Are travelers facing longer wait times at airports due to TSA staffing issues?
Yes, travelers are encountering unusually long airport security lines as a result of a partial federal government shutdown that has impacted TSA staffing levels. Reports indicate that some major airports are experiencing TSA wait times exceeding an hour during peak periods.
Despite these challenges, TSA PreCheck remains operational, allowing enrolled travelers to use dedicated lanes, which typically have wait times of just 10 to 15 minutes even during busy travel times. This program, which costs $85 to enroll for five years, is seen as a valuable investment for frequent flyers.
However, the ongoing shutdown, which began in mid-February 2026 after Congress failed to pass funding for the Department of Homeland Security, has led to significant staffing shortages. TSA agents are expected to miss their first full paycheck due to the shutdown, further exacerbating the situation.
As a result, travelers are advised to arrive at the airport three to four hours before their scheduled departure to avoid missing flights. Some airports are publishing their own checkpoint wait times on official websites or social media, and travelers can also check real-time TSA line wait times using the MyTSA mobile app and TSA website.
While TSA PreCheck is still functioning, other programs like Global Entry have been suspended during the government shutdown. This has left some travelers seeking alternative options for expedited processing.
The TSA has reported that travelers are facing lines of up to nearly three hours long at certain major airports, leading to missed flights and significant delays. Brian Kelly, a travel expert, noted, “I want to warn people it’s not every airport that is horrible, but some are worse than others.”
For those considering additional expedited services, CLEAR+ membership costs $209 per year, with children 17 and under added for free. Military service members can access a discounted annual rate of $125 for CLEAR+.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact duration of the government shutdown and how it may continue to impact TSA staffing levels as the situation develops.
In summary, while TSA PreCheck provides a faster option for travelers, the ongoing government shutdown is creating significant delays and challenges at airports nationwide.
