#transportation_security_administration

TSA Wait Times at U.S. Airports Remain High Amid Government Shutdown Travelers across the United States are experiencing extended security screening delays at major airports as a partial government shutdown continues to disrupt operations. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued updated guidance, urging passengers to arrive at airports earlier than usual and to contact their airlines for the latest information. The TSA’s wait time data highlights ongoing challenges at key hubs, with delays persisting due to staffing shortages, fluctuating passenger volumes, and operational adjustments. The agency’s tracking system, which compiles publicly reported wait times from the 50 busiest U.S. airports, updates every 30 minutes. If multiple terminals at a single airport report different wait times, the longest duration is displayed. This method provides travelers with a general idea of current conditions but acknowledges that wait times can change rapidly due to factors like weather, holiday travel, or unexpected delays. For those using TSA PreCheck, the program offers a faster alternative to standard security lines. With over 20 million members, PreCheck allows passengers to bypass traditional screening lanes, reducing wait times to under 10 minutes for most travelers during normal operations. However, the current shutdown has likely impacted the efficiency of both PreCheck and regular security checkpoints, leading to longer queues. The TSA recommends arriving at airports two hours before domestic flights and three hours prior to international departures. This buffer time is especially critical during periods of high demand or operational disruptions.#tsa #transportation_security_administration #government_shutdown #travelers #airports

Trump signs order to pay TSA employees after Congress fails to agree on DHS funding President Donald Trump on Friday signed an executive order to pay Transportation Security Administration employees, aiming to address the ongoing shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security. The move came after a failed attempt by Congress to reach a funding agreement for the agency, which has left thousands of federal workers without pay and caused widespread disruptions at U.S. airports. In a memo authorizing the payments, Trump described the situation as an “emergency” that threatens national security. He stated that the administration would use funds “with a reasonable and logical nexus to TSA operations” to cover the employees’ salaries. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin confirmed that TSA workers could begin receiving paychecks as early as Monday. However, the action does not resolve the broader funding crisis for DHS, which has been in a shutdown since late October, extending to 44 days by Sunday—surpassing the previous record of 43 days set last fall. The shutdown has led to severe delays at major airports, with long security lines and warnings of potential closures. TSA workers, many of whom have missed paychecks, have been increasingly absent from duty. According to DHS data, over 11.8% of TSA employees missed work on Thursday, translating to more than 3,450 callouts. Nearly 500 of the agency’s 50,000 transportation security officers have quit during the shutdown, exacerbating staffing shortages. Congressional efforts to fund DHS have stalled, with the House and Senate passing vastly different bills.#president_donald_trump #transportation_security_administration #senate_majority_leader_john_thune #house_speaker_mike_johnson #homeland_security_secretary_markwayne_mullin

Trump has ordered TSA workers be paid, regardless of what Congress does. Here’s what we know President Donald Trump issued an executive order on Friday directing the Department of Homeland Security to immediately pay Transportation Security Administration employees, even as Congress remains deadlocked over funding for the agency. The move comes amid a prolonged government shutdown that has left thousands of TSA workers without pay for over a month, causing severe disruptions at airports nationwide. The president’s directive, outlined in a statement, instructs the Secretary of Homeland Security to use funds “with a reasonable and logical nexus to TSA operations” to compensate employees for the pay they would have received had the agency not been shut down. While the exact mechanism for funding remains unclear, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) indicated that TSA workers could begin receiving back pay as early as Monday, March 30. The shutdown, which began on February 14, has left approximately 61,000 TSA employees without their second full paycheck. The crisis has led to widespread staffing shortages, with thousands of officers calling in sick and over 500 resigning. This has resulted in massive delays at airports, particularly in cities like Atlanta and Houston, where travelers have faced hours-long waits at security checkpoints. The funding for TSA employees appears to be drawn from the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Act, a domestic policy package signed by Trump in 2025. The legislation allocated $10 billion to DHS for border security initiatives, though TSA itself is not explicitly mentioned in the law.#president_donald_trump #department_of_homeland_security #american_federation_of_government_employees #transportation_security_administration #house_speaker_mike_johnson

