A partial government shutdown could begin on Oct. 1, prompting concerns among travelers that their upcoming plans may be impacted.

With the deadline fast approaching, President Donald Trump and members of Congress have been in a gridlock over federal funding, with mass layoffs looming for some agencies. If the impasse persists by the Sept. 30 expiration date, parts of the government may shut down.

A partial shutdown could negatively impact the country's travel economy, according to the U.S. Travel Association, which estimates a loss of $1 billion every week. During this time, federal agencies and services not considered "essential" must pause working, such as national parks, while others, including TSA officers, will continue.

"What we've seen in the past when the government shuts down is that airports slow down and our economy slows down with it," said Erik Hansen, senior vice president of government relations at the U.S. Travel Association.

A shutdown typically doesn't heavily affect airports or airlines, but could still inconvenience travelers. Here's what air passengers should know.

Will a government shutdown impact my flight?

For the most part, no. Air passengers should still be able to continue with their flights during a partial government shutdown.

Those workers who screen at airport security checkpoints, give flight clearance, and verify at border control are deemed essential, so they are still required to work. Instead, a shutdown puts federal funding on hold for agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration, the Transportation Security Administration, and Customs and Border Protection. As a result, actions like hiring or training are put on hold, and workers aren't paid until the issue is resolved.

However, you may encounter longer lines and wait times, so plan accordingly. "While our personnel have prepared to handle high volumes of travelers and ensure the security of our transportation systems, an extended shutdown could mean longer wait times at airports," a TSA spokesperson told USA TODAY in December when a previous shutdown loomed. In 2019, FAA controllers and TSA agents stopped showing up for work, causing flight delays and long lines.

"Our expectation and history shows that air travel continues to be safe, but history also shows that when workers, whether it's air traffic controllers or Transportation Security officers, have to continually show up for work without pay, it adds additional stress," Hansen said.

He recommended people stay informed on any updates from their airport and airline, so their travels can run smoothly.

A group representing major U.S. airlines warned on Monday that a partial federal government shutdown could strain American aviation and slow flights, as air traffic controllers and security officers would be forced to work without pay and other functions would be halted.

Airline trade group Airlines for America, which represents United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and others, warned that if funding lapses "the system may need to slow down, reducing efficiency" and impacting travelers.

Contributing: Reuters

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Will a government shutdown delay your flight? What you should know.

Reporting by Kathleen Wong, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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