The federal government shutdown could cause widespread travel disruptions, from airport security slowdowns to delays in passport processing, industry experts warn.

Now that Congress failed to reach a funding agreement, thousands of federal employees including Transportation Security Administration screeners and Federal Aviation Administration air traffic controllers would be required to work without pay. Past shutdowns have led to longer lines at airport checkpoints and flight delays when staffing shortages worsened.

The shutdown began at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 1.

The U.S. Travel Association, a trade group, said a shutdown could cost the economy $1 billion a week, while inconveniencing passengers and hurting travel industry businesses.

“A shutdown exacerbates staffing shortages

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