Over a third of TSA officers called out at 3 major airports Tuesday amid partial shutdown

CBS News
March 19, 2026
3 min read

Quick Insights

The Bottom Line

Over one-third of TSA officers called out at major airports during a partial government shutdown, causing flight delays.

How This Affects You

If you travel by air, expect significantly longer security lines and potential flight delays at Atlanta, Philadelphia, and other major airports until the shutdown ends.

AI Summary

More than one-third of TSA officers called out at Atlanta and two other major U.S. airports on Tuesday as the partial government shutdown persists, forcing airlines to operate with reduced security staffing. The absences created significant operational strain: Philadelphia closed three of six TSA checkpoints on Wednesday, and travelers nationwide faced extended wait times at security. TSA officers, who are not receiving paychecks during the shutdown, have increasingly stayed home, creating a cascade effect that disrupts flight operations and passenger throughput. The shutdown has no announced end date, raising the prospect of further staffing degradation at the busiest airports if the impasse continues. Extended security lines and closed checkpoints risk flight delays and cancellations during peak travel periods.

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