Airport Security Delays Surge Amidst Homeland Security Shutdown

Spring break travel is underway in the U.S., but passengers are facing significantly longer airport security lines as Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screeners work without pay due to the ongoing Department of Homeland Security shutdown. Congressional Democrats have declined to fund the agency in an attempt to force reforms of federal immigration enforcement practices.

Current Conditions and Wait Times

On Friday, March 22, 2026, wait times at major hubs in Houston and Atlanta reached two hours. Louis Armstrong International Airport in Recent Orleans advised passengers to arrive at least three hours before their scheduled departures. In Philadelphia, airport officials closed three security checkpoints entirely due to staffing shortages.

According to TSA wait time estimates, current wait times at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston range from 0 minutes between 8 pm and 9 pm to 43 minutes between 2 am and 3 am. The average wait time is currently estimated at 3 minutes and 48 seconds, but these times are subject to change.

Presidential Response and Potential ICE Deployment

President Trump threatened to deploy Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to staff airport security lanes if Democrats do not “immediately” agree to fund DHS. He stated on Truth Social that he had instructed ICE to “GET READY” to deploy to airports on Monday.

Why Are Wait Times So Long?

Officials attribute the increased wait times to unpredictable fluctuations and ongoing Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staffing shortages. Approximately 50,000 TSA staffers, considered essential workers, have been working without pay since the shutdown began on February 14, 2026. More than 300 TSA officers have resigned, and last week, TSA employees missed their first full paychecks. The Department of Homeland Security reported that over half of TSA staff in Houston called out sick last week, with nearly a third calling out in Atlanta and New Orleans.

These staffing issues are compounded by severe weather disruptions and increased travel volume due to spring break. Airlines for America projects a record 171 million passengers will travel on U.S. Airlines in March and April, with approximately 2.8 million passengers per day.

Official Warnings and Concerns

Transportation officials warn that the situation could worsen if the shutdown continues. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that a second missed paycheck would further strain TSA workers. He warned that if a deal isn’t reached, current delays will seem minor in comparison, and some smaller airports may be forced to temporarily close due to staff shortages.

The U.K. Foreign Office has also issued warnings about “travel disruption” caused by “longer than usual queues at some U.S. Airports,” advising passengers to check with their travel provider, airport, or airline for guidance.

Private Sector Offers and Legal Constraints

Billionaire Elon Musk offered to personally pay the salaries of TSA personnel during the funding impasse, but U.S. Law generally prohibits government employees from receiving outside compensation for their work.

Impact on Air Travel and Fuel Costs

Despite the disruptions, travel demand remains high. United Airlines announced it would cut some flights over the next six months due to a doubling of jet fuel prices, potentially leading to higher airfares. However, travel expert Clint Henderson of The Points Guy notes that Americans remain determined to travel, despite the challenges.

Tips for Travelers

Travel experts recommend the following to prepare for potential disruptions:

• Understand Before You Go: Check airport websites for estimated security wait times.
• Budget Extra Time: Allow significantly more time at the airport than usual.
• Consider Biometric Screening: Enroll in TSA PreCheck or the Global Entry program and opt-in to biometric screening.
• Make a Plan B: Be prepared to rebook flights if necessary and have airline contact information readily available.

Passengers are reminded that they are entitled to a refund if an airline cancels their flight in the U.S., according to the Department of Transportation.