Since late December 2018, the United States Government has been shut down due to a political dispute. The shutdown has had several impacts on the business aviation industry. With no immediate end in site, here’s what you need to know about how the shutdown could impact your business aviation mission.

1. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Currently, CBP is affected only with overtime arrivals. It is important that operators communicate directly with their port of entry to clarify any local port impacts on proposed arrival times, especially if the operation proposes to arrive after normal business hours.

• User Fee Decals – Reports have been made that shipments of CBP User Fee decals are being delayed during the shutdown. CBP has advised that operators who have not yet received a decal can verify their compliance by producing:
  • • An electronic or printed order history (available to the operator immediately after application is made)
  • Or an electronic or printed order receipt (available after the order has been processed by DTOPS).
• Registration and airworthiness certificate changes/renewals are also not being processed.

2. Border Overflight Exemptions

There have been no Border Overflight Exemption applications processed since the shutdown began and no indication at this time that there will be until it is over.

3. Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

As of now, there is no impact to the TSA. TSA Waivers will continue to be issued during the shutdown. However, there are reports of a growing number of TSA workers calling in sick, which could lead to delays and longer lines at airports.

4. Department of Transportation (DOT)

The DOT has suspended all non-essential legal functions related to acquisitions, aviation licensing (including airman certificates), and regulatory policies.

5. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

As a result of the shutdown, aircraft deliveries requiring FAA approval have been delayed. Training is also being impacted, as FAA trainers and testing are backlogged due to the furlough of FAA resources.

Conclusion

When funding does resume, and the shutdown ends, all non-essential operations will restart, creating a backlog of work that will take months to catch up. If you would like further information or have other inquiries please contact Universal’s Global Regulatory Services Team.