Long security lines form at airports as TSA agents miss first full paycheck amid DHS standoff
Long security lines form at airports as TSA agents miss first full paycheck amid DHS standoff
Travelers face delays at Atlanta’s busiest airport
On Sunday, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport saw long security queues in its domestic terminal, with passengers enduring extended waits to pass through checkpoints. The congestion emerged shortly after TSA agents missed their initial full salary, as the Department of Homeland Security remained without funding. At the airport, travelers formed parallel lines while navigating security, with digital displays showing wait times ranging from four minutes for TSA PreCheck users to over an hour at the general checkpoint.
Passengers express frustration over disruptions
Laronda Monteiro, a local resident, arrived three hours early for her flight to New Orleans, describing the effort as worthwhile. “I know we have to be secure, and I just appreciate those who are still with TSA, remaining on the job,” she said. “I can wait for the safety and security.” Meanwhile, Morgan Young, returning to Washington, shared her disappointment with the travel delays. “It’s stressful, honestly,” she remarked. “I feel like Atlanta airport runs as smooth as possible, but it is stressful for sure. And more stressful for the people who aren’t getting paid and are at work.”
Essential employees endure financial strain
Ezer Gill, waiting to clear security before heading home to Fort Lauderdale, expressed concern about the effects of the government impasse. “Air travel is an essential part of how our country operates, and if we can’t get to where we need to go, it’s going to affect a lot of people,” he said. “It’s affecting me and a lot of the other people, I’ve heard.” TSA agents, classified as essential staff, have been working without full pay since the funding lapse. They received a partial salary after the shutdown and missed their first full paycheck on Friday. Over 300 TSA workers have resigned since February, according to the agency.
Similar challenges reported nationwide
Extended wait times mirrored those in Atlanta at airports across the country, including Fort Lauderdale, Philadelphia, Austin, and Chicago. A video posted on TikTok from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport showed a winding queue at 2 a.m., with the creator advising travelers to arrive hours early. Despite arriving four hours ahead of time, the individual still missed their 2:30 a.m. flight. Some online comments noted improved conditions later Sunday morning, aligning with updates from Austin’s airport, which reported “very long” lines in the early hours but said they had eased a few hours later.
TSA urges resolution to funding crisis
In response to the delays, TSA shared a message on social media, highlighting the financial strain on its workforce. “A $0 paycheck for those continuing to serve,” the post read on X. “Enough is enough. No more playing politics with the lives of Americans.” A DHS spokesperson did not immediately respond to NBC News’ request for comment on Sunday. Meanwhile, Anthony Riley, 58, who has been working at Syracuse Hancock International Airport during the shutdown, fears he may soon face homelessness. He told NBC News last week that he lost his car during the previous government shutdown and has no savings to rely on.
