How soon will TSA airport security lines return to normal after the shutdown ends?

March 28, 2026

TL;DR

TSA officers have been working without pay during the partial government shutdown, causing lengthy security lines at U.S. airports.
President Trump has directed Homeland Security to pay TSA workers immediately, with payments expected to start by Monday.
Call-out rates for TSA officers reached nearly 12% on Thursday, the highest since the shutdown began.
Over 500 TSA agents have quit due to the funding impasse.
Travel experts predict that airport security lines will ease once TSA employees receive their paychecks, though recovery could take two days to two weeks.
The lack of pay is also impacting TSA's morale and ability to recruit and retain staff.

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