Security Lines May Close Due to Government Shutdown

With the partial government shutdown now in its fifth week, TSA officials are warning that some airports may have to close due to staffing shortages. The shutdown, which began on February 14, has left over 50,000 TSA agents without pay, leading to widespread call-outs and long security lines at airports across the country.

Acting deputy administrator of the Transportation Security Administration, Adam Stahl, stated in an interview with Fox News’ “FOX & Friends” morning show that the National Deployment Office, which provides relief staff to overwhelmed agents, is now “fully depleted. ” Stahl added that “particularly smaller” airports may have to close if the shutdown continues.

It is unclear which airports may be affected or how the decision would be made, but even limited closures would have a significant impact on the already busy spring break travel period. The US Travel Association estimates that a record 171 million people will fly in the US in March and April.

While some major airports like Las Vegas and Los Angeles have not experienced significant delays, others such as Atlanta, New York-JFK, and Houston Hobby Airport have seen a high rate of call-outs, with wait times exceeding three hours and lines extending outside of terminals.

The DHS reports that the average call-out rate for TSA employees has more than doubled since the start of the shutdown, with 366 transportation security officers leaving their jobs during this period. This has caused “severe operational strain” and has led to urgent calls for the restoration of TSA funding.

In addition to the impact on travelers, the shutdown has also had a significant effect on TSA agents who are deemed “essential” and are working without pay. Over the weekend, they received their first $0 paychecks since the shutdown began.

In response to the chaos and disruptions caused by the shutdown, airline CEOs have joined together to urge Congress to pass legislation protecting TSA, customs, and air traffic control workers from being affected by future government shutdowns. The DHS also stated that “TSA funding must be restored immediately” to restore stability, morale, and security at airports across the country.

As the shutdown continues, the future of airport security and travel remains uncertain. With the possibility of more airport closures and long wait times, it is important for travelers to stay informed and plan accordingly.