U.S. Homeland Security Shutdown Impacts Airport Operations

Sat Feb 14 2026 22:55:25 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The recent shutdown of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security raises concerns about potential delays and security line wait times at airports across the country, as TSA employees prepare to work without pay amid negotiations on funding.

A new shutdown of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has begun, affecting the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) which will require TSA officers to work without pay. Travelers are being advised to arrive early at airports as the implications of the shutdown on security lines may lead to longer wait times. The ongoing negotiating deadlock between lawmakers adds uncertainty to how long the shutdown may last, causing anxiety among travelers ahead of a busy travel season.

The shutdown of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, effective from early Saturday, primarily affects the agency tasked with screening passengers and baggage across American airports. Concerns loom for travelers making airline reservations, particularly in light of the extensive impacts of a prior 43-day government shutdown which resulted in historic flight cancellations and extended delays.

As the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prepares to function with approximately 95% of its workforce remaining on duty without pay, experts speculate that the current situation could escalate differently from previous incidents. Lengthened security lines are anticipated as the travel industry and major airlines voice warnings about the effects that prolonged lapses in funding could incur.

Differences in the Current Shutdown

This time, while Homeland Security funding expired just before the weekend, other government sectors remain funded until September 30, meaning that air traffic controllers will still receive their paychecks, which mitigates mass flight cancellations. The TSA had endured a notable shutdown in the past but the current Congress appears gridlocked on the resolution.

Travel experts note that disruptions in air travel typically accumulate over time; there is also historical precedent for sudden operational changes, such as the shutdown's impact on TSA checkpoints last year, causing significant inconvenience to travelers.

Impact on Travelers

Although predictions around specific delays or snags remain difficult, even modest staffing shortages might quickly lead to longer waiting times, particularly at smaller airports. Early arrival and additional time allocation for security clearances are strongly advised. Flight delays may occur despite air traffic controllers not being impacted by the DHS shutdown, as airlines might opt to hold flights to accommodate passengers in screening lines.

Travelers’ Preparedness

Passengers are urged to verify security wait times prior to their travel dates, avoiding any last-minute rushes that could complicate their journey. Careful packing is essential; travelers should avoid bringing restricted items that could delay the screening process.

Future Outlook

Negotiations between the White House and Congress to resolve the shutdown have yet to produce results, with Democrats demanding new restrictions on federal immigration operations before supporting additional DHS funding. The turbulent situation underscores a looming crisis for U.S. air travel as the high-volume spring break travel season approaches.