TSA wait times longest in history—how to prepare?

TSA wait times are at record levels—here’s what to do

U.S. TSA security lines have reportedly hit their longest wait times “in history,” with travelers facing unusually long delays that can cascade into missed flights. The pressure comes from staffing constraints and operational strain at major airports, leaving passengers to deal with slower screening throughput right when travel volume is also high.

What to do before you go to the airport

• Arrive earlier than usual if you can. With backups that stretch toward hours, the buffer that used to be “nice to have” becomes necessary.
• Plan for slower screening of carry-ons. Keep liquids, electronics, and other common inspection items easily accessible so you’re not scrambling at the checkpoint.
• Have your documents ready to minimize dwell time at the front of the line.
• Consider alternate airports only if it’s practical. Some airports participate in programs that may rely on non-TSA screeners, which can mean shorter waits than TSA-heavy terminals.

If you’re already at the airport

• Choose the least-bad option based on posted conditions. Some terminals see different delays depending on checkpoint load.
• Use any reputable “crowd intelligence” tools that can help you understand delay patterns and disruptions across airports.

The bottom line

With TSA staffing shortages and general system stress contributing to longer lines, passengers should treat security as the critical path. The practical response is to build extra time into your schedule and reduce friction at the checkpoint through smarter packing and preparation. That approach is especially important during spring break and other peak periods when travel demand and staffing pressures can compound.