The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is facing its longest wait times in 24 years due to a partial government shutdown. The agency’s deputy administrator, Ha Nguyen McNeill, told the House Homeland Security Committee that employees are calling out of work at rates of 40% to 50%, leading to understaffing and extended wait times.
At some major airports, wait times have exceeded four hours, while over 480 employees have quit since the shutdown began. The agency is also facing a significant increase in assaults against TSA officers, with no legal action planned for these incidents.
McNeill expressed concern that the lack of pay would lead to staff shortages and difficulties attracting new talent. She warned that smaller airports may need to be closed due to understaffing, which could impact air travel.
The agency is urging travelers to exercise patience and understanding as TSA officers work hard to ensure safe travel. The prolonged shutdown has resulted in a significant loss of revenue, with the TSA expected to miss almost $1 billion in paychecks since it began.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2026/03/25/nx-s1-5760981/tsa-wait-times-lines