FAQs: TSA screening at IAH during the federal government shutdown
Nov 5, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
TSA screening at IAH during the government shutdown
Houston Airports is sharing answers to the most common questions received from passengers at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) as the federal government shutdown continues to impact TSA staffing nationwide. Thank you for your patience and flexibility as we work closely with our federal partners to keep passengers moving safely and efficiently.
Why are TSA lines longer than normal?
The federal government shutdown is affecting TSA staffing and resources nationwide. Some security lanes are operating with fewer officers than usual, which can result in longer screening times—especially during peak travel periods.
Additionally, passenger volume at IAH varies by day of the week and time of day. For example, Tuesdays and Wednesdays typically see lower passenger volumes, which may result in shorter security wait times.
What are the current TSA wait times at Bush Airport?
TSA wait times vary by terminal and can change shift by shift as federal employees navigate the impacts of the federal government shutdown. Wait times can fluctuate depending on passenger volumes and staffing levels.
For estimated security wait times, visit www.fly2houston.com/iah/security
Which TSA checkpoints are open?
As a result of the federal government shutdown, only TSA checkpoints at Terminals A and E are open for passenger screening.
TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are available at both terminals.
Is PreCheck or CLEAR available?
Yes. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR remain open at both Terminal A and Terminal E. Where should United Airlines passengers check in and go through security?
United Airlines passengers should check luggage at Terminal C and then proceed to Terminal E for security screening by walking or taking the Subway.
The walk between Terminals C and E is about six minutes. Once cleared by TSA, passengers can use the Skyway to access all terminals.
United does not operate a ticketing counter at Terminal A.
What if my air carrier has a ticket counter at Terminal D?
Passengers checking in at Terminal D should proceed through the tunnel to Terminal E for TSA screening.
What if I don’t need to check luggage?
Passengers not checking bags can check in at Terminals A or E and proceed through security. Follow estimated TSA wait times at fly2houston.com/iah/security before arriving.
Are food, coffee and shops open early in the morning?
Yes. Several restaurants, coffee shops and convenience stores open early to serve travelers catching morning flights.
At Terminal A, passengers will find Texas Monthly News (open 24 hours), Starbucks, Jack in the Box, Chick-fil-A, and Great American Bagel, all of which open by 4 a.m.
At Terminal D, Houston Supply News is open 24 hours a day, with Einstein Bros. Bagels opening at 4:30 a.m.
At Terminal E, Chick-fil-A and Einstein Bros. Bagels open at 5 a.m. and are located just after the TSA Checkpoint.
Additionally, 24/7 offerings (self-service markets and vending options) are available in Terminals A, C, D and E.
How can I move between terminals?
The Subway connects all five terminals at IAH and is accessible pre-security. After screening, passengers can use the Skyway to reach their specific gate post-security.
What is Houston Airports doing to help?
Houston Airports is working closely with TSA leadership and other federal partners to monitor checkpoint capacity in real-time, adjust passenger flow, and provide on-site customer service support.
We’re also supporting our federal partners through donation drives and airport employees who have job functions outside of IAH are volunteering to assist passengers in the terminals.
Houston Airports encourages travelers to stay informed through Fly2Houston.com and by following Bush Airport on social media for the latest updates.
We thank our passengers for their patience, flexibility and Houston-friendly spirit as federal employees continue to navigate the effects of the government shutdown.