Government Shutdown Forces TSA Layoffs, Creates Lines of 2-3 Hours at US Airports
Key Takeaways
- Shutdown leaves TSA workers unpaid, triggering high call-out rates and staffing shortages.
- Travelers face multi-hour security lines at major airports due to shortages.
- Trump signs executive action to pay TSA agents amid the shutdown.
Shutdown Closes Checkpoints
The partial federal government shutdown left TSA workers unpaid and forced sudden closures of checkpoints.
At BWI, passengers waited two to three hours just to check bags, then faced another couple of hours to clear security.
Spring break and religious holidays triggered the busiest travel days as call-out rates exceeded 30-40% at major hubs.
TSA Workers Unpaid for 42 Days
TSA workers have gone 42 days without pay due to the funding lapse.
Nearly 500 TSA officers quit during the shutdown.
TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes were also disrupted or unavailable.
Airlines Respond, TSA Back Pay Planned
Southwest agents delivered snacks and water to passengers.
The Senate voted to fund most of DHS, a first step toward ending the shutdown.
The measure moved to the House, which aimed to pass it before recess.
Traveler Frustration Mounts
Travelers described long waits, frustration and resignation.
Equipment malfunctions and lane closures added to the chaos.
Some travelers faced waits beyond five hours.
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