Belizeans Face Flight Uncertainty as U.S. Shutdown Grounds More Flights

Flight cancellations across the United States are mounting as the federal government shutdown stretches into its fifth week, prompting fresh concerns for Belize’s tourism sector.

Belizeans here are monitoring the situation, with one saying, “Well, I mean I’m still looking forward to go and spend time with family for the holidays. Right now I just have to monitor what the airline is sending out and see what’s gonna happen on the day of my flight”.

The BBC reported that today, more than 2,000 flights have been cancelled or delayed, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirming that traffic reductions at 40 major airports are now underway. The FAA warns that up to 4,000 flights per day could be affected by next week as it ramps down operations to ease pressure on air traffic controllers, many of whom are working unpaid.

Belizeans with upcoming travel plans to the U.S. have begun receiving alerts and notifications about possible flight interruptions. American Airlines has issued a temporary waiver for change fees. Passengers booked to travel between November 7–14, who purchased tickets by November 5, may rebook without penalty, provided they keep the same origin and destination.

Evan Tillett, Director of the Belize Tourism Board, told News Five that the situation is being closely monitored. “We are in communication with the airlines to assess if there will be any major adverse impact on our industry. We have also seen correspondence from United stating that international flights will not be affected by this disruption, so that is a positive sign.”

The shutdown, which began on October 1, has already disrupted food aid programs and left hundreds of federal workers unpaid.

Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, says the situation is worsening. “We know the problems are going to get worse… We need Congress to open the government.”