TSA Shutdown Delays Could Last Another Week

What the ongoing TSA funding impasse means for air travelers

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Major U.S. airports like Miami's have been experiencing delays and flight cancellations as airlines decrease flights to ease the pressure on air-traffic controllers, who have been working without pay during the partial government shutdown. Delays at U.S. airports may last at least another week as Congress remains at an impasse over funding for the Transportation Security Administration and other government agencies.

Why it matters

The TSA shutdown is causing significant disruptions to air travel across the country, with delays and flight cancellations impacting travelers. This highlights the critical role the TSA plays in maintaining the safety and efficiency of the U.S. aviation system, and the need for Congress to reach a funding agreement to end the partial government shutdown.

The details

With only the Senate in Washington, D.C., this week, and with Republican House lawmakers holding a retreat in Florida, TSA remains shut down and its employees are working without pay. Airlines have been decreasing flights to ease the pressure on air-traffic controllers, who are also working without pay, leading to delays and cancellations at major airports like Miami.

  • The partial government shutdown, including the TSA funding lapse, began on March 9, 2026.

The players

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The federal agency responsible for security screening at U.S. airports.

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What’s next

Congress must reach an agreement to fund the TSA and other government agencies in order to end the partial shutdown and restore normal airport operations.

The takeaway

The ongoing TSA funding impasse is causing significant disruptions to air travel, underscoring the critical role the agency plays in maintaining the safety and efficiency of the U.S. aviation system. Resolving this issue requires prompt action from Congress to end the partial government shutdown.