TSA Wait Times Increase as Government Shutdown Continues, Potential Airport Closures Loom

Airport security wait times are growing as the partial government shutdown persists, with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees facing financial strain and increasing rates of sick calls. The situation has raised concerns about potential disruptions to air travel, including possible airport closures.

Rising Wait Times and Staffing Shortages

On March 17, 2026, the average TSA sick call rate was 9.88%. However, some airports are experiencing significantly higher rates. At John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, the call-out rate surged to 30.1%, and at William P. Hobby Airport in Houston, it reached 40.8% TSA Wait Times.

Travelers are reporting longer waits at security checkpoints. Passengers traveling through Houston reported wait times between 45 minutes and an hour. However, experiences vary, with some travelers at airports like Durham and Charlotte reporting relatively quick passage through security.

Current security wait times at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) as of March 19, 2026, are as follows:

• 5 am – 6 am: 21 minutes
• 6 am – 7 am: 9 minutes
• 7 am – 8 am: 8 minutes
• 8 am – 9 am: 35 minutes
• 9 am – 10 am: 33 minutes
• 10 am – 11 am: 17 minutes
• 11 am – 12 pm: 23 minutes
• 12 pm – 1 pm: 30 minutes
• 1 pm – 2 pm: 36 minutes
• 2 pm – 3 pm: 30 minutes
• 3 pm – 4 pm: 17 minutes
• 4 pm – 5 pm: 25 minutes
• 5 pm – 6 pm: 29 minutes
• 6 pm – 7 pm: 7 minutes

This is the third time in six months that TSA workers have been working without full pay. The Department of Homeland Security reports that 366 workers have resigned so far, with fears of more departures if the shutdown continues.

Potential Airport Closures

Adam Stahl, acting deputy TSA Administrator, warned that drastic measures may be necessary if call-out rates continue to rise. “We may have to quite literally shut down airports, particularly smaller ones, if call-out rates go up and officers can’t afford to come in,” he stated.

While the TSA has not specified which airports are at risk, smaller regional airports like MacArthur or Westchester Airport could be affected.

Checkpoints at some airports, such as Philadelphia Airport, are already being closed due to staffing shortages.

Traveler Concerns

Travelers are expressing sympathy for TSA workers and frustration with the situation. “I’m really sad that people have to go without pay,” said Tammy Burged of Dallas, Texas. “I don’t reckon that’s right and they’re caught in the middle of politics, and I don’t like it. They should be paid.”

Navigating Airport Security

Travelers can check current TSA wait times at Hobby Airport Houston Airport System. The TSA recommends arriving at the airport 30–60 minutes earlier than usual during the shutdown. Passengers are too advised to pack light, download their airline’s app, and retain their phones charged for real-time updates TSA Wait Times.

Remember the 3-1-1 liquids rule: liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item in a quart-sized bag Houston Airport System.