Frequently Asked Questions about Sequestration

Automatic U.S. federal spending cuts, dubbed “sequestration,” could begin affecting travelers — including those traveling to the U.S. from abroad — very shortly. You need to be aware of the airport security and Customs delays you soon may face.

Here are some things you need to know.

What is the U.S. sequester?
Simply put, the U.S. sequester, or sequestration, refers to $85.4 billion in broad budget cuts to the federal government that went into effect March 1. Because sequestration occurred after federal departments already had begun spending their expected allowances, the mandatory budget cuts are forcing tough mid-year adjustments, including spending freezes, elimination of overtime, furloughs and layoffs. Fallout from the cuts could begin as early as April 1. It is widely expected that U.S. elected officials eventually will step in to end the disruptive spending cuts, but whether that move will come in weeks or months is unknown.

How will the sequester affect me?
Cuts to three agencies in particular are expected to affect business travelers: the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Cuts to screening staff will create longer waiting times in airport security lines; cuts to Customs staff will increase the time for clearing Customs; and cuts to the FAA’s air traffic control staff will increase the time between takeoffs and landings.

What can I do?
Arm yourself with information. Knowing what to expect ahead of time will spare you frustration and make sure you build enough time into your travel schedule to overcome delays. CBP provides online information on airport wait times and tips for clearing Customs. The TSA provides a similar service for security screening wait times and travel alerts and tips. The Federal Aviation Administration provides online flight delay information.

For further information or recommendations for managing travel during sequestration, Corporate Travel Managers may contact Covington’s Business Travel Services division or individual travelers may contact any Covington travel advisor.

Source: BCD, April 1, 2013