FAA NOTICE
Beginning November 7th, 2025, the FAA may temporarily reduce air traffic by about 10% across 40 high-volume markets nationwide. In light of this news, AAA Washington has put together some advice to help you navigate your travel plans as these measures may result in flight delays and cancellations, especially during peak travel times.
What travelers can do:
- Arrive early at the airport. Plan to arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights to allow extra time for check-in and security.
- Monitor your flight status. Use your airline’s mobile app and enable notifications for real-time updates.
- Consider flexible travel options. If possible, book refundable fares or prepare alternative travel dates.
- Be strategic about timing. Early morning flights are often less affected by cascading delays later in the day.
- Stay connected with your travel advisor. They can help with rebooking, itinerary adjustments, or travel insurance questions.
- Have a backup plan. If your destination is within driving distance, consider road travel as an alternative.
AAA Washington recommends patience, flexibility, and preparation during this period. Stay informed and proactive to help your journey go as smoothly as possible.
EU’S NEW ENTRY/EXIT SYSTEM (EES)
Traveling to Europe Soon? What You Should Know About the EU’s New Entry/Exit System (EES)
The European Union has rolled out a new Entry/Exit System (EES) to make border crossings smoother and more secure. The system records basic passport and biometric details (like a photo or fingerprints) for non-EU travelers visiting 29 European countries for short stays — up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Who’s affected:
All non-EU travelers, including those from the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.
What to expect:
Starting October 2025, border checks may take a few extra minutes the first time you enter Europe. Once your information is in the system, future crossings should be faster and easier.
No new visas are required, and EU residents or long-stay visa holders are exempt.
To learn more — including which countries are part of the EES and how your data is handled — visit the official EU site.
U.S. GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN NOTICE
October 1, 2025
As the U.S. government shutdown continues, some services that travelers rely on may be disrupted. To help you stay prepared and minimize any inconvenience, here are a few tips to keep your journey running as smoothly as possible:
- Check your passport status early – Processing times may be delayed, so make sure yours is up to date before traveling.
- Confirm National Park access – Many parks may be closed or operating with limited services.
- Review your travel insurance – Ensure your policy covers delays, cancellations, or interruptions.
- Book flexible travel options – Whenever possible, choose refundable or changeable reservations.
- Arrive early at airports – Reduced TSA staffing may cause longer wait times.
- Use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR – If you’re enrolled, these can help speed up security screening.
- Monitor your flight status – Airline apps are the quickest way to get updates.
- Follow official advisories – Check updates from the FAA, TSA, and U.S. State Department.
- Keep key contacts handy – Have your airline, hotel, and travel advisor contact information accessible.
- Download offline maps and itineraries – Be prepared in case of limited connectivity or unexpected closures.
We’re here to help you travel with confidence. Stay informed, stay flexible.
REAL ID NOTICE
Important Reminder: REAL ID Requirement Now in Effect
As of May 7, 2025, standard Washington State driver’s licenses are no longer accepted for domestic air travel or entry to certain federal facilities. To fly within the U.S., you must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, an enhanced driver’s license, or another TSA-approved form of identification (such as a passport or military ID).
Check your ID before you travel to avoid disruptions at the airport. For more information, visit the Washington State Department of Licensing or TSA.gov/REALID.
UK TRAVEL NOTICE
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Now Required
As of January 8, 2025, all travelers connecting through or visiting the United Kingdom must have an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). If you plan to stay longer than six months, you will need to apply for a visa instead.
The fastest way to apply is through the phone app:
- Download the app from the App Store.
- Download the app from the Google Play Store.
If you cannot use the app, you can also apply online at the official UK government website.
QUICK FACTS
- You’ll need a photo of your passport and a photo of your face.
- An ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple visits.
- If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new ETA.
- The cost is about £10 per person.
- Decisions are typically made within three business days.
- An ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK.
AAA Washington reminds travelers to secure proper documentation in advance — we are not responsible for denied boarding or entry due to incomplete travel documents.
To learn more, please visit gov.uk.