Government shutdown impacts TSA, passengers

UPDATED: March 27, 2026 at 3:48 p.m.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

TSA wait times may reach four hours or longer this weekend

TSA wait times are expected to remain elevated through the weekend, with the busiest travel days anticipated for Friday, March 27 and Sunday, March 29.

On peak travel days, wait times may reach four hours or longer, with lines potentially extending outside terminal buildings.

TSA is operating with reduced staffing due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

Checkpoint Status

• TSA is operating in Terminals A and E
• TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are not available
  • TSA continues to evaluate staffing shortages, which will determine when these services may be restored.

What Passengers Should Know

• TSA lines may extend outside during busy periods
• If possible, reduce carry-on items
• Consider rebooking your flight

CHECK NOW: TSA wait times at IAH

Flying United Airlines? Passengers should check bags at Terminal C and then proceed to Terminal E for TSA screening.

Flying from Terminal D? Check your baggage at Terminal D, then proceed to Terminal E for security screening.

Some international airlines have recently moved from Terminal D to E. Review the list of recent airline moves.

William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

On Sunday, March 8, excessive wait times at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) prompted Houston Airports and its airline partners to request support from TSA National Deployment Officers (NDOs). NDOs deploy across the country to assist airports experiencing severe staffing shortages, peak travel demand, emergencies or special events.

On Tuesday, March 10, TSA NDOs reported to Hobby Airport and are having a positive impact.

CHECK NOW: TSA wait times at HOU

Watch: Houston Airports Director Answers Your Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

UPDATED: March 25, 2026 at 8:35 a.m.

Houston Airports answers common questions about TSA security screening during the government shutdown.

1. Why are TSA lines longer than normal?

The federal government shutdown, which began Feb. 14, affects TSA staffing and resources nationwide as TSA officers continue working without pay. Some security lanes may be closed or operating at reduced capacity, leading to longer screening times.

2. How are TSA wait times calculated?

Houston Airports is manually updating TSA wait time estimates based on observed passenger flow and the number of open screening lanes.

Wait times are estimates and may change throughout the day as TSA staffing levels and passenger volumes fluctuate. Houston Airports is working to provide the most accurate information possible to help travelers plan ahead.

3. How early should I arrive during the current TSA staffing shortage?

TSA lines could exceed four hours at IAH. Please plan accordingly. This guidance aligns with airline ticket counter hours and helps ensure passengers have enough time for check-in, security screening and reaching their gate.

Travel times may vary throughout the day. Early morning and peak departure periods may experience longer TSA wait times. Passengers are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra time and remain flexible.

4. Why are some TSA checkpoints closed or operating at reduced capacity?

TSA assigns officers to checkpoints based on TSA staffing levels, flight schedules and passenger demand.

During periods of reduced staffing, TSA may consolidate operations by closing certain checkpoints or reducing the number of open lanes. This allows available TSA officers to be deployed where they are most efficient.

5. What should I do before I leave home? A few simple steps can save time at the airport:

• Check your airline’s app for gate and departure updates
• Check estimated TSA wait times at fly2houston.com
• Reserve airport parking online when possible
• Pack liquids properly in carry-on
• Have your ID and boarding pass ready before reaching the checkpoint

6. Where can I get help inside the airport? Look for Houston Airports customer service representatives wearing bright orange polos. Our teams are available to help with:

• Directions and gate information
• Navigating the airport
• Accessibility assistance
• General travel questions

7. What should I do if I miss my flight?

Contact your airline directly. They may be able to rebook you on a later flight.

8. What is Houston Airports doing to help?

Houston Airports and its airline partners are working closely with TSA to monitor checkpoint capacity in real time, adjust passenger flow and provide on-site customer support.

Houston Airports employees and airline partners are assisting at checkpoints by performing non-regulated TSA functions, such as communicating the screening process to passengers as they approach the checkpoint and organizing screening bins after passengers clear the checkpoint.

Houston Airports is also providing meals to on-duty TSA officers and coordinating with the Houston Food Bank to support officers and their families. Wings of Compassion, a nonprofit organization that supports the Houston Airports community, is providing fuel assistance to TSA officers.