ICE agents add to airport stress as government shutdown persists American citizens who believed they were safe from encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have found themselves caught in a new travel crisis. ICE agents are now stationed at some of the country’s busiest airports, adding to the anxiety of travelers already dealing with the fallout from a prolonged government shutdown. This development comes as the Transportation Security Administration faces a severe staffing shortage, with over 3,200 officers—nearly 11 percent of the agency’s workforce—absent from duty. The exodus of TSA personnel, which began in mid-February, has left the agency struggling to maintain normal operations. The situation has been exacerbated by the fact that many TSA employees have not received pay since the shutdown began, prompting widespread resignations. Despite the agency’s efforts to fill the gaps, the absence of a significant number of security personnel has forced the deployment of ICE agents to airports, a move that has raised concerns about the safety and efficiency of air travel. Travelers now face the dual threat of long security lines and the possibility of being detained by immigration authorities, creating a sense of unpredictability that compounds the stress of the ongoing government crisis. The TSA’s inability to retain its workforce highlights the broader challenges of managing critical infrastructure during a shutdown. While some agents remain on duty without compensation, their dedication has been acknowledged, with calls for gratitude for their service.#transportation_security_administration #government_shutdown #travelers #ice_agents #tsa_staffing_shortage

ICE agents take bigger role amid long TSA lines at airports Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have been deployed at 14 major U.S. airports to assist Transportation Security Administration workers as Congress continues to debate a resolution to the partial government shutdown. The staffing shortages at TSA have led to record-long security wait times, with travelers facing delays as the weekend travel rush approaches. President Donald Trump announced plans to use funds from the One Big Beautiful Bill, a law he signed last year, to pay TSA agents who have been without paychecks. However, the timeline for distributing the payments depends on the internal review process to allocate the funds. The Senate approved funding for most of the Department of Homeland Security, including TSA, during an overnight session, signaling progress in resolving the crisis. The House still needs to approve the bill before TSA and other agencies can resume operations. Meanwhile, ICE agents have been managing security lines, distributing water to weary travelers, and assisting with crowd control. While their role includes verifying IDs and monitoring entrances, they are not trained for specialized security tasks like operating X-ray machines. TSA staffing shortages have worsened, with over 3,120 officers absent from work on Wednesday, according to agency data. Many TSA workers have quit or called in sick after six weeks without pay. Airports have responded by redirecting staff from other departments, urging travelers to arrive earlier, and bringing in external security personnel. At Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport, wait times reached four hours, prompting TSA to send 32 officers to help manage the situation.#president_donald_trump #transportation_security_administration #george_bush_intercontinental_airport #ice_agents #hartsfield_jackson_international_airport

Senate Unanimously Advances DHS Funding Deal Without ICE and CBP Amid Shutdown The Senate moved forward with a bipartisan agreement to reopen most of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after 42 days of government shutdown, but the deal excluded funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and parts of Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The agreement, passed in the early hours of Friday, marks a critical step toward resolving the funding crisis but leaves key immigration enforcement agencies without financial support. The decision came amid ongoing tensions between Democrats and Republicans over immigration policy and the broader implications of the shutdown. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and his Democratic allies praised the deal, calling it a victory for their priorities. Schumer argued that the agreement aligns with their demands to withhold funding for ICE and CBP, which he and his caucus have consistently opposed. “This is exactly what we wanted,” Schumer stated, emphasizing that his party had maintained its stance throughout the negotiations. However, the deal lacks the sweeping reforms Democrats had sought, such as requiring judicial warrants for agent actions or mandating the unmasking of individuals during investigations. Republicans, led by Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., criticized the agreement as a missed opportunity to secure meaningful policy changes. Thune argued that Democrats had repeatedly rejected proposals to fund immigration enforcement while simultaneously demanding reforms. “We’ve been trying for weeks to fund the whole thing,” Thune said, noting that the deal “has zero reforms” and that Democrats had failed to compromise on policy issues.#dhs #senate #john_thune #transportation_security_administration #chuck_schumer

White House turns down Elon Musk's offer to pay TSA workers during DHS shutdown The White House has declined an offer from Elon Musk to cover the salaries of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers during a partial government shutdown that has left airport travelers across the country without proper staffing. According to multiple sources, Musk’s proposal was considered seriously by Trump administration officials, but legal hurdles could prevent him from directly or indirectly funding the pay, particularly due to his existing government contracts. White House officials also expressed confidence that the partial shutdown would end soon, according to unnamed sources. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized Democrats for the stalemate, accusing them of prolonging the crisis. “The president and the Republicans’ position has been very clear—fund the Department of Homeland Security,” Leavitt stated. Musk publicly offered to pay TSA personnel during the funding impasse, posting on X, where he noted the impact on American travelers. President Trump praised the idea, saying, “I’d love it. I think it’s great. Let him do that.” However, the administration has not accepted the offer, citing legal complexities. The estimated cost of Musk’s proposal is around $250 million, according to two sources. While the government could theoretically redirect funds from its general account to cover the pay, federal law prohibits private individuals from directly compensating government employees. However, citizens can donate to the U.S. government through the “Gifts to the U.S. Government” account, which can then be allocated to budget needs.#white_house #elon_musk #karoline_leavitt #transportation_security_administration #dhs_shutdown

