Traveling During the Government Shutdown: Best Practices for CU Travelers

With the current U.S. government shutdown impacting several federal agencies, we understand that travelers may have heightened concern about their travel plans. While there have not been significant disruptions reported at this time, and most flights are continuing to operate as scheduled, there have been some ripple effects. Staffing shortages in air traffic control and TSA screening have led to longer security lines and occasional flight delays at some major airports. If you have upcoming university travel, a little extra preparation can help ensure your trip goes smoothly should conditions change,

1. Book (and Rebook) Through Concur or CBT

All university air travel should continue to be booked through Concur or directly with a Christopherson Business Travel (CBT) agent. This ensures you have dedicated support if your travel is affected by a delay or cancellation. If your flight is disrupted, CBT can assist with same-day rebooking, hotel accommodations, or alternate routing options.

• Mon – Fri 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m 1.855.462.8885
• Email: cutravel@cbtravel.com

• After Hours 1.800.954.0023 - Reference ID code 6LV

2. Arrive Early

Security checkpoints may experience longer lines due to TSA staffing shortages. Plan to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights to avoid added stress. Allow additional time for parking and baggage check-in as well.

3. Monitor Your Flight Status Closely

Check your flight status frequently through your airline’s app or website. Many airlines also offer text alerts for real-time updates. This is especially helpful for early morning or connecting flights where staffing delays can quickly cause cascading schedule changes.

4. Your Travel Card is Available for Flight Changes Required at the Ticketing Counter

If you need to change flights while already in travel status/at the airport, your CU Travel Card can be used. *Advanced ticketing can never be paid with the Travel Card.

5. Keep Essentials in Your Carry-On

Unexpected delays may leave you separated from your checked luggage. Pack essentials, medication, chargers, work materials, and a change of clothes in your carry-on.

6. Be Patient with Airport Staff

TSA officers, air traffic controllers, and other essential workers are continuing to serve travelers without pay during the shutdown. A little extra patience and understanding can go a long way as they work to keep operations moving safely for all travelers.

7. Stay Flexible and Communicate

If your itinerary changes significantly, notify your department or travel arranger as soon as possible. CBT agents can provide documentation for airline-initiated changes if needed for your records.

8. Stay Informed

Monitor updates from reliable sources such as your airline’s direct travel alerts page, your airport website, or FlightAware.com. You can also visit cu.edu/psc/travel to access additional CU travel resources.

Safe travels and thank you for your patience as we all navigate these temporary challenges together. If you have additional needs, please contact the PSC Travel Team at PSCtravel@cu.edu