TSA Reverses Course, Says PreCheck Still Operational

Agency contradicts earlier announcement of suspension during funding fight

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced that its PreCheck program will remain operational, contradicting an earlier announcement from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that the airport security service would be suspended during the partial government shutdown.

Why it matters

The PreCheck program is a popular expedited airport security screening service that allows pre-approved travelers to bypass standard security lines. Its continued operation is important for air travelers who rely on the service to get through security checkpoints more quickly.

The details

The TSA said it will evaluate staffing constraints on a case-by-case basis and adjust operations accordingly as needed. The earlier announcement of a PreCheck suspension had raised concerns about potential delays and longer wait times at airport security checkpoints during the funding fight.

  • On Sunday, the TSA announced that PreCheck would remain operational.

The players

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The federal agency responsible for security in all modes of transportation in the United States.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

The federal executive department responsible for public security, counterterrorism, immigration, and disaster response.

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The takeaway

The TSA's reversal on the PreCheck suspension helps ensure air travelers can continue to benefit from the expedited security screening service, even during the partial government shutdown.