Airport security lines are long as TSA staffing shortages worsen

Travel experts advise passengers to arrive early, use expedited screening, and have a backup plan as the government shutdown disrupts air travel

Mar. 21, 2026 at 9:40pm

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Airport security lines are facing significant delays across the U.S. as the ongoing government shutdown has led to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staffing shortages. Airports in major hubs like Houston, Atlanta, and New Orleans are reporting wait times of up to 3 hours, with some checkpoints being closed entirely due to lack of personnel. Travel experts are urging passengers to arrive at the airport well in advance, utilize expedited screening options like TSA PreCheck and CLEAR, and have alternative travel plans ready in case of flight disruptions.

Why it matters

The staffing shortages at TSA checkpoints are a direct result of the partial government shutdown, which has left thousands of TSA agents working without pay. This has led to a spike in call-outs and resignations, exacerbating the long lines and delays. The situation is expected to worsen if the shutdown continues, potentially forcing the closure of some smaller airports. This disruption comes during a peak travel season, with millions of Americans expected to fly over the next few months.

The details

The TSA currently has around 50,000 agents working without pay due to the shutdown that began on February 14th. Last week, more than 300 TSA officers quit, and over 50% of staff called out sick in Houston, with nearly a third doing so in Atlanta and New Orleans. This staffing crisis is compounded by severe weather and the spring break travel season, with Airlines for America projecting a record 171 million passengers to fly in March and April. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that the situation could deteriorate further if the shutdown is not resolved, potentially forcing the closure of some smaller airports.

  • The government shutdown began on February 14, 2026.
  • TSA agents missed their first full paychecks last week.

The players

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The federal agency responsible for airport security screening in the United States.

Sean Duffy

The U.S. Transportation Secretary who warned that the airport security situation could get much worse if the government shutdown is not resolved.

Airlines for America

The industry group representing major U.S. airlines, which projects a record 171 million passengers to fly in March and April 2026.

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What they’re saying

“If a deal isn't cut, you're going to see what's happening today look like child's play.”

— Sean Duffy, U.S. Transportation Secretary

“The appetite for travel is insatiable. People seem willing to endure a lot of stuff to travel. And I don't see any signs of that decreasing.”

— Clint Henderson, Spokesperson, The Points Guy

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 airport security crisis highlights the broader impact of the government shutdown, with essential federal workers like TSA agents facing financial hardship and the traveling public bearing the brunt of the disruption. Travel experts advise passengers to plan ahead, use expedited screening, and be prepared for potential delays and cancellations as the situation is likely to get worse before it gets better.