Trump Orders DHS to Immediately Pay TSA Officers Amid Partial Shutdown President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he will sign an order directing the Department of Homeland Security to immediately pay Transportation Security Administration officers who have been without paychecks during the ongoing partial government shutdown. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump instructed newly appointed Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin to “immediately pay our TSA Agents in order to address this Emergency Situation.” The funding lapse at DHS has left TSA officers without their first full paycheck since mid-March, prompting many to call out of work. The agency has faced significant challenges in maintaining operations under the current circumstances, with staff and travelers reporting long delays and disrupted services at major airports. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the situation in a statement, acknowledging that the administration is “having discussions about a number of ideas” to mitigate the impact of the shutdown. However, she emphasized that no formal plans or preparations are currently in place. Leavitt noted that the “best and easiest way to pay TSA Agents is to fund DHS,” highlighting the administration’s focus on resolving the funding crisis. The announcement comes as the Senate has repeatedly stalled efforts to pass a House-approved bill that would fully fund DHS for a year. Democrats have resisted the legislation, citing their desire to make changes to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies. The debate over the bill has intensified following recent events, including an immigration surge in Minneapolis and the fatal shooting of two U.S. citizens by federal officers earlier this year.#donald_trump #white_house #department_of_homeland_security #transportation_security_administration #markwayne_mullin

Philadelphia International Airport TSA officers have been deployed to assist at overstressed airports across the country, including Houston and Arizona, as part of a broader response to the ongoing federal government shutdown. The move comes amid reports of significant staff shortages and operational challenges at major hubs, with some facilities experiencing up to 40% absenteeism due to the shutdown’s impact on federal workers. The deployment includes TSA personnel from Philadelphia, who are being temporarily reassigned to support overwhelmed teams at airports such as Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport. The decision follows weeks of public complaints about long security lines, delayed flights, and reduced staffing at major travel hubs. A TSA employee, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the situation as a “crisis,” noting that many colleagues have been forced to work unpaid overtime or take unpaid leave to cover shifts. The federal government shutdown, which began in late December, has disrupted operations at numerous agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). While non-essential federal employees have been furloughed, some critical roles, such as security screening, have remained operational. However, the lack of full staffing has led to chaotic conditions at airports, with travelers reporting delays and long waits. The TSA’s response has included temporary staffing measures, including the deployment of personnel from other regions. However, the agency has faced criticism for its handling of the crisis, with some employees expressing frustration over the lack of resources and support.#philadelphia_international_airport #transportation_security_administration #george_bush_intercontinental_airport #federal_government_shutdown #transportation_workers_union

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt to Address Media on Iran, Troop Deployments and TSA Disruptions White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt is scheduled to hold a press briefing on Wednesday to address a series of pressing national and international issues, including military actions in the Middle East, immigration policy, and the ongoing impact of government funding delays. The briefing follows heightened tensions with Iran, a significant troop deployment to the region, and domestic challenges affecting federal operations. The briefing coincides with the Supreme Court’s consideration of a landmark immigration case that could redefine the conditions under which asylum seekers are permitted to request protection at the U.S.-Mexico border. This legal development has placed the administration’s immigration policies under increased scrutiny, as the court’s decision could alter the framework for border security and refugee protections. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has announced plans to deploy additional U.S. forces to the Middle East, including at least 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division. This move comes amid escalating tensions with Iran, which has intensified its attacks on Israel and Gulf Arab nations. Iranian state media reported that Tehran rejected a U.S.-proposed 15-point ceasefire plan, despite the proposal being transmitted through Pakistan. Iran’s recent attacks, including a significant assault on Kuwait International Airport, have further complicated regional stability. Domestically, the administration faces criticism over the effects of the government funding stalemate, which has led to staffing shortages and operational delays at federal agencies.#iran #pentagon #white_house #karoline_leavitt #transportation_security_administration

