Airport Security Woes Grow as DHS Shutdown Drags On

TSA officers skip work, quit amid unpaid status, causing long lines and delays for travelers

Mar. 21, 2026 at 8:49pm

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The ongoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown is causing major headaches at airports across the country, as Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers are skipping work or quitting due to lack of pay. This has led to long lines, closed checkpoints, and flight delays or cancellations, leaving travelers exasperated. The shutdown has also impacted other DHS agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with President Trump threatening to send ICE officers to airports to pressure Democrats.

Why it matters

The TSA staffing issues caused by the DHS shutdown are disrupting air travel nationwide, with the potential for smaller airports to temporarily halt operations. This highlights the far-reaching impact of the political stalemate in Washington and the importance of funding critical government agencies like DHS to maintain public safety and efficient travel.

The details

With TSA officers missing their first paycheck this week, the partial DHS shutdown has opened up the possibility of smaller airports temporarily pausing operations due to the growing call-out rate. Over 360 TSA officers have left the force since the shutdown began, and almost 10% did not show up to work on one recent day. This has led to the closure of several terminal checkpoints at airports like Philadelphia International and George Bush Intercontinental, significantly increasing wait times. The lack of pay is also causing stress and distraction among TSA officers, further impacting travel operations.

  • The DHS shutdown has lasted 35 days as of Friday, March 21, 2026.
  • On Thursday, almost 10% of TSA officers did not show up to work, lower than the record 10.22% from earlier in the week.

The players

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

A federal agency that oversees security at airports and other transportation hubs.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal department that oversees the TSA and other agencies responsible for national security and immigration enforcement.

President Trump

The current President of the United States who has threatened to send Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers to airports to pressure Democrats.

Sen. John Kennedy

A Republican senator from Louisiana who has suggested a two-step funding process to override Democratic opposition and fund DHS.

Adam Stahl

The Acting Deputy TSA Administrator who has warned about the possibility of smaller airports temporarily pausing operations due to the growing call-out rate.

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What they’re saying

“The reality is, jet fuel prices have more than doubled in the last three weeks. If prices stayed at this level, it would mean an extra $11B in annual expense just for jet fuel. For perspective, in United's best year ever, we made less than $5B.”

— Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines

“Stress over missed paychecks and other financial woes can leave TSA officers 'distracted,' leading to callouts, resignations and potential threats to airports and travelers.”

— John Pistole, Former TSA Administrator

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.