US Reverses Course, Will Keep TSA PreCheck Program Operational

The Trump administration initially announced the program would be temporarily suspended due to the government shutdown, but later reversed the decision.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The Trump administration initially announced on Sunday that the TSA PreCheck program, which allows millions of airline travelers to get expedited security screening, would be temporarily suspended starting at 6 a.m. EST due to the ongoing government shutdown. However, just hours later, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said the program would remain operational with no changes for the traveling public.

Why it matters

The PreCheck program is used by over 20 million people and helps manage airport travel volumes, especially during busy travel seasons like spring break. Suspending the program would have caused significant disruptions and frustration for travelers.

The details

The initial announcement that PreCheck would be suspended raised alarm among travel groups and airlines. However, the Department of Homeland Security later clarified that the program would remain operational, and the TSA said it would adjust operations on a case-by-case basis as staffing constraints arise due to the shutdown. The TSA also said it would be suspending courtesy escorts, such as those for members of Congress.

  • The initial announcement that PreCheck would be suspended was made on Sunday, February 22, 2026.
  • Just hours later, around 10 a.m. on February 22, 2026, the TSA said the PreCheck program would remain operational.

The players

Trump administration

The presidential administration of former President Donald Trump, which initially announced the suspension of the TSA PreCheck program.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The federal agency that oversees airport security and the PreCheck program, which later reversed the decision to suspend the program.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal agency that initially announced the PreCheck program would be suspended, but later clarified that it would remain operational.

Airlines for America

The trade group representing major U.S. airlines, which expressed deep concern over the initial announcement to suspend PreCheck.

Chris Sununu

The CEO of Airlines for America, who said the group was "deeply concerned" about the suspension of PreCheck and Global Entry programs.

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What they’re saying

“The announcement was issued with extremely short notice to travelers, giving them little time to plan accordingly, which is especially troubling at this time of record air travel.”

— Chris Sununu, CEO, Airlines for America (Reuters)

What’s next

It is unclear if the TSA will still suspend the Global Entry program, which expedites U.S. customs and immigration clearance for pre-approved, low-risk international travelers entering the United States.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the potential for significant disruptions to air travel when government programs like PreCheck are threatened with suspension, especially during busy travel seasons. It also underscores the need for clear and timely communication from federal agencies to avoid confusion and panic among travelers.