U.S. Airlines Prepare for Record Spring Travel Amid Government Shutdown

Airlines call for DHS to resume full Global Entry operations as passenger numbers surge

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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U.S. airlines are expecting a record-breaking spring travel period, with 171 million passengers expected to fly, up 4% from last year. Airlines for America (A4A) projects U.S. airlines will operate 26,000 daily passenger flights with 3.5 million seats to accommodate the demand. However, A4A is concerned that the government shutdown is impacting TSA and CBP operations, and that the Department of Homeland Security has suspended the Global Entry program, which could cause delays for travelers.

Why it matters

The surge in spring travel is a positive sign for the airline industry, but the ongoing government shutdown and suspension of the Global Entry program could create significant challenges and frustrations for passengers. Airlines are calling for the government to resolve the shutdown and reopen the Global Entry program to ensure a smooth travel experience.

The details

According to the A4A forecast, U.S. airlines are adding 2% more flights and seats to handle the expected 171 million passengers, a 4% increase from last year. However, A4A is concerned that the government shutdown is impacting TSA and CBP operations, and that the suspension of the Global Entry program, which allows pre-approved travelers to bypass standard passport control lines, will lead to longer wait times and delays for passengers.

  • The spring travel period is expected to run from March 1 through April 30, 2026.
  • The Global Entry program was suspended by the Department of Homeland Security on February 21, 2026.

The players

Airlines for America (A4A)

The trade association for the leading U.S. airlines, both passenger and cargo carriers. A4A advocates on behalf of the industry and works with stakeholders, federal agencies, the government, and other groups to improve aviation.

Chris Sununu

The President and CEO of Airlines for America (A4A).

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal agency responsible for the Global Entry program, which allows pre-approved travelers to bypass standard passport control lines.

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What they’re saying

“U.S. airlines are ready for the travel rush this spring, but we have grave concerns that millions of travelers are once again being used as a political football by the federal government amid another government shutdown.”

— Chris Sununu, President and CEO, Airlines for America (A4A) (PRNewswire)

“We also are deeply concerned that the Department of Homeland Security has not fully reopened the Global Entry program after suspending it on February 21. There is no need and no data that supports the decision to suspend the Global Entry program, and DHS should act with urgency to reverse course and reopen the Global Entry program.”

— Chris Sununu, President and CEO, Airlines for America (A4A) (PRNewswire)

What’s next

The Department of Homeland Security has not indicated a timeline for when the Global Entry program will be fully reopened. Airlines are calling for DHS to act quickly to reverse the suspension and ensure the program is operational ahead of the busy spring travel season.

The takeaway

The surge in spring travel is a positive sign for the airline industry, but the ongoing government shutdown and suspension of the Global Entry program could create significant challenges and frustrations for passengers. Airlines are urging the government to resolve these issues to ensure a smooth travel experience for millions of Americans.