TSA Agents Work Without Pay as Another Shutdown Hits U.S. Airports

Homeland Security funding lapse impacts airport security screenings as lawmakers remain at odds

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Transportation Security Administration officers are expected to work without pay while there is no agreement on Homeland Security's annual funding, raising concerns about potential security screening delays and disruptions to air travel as the busy spring break season approaches.

Why it matters

The latest government shutdown comes just over a year after a previous 43-day shutdown that led to historic flight cancellations and long delays at airports across the country. While air traffic controllers will continue to be paid, the impact on TSA staffing and operations could still significantly disrupt air travel if the shutdown drags on.

The details

About 95% of TSA workers are deemed essential personnel and required to keep working without pay, unlike the broader federal government which is funded through September. However, experts warn that even a small number of unscheduled TSA absences could quickly lead to longer security screening wait times, especially at smaller airports. Airlines may also choose to delay some flights to wait for passengers to clear security.

  • The Homeland Security funding lapse took effect early Saturday, February 14, 2026.
  • The previous 43-day government shutdown that disrupted air travel ended on November 12, 2025.

The players

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The federal agency responsible for screening passengers and bags at airports across the United States.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

The federal department that oversees the TSA and whose annual funding has lapsed, leading to the current shutdown.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The federal agency that employs air traffic controllers, who will continue to be paid during the shutdown.

U.S. Travel

A trade group representing the U.S. travel industry that warned the shutdown threatens to disrupt air travel.

Airlines for America

A trade association representing major U.S. airlines that also warned about the potential impact of the shutdown.

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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 (nbcchicago.com)

What’s next

Lawmakers in both the House and Senate have been put on notice to return to Washington if a deal to end the shutdown is reached, though the two sides failed to reach an agreement before the congressional recess.

The takeaway

This latest government shutdown underscores the ongoing vulnerabilities in the U.S. air travel system, with the potential for security screening delays and flight disruptions that could significantly impact travelers and the broader economy if the impasse in Washington drags on.