A senior official from the Transportation Security Administration has warned that increasing staff absences could disrupt operations at airports across the United States if the situation worsens.
Acting Deputy Administrator Adam Stahl said a surge in sick calls among security officers is already causing extended wait times at checkpoints nationwide. He noted that if absentee rates continue to climb, certain airports—particularly smaller ones—could face temporary shutdowns.
The issue comes amid an ongoing funding lapse affecting the Department of Homeland Security, leaving many TSA workers without pay. Officials report that hundreds of employees have resigned, while thousands of others continue working despite financial hardship.
Recent data shows a sharp increase in absences, with more than 10% of officers calling out on a single day—far above normal levels. The impact has been especially noticeable at major travel hubs, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, where a significant portion of staff was unavailable, forcing the closure of at least one security checkpoint.
Travelers have already experienced lengthy delays, with wait times exceeding two hours in some locations such as George Bush Intercontinental Airport. In Philadelphia, multiple screening checkpoints have also been shut down due to staffing shortages.
Officials warn that continued staffing challenges could lead to more closed screening lanes, longer queues, and broader operational disruptions if the situation is not resolved soon.