Airline Travel Policies During TSA Staffing Shortages

As the partial government shutdown continues, TSA staffing shortages have caused major delays at airports across the United States. These long wait times have resulted in some travelers missing their flights entirely. In light of this issue, 3News reached out to major U. S. carriers to inquire about their policies for affected passengers.

Delta Air Lines: Expanding Fee Waivers

Delta Air Lines has been actively expanding its flexibility policies as TSA staffing conditions worsen. As of March 26, the airline has posted waivers for two major hubs: Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. Passengers with original travel dates between March 23 and March 30 can rebook through April 6 in the same cabin of service without incurring change fees or fare differences. Those unable to rebook within this window can cancel and use the ticket value towards future travel within one year of the original purchase date.

American Airlines: Free Rebooking for All Airports

American Airlines has the most comprehensive policy among major carriers. A company spokesperson confirmed that passengers who miss their flights due to extended TSA wait times will be rebooked on the next available flight with open seats at no cost. This policy applies to all airports and is not limited to specific travel dates.

Southwest Airlines: No Fees or Fare Differences

According to a Southwest spokesperson, affected passengers will be rebooked at no additional cost. This is consistent with the airline’s existing no-change-fee structure. Southwest also noted that all of their fares, except for Blue Basic, are already flexible, meaning no change or cancellation fees for customers who want to adjust their plans ahead of time.

JetBlue: Free Rebooking and Built-in Flexibility

JetBlue’s corporate communications team confirmed that passengers who miss their flights due to TSA delays will be rebooked on the next available flight at no extra charge. The airline also pointed out that its fares are already flexible, except for Blue Basic, which means no change or cancellation fees for customers who want to adjust their plans in advance. JetBlue advises passengers to arrive earlier than normal to account for possible wait times.

United Airlines: Fee Waivers for Houston Passengers

United Airlines is offering flexibility for flights to and from Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Passengers with tickets purchased on or before March 22 for travel between March 23 and March 30 can rebook without fees or fare differences for flights departing between March 22 and April 1, in the same cabin and between the same cities. Passengers can also rebook through alternate Texas airports, such as Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio.

Allegiant Air: Full Refunds Available

Allegiant Air has announced a “Travel with Confidence” policy for all new and existing bookings for flights departing during the government shutdown. This policy includes waiving change fees and offering penalty-free cancellations with full refunds.