Government Shutdown Forces Travelers to Rethink Transportation Options

The U.S. government shutdown has led to a significant reduction in air travel, with the Federal Aviation Administration cutting flights by 10 at airports nationwide. As a result, some travelers are turning to alternative modes of transportation, including car rentals and long-haul buses. According to Hertz, one-way car rentals have spiked more than 20% through the coming weekend compared with the same period last year. Travelers are facing long delays and cancellations, particularly during peak holiday travel periods such as Thanksgiving. The shutdown has caused widespread disruptions, with many airlines struggling to maintain their schedules. "We're seeing a significant increase in one-way rentals, particularly for longer distances," said a Hertz spokesperson. "This is likely due to the ongoing strain on air travel caused by the shutdown." The company has reported a sharp increase in one-way car rentals, with many customers opting for longer-term rentals to avoid the uncertainty of flight schedules. The government shutdown has been ongoing for several weeks, with no clear end in sight. The FAA's decision to cut flights was made in an effort to reduce congestion and minimize the risk of accidents. However, the move has had a significant impact on air travel, with many passengers facing long delays and cancellations. "The shutdown is causing chaos in the skies," said a travel industry analyst. "Travelers are looking for alternative modes of transportation, and car rentals are becoming a more attractive option." The increase in car rentals is not limited to Hertz, with other companies also reporting a surge in demand. U-Haul, a moving and storage company, has seen a significant increase in bookings for one-way rentals. The company's CEO, Joe Shulman, attributed the increase to the shutdown's impact on air travel. "We're seeing a lot of people looking for alternative ways to travel, and our one-way rentals are becoming a popular option," he said. As the shutdown continues, travelers are facing a range of challenges, including long delays and cancellations. The FAA has advised airlines to reduce their schedules to minimize the risk of accidents, but this has had a significant impact on air travel. The shutdown is expected to continue for several more weeks, with no clear end in sight. In the meantime, travelers are being advised to check with their airlines for the latest information on flight schedules and to consider alternative modes of transportation. The impact of the shutdown on air travel is expected to continue for several more weeks, with many passengers facing long delays and cancellations. The FAA has advised airlines to reduce their schedules to minimize the risk of accidents, but this has had a significant impact on air travel. As the shutdown continues, travelers are being advised to check with their airlines for the latest information on flight schedules and to consider alternative modes of transportation.