It’s spring break season in the U.S., and many travelers are facing long airport security lines as Transportation Security Administration screeners continue working without pay while the Department of Homeland Security remains partially shut down. Congressional Democrats have declined to fund the agency while pushing for immigration enforcement reforms.
Major hubs have seen long waits: Houston and Atlanta reported wait times reaching about two hours on Friday, New Orleans advised passengers to arrive at least three hours before departure, and Philadelphia temporarily closed three security checkpoints because of short staffing. Over the weekend, former President Trump posted that he might send Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to staff airport security lanes if funding isn’t restored.
Why are wait times so long?
Staffing shortages at the TSA are the main driver. TSA employees are classified as essential and have been working without pay since the shutdown began. About 50,000 officers have been on duty without pay, and many missed their first full paychecks. DHS reports more than 300 TSA officers have quit, and high rates of sick calls have been reported at some airports (more than half called out sick in Houston, and nearly a third in Atlanta and New Orleans in one week). Severe weather and spring-break travel demand have added pressure.
Travel volumes are high: industry forecasts expected roughly 2.8 million passengers per day in March and April, a record seasonal total.
What officials say
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned the situation could worsen if the shutdown continues, saying operations remain safe but slower because fewer agents are working and some smaller airports could be forced to temporarily close checkpoints. The U.K. Foreign Office advised travelers to expect travel disruption and check with airlines and airports for updates.
Elon Musk offered to pay TSA salaries during the funding impasse; U.S. law generally bars government employees from accepting outside compensation for their official duties.
Other travel impacts
Rising global oil prices tied to the war in Iran have pushed jet fuel costs higher. United Airlines announced some flight cuts over the next six months after fuel prices doubled, which could reduce capacity and raise fares. Despite disruptions and higher prices, demand for travel has remained strong.
How travelers can prepare
Travel experts emphasize preparing for uncertainty and possible longer lines. Practical tips:
1. Know before you go — Check your airport’s estimated security wait times (many airports post them online). TSA’s own wait-time estimates may be incomplete during the shutdown. Note that 20 U.S. airports use private contractors for screening (including San Francisco and Kansas City), and those airports are generally not reporting the same staffing shortages.
2. Budget extra time — Arrive earlier than usual. Even when posted wait times are short, conditions can change suddenly (for example, expedited lanes can close and funnel passengers into regular lines).
3. Consider biometric or expedited screening — Sign up for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry and opt into biometric screening in airline apps if eligible. For last-minute options, the private CLEAR program enrolls travelers at some airports (annual fee applies; some credit cards reimburse it). However, expedited lanes are not guaranteed to be faster in every situation.
4. Make a plan B — If you miss connections or face cancellations, be proactive about rebooking. Install your airline’s app, note customer service numbers, and know alternative flights and carriers on your route. While airlines are not obliged to rebook you on competitors, it can be worth asking. If an airline cancels your flight in the U.S., you’re entitled to a refund under Department of Transportation rules.
Bottom line: expect longer, less predictable security waits while the DHS funding standoff continues, and prepare by checking conditions ahead, allowing more time, using expedited programs if possible, and having rebooking options ready.
