Government Shutdown Might Shutter Small Airports – How Louisiana is Affected

(KMDL-FM) The shutdown of the federal government has been going on since the first of October. In that time, certain government services and operations have been curtailed or cut back. One of those services, air traffic control, or more accurately, a lack of air traffic controllers on the job, could lead to more than 170 smaller airports around the country ceasing operations until the shutdown has ended and funding is restored.

The government shutdown has not only affected air travel at smaller regional airports around the nation, but yesterday several major hubs were hit with delays. The issue at hand appears to be the lack of personnel in the tower to guide the aircraft in and out of the airport and the associated airspace.

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While the problem at larger airports appears to be limited to delays, a more significant issue may be looming for passengers with travel plans from smaller airports. Currently, many of those facilities are operating with air traffic controllers who are being paid out of the Essential Air Service Program.

What Smaller Airports Could Be Affected By the Government Shutdown?

This program helps subsidize airlines that serve smaller airports, typically located in rural communities. This program helps to ensure that there are at least two round-trip flights per day from that airport. Those flights usually connect to larger regional airports or even larger hub airports.

Based on information concerning funding for the Essential Air Service Program, the money needed to keep the program operational will run out as of Sunday. Should that happen, then some 177 smaller airports could be forced to cease operations.

Some 112 communities across the United States mainland and some 65 communities in the state of Alaska could have to deal with a lack of air service until the government shutdown has been resolved.

Which Louisiana Airports Could Close During the Government Shutdown?

The list of affected airports does not include any of Louisiana's seven commercially operated airports. However, in neighboring states, air service in El Dorado/Camden, Arkansas, as well as Harrison and Hot Springs, Arkansas, could be affected. Air service in Victoria, Texas, could also be curtailed, as well as air service to three destinations in Mississippi.

Should you have questions or concerns, we advise you to consult your travel agent or travel advisor or contact your air carrier for details on alternate travel options should you find your initial plans have been changed.