TSA agents quitting, calling out as airports hit with record wait times Travelers have endured hours-long delays and sprawling lines at airports as hundreds of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees have left their posts. The agency has faced a surge in staff absences, with approximately 36% of workers calling in sick on average, leading to unprecedented congestion at security checkpoints. On Tuesday, airports reported some of the longest wait times ever recorded, with passengers forced to wait for extended periods to pass through security screenings. The exodus of TSA agents has created a significant strain on airport operations, disrupting the flow of travelers and raising concerns about the agency’s ability to manage the growing demand for air travel. Officials have acknowledged the crisis, noting that the high rate of absenteeism has exacerbated existing challenges, including staffing shortages and outdated infrastructure. The situation has sparked calls for increased investment in the TSA workforce and modernization of security processes to prevent further delays. Industry experts warn that the ongoing staffing crisis could have long-term consequences for the aviation sector. With fewer agents available to process passengers, airlines and airports are struggling to maintain efficiency, leading to a ripple effect on flight schedules and customer satisfaction. Some travelers have reported being stuck in lines for over two hours, while others have faced repeated delays due to understaffed security lanes. The problem has been compounded by the increasing number of passengers, as demand for air travel continues to rise despite economic uncertainties.#tsa #transportation_security_administration #travelers #airports #security_checkpoints

Opinion: The airport perks for Congress are drying up, and not a minute too soon If you really want to get mad about the chaos unfolding at the Atlanta airport, consider a bill from Texas Sen. John Cornyn that passed the Senate unanimously last week. The bill would stop members of Congress from getting a little-known perk when they’re flying in and out of American airports, namely skipping the security lines manned by the Transportation Security Administration. A partial government shutdown has left TSA workers unpaid for weeks, causing many to seek other work or childcare. Meanwhile, security lines have ballooned, with officials estimating wait times could reach four hours. Live updates describe the situation at the airport, where long delays have become a daily reality. The political fallout from the shutdown has intensified, with lawmakers facing criticism for failing to secure funding for essential services. The bill by Cornyn aims to address the imbalance between congressional privileges and the hardships faced by ordinary travelers. By eliminating the exemption that allows lawmakers to bypass security checkpoints, the measure seeks to level the playing field. However, it also highlights the broader consequences of the shutdown, which has disrupted not only airport operations but also federal services nationwide. Delta Air Lines clarified that while its Capitol Desk remains open, its elite services for members of Congress are suspended. This underscores the growing scrutiny on lawmakers’ privileges amid public frustration over the shutdown’s impact. The situation has sparked debates about accountability, with critics arguing that the government should prioritize the needs of the public over the conveniences of its leaders.#delta_air_lines #transportation_security_administration #government_shutdown #texas_sen_john_cornyn #atlanta_airport

Delta suspends special treatment for Congress as shutdown sows chaos in airports Delta Air Lines announced on Tuesday it would stop offering special services to members of Congress, citing the ongoing government shutdown that has disrupted U.S. air travel operations. The Atlanta-based airline stated that the prolonged funding crisis has strained resources, forcing it to temporarily halt VIP services for lawmakers. Delta emphasized that safety remains its top priority, but the current environment has made it increasingly difficult to maintain standard operations. The decision affects lawmakers who typically receive priority treatment, including airport escorts and premium services like seat upgrades or expedited rebooking. However, Congress members will still have access to a dedicated phone line for reservations. The airline’s move comes as federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) face severe staffing shortages due to unpaid wages since mid-February. Congress allowed funding for the Department of Homeland Security to expire over disputes regarding immigration enforcement, leaving TSA employees without pay. Travelers have experienced long delays at security checkpoints as TSA staff resign or call in sick. President Donald Trump has deployed immigration agents to over a dozen airports to assist with crowd control, a measure criticized by TSA workers who claim they lack proper training for such roles. Delta CEO Ed Bastian criticized the situation during a CNBC interview, calling it “inexcusable” that TSA officers were forced to miss paychecks last fall. He condemned the use of federal workers as political tools, stating, “It’s ridiculous to see them being used as political chits. We’re outraged.#congress #delta_air_lines #president_donald_trump #tsa #transportation_security_administration

