A shutdown of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that took effect early Saturday impacts the agency responsible for screening passengers and bags at airports across the country. Travelers with airline reservations may be nervously recalling last year's 43-day government shutdown that led to historic flight cancellations and long delays.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers are expected to work without pay while lawmakers remain without an agreement on DHS' annual funding. Although officers also worked through the record shutdown that ended in late 2018, aviation experts indicate this shutdown could have different consequences.
Trade groups for the U.S. travel industry and major airlines have signaled that the longer DHS appropriations are lapsed, the longer lines at commercial airports could become.
Funding for Homeland Security expired at midnight, while the rest of the federal government remains funded through September 30. This means that air traffic controllers employed by the Federal Aviation Administration will continue to receive paychecks, reducing the risk of widespread flight cancellations.
About 95% of TSA workers are considered essential personnel and required to keep working, yet disruptions in air travel generally build over time. Last year, for instance, TSA temporarily closed airport checkpoints about a month into the shutdown.
According to John Rose, chief risk officer for Altour, the memory of last year's shutdown might contribute to increased vulnerabilities at airports again. He highlighted, It’s still fresh in their minds and potentially their pocketbooks.
While it's hard to predict precise outcomes, travelers are encouraged to arrive early at the airport and to be more vigilant about security screening logs. Even minor TSA absences could lead to longer wait times, especially at smaller airports with only a single security checkpoint. Passengers should also check prohibited items before their flight to avoid delays.
As the White House negotiates with lawmakers, it's uncertain how long the DHS shutdown might last. Democrats have stated they will not support funding until new immigration operation restrictions are agreed upon. Travel industry groups have warned that unresolved funding risks delaying flights during the busy spring break travel season.
