Travelers Seek Train Travel as Airport Delays Mount

Amtrak sees surge in ridership as budget stalemate causes airport chaos

Mar. 29, 2026 at 6:22pm

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With long security lines at airports driving travelers crazy amid a budget stalemate in Washington, some people are turning to train travel as an alternative. The Amtrak Crescent, which runs from New Orleans to New York, has seen a surge in ridership as air travelers seek to avoid the hassles at the nation's airports.

Why it matters

The shift to train travel highlights the impact of the ongoing political gridlock on the daily lives of Americans. As Congress and the President struggle to reach a budget agreement, the ripple effects are being felt by travelers across the country who are forced to find new ways to get to their destinations.

The details

Passengers boarding the Amtrak Crescent in Atlanta reported long waits and frustration with the security process at the nearby Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Many said they opted for the train in order to avoid the chaos at the airport, even if it meant a longer overall travel time.

  • The Amtrak Crescent departs Atlanta for New York every night at midnight.
  • The budget stalemate in Washington has been ongoing for several weeks.

The players

Amtrak

The national passenger railroad company of the United States.

Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport

The world's busiest airport, located in Atlanta, Georgia.

President Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States.

Congress

The legislative branch of the federal government of the United States.

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What they’re saying

“I'd rather spend a few extra hours on the train than deal with the madness at the airport.”

— Sarah Johnson, Passenger

“This budget stalemate is really taking a toll on travelers. Something's got to give.”

— Tom Wilkins, Frequent flyer

What’s next

As the budget negotiations continue in Washington, it remains to be seen how long the airport delays and increased train travel will persist. Amtrak officials say they are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to add additional service if demand continues to rise.

The takeaway

The shift to train travel in the face of airport chaos underscores the real-world impact of political gridlock. As lawmakers struggle to reach a compromise, ordinary Americans are forced to adjust their travel plans and find alternative ways to get where they need to go.