U.S. government shutdown costs travel economy $1 billion in first week

Ongoing disruptions threaten airports, small businesses, and local communities across the country

The U.S. Travel Association warns that the federal government shutdown has already cost America’s travel economy an estimated $1 billion in just one week, as airports, airlines, and tourism-dependent businesses feel mounting strain.

Key takeaways

• Economic loss: The shutdown is costing the U.S. travel economy roughly $1 billion per week in lost spending.
• Travel disruptions: Longer TSA lines, flight delays, and reduced airport operations are creating nationwide travel bottlenecks.
• Community impact: Local economies and small businesses reliant on tourism are experiencing immediate financial strain.
• Industry warning: U.S. Travel Association President Geoff Freeman calls the damage “real and irreversible” if the shutdown continues.
• Call to action: The association urges Congress to act swiftly to restore government funding and stabilize the travel sector.

Get the full story at U.S. Travel