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TSA Warns Smaller Airports Could Shut Down Amid Partial DHS Shutdown
Travelers at Bakersfield's Meadows Field Airport report smooth trips so far, but concerns remain about potential disruptions at smaller airports.
Mar. 18, 2026 at 5:06am
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The partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown is impacting TSA staffing nationwide, with some travelers facing significant delays and disruptions at larger airports. However, passengers at Bakersfield's Meadows Field Airport have reported mostly smooth experiences so far. The TSA has warned that some smaller airports could be forced to shut down if more security workers call out or quit due to the shutdown.
Why it matters
The partial DHS shutdown highlights the fragility of the nation's airport security system, especially at smaller regional airports that may lack the resources and staffing redundancies of major hubs. Any prolonged disruptions could have serious implications for air travel and commerce across the country.
The details
Travelers at Meadows Field Airport in Bakersfield, California have reported mostly smooth trips despite the ongoing partial DHS shutdown. However, passengers at other airports have faced significant delays and disruptions, with one traveler describing a line "wrapped around" the terminal and an hour-long wait to check bags. The TSA has warned that some smaller airports could be forced to shut down if more security workers call out or quit due to the shutdown.
- The partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown began in March 2026.
The players
Meadows Field Airport
A regional airport serving the Bakersfield, California area.
TSA
The Transportation Security Administration, the federal agency responsible for airport security.
Department of Homeland Security
The federal department that oversees the TSA and other agencies responsible for national security.
What they’re saying
“Everything just went perfect. You couldn't tell.”
— Brenda Nykamp, Traveler
“I mean the flight today was not too bad, it was smooth. I had no problems.”
— Omar Sierra, Traveler
“Not so much but more on the international ones but it would affect sometimes because people tend to not show up early as they are supposed to so it can slow it down.”
— Fernando Juarez, Traveler
What’s next
The White House says it is reviewing a new DHS funding proposal from Senate Democrats, which could help resolve the partial shutdown and prevent further disruptions to airport security.
The takeaway
The partial DHS shutdown has exposed the vulnerabilities of the nation's airport security system, particularly at smaller regional airports. While some travelers have experienced minimal disruptions so far, the situation remains precarious and could worsen if the shutdown drags on and more TSA agents quit or call out.
