The federal government shutdown that began overnight on Wednesday, October 1 is expected to ripple through the travel industry nationwide, and Florida is bracing for its share of disruptions.
Air Travel at Orlando, Miami, and Tampa
Airports in Orlando, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa will remain open, and flights will continue to operate. TSA screeners and air traffic controllers are considered essential personnel, meaning they will keep working, but without pay until Congress restores funding.
This may cuase an increases number of long lines and delays. In previous shutdowns, unpaid TSA officers called out more frequently, causing bottlenecks at security checkpoints. FAA officials have also warned that non-critical employees, including those who handle safety inspections and certifications, will be furloughed, which could slow certain operations over time.
Orlando International alone sees more than 50 million passengers a year making Florida airports especially vulnerable to even modest staffing shortages.
As News4JAX reported, “That puts nearly 60,000 TSA agents nationwide, including thousands in Florida, in a really tough position—reporting for duty with no guarantee of a paycheck.”
Border & Customs Screening
Travelers flying internationally through Miami or Orlando should be prepared for longer customs and immigration wait times. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers will remain on duty, but like TSA, they are working without pay during the shutdown.
National Parks & Tourism Sites
Florida’s 11 national parks and preserves, including Everglades, Biscayne, and Dry Tortugas, will technically remain open, but with limited services. Visitor centers, trash collection, restrooms, and guided programs may be shuttered or reduced, depending on the site. Park officials are urging visitors to plan ahead, carry out what they bring in, and expect fewer staff on hand.
Travel Industry Impact
Tourism officials worry the shutdown could dampen Florida’s reputation as a top U.S. travel destination. Nationally, the U.S. Travel Association estimates the shutdown could cost the travel economy about $1 billion per week. Florida could feel those losses quickly if visitors cancel trips or face major delays at airports.
What Florida Travelers Should Do
Arrive early: Give yourself extra time at Orlando, Tampa, Miami, or Fort Lauderdale airports, especially at TSA checkpoints.
Check with your airline for any updates on delays or cancellations.
Prepare for slower passport/visa processing if you need international travel documents renewed.
If heading to a national park, verify ahead whether facilities and restrooms are available, and be ready for limited staffing.
Stay flexible: build buffer time into travel plans in case of unexpected delays.
The severity of travel disruptions will depend on how long the shutdown lasts. A short closure may mean only longer lines and slower paperwork, but a prolonged impasse could cause problems across Florida’s airports and tourism hubs.