Major airports around the country are seeing longer security lines, travel disruptions, and delays, as TSA staffing shortages grow amid a prolonged partial federal government shutdown.
Essential TSA officers have been working without pay, leading to increased absences, burnout, and hundreds of resignations. In fact, over 300 TSA agents have quit recently, Business Insider reports.
TSA warns about potential airport closures
As reported by Reuters, federal aviation officials have warned that ongoing TSA staffing shortages could force temporary closures of security checkpoints and/or entire facilities, though specific locations have not yet been identified. Acting Deputy TSA Administrator Adam Stahl emphasized to Fox Business the seriousness of the situation, warning that security wait times “will only worsen” if staffing gaps continue.
Separately, Business Insider data identified specific airports where staffing problems have been most severe, with a waiting time of up to 90 minutes amid the shortages:
- New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
- William P. Hobby Airport in Houston (HOU)
- Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
How is this affecting LAX?
At LAX, the situation has been more stable, so far, compared with stressed hubs elsewhere. Recent data shows short security wait times at many terminals, often around 10 minutes or less for general security and even quicker for PreCheck lanes.
However, that doesn’t mean California is unaffected. At San Diego International Airport, travelers have reported significantly longer security lines, with wait times stretching well beyond normal levels during peak hours, as reported by ABC News.
LAX expects higher passenger volume with spring break approaching, and conditions can change quickly. Even at busy moments, some terminals report waits under 20 minutes, but that can vary by time of day and traveler flow.
How to prepare before your flight
Here are practical tips to avoid stress at the airport:
- Check live wait times using the TSA wait times page for LAX.
- Use the MyTSA app to view updated queue information before heading to the airport.
- Arrive early. Most authorities recommend 2.5–3 hours before departure during busy periods.
- Consider expedited screening. Programs like TSA PreCheck can shorten your wait.