Handling TSA Security Lines
During Shutdown

We all agree handling TSA security lines during the shutdown is Let’s be honest  this is not business as usual. Lines are longer, patience is shorter, and predictability has gone out the window. But if you prepare smart, you can still move through with less stress.

Security Programs That Can Help

If you want to move faster, this is where you start.

 TSA PreCheck

• One of the fastest ways through domestic security

• Keep shoes, light jackets, and laptops in your bag

• Shorter lines — but not available at every airport or terminal

• Cost: ~$85 for 5 years (sometimes covered by credit cards)

Over 200 airports and 90+ airlines participate — but check ahead.

 CLEAR

• Skips the ID check line entirely using biometric verification

• A CLEAR ambassador walks you to the front of screening

• Cost: ~$209/year (discounts/free with some airline status & credit cards)

 Best move? Combine CLEAR + TSA PreCheck for the shortest line possible.

 Touchless ID (Game Changer)

• Facial recognition replaces showing ID

• Available at select airports (Atlanta, L.A., NYC, Seattle, Detroit)

• Must:

  • Have TSA PreCheck

  • Opt-in with your airline

  • Upload passport info

  • Use airline app (no paper boarding pass)

Not ideal for families — and you still need to carry your physical ID.
Individual Opt-in Requirements: Every traveler, including children, must be opted into the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program, and each must be scanned individually, which I can become very complex for families.

How to Find Trending Airport Information

MY TSA App

• Good for historical trends only

•  Not reliable right now due to shutdown

• Does NOT reflect real-time staffing shortages

Use it to compare busy days — not current wait times.

Airport Websites (BEST SOURCE)

• Many airports provide real-time TSA wait times

• Check directly for:

  • Atlanta (ATL)

  • Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)

  • Denver (DEN)

  • NYC airports (JFK, LaGuardia, Newark)

This is your most accurate source right now.

Social Media

• Check airport Twitter/X or Instagram

• Look for:

  • Passenger posts

  • Airport alerts

  • Real-time line updates

If people are complaining online… believe them.

Airline Loyalty Programs

Don’t overlook this — it can save you time.

• Many airlines offer priority security lanes:

  • Delta Sky Priority

  • United Premier Access

  • American Airlines Priority Lanes

 Available for:

• First/Business Class

• Elite status members

• Some credit card holders

 These lanes vary by airport — always check ahead.

Worst Times & Longest Waits

This is where planning matters.

Peak Times:

• Early mornings (5 AM – 10 AM)

• Friday afternoons

• Monday mornings

• Sunday mornings

Peak Days:

• Monday

• Thursdays & Fridays

• Spring Break periods

• Days leading up to holidays
• Saturday mornings – holidays and summer

 Reality Check:

• Lines can now stay long ALL DAY

• Staffing shortages make things unpredictable

 Plan for 3–4 hours early arrival at major airports.

 Airports with the Longest Delays

These have been hit the hardest:

• Atlanta (ATL)

• New York (JFK)

• Houston Hobby (HOU)

• New Orleans (MSY)

• Pittsburgh (PIT)

 High traffic + staffing shortages = long waits

Smart Moves to Reduce Stress

This is where seasoned travelers separate themselves from the crowd.

 Before You Arrive

• Check in online

• Travel with carry-on only when possible

• Avoid packing liquids in carry-on

At Security

• Have ID & boarding pass ready

• Wear simple clothing:

  • No belts

  • Minimal jewelry

  • Slip-on shoes

• Keep electronics easy to remove

• Store valuables in zippered compartments (not loose in bins)

 Mental Strategy

• Expect long lines — don’t fight it

• Build extra time into your day

• Be flexible with delays

Weather Tip (Most People Miss This)

• After bad weather → next morning = chaos

• Best rebooking windows:

  • Mid-morning

  • Midday

  • Midweek

Important Reminders

• Bring your physical ID — always

• REAL ID travelers may face additional screening

• Touchless ID does NOT replace ID requirement

• Staffing levels change daily — nothing is predictable

TSA officers are working under serious strain right now.
A little patience and kindness goes a long way.
Travel is stressful enough — don’t add to it.

“If you’re heading to the airport anytime soon, plan ahead, give yourself extra time… and remember, a little patience can go a long way. Because getting there should feel like the start of the journey — not the hardest part of it.”

Annita Thomas is the on-air personality of Travel With Annita & Friends. A radio show encouraging 50+ travelers to explore destinations near and far. You can follow her on social media – Facebook – Annita Stokes Thomas and Instagram – AnnitaAndFriends