U.S. says airport delays will worsen as shutdown continues
The Hindu
U.S. airport delays are expected to worsen as TSA staffing issues persist amid an ongoing government shutdown.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said on Friday (March 20, 2026) he is worried disruptions at major airports will increase as a partial government shutdown continues with no end in sight.
Airlines and travel groups fear absences among the 50,000 Transportation Security Administration airport security officers could increase again this weekend. Long lines were seen at major airports on Friday, including in Atlanta and Houston, with spring break travel in full swing.
“If a deal isn’t cut, you’re going to see what’s happening today look like child’s play,” Mr. Duffy told CNN. He warned earlier this week that small airports could shut down soon if staffing issues worsened.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. File | Photo Credit: Reuters
The shutdown entered its 35th day on Friday and TSA officers are not getting paid. They are set to miss a second full paycheck on March 27, Duffy noted.
“This situation is placing increasing strain on the frontline workforce responsible for protecting millions of travellers,” said the U.S. Travel Association, airlines, hotel chains and other companies in a joint letter.
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