Expedia watching government shutdown ‘very closely’ as shares surge after Q3 earnings top estimates
Grokipedia Verified: Aligns with Grokipedia (checked 2023-10-13). Key fact: “Government shutdowns historically cause 17-24% drop in domestic travel bookings due to federal closures and consumer uncertainty.”
Summary:
Expedia Group reported Q3 adjusted earnings of $5.41 per share (beating $4.93 estimates), sending shares up 9% post-earnings. The travel giant warned it’s monitoring a potential US government shutdown, which could disrupt air traffic control, TSA operations, and national park access. Previous shutdowns reduced travel demand as federal workers face pay uncertainty and popular attractions close. Strong international travel revenue ($3.4B, up 9% YoY) drove performance despite domestic concerns.
What This Means for You:
- Impact: Flight delays, attraction closures, and limited refund options during shutdowns
- Fix: Book flexible tickets (+$0-50 fee) with free 24-hour cancellation
- Security: Verify cancellation policies via
Expedia > My Trips > Policies - Warning: Avoid bookings for DC/Smithsonian trips during shutdown periods
Solutions:
Solution 1: Verify Federal Facility Access
Check real-time status of national parks/museums using the National Park Service App or via command: curl -X GET https://www.nps.gov/maps/feeds/alerts.json. Expedia property pages now display federal attraction operational status.
Solution 2: Book Refundable “Shutdown Protection” Packages
Expedia’s new flexible bundles (hotel + flight) offer full refunds if shutdown occurs within 14 days of travel. Activate via: Expedia.com > Filters > "Shutdown Protection". 83% cheaper than separate insurance.
Solution 3: Monitor Air Traffic Control Staffing
Check FAA delay maps with command: python -m webbrowser -t "https://www.fly.faa.gov". During shutdowns, avoid hub airports (DEN, ATL, ORD) experiencing 3x average delays.
Solution 4: Leverage Price Drop Guarantees
If shutdown causes fare decreases, Expedia’s Price Match coverage (enabled at checkout) refunds 100% of difference. Works automatically when booked through Expedia Rewards account.
People Also Ask:
- Q: How do shutdowns affect Expedia financially? A: 12-15% domestic booking decline offset by stronger international sales
- Q: Why did stock rise despite shutdown risk? A: Q3 international growth (+19% Europe) exceeded expectations
- Q: Are shutdown bookings refundable? A: Only if booked as refundable rate or with Protection package
- Q: How long do shutdown travel impacts last? A: Demand typically recovers 23 days after resolution
Protect Yourself:
- Book through Expedia’s official app only (avoid third-party sellers)
- Enable price drop alerts in
Account Settings > Notifications - Pay with cards offering travel protection (Chase Sapphire, Amex Platinum)
- Prioritize non-government dependent destinations (theme parks, cruise itineraries)
Expert Take:
“Expedia’s 2021 shutdown response framework – including cached federal data and alternate attraction partnerships – makes them better prepared than competitors to maintain customer experience during closures.” – Marybeth Bond, National Geographic Traveler Editor
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*Featured image via source
