US DHS shutdown forces TSA officers to work unpaid; airport delays for passengers likely

The shutdown of the US Department of Homeland Security that began early Saturday is affecting airport security operations nationwide, forcing thousands of Transportation Security Administration officers to work without pay as Congress remains locked in a funding dispute.
About 95 per cent of TSA workers are considered essential and must continue working despite the funding lapse. Democrats in Congress are linking DHS funding to new restrictions on federal immigration operations following recent events in Minneapolis.

Travel industry experts warn that security lines could lengthen as the shutdown continues. This impact might be felt more quickly than during previous shutdowns because TSA workers remember their recent experience working without pay.

"It's still fresh in their minds and potentially their pocketbooks," said John Rose, chief risk officer at Altour.

Travelers should prepare for possible delays and longer wait times, especially at smaller airports with single security checkpoints. Airlines might delay flights to allow passengers to clear security, and checked baggage screening could slow down.

"You might not be able to get home if you're already out, or it might delay if you worked all week and you're trying to get home," said John Clark, a frequent business traveler at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, as quoted by Associated Press.

Experts recommend checking airport security wait times well in advance and following TSA guidelines for carry-on items. Rose advises travelers to "practice patience and empathy" with TSA agents who are working without pay and possibly understaffed.

Travel organisations, including US Travel, Airlines for America, and the American Hotel & Lodging Association, have expressed concern about potential disruptions during the upcoming spring break season. In their joint statement, they warned that "travelers and the US economy cannot afford to have essential TSA personnel working without pay, which increases the risk of unscheduled absences and call outs, and ultimately can lead to higher wait times and missed or delayed flights."

The shutdown continues as White House negotiations with Democratic lawmakers failed to reach an agreement before a 10-day congressional break, though lawmakers remain on notice to return if a deal is reached.