Airport security screening area in Orlando, Florida, pictured in 2025. Shutterstock
Air travellers across the United States now face record delays at airport security checkpoints, as staffing shortages continue during a partial government shutdown. Officials say wait times at some major airports have stretched beyond four hours, creating major disruptions for passengers trying to catch flights.
Ha Nguyen McNeill, deputy administrator of the Transportation Security Administration, shared the update during a congressional hearing on March 25. She described the situation as the worst in the agency’s 24-year history.
Staff Shortages Drive the Crisis
McNeill reported that employee absenteeism has risen sharply, with 40 to 50 per cent of staff not reporting to work. Many workers struggle without pay during the shutdown, which has made it difficult for them to meet everyday expenses.
She explained that if the shutdown continues, TSA workers will miss nearly $1 billion in wages. The financial pressure has forced some employees into extreme situations, including facing eviction, sleeping in their cars, or selling blood and plasma to survive.
More than 480 employees have already left their jobs since the shutdown began, raising further concerns about staffing levels.
Safety Concerns and Rising Tensions
McNeill warned that the current situation threatens airport security. She stated, "This level of disruption is unprecedented, and unacceptable, and significantly undermines the security of U.S. transportation systems."
Reports also show a sharp rise in violence against officers. Assaults on TSA staff have increased by 500 per cent, prompting officials to pursue legal action against those responsible.
Emergency Measures in Place
In response, Donald Trump has ordered agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement to assist at major airports. This move allows TSA officers to focus on essential screening duties during the ongoing crisis.
However, McNeill warned that continued shortages could force smaller airports to close temporarily. She also expressed concern about losing more workers to other jobs that offer stable pay.
Busy Travel Season Adds Pressure
The situation comes at a difficult time, as travel demand continues to grow. Officials expect an additional six to 10 million travellers during upcoming international sporting events, including matches linked to the FIFA World Cup.
Training new TSA officers takes four to six months, meaning new hires will not be ready in time to handle the surge in passengers.
Airports have already started warning travellers to arrive much earlier than usual. At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, passengers now receive advice to allow at least four hours for security checks. Similar delays have been reported at George Bush Intercontinental Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Political Disputes Continue
Lawmakers from both major parties have blamed each other for the ongoing shutdown. The dispute centres on funding issues related to federal immigration enforcement programs.
Meanwhile, travel demand keeps rising. Industry estimates suggest that about 121 million passengers will fly in the coming weeks, marking a four per cent increase compared to last year.
Call for Patience
McNeill urged travellers to remain patient during this difficult period. She said, "Paying these dedicated employees for the work they are performing should never be a point of debate."
She added that TSA officers continue to work hard to keep passengers safe despite not receiving pay.
