More than 10% of U.S. airport security officers failed to report to work on Sunday as a prolonged government shutdown strained operations, according to Reuters. The Transportation Security Administration has required about 50,000 officers to work without pay for nearly a month.
The Department of Homeland Security said absentee rates have surged well above normal levels, reaching about 20% at major hubs like Atlanta, JFK, and Houston. The report said some locations saw even sharper spikes, leading to long lines and delays for travelers.
Long lines and delays are growing at some US airports as hundreds of Transportation Security Administration workers — going without full pay during the partial government shutdown — have quit or taken unscheduled leave. https://t.co/wutHrxIZ5L pic.twitter.com/ikAu2RXky0
— CNN (@CNN) March 16, 2026
Airline executives warned the situation is worsening as spring break travel accelerates. According to a joint statement, passengers are facing extended wait times at checkpoints.
Officials also confirmed hundreds of TSA workers have quit during the shutdown. Lawmakers remain deadlocked over funding, while the White House has engaged industry leaders to address the crisis. Airports are scrambling to manage staffing shortages.
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TIPP Staff
