US airports crippled as shutdown sparks TSA staff shortages and closures
US airports faced growing disruptions this week as the partial government shutdown stretched on. Staffing shortages forced the closure of security checkpoints in major hubs like Houston and Philadelphia. Meanwhile, Burbank Airport raised funds to support unpaid TSA officers struggling without their first full paycheck.
The shutdown's impact on airport security became clearer by midweek. On Wednesday, over 10% of TSA officers nationwide called out sick, with Atlanta and Houston seeing absentee rates as high as 38%. By Thursday, some checkpoints in Philadelphia and Houston-Hobby closed entirely due to understaffing. Other airports, including New Orleans, Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson, and Chicago O'Hare, reported wait times exceeding two hours.
Since the Department of Homeland Security shutdown began—marking the third in under six months—more than 300 TSA employees have resigned. Around 50,000 officers remain on duty, but morale and attendance have plummeted. In response, Burbank Airport's police and firefighters organised a fundraiser, collecting $8,000 for their federal colleagues. Due to TSA regulations, officers cannot accept direct cash donations, so the funds will be converted into gas cards to help with rising fuel costs. The cards will be distributed to TSA staff in the coming days, providing some relief as the shutdown continues.
The shutdown has now led to checkpoint closures, lengthy delays, and a surge in resignations. With no immediate resolution in sight, airports and local agencies are stepping in to assist unpaid workers. The $8,000 raised by Burbank Airport will offer temporary support, but the broader system remains under strain.
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