Strategic Policy
February 13, 2026
WASHINGTON, February 13, 2026 — U.S. Travel, Airlines for America, and the American Hotel & Lodging Association issued the next joint assertion on the potential lapse of appropriations for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security:
“As yet one more authorities shutdown looms, so does one of many busiest journey occasions of the yr—spring break. Travelers and the U.S. economic system can not afford to have important TSA personnel working with out pay, which will increase the danger of unscheduled absences and name outs, and finally can result in greater wait occasions and missed or delayed flights. We commend all TSA workers, particularly the frontline workforce, who continued to serve the touring public in the course of the 43-day shutdown final yr.
“Funding uncertainties create lasting harm to your complete journey ecosystem, particularly the airways, inns and hundreds of small companies the journey business helps. It additionally stifles recruitment, retention, preparedness and modernization efforts. With America’s 250th anniversary and the 2026 World Cup this summer season, the nation ought to be targeted on showcasing the nation on the world stage and maximizing the multi-billion-dollar financial alternative these occasions carry. A lapse in TSA funding will considerably undermine these efforts. Last yr’s shutdown alone resulted in an financial impression of $6 billion—almost $140 million per day—and disrupted journey for greater than 6 million vacationers.
“Congress must act with urgency to ensure TSA is fully funded to carry out its critical aviation security mission and pursue permanent solutions to guarantee pay for essential federal workers. The Keep America Flying Act (S. 3031/H.R. 5851) is a common sense, bipartisan proposal that would ensure that TSA officers and air traffic controllers receive pay during funding lapses and should be taken up immediately by Congress.”
Latest News Articles
Flying on Empty: How Shutdowns Threaten Air Safety, Travel, and the Economy
A4A/SAE NDT Innovation Award Honors Team for First FAA-Accepted Automatic Drone-Based Aircraft Inspection Program
Media Contacts
Marli Collier
Vice President, Communications
Phone: 202-626-4141
Amanda Maile
Manager, Communications
Phone: 202-626-4000