When will TSA lines go back to normal? Travelers may face delays for days or weeks
When will TSA lines go back to normal? Travelers may face delays for days or weeks
After a prolonged government shutdown, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents have resumed receiving wages, yet the strain on airport security remains. President Donald Trump issued an executive order on Thursday, ensuring that TSA staff would be paid starting Monday, March 30. However, former TSA Administrator John S. Pistole notes that this action alone won’t swiftly resolve the staffing issues plaguing security lines.
Despite the resumption of pay, the TSA workforce has faced significant turnover during the shutdown. Over 500 agents left their posts, while thousands more called in sick due to financial pressures. By Friday, callout rates peaked at 12.35%, impacting over 3,560 employees, according to a DHS spokesperson. The agency is now moving to replenish its ranks, but the pace of recovery remains uncertain.
“It’s a temporary fix,” Pistole remarked to NBC News. “The key question is how many agents will actually return after their paychecks restart on Monday.” He emphasized that the number of workers coming back will determine the timeline for improved wait times.
Some agents may have already secured alternative employment, raising concerns about their commitment to TSA roles. With an annual attrition rate of approximately 7%, the combination of voluntary departures and ongoing callouts could prolong delays even after pay resumes. Until staffing stabilizes, travelers might opt for ground transportation instead of air travel to avoid extended waits.
While airports aim to restore normal operations, the uncertainty surrounding agent availability suggests that the impact of the shutdown will linger. Pistole acknowledged this, stating, “Many are considering driving, rail, or bus as more reliable options to avoid the risk of a four-hour delay at the airport.”
Mirna Alsharif is a breaking news reporter for NBC News. Jay Blackman is an NBC News producer specializing in transportation, space, medical, and consumer coverage.