Statement by Hon. Gary Rutty on Potential Effects of U.S Government Shutdown on Air Travel

The Ministry of Tourism and Trade Development is closely monitoring the potential effects of the U.S. federal government shutdown on air travel. Air traffic control, Customs and Border Protection, and Transportation Security Administration functions are designated as essential services under U.S. law and are required to continue operating during a shutdown. In previous shutdowns, the most common effects have been occasional reductions in staffing and slower processing times, but widespread disruption to air services has generally not occurred, particularly when the shutdowns have been short in duration.

At this time no significant disruption is expected for flights operated by Cayman Airways or by U.S. and international carriers serving the Cayman Islands. October is also traditionally a period of lower air travel demand, which reduces the likelihood of congestion at Customs and TSA processing points compared with peak holiday periods. While media coverage of shutdowns can understandably create concern among travellers, the U.S. market is accustomed to such events, and passenger demand for air travel has historically remained stable during prior shutdowns, as shown by U.S. Department of Transportation statistics.

The Ministry of Tourism, together with Cayman Airways and industry partners, will continue to monitor developments closely and will provide timely public updates on any material impact for visitors or residents. Our priority is to safeguard the strength of Cayman’s tourism industry and to ensure continued reliable connectivity and a seamless travel experience to and from the Cayman Islands.