Overview
Spring-break travel and a partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown have combined to produce long, unpredictable security lines at many U.S. airports. Transportation Security Administration screeners are classified as essential and have been working without pay during the shutdown, and staffing shortages are causing delays at major hubs.
Why lines are long
– Staffing shortages are the main cause. About 50,000 TSA officers have remained on duty without pay, and many missed their first full paychecks. DHS reported more than 300 TSA officers have quit since the shutdown began. Several airports have also experienced unusually high sick-call rates — in one week more than half of scheduled officers called out in Houston, and nearly a third did so in Atlanta and New Orleans.
– High travel volumes are adding pressure. Industry forecasts expected roughly 2.8 million passengers per day in March and April, a record seasonal total.
– Weather and spring-break demand have compounded staffing shortfalls.
Examples of disruption
– Houston and Atlanta reported wait times nearing two hours on a recent Friday.
– New Orleans advised travelers to arrive at least three hours before departure.
– Philadelphia temporarily closed three security checkpoints because of short staffing.
– Over the weekend, a public figure suggested using Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to staff security lanes if funding isn’t restored.
What officials say
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has warned the situation could worsen if the shutdown continues, saying operations remain safe but slower because fewer agents are available and some smaller airports might temporarily close checkpoints. The U.K. Foreign Office advised travelers to expect possible disruptions and to check with airlines and airports for updates. Separately, a private offer to pay TSA salaries was reported, but U.S. law generally bars federal employees from accepting outside compensation for official duties.
Other travel impacts
Global jet fuel prices have risen amid tensions in the Middle East, pushing airline fuel costs higher. United Airlines announced some flight cuts over the coming months after fuel prices climbed, which could reduce capacity and put upward pressure on fares. Despite these pressures, overall travel demand has stayed strong.
How travelers can prepare
1) Know before you go — Check your airport’s current security wait estimates (many airports post them online). Note that TSA’s posted wait times may be incomplete during the shutdown. Also remember that about 20 U.S. airports use private contractors for screening (including San Francisco and Kansas City); those locations generally are not reporting the same staffing shortages.
2) Budget extra time — Arrive earlier than usual. Posted wait times can change quickly if expedited lanes close or staff levels shift.
3) Consider expedited screening — If eligible, sign up for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, and opt into biometric screening in airline apps where available. The private CLEAR program can be a last-minute option at some airports (annual fee; some credit cards reimburse it). Keep in mind expedited lanes are not guaranteed to be faster in every situation.
4) Make a plan B — Install your airline’s app, note customer-service numbers, and save alternative flight options and carriers on your route. Be proactive about rebooking if you miss connections or face cancellations. While airlines are not required to rebook you on competitors, it can be worth asking. If an airline cancels your flight within the U.S., Department of Transportation rules generally entitle you to a refund.
Bottom line
Expect longer and less predictable security waits while the DHS funding standoff continues. The best steps are to check conditions ahead, allow more time at the airport, use expedited programs if you can, and have rebooking options ready in case of missed or canceled flights.