Will the Government Shutdown Affect Flights at Orlando International Airport?

With the United States federal government now officially shut down, air passengers nationwide have begun to express concerns about their travel plans.

While air traffic controllers and TSA agents are considered “essential employees” and will continue to work during the government shutdown, they will not be paid. 

TSA

As we have seen with past government shutdowns, it is not uncommon for federal employees to call in sick, resulting in airport delays and other logistical issues.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

In response to heightened passenger concerns about their flights, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) has issued a new statement reassuring travelers that operations at Orlando International Airport are not expected to be affected by the shutdown.

Photo: MCO

“Though a federal government shutdown is in effect, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority does not anticipate that operations at MCO will be affected, and we hope there will be a resolution soon,” GOAA CEO Lance Lyttle said in a statement. ”During this time, we encourage passengers to use the FlyMCO website or Orlando MCO app to stay up to date on airport operations.”

MCO subsequently shared the GOAA statement on X.

Statement on Federal Government Shutdown: pic.twitter.com/9xKcMqlnqV

— Orlando International Airport (@MCO) October 1, 2025

Things Could Change

While the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority does not anticipate any disruptions at MCO, this is obviously a fluid situation.

Photo: Jerry Driendl / Getty Images

The longer the government shutdown continues, the higher the chance of delays.

So, be sure to check back with MickeyBlog. We will continue to update you on all the news surrounding operations at MCO.