Fewer people are booking holiday travel after government shutdown, airlines say

The US government shutdown has impacted holiday travel bookings, with airlines reporting a decline in reservations. The Sunday after Thanksgiving, typically the busiest travel day of the year, faces uncertainty as potential flyers express concerns about the stability and reliability of air travel during the shutdown. This sentiment is fueled by anxieties surrounding potential disruptions to air traffic control, airport security, and other essential aviation services. The decrease in bookings reflects a broader trend of consumer hesitancy in the face of governmental instability. Airlines are closely monitoring the situation and adjusting their schedules and pricing strategies to mitigate the impact of the reduced demand. The Points Guy's senior aviation reporter suggests that travelers are delaying booking decisions, awaiting greater clarity on the duration and impact of the shutdown.