A partial government shutdown is now directly affecting air travelers after funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) expired at midnight Saturday, forcing thousands of Transportation Security Administration agents to work without pay.
Unlike last year’s 43-day government shutdown, this one is limited to DHS. The rest of the federal government remains funded through Sept. 30. That means air traffic controllers employed by the Federal Aviation Administration will continue receiving paychecks, reducing the immediate risk of widespread flight cancellations.
Still, aviation experts warn that disruptions could build gradually if the shutdown drags on.
According to the department’s contingency plan, about 95 percent of TSA officers are classified as essential personnel and are required to report to work even while their pay is delayed. TSA agents worked under similar conditions during the previous shutdown, but industry leaders say the aftereffects of that experience could change how this one unfolds.
During the last shutdown, travel disruptions escalated over time. Nearly a month in, TSA temporarily closed checkpoints at Philadelphia International Airport due to staffing shortages. On the same day, the federal government ordered commercial airlines to reduce domestic flight schedules.
Travel executives say this shutdown could produce strain more quickly.
John Rose, chief risk officer at global travel management company Altour, noted that TSA officers still remember the financial pressure from the last shutdown. He warned that morale and absenteeism could become a factor sooner this time.
Even small staffing shortages can have outsized effects at smaller airports that operate with only one checkpoint. A handful of unscheduled absences could result in longer lines and missed flights.
Airlines and travel trade groups have already raised concerns, as reported by the New York Post.
In a joint statement, U.S. Travel, Airlines for America and the American Hotel & Lodging Association warned that extended funding lapses increase the risk of longer wait times and delays, especially with the busy spring break travel season approaching.
Flight cancellations are less likely in the immediate term because air traffic controllers remain funded. However, delays are still possible. Airlines may hold departures if passengers are stuck in long security lines. Screening of checked baggage could also slow down if TSA staffing is stretched thin.
Travelers are being advised to plan ahead.
Experts recommend arriving at airports earlier than usual, even if online wait-time estimates appear manageable. Airport websites often post real-time security wait times, but conditions can change rapidly.
Passengers should also review TSA guidelines before packing. Prohibited items in carry-on bags, including full-size liquids, large gels, aerosols, and pocketknives, can slow screening and lengthen lines.
At airports, travelers may encounter stressed officers who are working without pay. Industry officials are urging patience as negotiations continue in Washington.
The White House and Democratic lawmakers have been negotiating, but no agreement was reached before Congress left for a scheduled 10-day recess. Lawmakers have said they could return if a funding deal materializes.
Democrats have stated they will not approve additional DHS funding unless new restrictions are placed on federal immigration operations following last month’s fatal shooting in Minneapolis.
For now, security lines remain operational nationwide. But if the shutdown extends, the impact on travelers could intensify.
Anyone flying in the coming weeks should prepare for potential delays and monitor airport updates closely.
