Fliers navigate hours-long TSA wait times as Senate inches toward funding deal

CBS News
March 24, 2026
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3 min read

Quick Insights

The Bottom Line

Travelers face hours-long TSA wait times at major airports due to ongoing DHS partial shutdown, though Senate nears funding deal.

How This Affects You

If you fly, expect significantly longer security screening delays at major U.S. airports until DHS funding is restored.

AI Summary

Travelers at major U.S. airports are experiencing extended TSA wait times as a partial government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security continues, though the Senate is moving closer to a funding agreement. The shutdown has reduced DHS staffing levels, including TSA officers responsible for security screening, creating bottlenecks at airports in large cities. Congress's progress toward a deal signals potential relief for both travelers and the agency, though airports remain under strain until funding is restored. The TSA wait times reflect the broader disruption caused by the shutdown, which has left portions of the federal government unfunded. Resolution of the Senate funding negotiations could allow DHS to resume full operations and restore normal screening procedures at airports nationwide.

What's Being Done

The Senate is moving closer to a funding agreement that could restore DHS operations and normal TSA screening levels.

Should this be getting more attention?

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