The U.S. Travel Association and nearly 500 tourism organizations and companies are warning of a potential Thanksgiving travel meltdown if the government shutdown drags on.

Why it matters: Thanksgiving is already one of the busiest travel weeks and a shutdown could make it even more chaotic with longer lines, delays and cancellations.

Driving the news: In a letter to congressional leaders Monday, the coalition said the ongoing shutdown could depress demand and cost the U.S. travel economy billions, hurting local businesses nationwide. • The group — which includes major industry players like the American Hotel & Lodging Association, Cruise Lines International Association, American Gaming Association and major tourism boards — is urging lawmakers to pass a clean continuing resolution and

See Full Page