Travelers at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport and Hobby Airport are facing extended TSA security line delays, which in recent days have exceeded three hours, with reports indicating waits of up to four and a half hours. This situation has led to missed flights as TSA personnel continue to work without pay due to the ongoing government shutdown, which began on October 1 when Congress failed to pass a funding bill.
The shutdown has resulted in significant staffing shortages at TSA checkpoints, leading to the closure of multiple security lines and forcing travelers to funnel through only two terminals instead of the usual nine. Even TSA PreCheck lanes, designed to expedite security for approved travelers, have been overwhelmed. Local reports highlight that lines have sometimes stretched out the door of Bush Airport.
Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for the Houston Airport System, noted in a recent statement that the delays may persist for as long as the government remains shut down. He urged passengers to arrive early and be prepared for prolonged wait times until the situation is resolved.
The ongoing federal government shutdown has broader implications for air travel nationwide, affecting not only TSA agents but also air traffic controllers and other essential personnel who are either furloughed, working without pay, or absent from work. Due to these significant staffing reductions, travelers can expect longer security lines and potential delays or cancellations of flights.
In a noteworthy display of support for the TSA workforce, several airlines, including United and Delta, have started providing meals for the TSA employees who continue to report for duty despite not receiving pay. United Airlines has confirmed its commitment to feeding air traffic controllers and other federal workers whose compensation is in limbo.
While some airport workers have chosen not to show up due to the financial strain, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized that they shouldn’t be penalized at this time. “They need support, they need money, they need a paycheck,” he stated.
This crisis comes on the heels of existing issues in air traffic control, highlighted by a tragic midair collision earlier this year that revealed severe staffing shortages within the air traffic control system. The FAA reported that it is currently short about 3,000 controllers, with nearly half of major facilities experiencing staffing deficiencies.
The outdated state of America’s air traffic control systems only compounds these challenges. Secretary Duffy admitted earlier this year that much of the equipment used by controllers is antiquated, while Delta CEO Ed Bastian pointed out that flight times have increased due to these inefficiencies.
As the holiday travel season approaches, the potential for continued delays raises concerns for the millions of travelers planning to take to the skies. While the resolution to the government shutdown remains uncertain, the hope is that rapid action can be taken to restore normalcy and improve conditions for air travel in the near future.