US airports crippled by 40-day shutdown as TSA delays spiral out of control
US airports are facing long delays as the partial government shutdown stretches into its 40th day. Hundreds of thousands of Homeland Security employees, including TSA agents, have been working without pay since December. The situation has led to growing frustration among staff and travellers alike. Houston's airports have been hit particularly hard by the shutdown. George Bush Intercontinental Airport now sees wait times of over an hour, with fewer screening lanes open than usual. Meanwhile, William P. Hobby Airport reported shorter queues of under 15 minutes on Wednesday morning, though delays remain unpredictable.
Staff shortages have forced checkpoint closures across the country. More than 300 TSA agents have resigned since the shutdown began, adding strain during one of the busiest travel periods. With no clear end in sight, airports continue to struggle with inconsistent wait times and reduced operations.
The shutdown's impact on TSA staffing has caused widespread disruption for passengers. Longer queues and lane closures are now common at major airports. Without a resolution, further delays and resignations could worsen the situation in the coming weeks.
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