Security
Security Checkpoints
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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.
TSA checkpoint screening procedures at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).
ADVANCED IMAGING TECHNOLOGY Houston was selected as one of the first airports to introduce a new technology known as “Advanced Imaging Technology” (AIT). A scan of your image allows TSA staff to better detect threats such as weapons, explosives, or other objects, which may be concealed under layers of clothing.
Passengers undergoing screening will have the opportunity to decline AIT screening in favor of physical screening. However, some passengers will be required to undergo AIT screening in accordance with TSA regulations.
TSA ENHANCED PAT-DOWNS The enhanced pat-down may be performed by TSA agents on a random basis or when someone prefers to have a “pat-down,” rather than being scanned in the AIT or full body scanner. When a TSA agent performs this procedure, they will explain in advance the steps they will take. The traveling public always has the option to ask for a private screening should a person not want to have this measure done in a public place.
TSA offers a “modified pat-down” for children 12-years-old and under who require the additional screening. For more information, go to www.TSA.gov
Guests are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
For travel tips and a complete list of items prohibited from carry-on or checked baggage, visit www.TSATravelTips.us or call the Contact Center toll-free at 1-866-289-9673.
CLEAR is the fastest and most predictable way to get through airport security. Being a CLEAR member means you can breeze right past the long lines and go straight to screening.
Available Hours:
Sunday - Friday 4:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 4:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Learn more about CLEAR and how to sign up.
Travelers without acceptable ID can pay a $45 fee to use TSA ConfirmID. The TSA will then attempt to verify your identity so you can proceed through security.
TSA Screening Hours
TSA Contact Center
between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday, or between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. (ET) on weekends and holidays
