The U.S. federal government shutdown persists with continued potential to disrupt travel through TSA and air traffic control staffing issues. Flight Aware reports 10,000+ flight delays across the US over the Halloween weekend affecting major hubs including Chicago, New York, and Atlanta. In addition, weather impact could amplify as we move into colder winter travel months in the northern hemisphere.
CTP has continued to monitor traveler impact and adjust staffing as needed to support travelers during disruptions.
CTP recommends the following traveler actions to help mitigate traveler inconvenience and longer hold times with emergency services and airlines if travelers experience flight delays or cancellations:
- Travelers should only use CTP Emergency Services when travel is within 72 hours of departure
- For travel outside of 72 hours, please call during normal business hours; our goal is to service travelers who are experiencing current flight disruptions and not inhibit travelers in need from being able to reach a live agent
- Choose the "callback" option to reduce hold times and receive a return call when an agent becomes available
- Book, change, and cancel travel reservations through your company’s online booking tool whenever possible
- Avoid booking the last flight of the day
- Download airline apps, and sign up for airline messages
- Use the airline app, CTM Mobile, and/or relevant websites to check flight status before heading to the airport
- Utilize the Scout tool within CTP Portal or SMS via our telephony services to cancel or check flight statuses.