More than a month into the federal funding stalemate, airport security could be the next casualty. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued a warning to travelers: “While TSA is prepared to continue screening about 2.5 million passengers a day, an extended shutdown could mean longer wait times at airports.”
Though TSA screeners are classified as essential workers and must keep showing up, the agency and travel‑industry analysts say staffing fatigue and call‑outs are already rising. Experts point to the 2018‑19 shutdown experience, when up to 10 % of TSA agents called in sick, contributing to bigger security bottlenecks.
Airline groups echo the concern. In a letter, Airlines for America warned that if the shutdown drags on, “the system may need to slow down, reducing efficiency,” affecting everything from security lanes to aircraft inspections.
While some airports say they’ve escaped major disruptions so far, industry insiders say the warning lights are flashing. Delays are already climbing. The shutdown’s impact isn’t about an immediate collapse—it’s a creeping risk. Passengers are being urged to arrive early, monitor wait‑time apps, and prepare for slower lanes until Congress resolves the funding impasse.
Sources:
Disclaimer
The information contained in South Florida Reporter is for general information purposes only.
The South Florida Reporter assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in the contents of the Service.
In no event shall the South Florida Reporter be liable for any special, direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental damages or any damages whatsoever, whether in an action of contract, negligence or other tort, arising out of or in connection with the use of the Service or the contents of the Service.
The Company reserves the right to make additions, deletions, or modifications to the contents of the Service at any time without prior notice.
The Company does not warrant that the Service is free of viruses or other harmful components
