politics
March 20, 2026
TSA wait time in Atlanta hits two hours as shutdown stretches on
Major airports on Friday continued to grapple with long wait times at security checkpoints, due to the showdown over the Department of Homeland Security’s funding in Congress.
TL;DR
- Major airports are experiencing long wait times at security checkpoints due to a DHS funding showdown in Congress.
- Two-hour lines were observed at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and two-and-a-half-hour waits at George Bush Intercontinental Airport.
- TSA employees are working without pay, leading to increased absences and potential resignations.
- Around 10% of TSA workers nationwide called out sick on Tuesday.
- Airlines have warned that airports may be forced to close if the situation worsens.
- Airlines have pleaded with lawmakers to resolve the funding dispute, citing the unacceptability of unpaid workers and the high stakes of the upcoming spring travel season.
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