Orlando airport wait times spike amid spring break travel Travelers at Orlando International Airport faced significant delays as spring break crowds overwhelmed the facility, with wait times reaching around 40 minutes during peak hours on Monday. The surge in passengers, combined with ongoing staffing challenges at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), contributed to prolonged security lines that stretched through terminal hallways. The delays at Orlando followed reports of widespread staffing shortages at major U.S. airports, including Houston, where nearly half of the TSA workforce was absent on Saturday. These call-outs have disrupted operations across the country, leading to extended wait times for passengers. While Orlando officials confirmed the airport is not currently listed among facilities experiencing high staff call-out rates, the impact of national staffing issues is still evident at the local level. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are set to deploy at 14 airports starting Monday, though Orlando has not yet received notification of its inclusion in the list. Despite this, travelers are being urged to allow extra time for airport navigation, particularly during the morning and late afternoon when security lines are typically the busiest. The situation highlights the strain on airport infrastructure during peak travel periods, with federal staffing shortages exacerbating delays. As spring break continues to drive increased passenger traffic, the challenges faced at Orlando International Airport reflect broader issues affecting air travel across the nation.#transportation_security_administration #spring_break #tampa #orlando_international_airport #u_s_immigration_and_customs_enforcement

Philadelphia International Airport to Temporarily Close Two More Security Checkpoints The ongoing partial government shutdown has led to additional temporary closures of security checkpoints at Philadelphia International Airport. Starting Wednesday, March 18, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will shut down checkpoints at Terminals A-West and F. This follows the earlier closure of Terminal C, which was closed last week. TSA Pre-Check services will remain operational at Terminals A-East, D, and E. The TSA announced the closures as part of efforts to optimize operations across other checkpoints. Employees are being temporarily reassigned to other terminals to help reduce wait times and address staffing shortages caused by the government shutdown. The TSA’s decision was confirmed via a Twitter post from the airport’s official account, which also provided details about TSA operating hours. The agency emphasized that these measures are temporary and aimed at maintaining efficiency during the current staffing challenges. Travelers are advised to arrive at the airport early to account for potential delays. The airport recommends arriving 2.5 hours before domestic flights and 3.5 hours before international flights. Despite the closures, the airport has stated that operations are continuing without major disruptions. The partial government shutdown has affected TSA workers, with many facing unpaid leave. However, the airport has noted that security operations have remained largely unaffected, with employees continuing to work without pay. For further information, travelers are directed to the airport’s official website at PHL.org.#philadelphia_international_airport #transportation_security_administration #terminal_a_west #terminal_f #tsa_pre_check

Delays and Cancellations Persist at Major U.S. Airports Dozens of flights from Newark Liberty International, LaGuardia, and John F. Kennedy airports were delayed or cancelled on Sunday, March 22, 2026, as part of a broader pattern of disruptions linked to ongoing funding disputes and adverse weather conditions. The situation reflects a growing challenge for travelers, with delays and cancellations escalating in recent weeks due to a standoff in Washington over funding for the Department of Homeland Security. This includes the Transportation Security Administration, which has faced staffing shortages as TSA workers have gone unpaid for weeks. The resulting absences have led to longer security line waits and operational slowdowns at major airports. According to FlightAware, as of 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, Newark Liberty International reported 41 delayed flights and eight cancellations, while LaGuardia had 42 delays and eight cancellations. John F. Kennedy International faced the highest impact, with 73 delays and 11 cancellations. Nationally, 8,531 flights were delayed and 480 were cancelled at the same time. The disruptions are expected to worsen throughout the day as conditions remain volatile. TSA checkpoints at Newark experienced wait times ranging from 1 to 12 minutes, depending on the terminal and gate, according to the airport’s real-time tracking system. The staffing crisis has been exacerbated by political gridlock, as Democrats have refused to fund U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement without operational reforms following the deaths of two U.S. citizens during an immigration campaign in Minneapolis.#department_of_homeland_security #transportation_security_administration #newark_liberty_international #laguardia_airport #john_f_kennedy_airport

Philadelphia International Airport Closes More Security Checkpoints Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown Philadelphia International Airport announced additional security checkpoint closures on Wednesday as the partial government shutdown affecting the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) continues. The closures impact Terminals A-West and F, joining Terminal C, which was already closed last week as a PreCheck-only checkpoint. TSA PreCheck services remain operational at Terminals A-East and D/E. Travelers reported long security lines at the airport on Thursday morning, with some lines stretching to baggage claim. The closures are linked to staffing shortages at TSA due to the partial shutdown, which has left roughly 50,000 TSA officers working without pay since February 14. Affected workers missed their first full paychecks on Friday. Internal TSA data obtained by CBS News revealed that over 350 officers have resigned during the shutdown, exacerbating staffing challenges and causing delays at airports nationwide. The airport advised travelers to use specific checkpoints based on their terminal: those departing from Terminal A-West should use A-East, Terminal C travelers should use Terminal B, and Terminal F passengers should opt for D/E. The airport emphasized that all terminals remain connected past security, allowing access to any gate from an open checkpoint. To mitigate delays, the airport recommended arriving 2.5 hours early for domestic flights and 3.5 hours early for international flights. Jana Tidwell of AAA warned travelers to plan even more time, noting that wait times could exceed four to five hours.#philadelphia #philadelphia_international_airport #transportation_security_administration #government_shutdown #tsa_precheck

