DHS Shutdown Leaves TSA Agents Working Without Pay, Raising Concerns Over Potential Flight Delays

Experts warn that the latest government shutdown could lead to longer security lines and disruptions at airports across the country.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A shutdown of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that took effect early Saturday has left Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers working without pay. While air traffic controllers employed by the Federal Aviation Administration will continue to receive paychecks, aviation experts warn that the longer the DHS appropriations are lapsed, the longer security lines at the nation's commercial airports could get. Travelers are advised to plan ahead, arrive early, and be patient as the shutdown could lead to increased wait times and potential flight delays.

Why it matters

The DHS shutdown comes as the busy spring break travel season approaches, raising concerns about the potential disruption to air travel and the broader impact on the U.S. economy. Past government shutdowns have led to historic flight cancellations and long delays, and this latest shutdown could play out differently as the TSA workforce still remembers the challenges of the previous shutdown.

The details

About 95% of TSA workers are deemed essential personnel and required to keep working without pay during the shutdown. While air traffic controllers will continue to receive paychecks, airlines might decide to delay departures in some cases to wait for passengers to clear security screening. Shortages of TSA officers could also slow the screening of checked luggage behind the scenes.

  • The DHS funding expired at midnight on February 14, 2026.
  • The previous government shutdown that led to historic flight cancellations and long delays ended on November 12, 2025.

The players

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The agency responsible for screening passengers and bags at airports across the country.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The agency that employs air traffic controllers, who will continue to receive paychecks during the DHS shutdown.

U.S. Travel

A trade group for the U.S. travel industry that has warned about the potential disruption to air travel due to the shutdown.

Airlines for America

A trade group for major airlines that has also warned about the potential disruption to air travel due to the shutdown.

American Hotel & Lodging Association

A trade group for the hotel industry that has warned about the potential impact of the shutdown on the U.S. economy.

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What they’re saying

“It's still fresh in their minds and potentially their pocketbooks.”

— John Rose, Chief risk officer, Altour (Fortune)

What’s next

Lawmakers in both chambers were on notice to return if a deal to end the shutdown is struck. Democrats have said they won't help approve more DHS funding until new restrictions are placed on federal immigration operations.

The takeaway

This latest DHS shutdown highlights the ongoing tensions between the White House and Congress over immigration policy, and the potential for these political disputes to disrupt essential services like airport security and air travel. Travelers will need to be vigilant and prepared for potential delays and disruptions in the coming weeks.