What the Government Shutdown Could Mean for Air Travel in Montana

The government shutdown has officially begun. For now, if you’ve got a flight out of Billings, Bozeman, Missoula, Helena, or Great Falls, you don’t need to panic because planes are still taking off, and airports remain open. But since the shutdown is fresh, travelers should start paying attention to what could change if this drags on.

Flights Are Still Running

Airports in Montana are open, and essential workers like TSA screeners and air traffic controllers are still reporting for duty. That means your upcoming flight will likely take off as scheduled. The difference now is that these employees are working without pay, and if the shutdown stretches for weeks, that strain could begin to affect how smoothly things run.

TSA Staffing Shortages Mean Longer Waits

Right now, security checkpoints are moving as usual. But in past shutdowns, TSA staff shortages led to longer lines at airports across the country. While Montana doesn’t see the same massive crowds as hubs like Denver or Salt Lake, even a small dip in staffing at places like Bozeman or Billings could slow things down.

READ MORE: Montana Fall Foliage Ranked Among the Best in the U.S.

Planes Will Fly, But Delays May Stack Up

Air traffic controllers are still on the job, keeping flights safe. The concern isn’t today or tomorrow, it’s the fact that the FAA can’t hire or train new controllers until the shutdown ends. If this lasts, it could put more pressure on an already short-staffed system, especially since Montana flights rely heavily on connections through busy hubs like Denver and Minneapolis.

FAA Oversight Slows Down Behind the Scenes

Most travelers won’t see this immediately, but some FAA oversight, like routine inspections and certifications, is now on hold. That doesn’t make flights unsafe, but if the shutdown carries on, the backlog could eventually ripple into airline scheduling and maintenance.

Flights Will Go, But Expect More Hiccups

For now, your flight is likely on time, your security line should be normal, and the skies are safe. But the longer the shutdown lasts, the more likely travelers are to notice slowdowns, longer TSA lines, minor delays at connecting hubs, or small changes to flight schedules.

Flying During a Shutdown? Do This First

If you’re flying soon, it’s smart to give yourself a little extra time at the airport, just in case. Keep an eye on your flight status before you leave home and while you’re waiting at the gate. If you’re connecting through a larger hub, build in some buffer time. And pack your carry on with essentials to make any delay more bearable.

Get our free mobile app

Shutdown Won’t Ground Flights, But It Could Ground Your Patience

The shutdown just started, and for now, Montana airports are operating as usual. But if the budget standoff in Washington drags on, the ripple effects could reach us in the form of longer lines, flight delays, or scheduling headaches. For now, stay calm, plan ahead, and keep watch, things may change the longer this goes on.