Detroit Metro Airport Sees Quick TSA Security Lines Despite Partial Government Shutdown

Travelers report smooth experiences at DTW as other airports face long wait times due to TSA staffing issues.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:35am

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Despite the ongoing partial government shutdown, Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) has not experienced the long security lines and staffing shortages seen at other major airports across the U.S. While some TSA agents have called out nationwide over missed paychecks, DTW appears to be an exception, with travelers reporting quick and efficient security screenings.

Why it matters

The partial government shutdown has impacted TSA staffing at many airports, leading to hours-long wait times for travelers in cities like Atlanta and New York. However, the situation at DTW seems to be better, highlighting how the shutdown's effects can vary significantly by location and airport.

The details

According to the Department of Homeland Security, 366 TSA agents have left the force nationwide. On a single day this week, over 10% of TSA officers called out across the country. Experts believe fewer workers are calling out at DTW compared to other airports, which is why security lines have remained manageable. Travelers at DTW have reported smooth and quick experiences getting through security, in contrast to the chaos seen at some other major airports.

  • On Wednesday, over 10% of TSA officers nationwide called out.
  • On Friday, the U.S. Senate attempted to advance a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security, but it failed.

The players

Mary Liz Ferris

A traveler passing through DTW on her way to Minneapolis.

David Fishman

An expert from Cadillac Travel Group who believes fewer workers are calling out at DTW than at other airports.

Angie Green

A traveler who flew into DTW from Florida and was pleasantly surprised by the smooth security experience.

Gary Shoemaker

A traveler who stayed at the Westin near DTW the night before his early flight to avoid potential security delays.

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What they’re saying

“I came really, really early, and I'm going to be reading a book, but at least I know I'm through and I will get to see my grandkids at the other end.”

— Mary Liz Ferris

“Other parts of the country are seeing major issues, up to 50% of the TSA are not showing up.”

— David Fishman, of Cadillac Travel Group

“It was a little worry – but then when I got in and saw how the lines were, it went smoothly.”

— Angie Green

“We have an early flight tomorrow, and we didn't want to be late because of security, so we decided to stay at the Westin tonight so we could be here early in the morning.”

— Gary Shoemaker

What’s next

As the government shutdown continues and spring break travel arrives, experts recommend that travelers check their airport's website for the latest information on security wait times and be prepared for potential delays.

The takeaway

While the partial government shutdown has led to significant TSA staffing issues and long security lines at many airports across the U.S., Detroit Metro Airport has managed to maintain quick and efficient screening processes, highlighting how the shutdown's effects can vary greatly by location.