Airport security lines across the United States eased sharply after Transportation Security Administration workers began receiving long-delayed paychecks, following weeks of disruption during the government shutdown.
According to CNN, wait times that stretched up to four hours last week dropped to under 30 minutes at most major airports.
The improvement came as fewer TSA officers called out of work once back pay started arriving. The report said over 61,000 employees had gone without pay since mid-February, missing more than $1 billion in wages.
🚨 JUST IN: President Trump is getting MASSIVE PRAISE from the TSA Union for using Big Beautiful Bill funds to pay TSA agents
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) March 30, 2026
UNION TREASURER: "THANKS to the president for signing the EO to pay us." 🇺🇸
Remember: NO DEMOCRATS voted for this bill!pic.twitter.com/qlpUhfGvId
While the payments provided immediate relief, many workers reported financial strain, including debt, missed rent, and repossessions. Some said they are still waiting for full compensation.
Officials noted that staffing levels may remain affected, with hundreds of workers already resigning. Union representatives warned the damage could have long-term consequences for the workforce, even as operations begin to stabilize following President Donald Trump’s order to resume payments.
Also Read:

