US Warns of Increasing Airport Delays Amid Government Shutdown

Mo. Basuony

Published: March 21, 2026 6:21 AM ET

US Warns of Increasing Airport Delays Amid Government Shutdown

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned Friday that airport disruptions could grow worse as the partial government shutdown continues. He said staffing shortfalls at Transportation Security Administration checkpoints are a key concern. The US warns that airport delays may rise if lawmakers do not reach a funding deal.

Staffing and absence figures

The TSA employs about 50,000 airport security officers nationwide. Absences fell slightly to 9.8% on Thursday, down from 10.2% on Wednesday. Several major hubs, however, showed much higher rates.

JFK (New York): 29% absence rate.
New Orleans: 27% absence rate.
Baltimore-Washington: 23% absence rate.
Atlanta: 32% absence rate.
Both Houston airports: over 30% absence rate.

Last weekend, absences rose to roughly 10% after previously averaging about 6% during the shutdown. DHS reports 366 TSA officers have left their jobs since the shutdown began.

Operational impacts and pay issues

Long lines were reported at major airports on Friday, especially in Atlanta and Houston. Spring break travel is underway, adding pressure at security checkpoints. TSA officers are working without pay and face a missed second full paycheck on March 27.

DHS funding lapsed on Feb. 13 after Congress failed to reach an agreement on immigration enforcement reforms. Small airports could face closures if staffing problems intensify, Duffy warned.

Industry response and negotiations

Airlines, travel groups, hotels, and the U.S. Travel Association urged action. They said the situation strains frontline workers protecting millions of travelers. Senate Republicans and Democrats were in talks to fund the TSA, according to Senate Majority Leader John Thune.

Travel forecasts and past precedent

Airlines expect a record spring travel period. Forecasts call for about 171 million passengers over the two-month window. That figure is roughly 4% higher than the same period last year.

Last fall’s 43-day shutdown disrupted flights nationwide. The FAA ordered a 10% cut in flights at major airports during that episode.

Filmogaz.com will continue to monitor developments as lawmakers work on funding and as travelers face potential increases in airport delays during the ongoing government shutdown.