TSA Agents Work Without Pay During DHS Shutdown/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ A Department of Homeland Security shutdown has left TSA officers working without pay at U.S. airports. While air traffic controllers remain funded, longer security lines are possible. Travel experts urge passengers to arrive early and prepare for potential delays.
TSA Agents Working Without Pay Shutdown: Quick Looks
- DHS funding expired at midnight Saturday.
- TSA officers required to work without pay.
- FAA air traffic controllers remain funded.
- Longer airport security lines possible.
- Lawmakers at impasse over immigration restrictions.
- Travel groups warn of spring break disruptions.
Deep Look: TSA Agents Work Without Pay During DHS Shutdown
A shutdown of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that began early Saturday has left Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers screening passengers and luggage at airports nationwide without pay.
While essential personnel are required to report to work, lawmakers remain deadlocked over DHS funding, raising concerns about potential disruptions as travelers prepare for upcoming spring break trips.
The situation evokes memories of last year’s record 43-day government shutdown, which led to mounting airport delays and widespread flight cancellations.
What’s Different This Time?
Unlike the previous shutdown, this lapse affects only DHS. The rest of the federal government remains funded through Sept. 30, meaning air traffic controllers employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will continue receiving paychecks.
That distinction reduces the likelihood of sweeping flight cancellations. However, approximately 95% of TSA employees are classified as essential under DHS contingency plans and must continue working without compensation until funding is restored.
Democrats in Congress have said they will not approve DHS funding without new restrictions on federal immigration enforcement operations.
In past shutdowns, airport disruptions escalated gradually rather than immediately. Last year, TSA checkpoint closures and schedule reductions came weeks into the funding lapse.
This time, aviation analysts suggest that staffing pressures could surface sooner, as many TSA employees are still feeling the financial strain of the previous shutdown.
“It’s still fresh in their minds and potentially their pocketbooks,” said John Rose, chief risk officer at global travel management company Altour.
Potential Impact on Travelers
While the exact impact remains uncertain, even minor staffing shortages could result in longer security wait times — especially at smaller airports with limited screening lanes.
Experts say flight delays are also possible. Airlines may choose to hold departures briefly to allow passengers to clear security. In addition, shortages could slow behind-the-scenes baggage screening processes.
Travel industry groups have voiced concern about prolonged disruptions.
In a joint statement, U.S. Travel, Airlines for America and the American Hotel & Lodging Association warned that essential TSA personnel working without pay increases the likelihood of unscheduled absences, which could translate into longer wait times and delayed flights.
The warning comes at a sensitive moment, as spring break travel demand begins to ramp up.
How Travelers Can Prepare
Experts advise passengers to arrive at the airport earlier than usual and monitor security wait times in advance.
Many airports post estimated screening times on their websites, but travelers are encouraged to check ahead of travel day rather than relying on last-minute information.
Packing carefully can also help speed up the process. Travelers should avoid placing prohibited items in carry-on luggage, including oversized liquids, gels, aerosols or sharp objects. TSA’s website provides detailed guidelines on permitted items.
At the airport, patience may be especially important.
“Not only are they not getting paid,” Rose said of TSA agents, “they’re probably working with reduced staff and dealing with frustrated travelers.”
Will the Shutdown Continue?
Negotiations between the White House and Democratic lawmakers failed to produce an agreement before members of Congress departed Washington for a scheduled 10-day recess. Lawmakers remain on call to return if a funding deal is reached.
Democrats have tied their support for DHS funding to additional oversight and restrictions on immigration enforcement operations, following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis last month.
Until a compromise is reached, TSA officers will continue screening millions of passengers daily without pay — a reminder of how political stalemates in Washington can ripple quickly through the nation’s transportation system.
For travelers, planning ahead and allowing extra time could make the difference between a smooth departure and a stressful wait at the checkpoint.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.