TSA Wait Time Crisis: Why Are Airport Security Delays Surging Across the US?
TSA wait time delays are rising across US airports due to staffing shortages amid the DHS shutdown, with some hubs like Houston seeing waits up to 120 minutes, forcing travelers to face unpredictable security lines during peak spring travel season and prompting advisories to arrive early.
New Delhi, March 20: Air travelers across the United States are facing major disruptions as TSA wait time delays surge amid a prolonged government shutdown that has left security checkpoints critically understaffed. With the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding deadlock entering its seventh week, passengers are encountering unpredictable and often lengthy screening lines at major airports.
The situation has turned routine travel into a challenge, especially during the busy spring break period. At George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, TSA wait time recently peaked at 120 minutes, the longest recorded delay nationwide this week. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport also reported delays of up to 40 minutes, while Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport saw wait times exceeding an hour during peak hours. US Travel Chaos on March 18: How Long Are TSA Wait Times at Major Airports?
Why TSA Wait Time Is Increasing
The sharp rise in TSA wait time is directly linked to staffing shortages caused by the partial DHS shutdown. Around 50,000 TSA officers are currently working without pay, leading to increased absenteeism and resignations. Reports indicate call-out rates have crossed 10% nationally, with some airports seeing as high as 30% to 50% absentee rates. US Tells Citizens They Can Fly Out of Gulf Commercially; UAE Borders With Saudi Arabia, Oman Open, Cancellations of Flights Possible.
Since late January, hundreds of TSA workers have reportedly resigned due to financial strain, making it increasingly difficult for airports to maintain normal security operations. As a result, several checkpoints have been closed, further increasing passenger congestion.
Airports Most Affected by TSA Wait Time
The impact of rising TSA wait time has been uneven, with some airports facing more severe disruptions:
- Houston (IAH): Up to 120 minutes
- Atlanta (ATL): Over 60 minutes during rush hours
- Salt Lake City (SLC): Around 39 minutes
- Orlando (MCO): Approximately 32 minutes
- Dallas Fort Worth (DFW): Around 40 minutes
These delays highlight the growing strain on airport infrastructure during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.
How to Check TSA Wait Time Before Traveling
Passengers are advised to monitor TSA wait time in real time to avoid last-minute surprises:
- Use the MyTSA app for live and historical wait data
- Check official airport websites for current updates
- Follow airport social media accounts for alerts
- Opt for TSA PreCheck or Clear+ for faster screening
Travelers using expedited programs are experiencing significantly shorter TSA wait time, with some clearing security in under 10 minutes even at heavily affected airports.
What Lies Ahead for Travelers
With nearly 171 million passengers expected to travel this spring, a 4% increase from last year, the pressure on airport security systems is intensifying. Industry groups have urged policymakers to resolve the funding crisis quickly, warning that continued disruptions could severely impact the travel sector.
Until the situation stabilizes, experts recommend arriving at least three hours before domestic flights to manage uncertain TSA wait time and avoid missing departures.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 20, 2026 04:08 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).