Airport security is becoming increasingly strained at several U.S. airports as Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents are calling out sick in large numbers. The situation has reached a point where TSA officials are considering the possibility of closing some airports if the staffing shortages continue. Adam Stahl, the acting deputy administrator of the TSA, discussed this alarming scenario during an appearance on Fox News' "FOX & Friends."
Stahl emphasized that the ongoing partial shutdown has entered its fifth week, and the operational challenges are mounting. He stated, "Frankly, there's not much else we can do. As the weeks continue, if this continues, it's not hyperbole to suggest that we may have to quite literally shut down airports, particularly smaller ones."
The TSA has been facing significant staffing shortages, with over 50,000 agents responsible for screening passengers and luggage at approximately 450 airports nationwide. Since the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding lapsed on February 14, these agents have received only one partial paycheck, leading to increased absenteeism and low morale among the workforce.
Stahl revealed that the National Deployment Office, which typically sends relief staff to assist overwhelmed agents, is currently "fully depleted." This lack of available personnel has made the situation even more precarious. While it remains uncertain which airports may face closure, the TSA has not disclosed how decisions would be made regarding which staff would remain at their posts or be reassigned to busier airports.
As spring break approaches, with the U.S. Travel Association estimating that a record 171 million people will travel by air in March and April, the timing of these potential closures could exacerbate travel chaos. Even though some major airports like Las Vegas and Los Angeles reported shorter security lines recently, others such as Miami and Boston have not yet felt significant impacts from the staffing crisis.
The TSA has also reported that approximately 21% of security staff at key airports, including Atlanta (the world's busiest by passenger traffic), New York-JFK, and Houston Hobby, have called out sick in recent weeks. This has resulted in checkpoint wait times surpassing three hours, with lines extending outside into parking garages and sidewalks.
Prior to the shutdown, the average call-out rate among TSA agents was below 2%. However, this rate has more than doubled since the shutdown began, leading to operational difficulties at numerous airports. The DHS reported that 366 transportation security officers have left the TSA since the start of the shutdown.
The agency stated, "These numbers illustrate the severe operational strain caused by the shutdown, underscoring the urgent need for resolution to restore stability, morale, and security at America's airports. TSA funding must be restored immediately."
In a joint effort, airline CEOs from major carriers, including Delta, Southwest, and FedEx, have urged Congress to enact legislation that would protect TSA employees, customs officers, and air traffic control workers from the adverse effects of government shutdowns.
The first paycheck received by TSA agents during this period was a $0 paycheck, illustrating the financial strain on essential employees who are required to work despite the ongoing shutdown. As the situation evolves, the TSA and airport authorities are urging for immediate action to address the funding crisis and restore normalcy to airport operations.
Source: Business Insider News