Over 300 TSA Agents Quit During Shutdown, Causing Travel Delays

Unpaid salaries lead to staffing shortages at airports nationwide

Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:51pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

More than 300 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers have quit since the start of the government shutdown, leading to double the normal rate of callouts and causing lengthy security lines at airports across the United States. The exodus of TSA agents could continue to worsen travel issues even after the shutdown ends, as new hires would need to complete lengthy training processes.

Why it matters

The loss of TSA agents during the shutdown is exacerbating travel delays and disruptions for passengers nationwide. This could lead to missed flights, canceled trips, and further economic impacts for airlines and the travel industry if the staffing shortages persist.

The details

The Department of Homeland Security reported that over 300 TSA officers have quit since the start of the partial government shutdown, with callouts approximately double the normal rate. Airport security lines have stretched for hours at some US airports as TSA agents work without pay. Experts warn that the exodus of TSA agents could create ongoing travel issues even after the shutdown ends, as new hires would need to complete lengthy training before being able to fully staff security checkpoints.

  • The government shutdown began in February 2026.
  • TSA agents received their first $0 paycheck on Saturday.

The players

Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency that oversees the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

Everett Kelley

National president of the American Federation of Government Employees, the union representing TSA agents.

Jake Rosenfeld

Professor of sociology at Washington University in St. Louis who studies labor issues.

Henry Harteveldt

Travel analyst and president of Atmosphere Research Group.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“More than 300 TSA officers have quit since the DHS shutdown began, and callouts are approximately double the normal rate.”

— Department of Homeland Security (businessinsider.com)

“Enough is enough, citing three-hour wait times.”

— TSA (X)

“As the financial pressure grows, more workers will be forced into impossible choices. The lines will get longer. The delays will get worse.”

— Everett Kelley, National president, American Federation of Government Employees (Business Insider)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.