Government Shutdown Threatens Air Travel Chaos

Amid an ongoing government funding standoff, a senior official warns of potential closures at smaller airports due to TSA staffing shortages. The shutdown, lasting over a month, has led to high absentee rates among unpaid TSA workers, causing significant delays and travel disruptions across major US airports.

A senior Trump administration official raised alarms on Tuesday that the prolonged government funding standoff might necessitate the closure of some smaller airports due to security staffing shortages. The partial government shutdown, ongoing for 31 days, has left 50,000 TSA security officers working unpaid, with a 10% absence rate reported last Sunday.

Acting Deputy TSA Administrator Adam Stahl warned on 'Fox and Friends' that escalating callout rates could result in literally shutting down certain airports, especially smaller ones. House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that airports are nearing a breaking point. Travel disruptions have prompted urgent pleas from airline CEOs for a swift resolution during the busy spring break travel period.

Typically, less than 2% of TSA workers fail to report for duty, according to the DHS. But in major hubs like Atlanta and New York JFK, rates soared to about 20% since funding lapsed on February 14. The protracted absence of funds also saw 366 TSA officers leaving the agency. With absentee rates spiking over 50% in Houston and surpassing 30% in places like New Orleans and Atlanta, travelers are facing significant delays, some enduring lines over two hours.

(With inputs from agencies.)