What to know about US airports and security lines during DHS shutdown
A shutdown of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security began early Saturday, impacting the agency responsible for airport security across the nation. Travelers are likely recalling last year’s 43-day government shutdown, which resulted in significant flight cancellations and delays.
What’s Happening with the Shutdown?
Funding for the Department of Homeland Security expired at midnight, though funding for the rest of the federal government is secured through September 30th. This means air traffic controllers will continue to receive paychecks, lessening the immediate risk of widespread flight cancellations. Approximately 95% of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel have been designated as essential and are required to continue working.
Democrats in the House and Senate have indicated they will not approve further DHS funding until new restrictions are placed on federal immigration operations. Past government shutdowns have shown that disruptions to air travel tend to escalate over time. During last year’s shutdown, a TSA checkpoint at Philadelphia International Airport was temporarily closed after about a month and the government ultimately ordered airlines to reduce domestic flight schedules.
Potential Impacts on Travelers
Predicting the extent of disruptions is difficult. Even a small number of unscheduled absences among TSA staff could lead to longer wait times, particularly at smaller airports with limited security checkpoints. Airlines may also delay departures to accommodate passengers navigating security screening, and the screening of checked luggage could be slowed.
John Rose, chief risk officer for Altour, suggests strains could surface at airports more quickly this time due to the recent memory of the last shutdown among TSA staff.
Preparing for Potential Delays
Travelers should check airport websites for security line wait times, but should do so well in advance of their flight. Passengers should also be mindful of prohibited items in carry-on luggage, as these can prolong the screening process. The TSA website provides a comprehensive list of allowed and prohibited items. At the airport, practicing patience and empathy towards TSA agents is advised, as they are working without pay and potentially with reduced staff.
What’s Next?
The White House has been in negotiations with Democratic lawmakers, but no agreement was reached before senators and members of Congress left Washington for a 10-day break. Lawmakers remain on notice to return if a deal is reached. The current impasse centres on Democrats’ demands for new restrictions on federal immigration operations following the shootings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis last month. U.S. Travel, Airlines for America, and the American Hotel & Lodging Association have jointly warned that the shutdown threatens air travel as the spring break season approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is different about this shutdown compared to last year?
While last year’s shutdown impacted the entire federal government, funding for the rest of the government is currently secured through September 30th. This means air traffic controllers will continue to be paid, reducing the risk of widespread flight cancellations.
How might the shutdown affect flight schedules?
Airlines might delay departures to wait for passengers to clear security, and shortages of TSA officers could slow the screening of checked luggage. The government could also order airlines to reduce domestic flight schedules, as it did during last year’s shutdown.
What can travelers do to minimize potential disruptions?
Travelers should arrive at the airport early, check security line wait times on airport websites, and be mindful of prohibited items in their carry-on luggage. Practicing patience and empathy towards TSA agents is also recommended.
As the situation unfolds, how might travelers adapt their plans to navigate potential disruptions at airports?