U.S. airports are grappling with extended TSA screening delays as a partial government shutdown stretches into its second month. Officers continue working without pay, prompting widespread call-outs that have slowed checkpoints just as spring-break travel peaks.
Travelers at major hubs now face waits that can exceed an hour at standard lanes, though dedicated programs still offer relief for those prepared.
Why Are Airport Security Lines Longer Right Now?
A funding lapse for the Department of Homeland Security since mid-February has left about 50,000 TSA screeners on the job without regular paychecks. Absentee rates have surged — reaching 55 percent on some days at Houston Hobby and similar spikes elsewhere — forcing reduced staffing at peak times.
The timing coincides with rising passenger volumes, turning what used to be 15-to-30-minute waits into far longer ordeals at many airports.
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Which Airports Are Seeing the Longest Delays?
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International has recorded waits as high as 90 to 100 minutes at domestic checkpoints. Houston-area facilities, including Hobby and George Bush Intercontinental, have experienced temporary lane closures and lines stretching nearly two hours.
New York-area airports such as JFK and Newark have seen 30-to-40-minute averages, while many smaller or contractor-operated airports report minimal disruption.
How Can You Check Real-Time TSA Wait Times?
The free MyTSA mobile app delivers airport-by-airport estimates based on live and historical data, updated in 15-minute intervals. Most major airports also publish current checkpoint times directly on their websites.
Many carriers now advise arriving three hours before domestic flights to stay safe, especially on weekends.
What Is the Fastest Way to Get Through Security?
Enroll in TSA PreCheck for dedicated lanes that typically keep waits under 10 minutes. Approved travelers keep shoes, light jackets, laptops and 3-1-1 liquids in their bags.
Other proven steps include wearing easy-to-remove footwear, placing liquids and electronics in a single bin early, and using automated screening lanes when offered.
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Does TSA PreCheck Still Deliver Faster Screening?
Yes. Nationwide, PreCheck lanes continue to move passengers far quicker than standard lines, even amid staffing strains. Most eligible travelers report waits of five to 10 minutes when dedicated lanes remain open.
Enrollment costs $85 or less for five years and can be reimbursed through many credit cards or loyalty programs. Children 17 and under follow a PreCheck parent automatically.
| Screening Option | Typical Wait Time | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Standard TSA | 15–30 minutes (up to 90+) | Available to all passengers |
| TSA PreCheck | Under 10 minutes | Keep items in bag; shoes and jackets on |
| CLEAR + PreCheck combo | Often 2–5 minutes | Biometric speed at select airports |
What Are the Current TSA Liquid and Carry-On Rules?
The 3-1-1 rule remains in effect: liquids, gels and aerosols must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, all fitting inside one quart-size clear plastic bag per passenger.
Newer CT scanners at some airports now allow many passengers to leave liquids and laptops inside carry-on bags. Pack larger items in checked luggage to avoid issues.
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| The TSA 3-1-1 Rule: Liquids in Carry-on Bags |
When Should You Arrive and Which Days Are Clearest?
Mornings and early afternoons remain busiest at most hubs. Tuesdays and Saturdays historically show the shortest lines across the country’s 30 largest airports.
For international flights, add extra buffer time for additional document checks. Frequent flyers should add their Known Traveler Number to every booking to ensure PreCheck appears on boarding passes.
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