What to expect at airport security?

Practical changes at checkpoints and how to prepare

A partial government shutdown and labour pressures are stretching airport security systems. Some airports have reported longer-than-normal waits, including instances of multi-hour lines at peak times, because a portion of Transportation Security Administration employees are working without pay and staffing levels have fallen. Union reports and internal statistics also show a rise in absenteeism and early resignations in some locations.

That means the usual travel checklist needs a quick update. Expect variability: some airports are operating close to normal, while others—especially major hubs during spring-break and holiday peaks—are seeing pronounced delays. Factors that worsen lines include early-morning and late-afternoon peaks, large travel volumes, and concurrent staffing shortages.

How to reduce risk of missed flights

• Arrive earlier than usual: for domestic travel aim to add at least an extra 30–60 minutes during peak periods; for international flights allow even more time.
• Check real-time airport wait-time tools and your airline’s advisory before leaving for the airport.
• Use expedited programs if you have access: TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CBP’s Mobile Passport can speed processing if they’re active for you.
• Pack strategically: keep liquids, electronics and documents accessible, wear easily removable shoes, and have ID ready to present.
• Consider earlier flights or off-peak travel days, and factor potential security queues into connection times.

Airports and agencies have been issuing guidance as the situation evolves. Monitor official airport and airline channels the morning of travel and have a contingency plan—especially for tight connections.