Travelers Face 3-Hour TSA Wait Times at Atlanta Airport as Government Shutdown Continues Over Spring Break

The partial government shutdown began on Feb. 14 after Congress failed to approve funding for the Department of Homeland Security

Mar. 22, 2026 at 9:41pm

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Travelers are facing up to three-hour wait times at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport as the government shutdown continues. The partial shutdown began on Feb. 14 after Congress failed to approve funding for the Department of Homeland Security, leading to more than 300 TSA agents quitting and callout rates reaching record highs as many are working without pay. With the airport already seeing more traffic because of spring break, some travelers acknowledged the difficulty that TSA workers are going through while working without a paycheck.

Why it matters

The ongoing government shutdown is crippling airport security operations, causing major travel disruptions for passengers just as the busy spring break season gets underway. This highlights the broader impacts of political gridlock on critical public services and infrastructure.

The details

Recent photos and videos show long lines and crowds weaving throughout the Atlanta airport, with TSA lines stretching all the way into the baggage claim area. Travelers are being advised to allow at least 2 hours for domestic flights and 4 hours for international screenings. Some travelers expressed concerns about missing their flights due to the extreme delays.

  • The partial government shutdown began on Feb. 14, 2026.
  • On March 22, 2026, President Donald Trump announced that ICE agents 'will be going to airports to help' TSA employees amid the shutdown.

The players

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

The busiest airport in the United States, located in Atlanta, Georgia.

TSA (Transportation Security Administration)

The federal agency responsible for airport security screenings.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States.

Tom Homan

The border czar who explained that ICE agents will be sent to airports to help TSA employees.

Phil Washington

The CEO of the Denver International Airport, which announced it is seeking grocery store and gas gift card donations to support unpaid federal workers.

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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.