Airport Security Lines Improve as TSA Workers Return

Partial government shutdown had caused staffing shortages and long wait times at major airports.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:43pm

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A serene, cinematic painting depicting a lone TSA checkpoint station, with warm sunlight streaming in and deep shadows casting an air of uncertainty, conceptually representing the tensions and challenges faced during the government shutdown's impact on air travel.As the government shutdown disrupted airport security operations, the return of TSA workers signals a return to normalcy for travelers.NYC Today

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers have begun returning to work and receiving back pay, resulting in shorter airport security lines after travelers faced hours-long wait times during the partial government shutdown. Operations at major airports like Baltimore-Washington International, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, and New York-area airports have largely returned to normal, with wait times within the typical range.

Why it matters

The extended government shutdown had led to a staffing crisis at the TSA, with over 500 workers quitting and thousands more calling out daily while not being paid. This caused severe disruptions and delays at airports across the country, raising concerns about public safety and the ability of the transportation system to function effectively.

The details

With TSA workers now returning to their posts and receiving at least partial back pay, airport security checkpoints are once again operating efficiently. Airports are advising travelers to arrive at the recommended times, typically 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights, to account for normal security screening.

  • The government shutdown reached 42 days on Friday, January 18, 2026.
  • President Trump signed a memorandum on Friday, January 18, 2026, calling for TSA officers to be paid.
  • TSA workers began receiving back pay and returning to work on Monday, March 25, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who signed a memorandum to pay TSA workers during the government shutdown.

Lauren Bis

The Acting Assistant Secretary who explained that a small population of TSA workers might see a slight delay in receiving their full back pay due to processing times.

Tom Homan

The White House border czar who said Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will remain at airports until conditions fully stabilize.

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What they’re saying

“We know the last few days have been difficult. The normal, quick and efficient checkpoint operations we're known for have returned today. Travelers are once again advised to arrive 2 hours ahead of scheduled departure.”

— BWI, Airport spokesperson

“A small population might see a slight delay due to a variety of reasons, including financial institution processing times or issues with their direct deposit. We are working aggressively with USDA's National Finance Center to complete processing for the half paycheck they are owed from pay period 3 as soon as possible.”

— Lauren Bis, Acting Assistant Secretary

“Look, we're going to continue a nice presence there, and until the airports feel like they're 100%, you know, in a posture where they can do no normal operations.”

— Tom Homan, White House border czar

What’s next

The White House has indicated that ICE agents will remain at airports until conditions are fully stabilized, even as security lines improve.

The takeaway

The government shutdown's impact on the TSA workforce highlighted the critical role these workers play in maintaining the safety and efficiency of the nation's air travel system. As normal operations resume, it serves as a reminder of the need for reliable funding and staffing to ensure the smooth functioning of essential transportation infrastructure.