Government shutdown impacts TSA, passengers

UPDATED: March 25, 2026 at 8:30 a.m.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

On Wednesday, March 25: TSA wait times are expected to exceed four hours, with lines extending outside into non-standard queueing areas.

Act Now

• Contact your airline immediately. Some airlines are offering waivers to rebook at no additional cost.
• Download your airline’s app to manage your trip while in line.
• If your flight is departing soon, consider rebooking now. Do not wait until you reach the checkpoint.

Before entering the line

• Make sure the name on your ID matches the name on your boarding pass.
• Use restrooms and purchase any needed items you may need while in the queue.
• Be prepared for extended wait times.

What to expect

• TSA standard screening is available in Terminals A and E
• TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are not available
• Flying United? Check your bags at Terminal C, then proceed to E for TSA.

Why this is happening (Updated March 25)

TSA is operating with reduced staffing due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. We are consolidating screening operations as needed, based on current TSA staffing levels.

Today's swing in wait times reflect the traditionally lower passenger volumes expected on Wednesdays. Houston Airports urges passengers to remain flexible as the government shutdown may impact security operations from one day—and even one shift—to the next.

Prepare before you arrive

• Check TSA wait times at Fly2Houston.com
• Check your airline’s app for updates, many are offering travel waivers.
• Limit carry-on items, fewer bags mean a more efficient process.

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.

CHECK NOW: TSA wait times at IAH

Our teams are on site to assist, but conditions are expected to remain challenging. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

Watch: A Message from the Houston Airports Director About TSA Wait Times

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

Federal response to TSA staffing impacts during shutdown

Federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are supporting TSA operations at U.S. airports, including IAH and HOU, as part of the federal response to the ongoing government shutdown that began Feb. 14 and continues to impact TSA staffing as TSA officers continue to work without pay.

Decisions regarding ICE personnel and their roles are made at the federal level. For more information, contact the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

What passengers need to know:

• Screening procedures for passengers remain unchanged.

• Travelers can monitor TSA wait times in the link below.

• The number of available TSA screening lanes can vary by airport and shift, depending on staffing levels.

TSA wait times at IAH could exceed four hours today, March 23. Please plan accordingly.

Thank you for your patience as during this federal government shutdown.

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.