TSA Officers Miss Second Paycheck, Causing Long Lines at Major Airports

Published on 3/23/2026

TSA Officers Miss Second Paycheck, Causing Long Lines at Major Airports

AI Summary

Long security lines are reported at major U.S. airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport, due to heightened TSA officer absences amid a partial government shutdown that began in mid-February. TSA, with over 50,000 officers, has been working without pay, leading to hundreds of resignations according to the American Federation of Government Employees. The White House is deploying Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to assist TSA with security operations. Travel disruptions have previously prompted quick congressional actions in similar scenarios.