News|TravelLong lines, unpaid TSA workers: Experts say US air travel system in crisisTSA workers face unpaid wages, causing long lines and staffing shortages at key US airports during shutdown chaos.
## TSA Workforce Challenges Amid Partial Government Shutdown
TSA Workforce Challenges Amid Partial Government Shutdown
The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has experienced significant workforce challenges following a partial government shutdown that began on February 14, 2026. This has resulted in TSA employees not receiving their salaries, affecting their availability and morale. More than 450 TSA workers have resigned, and call-out rates have increased from approximately 2% to 10%.
The lack of TSA personnel has led to prolonged delays at major airports across the United States, with call-out rates nearing 30% in cities like New York, Atlanta, and Houston. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has reported increased wait times at security checkpoints due to TSA staff shortages.
In response to staffing shortages, the federal government has deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to fill gaps at airports. This measure has faced criticism due to ICE agents' lack of specialized training for airport security operations.
This has resulted in TSA employees not receiving their salaries, affecting their availability and morale.
The shutdown is a result of a political standoff over funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees the TSA. The impasse relates to separate negotiations on immigration enforcement agencies, driven by demands for reforms in agency operations. Proposed legislation to fund TSA independently has not passed, leading to continued operational disruptions.
The situation has raised concerns about the safety and reliability of the US air travel system amid increased security risks due to international tensions. The ongoing challenges highlight the need for a resolution to the funding and operational issues affecting the TSA and related agencies.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
