Understanding a Potential, Partial Government's Shutdown Impact On Travel

A looming government partial-shutdown is a signal that elected officials have not yet agreed on how to fund the federal government. Its direct impacts vary depending on how long it lasts and which agencies are affected, but it often leads to furloughs, suspended services, and disruptions for both federal workers and the public.

As of February 14, 2026, the U.S. government in under a partial-government shutdown. U.S. Congress is on a recess. The State of the Union address is planned for February 24, 2026. The U.S. Congress provides their schedule for the upcoming year.

You can monitor which appropriations bills have passed at: Congress.gov Appropriation Status Table

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Travel During a Government Shutdown

If there is a partial-shutdown, you can still travel in and out of Washington, D.C., via airports or trains. There may be delays at security checkpoints or train inspections, but most travel continues as normal.

Impact on Travel to Washington, D.C.

1. Airports

• TSA officers at airports like Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), Dulles (IAD), and Baltimore-Washington (BWI) are considered essential personnel.
• Security checkpoints remain open, and passengers can still fly.
• Delays may occur if staffing shortages happen due to furloughed employees or high call-outs.

2. Trains and Transit

• DHS funds Amtrak security, some rail inspections, and other transit security programs.
• Essential train service continues, but schedules may be slightly reduced or inspections slower.
• Local subway service, known as Metro, in D.C. is funded locally, so it generally continues normally.

3. Other Travel Services

• TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and other trusted traveler programs may experience delays in enrollment or processing, but existing accounts remain active.
• Airport operations such as baggage handling, concessions, and air traffic control remain functional, though support staff may experience delays if nonessential federal contractors are furloughed.

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Museums and National Parks Status

During this partial shutdown, there are currently no disruptions to museums and parks funded by the National Park Service.

The Smithsonian Institution is funded by a mix of federal appropriations and private support, and its FY 2026 operating budget was passed as part of the overall federal spending bill.

The Department of the Interior, which funds the National Parks, is funded through the end of the current fiscal year, September 30, 2026.