Navigating Airport Security Delays During TSA Shutdown Travelers at U.S. airports are facing extended security line waits as a partial government shutdown strains Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staffing. With some wait times stretching past an hour, passengers are advised to adjust their travel plans to avoid delays. At Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, reports indicate wait times of up to two hours, while travelers at New Orleans and Austin, Texas, are urged to arrive at least three hours before their flights. Other airports have seen wait times remain within normal ranges, creating uncertainty for those accustomed to last-minute arrivals. The uneven delays stem from a combination of factors, including the ongoing partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security and the surge in spring break travelers. The shutdown, which began on February 14, has left approximately 50,000 TSA agents working without pay, contributing to staffing shortages. As the shutdown drags on, employee absences are rising due to financial strain, with the American Federation of Government Employees noting that at least 366 TSA agents have quit during the crisis. Monitoring wait times has become critical for travelers, but traditional methods may not be reliable. The TSA’s MyTSA mobile app, which typically provides estimated wait times, may not reflect current conditions due to the shutdown. Third-party websites tracking TSA lines could also offer outdated information if they rely on publicly available data. Experts recommend checking airport websites and social media accounts, including platforms like X, for real-time updates.#austin_texas #american_federation_of_government_employees #new_orleans #transportation_security_administration #atlanta_hartsfield_jackson_international_airport

Airport Security Lines Are Long. Here's What to Know if You're Flying Travelers are facing long waits at airport security checkpoints as the Department of Homeland Security remains shut down, leading to staffing shortages and delays. With spring break in full swing, major airports in Houston, Atlanta, and New Orleans are reporting wait times of up to two hours, with some advising passengers to arrive three hours before their flights. In Philadelphia, three security checkpoints were closed entirely due to a lack of staff. The shutdown has left Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers without pay, as the agency is not funded by Congress. Over 50,000 TSA employees have been working without a full paycheck, and more than 300 officers have quit since the shutdown began on February 14. In Houston, nearly half of TSA staff called in sick, while a third did the same in Atlanta and New Orleans. These staffing issues are compounded by severe weather and school closures, which have further disrupted travel. President Trump has threatened to deploy Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to airports if Congress does not fund the Department of Homeland Security. He promised to use ICE agents to enhance security and make arrests of undocumented immigrants. Meanwhile, a bipartisan group of senators is working with the White House to resolve the shutdown and address immigration enforcement reforms. Transportation officials warn that the situation could worsen if the shutdown is not resolved. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that a second missed paycheck could lead to more staff resigning, potentially forcing some smaller airports to close. Billionaire Elon Musk has offered to personally pay TSA staff during the funding impasse, though U.S.#georgia #texas #louisiana #department_of_homeland_security #transportation_security_administration

TSA Wait Times at Philadelphia International Airport: What Weekend Travelers Should Know Philadelphia International Airport is among the busiest in the nation, designated as a Core 30 airport by the Federal Aviation Administration. Combined with the high volume of travelers on Fridays, which are among the busiest days for air travel, understanding TSA wait times is critical for weekend flyers. As of Friday morning, March 20, the average TSA security wait time at PHL is approximately 30 minutes. Travelers with TSA PreCheck, particularly at Terminal D/E, can expect a significantly shorter wait, with the process taking around 25 minutes less than standard security lines. Those planning to depart PHL this weekend or early next week are advised to check the airport’s real-time TSA wait time website frequently for updates. It’s important to note that the Transportation Safety Administration does not offer reimbursement for missed flights caused by delays in the security screening process. However, travelers may consider purchasing third-party travel insurance to cover such expenses. Additional delays could occur due to recent terminal closures at PHL. Terminal C was shut down in early March, followed by the closure of Terminal A-West and Terminal F. These closures have increased the volume of passengers at remaining terminals, potentially lengthening wait times. The ongoing partial federal government shutdown is also affecting air travel nationwide. TSA has reported an absence rate of about 10%, which has strained staffing levels and contributed to extended security lines. Travelers are encouraged to arrive at the airport well in advance to account for these factors. (This story has been updated to correct a misspelling in a headline)#federal_aviation_administration #philadelphia_international_airport #transportation_security_administration #tsa_precheck #terminal_d_e