- Flight Disruptions
- TSA staffing gaps drive long security waits at U.S. airports amid DHS funding stalemate
TSA staffing gaps drive long security waits at U.S. airports amid DHS funding stalemate
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Checked by Matteo Floris
Last updated on March 25, 2026
Disruption overview
TSA staffing shortfalls are causing long security lines at multiple U.S. airports, with George Bush Intercontinental reporting general screening waits around four hours at midday and William P. Hobby seeing 90-minute lines early Tuesday. About 11% of scheduled TSA officers—over 3,200—did not report for duty on Monday, while several major hubs recorded high callout rates. Houston Airports advised travelers to arrive up to four hours early to avoid missed flights. Immigration enforcement personnel have been assigned to assist TSA with limited tasks at airports.
Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to $650 under passenger rights regulations. Eligibility depends on the circumstances of the disruption.
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Disruption details
Air travelers in the United States are facing significant checkpoint congestion as Transportation Security Administration staffing shortfalls contribute to mounting airport delays. Lawmakers are discussing a partial funding plan for the Department of Homeland Security, while security screening operations continue to be strained.
According to the latest figures, nearly 11% of TSA officers scheduled on Monday—more than 3,200 individuals—did not report for duty. High callout rates were recorded at several major hubs, including William P. Hobby in Houston, Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta, George Bush Intercontinental in Houston, JFK in New York, New Orleans, and Baltimore-Washington International.
General screening waits around four hours at midday at George Bush Intercontinental (Houston)
Travelers at William P. Hobby (Houston) were still waiting about 90 minutes to clear security early Tuesday
Callout rates reported at key hubs: William P. Hobby (40%), Hartsfield-Jackson (37%), George Bush Intercontinental (36%), JFK (34%), New Orleans (35%), Baltimore-Washington International (30%)
Houston Airports recommend arriving up to four hours before departure
To address checkpoint staffing gaps, immigration enforcement officers have been directed to support TSA with limited functions such as exit lane oversight and ID checks. This assistance does not replace standard TSA screening procedures and has raised concerns among travelers and airport staff.
Support networks have mobilized to help unpaid TSA personnel, including distribution of food boxes in San Diego and meal services at Washington, D.C.–area airports coordinated with local TSA offices and airports to comply with ethics rules.
In the Senate, efforts to approve comprehensive DHS funding have not yet succeeded. A narrower proposal to fund only TSA has been floated, while discussions continue among a bipartisan group seeking to resolve the impasse.
For passengers, the immediate impact is at the security checkpoint. Prolonged lines at several major U.S. airports increase the risk of missing flights, and local airport authorities in Houston are urging travelers to arrive significantly earlier than usual to complete screening.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:
Compensation
Good passenger rights ensure passengers get fairly compensated for delays and cancellations. Try our compensation check and find out how much money we can get you.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. Some laws say you can choose a full refund instead.
Food and essential care
Providing food and drinks is a basic right under many regulations. Typically after a delay of a few hours.
Accommodation
Some passenger rights say the airline must provide accommodation when your journey is delayed overnight.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Delays
Cause
Other
Status
Current disruption
Compensation
May qualify for compensation
Airports affected
William P. Hobby Airport, Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
Cities affected
Houston, Atlanta, New York, New Orleans, Baltimore-Washington
Countries affected
United States
Checked by
Matteo Floris
Date updated
March 25, 2026
What to do if your flight is delayed, canceled, or overbooked
If you're traveling to, from, or within the European Union, here's what you should do when you experience a disruption.
Gather evidence that your flight was delayed, canceled, or overbooked.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the disruption and the reason behind it.
Request an alternative flight to your destination — or a refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Make a note of the arrival time at your final destination.
Ask the airline to provide vouchers for meals and refreshments.
Avoid signing documents or accepting offers that may waive your passenger rights.
If an overnight stay is required, ask the airline to provide accommodation.
Save receipts for any additional expenses caused by the disruption.
