Iran's Threat to US Flights Grows; Feds Say Flights Remain Safe

Iran has maintained a decades-long history of targeting the United States through assassinations and terrorist activities.

This history dates back to the 1980 killing of a dissident in Bethesda, Maryland, according to George Washington University's Project on Extremism.

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Recent tensions have escalated significantly following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

The subsequent initiation of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran on February 28, 2026 has further heightened concerns.

Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth has stated that the Iranian regime 'seeks to export that ideology and try to sow terror.'

The military has indicated it is prepared for potential terrorist attacks against America.

President Donald Trump has specifically warned that Iran has been attempting to activate so-called 'sleeper cells' of long-dormant terrorists.

These cells are described as being hidden within the United States, with Trump urging Democrats to reopen the Department of Homeland Security.

Security experts have expressed increasing concerns about the potential for domestic terrorist attacks following the escalation of tensions with Iran.

Multiple incidents occurring since February 28 may be connected to the ongoing conflict.

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Jeff Price, an aviation security expert and professor at Metropolitan State University in Denver, stated that the threat of domestic terror attacks from Iran is 'absolutely' higher because of the war.

Price explained that 'The war in Iran can inspire attacks from people who may have been on the brink of committing a terrorist act, and the war emboldens them to finally crossing that line.'

Elizabeth Stephens, managing director of Geopolitical Risk Advisory, agreed that the risk of threats from 'lone wolf' actors has risen due to the conflict.

She noted that perpetrators are likely to use guns or improvised explosive devices if they attack.

Pape warned that 'the full dangers will start to materialize in the coming months, if it goes on,'

Pointing to events such as the shooting at a bar in Austin, Texas, and the attack on a Michigan synagogue as potentially connected incidents.

The partial government shutdown and funding lapse at the Department of Homeland Security have raised significant concerns about aviation security.

These concerns center particularly on TSA staffing shortages and absenteeism that could impact airport operations.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reported on social media that '300 [TSA] officers quit' amid the funding lapse.

This highlights the immediate impact of the shutdown on security personnel.

The consequences are already being felt by travelers nationwide.

TSA previously informed USA TODAY that 'travelers are facing TSA lines of up to nearly 3 hours long at some major airports'.

These extended lines have been causing missed flights and massive delays during peak travel periods.

These staffing issues could potentially lead to flight cuts similar to those seen during the government shutdown in late 2025.

Despite concerns about increased terrorist threats and aviation security challenges, security experts have consistently maintained that the actual threat to U.S. flights remains very low.

Jeff Price, an aviation security expert, emphasized that while staffing shortages and long lines are concerning, the probability of an attack on a U.S. airport or airplane is still 'very, very low'.

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He noted this assessment is based on the high level of sophistication needed to bypass security measures.

Hassan Shahidi, president and CEO of the Flight Safety Foundation, expressed confidence in TSA's ability to handle potential threats.

He noted that TSA has 'greatly strengthened its screening process in recent years'.

Shahidi explained that the technology, procedures, and protocols in place won't change because of the partial shutdown.

While less officers showing up for work will slow down the process and create inconvenience, he confirmed the fundamental security measures remain robust and effective.

Government officials have emphasized that while threats exist, the United States remains vigilant and prepared to counter potential terrorist activities.

Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth assured the American public that 'We're ready for that... the American people can rest assured that we're vigilant on that.'

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This assurance came in response to concerns about Iranian attempts to export terrorism.

The military has indicated it is prepared for terrorists who might try to attack the United States.

There is ongoing monitoring of potential threats across the country.

The Trump administration has specifically pointed to the need for DHS funding to remain uninterrupted.

While authorities 'know a lot about' potential sleeper cells, they argue the shutdown prevents them from taking necessary action.

This preparedness approach contrasts with the actual low threat levels assessed by security experts.