APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV)—As the government shutdown continues, travelers are starting to feel the impact at airports across the country—including right here in northeast Wisconsin.
Airport officials confirm two flights out of the region—one to Minneapolis and another to Chicago—were canceled Thursday.
With many travelers connecting through those major hubs, even small delays elsewhere can quickly ripple back to local airports like Appleton International (ATW) and Green Bay Austin Straubel.
ATW Director Abe Weber said they’re keeping a close eye on schedules, but noted that most flight changes come directly from the airlines.
“Our focus is on the safety of our passengers, making sure they come through very efficiently,” Weber said. “But we are encouraging everyone to download those mobile airline apps—that’s the quickest way to get updates if there’s any change to your flight.”
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Weber adds that ATW has been relatively fortunate compared to other airports. Its nonstop flights to destinations like Florida, Phoenix and Las Vegas remain largely unaffected, and its contract air traffic control tower isn’t impacted by federal staffing issues seen elsewhere.
For now, airport leaders say the best thing passengers can do is stay connected—and pack a little extra patience.
