Security checkpoint lines are growing at several U.S. airports as the partial government shutdown enters a new week, with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers continuing to report to work without pay and staffing levels strained, NPR reported March 9.
- What’s happening: TSA checkpoint wait times have increased at some airports during the shutdown, according to NPR.
- Why: TSA employees are working without pay during the lapse in appropriations, NPR reported, raising concerns about absences and reduced staffing at checkpoints.
- Who’s affected: Federal employees and service members traveling for duty, PCS-related trips, training, or personal travel could face longer screening times and missed connections, especially during peak travel windows.
- Operational strain: The shutdown is creating knock-on effects for airport operations as screening throughput slows, NPR reported.
- What to watch: NPR reported that wait times vary by airport and time of day, and disruptions can change quickly as staffing fluctuates.
Brief context: Under federal shutdown rules, many agencies furlough employees, but TSA screeners are generally required to keep working because aviation security is considered essential. During a funding lapse, those employees do not receive paychecks on schedule, though Congress has historically provided back pay after shutdowns end. NPR reported that the current shutdown is again testing TSA’s ability to maintain normal staffing and passenger flow.
For federal travelers, the immediate risk is practical: longer lines can disrupt official travel (including TDY), and delays can cascade into missed flights and rebookings. Travelers on government orders may need to build extra time into itineraries and monitor airport and airline advisories closely. Agencies may also see higher administrative workload tied to travel changes, including amended authorizations and vouchers.
For service members and families, longer screening lines can complicate leave travel and time-sensitive movements tied to reporting dates. Travelers should plan for additional time at the checkpoint and keep documentation and travel orders accessible if needed for airline rebooking or command coordination.
Additional background on shutdown impacts for federal workers is available at FedBrief (fedbrief.org).
Source: NPR, “Security wait times at some U.S. airports soar as government shutdown drags on” (National Security), March 9, 2026. https://www.npr.org/2026/03/09/nx-s1-5741857/security-wait-times-at-some-u-s-airports-soar-as-government-shutdown-drags-on