Government shutdown impacts TSA

UPDATED: March 10, 2026 at 7:50 a.m.

Houston Airports is seeing improved passenger flow as more travelers plan ahead and arrive earlier.

The partial federal government shutdown is affecting TSA officers working without pay, resulting in staffing shortages at some airports across the U.S., including Houston’s airports.

• The number of available TSA screening lanes can vary from airport to airport and from shift to shift, depending on how many officers report to work.

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.

• Longer-than-normal TSA wait times may continue until the federal government shutdown ends.
• Spring Break travel continues through March 16.

Houston Airports recommends passengers arrive three hours early for domestic flights and four hours early for international flights.

Houston Airports thanks passengers for their continued patience and understanding as federal officers work to maintain the safety of all travelers during this difficult situation.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

• TSA checkpoints in Terminals A, C and E are operational.
• TSA checkpoint in Terminal D remains closed, due to federal staffing challenges.
• Remember, the Subway connects all IAH terminals, pre-security.

Estimated security wait times at IAH: www.fly2houston.com/iah/security

Flying from Terminal D? Check your baggage at Terminal D, then proceed to Terminal E for security screening. After clearing security, follow airport signage to your departure gate.

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

William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

Estimated security wait times at HOU: www.fly2houston.com/hou/security

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston Airports is sharing answers to common questions from passengers about TSA security screening during the partial federal government shutdown.

1. Why are TSA lines longer than normal?

The federal government shutdown affects TSA staffing and resources nationwide as officers continue working without pay. Some security lanes may be closed as TSA operates with fewer officers than usual, which can result in longer screening times — especially during peak travel periods like Spring Break.

2. What should I do before leaving home?

A few simple steps can save time at the airport:

• Check your airline’s app for gate and departure updates
• Reserve airport parking online when possible
• Pack liquids properly in carry-on bags to speed up security screening
• Have your ID and boarding pass ready before reaching the checkpoint

3. How early should I arrive at the airport?

During Spring Break, travelers should arrive at least three hours before domestic flights and four hours before international flights.

Security wait times may be longer than usual this week due to federal staffing challenges at airports nationwide. Arriving early helps ensure you have enough time for check-in, security screening and reaching your gate comfortably.

4. How can I make security screening faster?

Travelers can move through checkpoints more quickly by:

• Removing large electronics and liquids from carry-on bags if requested
• Following TSA officer instructions at the checkpoint
• If you have TSA PreCheck, use the designated lanes when available.

5. 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

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

Contact your airline immediately and explain the situation. Your airline may be able to rebook you on a later flight.

7. What is Houston Airports doing to help?

Updated: March 10: Houston Airports and airlines are working closely with TSA to monitor checkpoint capacity in real time, adjust passenger flow and provide on-site customer service support. Houston Airports is also providing meals to on-duty TSA officers. Wings of Compassion, a non-profit organization that supports the Houston Airports community, is working to distribute gas cards to TSA officers.