The Transportation Security Administration is facing its worst staffing crisis ever, with U.S. airports recording the longest security wait times in agency history-some exceeding 4.5 hours.
TSA Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill told the House Committee on Homeland Security that over 480 officers have left since the current government shutdown began five weeks ago. Absenteeism has surged, with 40-50% of staff calling off at multiple airports because they can’t afford to work without pay.
Major hubs including Houston, New York City, and Atlanta saw more than one-third of TSA personnel absent over the weekend. The agency is consolidating screening lanes and warns it may close smaller airports if staffing doesn’t improve.
“We understand this is frustrating,” McNeill said. “Our officers are working their hardest to keep you safe-while not getting paid.”