The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has cautioned that a prolonged partial U.S. government shutdown could lead to longer airport wait times. Without a funding deal by Saturday, about 59,000 of TSA’s 62,000 employees, deemed essential, would continue working without pay.
TSA Administrator David Pekoske warned on social media that an extended shutdown could challenge airport efficiency, despite staff readiness to handle high traveler volumes. This comes as TSA anticipates screening a record 40 million passengers during the holiday season, following Thanksgiving travel highs.
Air traffic controllers and TSA officers, required to work without pay during the shutdown, faced similar strains in 2019. The 35-day standoff then caused increased worker absences, resulting in prolonged checkpoint delays and slowed air traffic. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had to furlough over 17,000 employees and halt air traffic controller training.
A repeat scenario would likely disrupt air travel and increase pressure on lawmakers to reach a funding agreement.
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