Has the Federal Government Shutdown Affected Shreveport Travel?

As the federal government shutdown stretches on, concerns about canceled flights and understaffed towers have reached airports across the country. But according to Shreveport Regional Airport spokesman Mark Crawford, the impact on local travelers has been minimal, at least so far. 

Shreveport Flights Running Smoothly for Now 

While larger airports such as DFW have seen up to 10 percent of flights reduced, Shreveport has mostly escaped those troubles. Crawford said only two flights, one to Atlanta and another to Houston, were canceled, likely connected to the shutdown rather than weather.

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“Our flights to Dallas and Charlotte haven’t been affected,” Crawford told KEEL News on Friday, noting that American Airlines’ multiple daily routes give Shreveport travelers alternative options if one hub is disrupted. “Thankfully, rerouting has not been a major issue.” 

Staffing at Shreveport Holding Strong 

Shreveport’s air traffic control tower is one of only two in Louisiana operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the other being in New Orleans. The local tower also serves as a training facility for air traffic controllers, which Crawford said often means there are “extra hands” available.

“I’ve been up there several times recently delivering food that folks have donated to the controllers and TSA workers,” Crawford said. “Every time, the tower has been fully staffed.”

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TSA agents, who have now gone more than a month without pay, continue showing up for work, and so far the airport hasn’t experienced any checkpoint delays. 

More Travelers, More Parking for Shreveport Airport 

Despite the national uncertainty, passenger numbers at Shreveport Regional are on the rise. Through October, 51,000 more passengers had flown in or out of the airport compared to the same period last year, a 17 percent increase.
The airport recently added over 300 new parking spaces, bringing the total to about 1,350 spots, and plans are underway for a 700-space expansion by next summer. Seasonal flights to Orlando and Nashville have also been well received, further boosting boardings. 

Looking Ahead for Shreveport Air Travel 

Even with the shutdown’s ripple effects, Shreveport Regional remains steady. As Crawford summed up, “Operations are running safely and smoothly, and we’re thankful for that.”