How will airport security lines change now?

Question

Hans Steiner · Accepted Answer

TSA wait times are improving, but planning ahead still matters

Across the U.S., TSA security wait times appear to be getting better. That improvement is being tied to changes around staffing and pay—especially after TSA officers began receiving pay following the disruption caused by the partial government shutdown.

In practical terms, that means travelers are more likely to experience shorter queues than during the most chaotic period when hours-long lines were keeping people from reaching gates on time. Still, airport throughput isn’t uniform: wait times can swing by terminal, time of day, and passenger volumes.

What travelers should do

Arrive early enough to absorb variability. Even if average waits are down, peak waves can still create delays.
Double-check screening requirements before you go (liquids, electronics, and carry-on packing) so you don’t slow your own line.
Have a backup plan for connections—buffer time or flexibility can make the difference between “late” and “missed.”

The broader message for travelers is cautious optimism: the worst congestion is easing, but the safest strategy remains treating security as a variable step in your itinerary. If your trip is time-sensitive, that planning margin helps reduce the chance of getting stuck in a long queue during busy periods.