DHS Suspends TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Lanes at US Airports During Government Shutdown

The closures are expected to significantly increase wait times, so travelers should budget extra time at the airport.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The Department of Homeland Security announced it is shutting down expedited airport security and immigration lanes for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry at US airports, effective Sunday morning at 6 am ET, due to a partial government shutdown that left the department without funding. Both programs are widely used by frequent flyers and business travelers, and the closures are expected to significantly increase wait times.

Why it matters

The suspension of these expedited security and immigration lanes will impact many travelers, especially frequent flyers and business travelers who rely on the convenience of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. This could lead to longer wait times at airports and disrupt travel plans.

The details

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said the agency is "making tough but necessary workforce and resource decisions" and prioritizing the "general traveling population" at airports. Without appropriations, TSA simply cannot afford to risk overstretching staff and weakening security posture. The lanes will reopen once the agency secures funding.

  • The closures went into effect on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 6 am ET.

The players

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The U.S. federal executive department responsible for public security, including customs, immigration, and airport security.

Kristi Noem

The current Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

TSA PreCheck

An expedited security screening program that allows approved travelers to keep shoes and jackets on and leave laptops and liquids in bags.

Global Entry

A U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that provides expedited passport control when returning to the U.S. from abroad.

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What they’re saying

“Without appropriations, TSA simply cannot afford to risk overstretching our staff and weakening our security posture.”

— Kristi Noem, Secretary, Department of Homeland Security (Business Insider)

What’s next

The lanes will reopen once the Department of Homeland Security secures funding to resume operations.

The takeaway

This suspension of expedited security and immigration lanes at US airports during the government shutdown highlights the impact that political gridlock can have on the travel experience for many Americans. It underscores the need for stable government funding to maintain critical transportation infrastructure and services.