Passenger rights during the shutdown: What Houston air travelers need to know

Houston’s two major airports—George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)—have experienced significant delays this weekend and into today, largely due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. With reduced staffing and limited resources, travelers are facing longer wait times, flight cancellations, and increased uncertainty. Here’s what you need to know about your rights as an air traveler during this challenging time.

• Houston passengers struggle with long TSA lines, major delays

Why are there delays?

The government shutdown has forced many federal employees, including Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents and air traffic controllers, to work without pay or take leave. This staffing shortage has slowed security screenings and air traffic management, leading to longer lines and delays.

Your rights as a passenger

1. Flight delays and cancellations -- Airlines are required to inform passengers promptly about delays and cancellations. If your flight is canceled or significantly delayed, you may be entitled to a refund—even if you’ve already started your trip. Check with your airline for their specific policies. But keep reading because that may not apply to the shutdown.

1. Rebooking and compensation -- Airlines often offer rebooking options on later flights at no extra cost. Compensation policies vary by airline and the cause of the delay. While the shutdown is considered an extraordinary circumstance, some airlines may provide meal vouchers or hotel accommodations for extended delays.
2. TSA screening delays -- Unfortunately, TSA screening delays due to staffing shortages are not typically grounds for compensation. However, you can help minimize wait times by arriving early—at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights.
3. Know your airline’s policies -- Each airline has its own policies regarding delays, cancellations, and customer service during disruptions. Visit your airline’s website or contact their customer service for the most accurate information.

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Tips for travelers

• Check flight status frequently: Use airline apps or websites for real-time updates.
• Arrive early: Give yourself extra time for security and check-in.
• Pack smart: Keep essentials in your carry-on in case of delays.
• Be patient and polite: Remember, airport and airline staff are working hard under difficult conditions.

Only TSA checkpoints in Terminals A and E are open at Bush Intercontinental

What Houston airports are doing

Both George Bush Intercontinental and William P. Hobby Airport have increased communication efforts to keep travelers informed. They are also coordinating with airlines and TSA to manage staffing challenges and minimize disruptions.

Stay informed

The situation is evolving as the government shutdown continues. Here are some helpful links:

• Houston Airport System (download the app) helps track security line times in each terminal
• U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Aviation Consumer Protection
• File a Complaint with the DOT
• TSA Contact Information and Traveler Resources
• Airline Customer Service Contacts:(Most airlines list customer service info on their official websites; here are a few major ones:)
• • United Airlines: https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/contact/customer-service.html
  • American Airlines: https://www.aa.com/contactus
  • Southwest Airlines: https://www.southwest.com/contact-us/
  • Delta Airlines: https://www.delta.com/contactus

This article was written with the help of AI