The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown has travelers across the country on edge. This time, the impact on airports and security lines could be different from the last 43-day government shutdown, which led to historic flight cancellations and long delays. While Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers are expected to work without pay, the department's contingency plan requires about 95% of TSA workers to keep working. However, the longer the DHS appropriations lapse, the longer security lines at commercial airports could get.
What's Different About This Shutdown?
Unlike the last shutdown, funding for Homeland Security expired at midnight, while the rest of the federal government is funded through September 30. This means air traffic controllers employed by the Federal Aviation Administration will receive paychecks as usual, reducing the risk of widespread flight cancellations. However, Democrats in the House and Senate say Homeland Security won't get funded until new restrictions are placed on federal immigration operations.
What's the Impact on Travelers?
It's hard to predict where security screening snags might pop up. Even a handful of unscheduled TSA absences could lead to longer wait times at smaller airports with just a single security checkpoint. Travelers should plan to arrive early and allow extra time to get through security. Experts say flight delays are also a possibility, even though air traffic controllers are not affected by the DHS shutdown.
What Can Travelers Do to Prepare?
Most airports display security line wait times on their websites, but travelers should check them early, not the day of the flight. Passengers should also pay close attention while packing since prohibited items are likely to prolong the screening process. TSA has a full list of what is and isn't allowed in carry-on and checked luggage on its website.
Will the Shutdown Drag On?
The White House has been negotiating with Democratic lawmakers, but the two sides failed to reach a deal by the end of the week. Democrats have said they won't help approve more funding for Homeland Security until new restrictions are placed on federal immigration operations. The longer the shutdown drags on, the more strain it could put on airports and travelers.
