TSA Delays Intensify at Major Airports Amid DHS Shutdown

Travelers at several major U.S. Airports faced significant delays over the weekend and into Monday as a partial Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown continues to impact staffing levels. Houston’s Hobby Airport and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport were particularly affected, with wait times reaching up to three hours in some security lines.

Shutdown’s Impact on TSA Staffing

The disruptions stem from a lack of funding for the DHS, which has led to TSA officers working without pay. According to a statement from DHS Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Lauren Bis, the delays are a “severe fallout” from the “Democrat shutdown” of DHS. TSA officers, considered essential employees, are continuing to work but face financial hardship as they approach their first full missed paycheck.

The TSA spokesperson advised passengers to arrive “as early as possible” to avoid missing flights, noting that the agency will adjust operations as staffing constraints arise.

Airport-Specific Disruptions

At Houston’s Hobby Airport, security lines extended into the parking garage on Sunday, with average wait times reaching 3.5 hours. Even expedited security lines, such as TSA PreCheck and Clear, were experiencing significant backups or were temporarily closed. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport advised passengers to arrive at least three hours before their scheduled flights.

Other Airports Experience Moderate Delays

While Hobby and New Orleans were the most severely impacted, other major airports also experienced longer-than-usual wait times. George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston saw peak wait times of 51 minutes on Sunday. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Charlotte Douglas International Airport reported queues of approximately one hour.

Potential for Widespread Disruptions

Travel analysts suggest that the localized disruptions could be due to a combination of factors, including randomness, targeted disruptions by frustrated workers, or union actions. Henry Harteveldt, president of Atmosphere Research Group, also suggested the possibility that the DHS itself may be attempting to draw attention to the funding impasse.

The US Travel Association estimates that a record 171 million people are expected to pass through US airports in March and April, and warned that the lack of pay for TSA agents—who earn an average of $35,000 a year—is “unfair” and “reckless.”

Previous Shutdowns and Current Situation

Previous government shutdowns, including those in 2018-2019 and 2025, also led to disruptions due to TSA agent and air traffic controller absences. However, air traffic controllers are currently still being paid.