Will TSA delays rise during a DHS shutdown?

What travelers should expect at security during a funding lapse

A partial U.S. government shutdown or lapse in Department of Homeland Security funding directly affects airport operations because Transportation Security Administration officers may be required to work without pay. That dynamic increases the risk of slower processing at security checkpoints and unpredictable wait times at airports nationwide.

When security officers are on the job but not receiving pay, morale and staffing flexibility can be strained. Even if most officers report to work, managers have fewer staffing levers to call on — overtime coverage, reassignment, and rapid relief — which can lead to longer lines during peaks. Airports that rely on a mix of federal screeners and local support services can see uneven performance between terminals and times of day.

Practical steps for travelers

• Check flight status and airport advisories before travel; airlines will post delays or schedule changes.
• Arrive early, especially for early-morning and peak-hour flights; plan additional time for security screening and for getting to gates.
• Pack to move through security quickly: keep liquids and electronics accessible and follow rules to reduce secondary screening.
• Enroll in expedited screening programs if eligible; PreCheck and similar programs can reduce the chance of long waits.
• Consider flexibility in plans: if you must be at a specific destination by a set time, leave margin for possible delays or rebook onto earlier flights.

It’s still unclear how long any specific staffing stress will last during a funding lapse, and conditions can change quickly. For the most reliable information, monitor official guidance from your airline and the airport you’re using, and check TSA social feeds and wait-time tools on the day of travel.