US Government Shutdown Causes TSA Delays, Forces 10% Of Agents Off Job
Key Takeaways
- Partial government shutdown leaves TSA workers unpaid for weeks, creating staffing shortages.
- Resulting in longer security wait times and travel delays at major U.S. airports nationwide.
- Spring break travel coincides with TSA staffing shortages, increasing disruption.
TSA Staff Shortages
TSA staffing shortages caused by the DHS shutdown and pay freezes are forcing airports to brace for delays of one to two hours or more.
“Airport security in the U”
TSA agents have gone weeks without pay, intensifying absences that reached up to 10% nationally and 20% at some airports.
Atlanta saw wait times up to two hours, while Houston reported delays up to two and a half hours.
The shutdown has forced TSA to curtail operations at smaller airports.
Economic Impact
The TSA shutdown began after Congress failed to renew DHS funding.
TSA agents are the only major aviation worker group operating without pay.
More than 550 flights were delayed nationwide by 2 p.m. on Friday.
The U.S. Travel Association warned Congress is gambling with aviation safety and security.
Regional Variations
Major hubs grapple with escalating delays.
“Government shutdown creates TSA issues at airports”
Smaller airports face increasing pressure as well.
RDU reported normal operations, but TSA workers have submitted notices to leave.
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