looking for a safety net, and Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage has become a popular choice for flexibility. New data from InsureMyTrip shows that 10 percent of all policies purchased in September and October included CFAR, the highest rate this year.
How the Shutdown is Impacting Air Travel
- FAA staffing shortages are causing flight delays and cancellations as unpaid air traffic controllers call out and the system strains under reduced staffing.
- Major hubs like LAX, Newark, and LaGuardia are facing ground stops and reduced traffic flow as the FAA limits takeoffs and landings to maintain safety.
- TSA wait times are climbing with fewer agents reporting to work and some security checkpoints operating on limited hours, leading to longer lines and missed flights.
5 Quick Tips for Travelers
- Build in buffer time – Leave earlier than usual for the airport, and plan longer layovers.
- Track your flight status – Check airline apps and FAA/airport alerts for delays before you head out.
- Carry-on essentials – Medications, chargers, a change of clothes, and snacks can soften the blow of long lines or delays.
- Keep receipts – If you're delayed or rebooked, documentation makes it easier to claim eligible expenses later.
- Know your airline options – Ask about rebooking if a missed connection strands you; it's not guaranteed, but it can help during widespread disruptions.
How Travel Insurance Can Help
- CFAR for flexibility – CFAR allows cancellation for reasons not covered by standard policies. This includes shutdown-related disruptions and typically reimburses 50 percent-75 percent of prepaid, nonrefundable costs when you cancel at least 48 hours before departure.
- Standard comprehensive benefits – Many plans include trip delays, trip interruption, and missed connection benefits for airline-caused delays/cancellations, reimbursing eligible out-of-pocket costs like hotels, meals, and ground transport.
- Know the limits – Closures of national parks or federal sites generally aren't covered unless you've added CFAR (or IFAR for interruption).
- Human help – InsureMyTrip's licensed travel insurance agents can compare plans and explain coverage details specific to traveling during a shutdown.
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