What’s the status of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?
Current airport-security programs status
Recent announcements tied to a partial federal funding crisis created uncertainty for expedited screening programs at U.S. airports. Agencies initially signaled suspensions for airport programs that speed security and customs processing. In the days that followed, Transportation Security Administration operations delivered mixed messages: TSA PreCheck has been kept running and remains available at many airports, while Global Entry enrollments and related customs programs have seen interruptions.
What this means for passengers
- Expect shorter-term unpredictability: some facilities that support program enrollments, interviews, or renewals may be limited or delayed.
- Day-of-travel experience for PreCheck users appears to be largely intact at many airports, but staffing shortages or local changes could create temporary delays.
- Global Entry services tied to Customs and Border Protection, including interview scheduling and certain kiosk functions, have been reduced in places where staffing or system access has been affected.
How to prepare
- Allow extra time at the airport even if you normally rely on expedited lanes.
- Reconfirm program access and appointment availability directly via official TSA and CBP websites before travel.
- Carry both digital and paper copies of travel documents; plan for regular security lines if a PreCheck lane is unavailable.
- If you’re mid-application or due for renewal, expect potential processing delays and check your enrollment portal for updates.
Officials may revise operations as funding and staffing situations change. Travelers should treat current arrangements as fluid and check authoritative sources shortly before departure.