The Takeaway
- TSA staffing shortages may slow airport security lines.
- Some airports are advising passengers to arrive 3–5 hours early.
- Long lines can increase the risk of missed flights.
- Airlines usually aren’t responsible for delays caused by security lines.
- Some travel insurance policies may reimburse missed flights caused by TSA delays.
Airport travel already requires patience.
But travelers this spring may need even more of it.
Recent reports suggest Transportation Security Administration staffing shortages are slowing airport security checkpoints — raising concerns about long lines and missed flights during busy travel periods like Spring Break.
Here’s what travelers should know.
Smart Senior Daily Staff
Why are security lines getting longer?
Staffing problems are a key reason.
Julian Kheel, founder and CEO of travel rewards site Points Path, says airport screening systems rely on enough officers to keep lines moving.
“When tens of thousands of essential workers are asked to secure the nation's airports without a paycheck for weeks on end, eventually some of them are simply not going to show up to work every day,” Kheel said.
Security checkpoints are designed to operate like assembly lines.
“When fewer TSA officers show up for work, the whole process slows down and the backlog can build fast.”
Smart Senior Daily Staff
Could delays get worse?
Possibly.
“If Congress and the President don't come to an agreement shortly, we'll see long lines start to appear at airports across the country, potentially just as spring break hits full stride,” Kheel said.
Large hub airports and peak travel periods may be affected the most.
What should travelers do?
The best defense is extra time.
“The best advice for travelers right now is simple: give yourself far more time than usual,” Kheel told Smart Senior Daily.
Some airports are already recommending travelers arrive three to five hours before departure.
Travelers may also want to:
- Check airport alerts before leaving home
- Fly during less busy midday hours
- Use TSA PreCheck if available
- Avoid early morning peak departures
Gary P Guthrie
What if TSA delays make you miss your flight?
Airlines usually don’t take responsibility for missed flights caused by airport security delays.
But travel insurance could help.
Lauren Gumport, vice president of communications and brand at Faye Travel Insurance, says some policies include benefits tied to security delays.
“Your travel insurance provider may be able to soften the blow of this trip hiccup just a tad,” Gumport said.
What documentation should travelers keep?
If you do miss your trip and need to file a claim either with the airline or your travel insurance provider, proof of arrival time is important.
“If you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to takeoff — an Uber or parking receipt can usually prove this — and miss your flight due to TSA delays, you'd qualify,” Gumport said.
Helpful records include:
- Parking receipts
- Ride-share confirmations
- Boarding passes
- Airline notifications
- Photos of security lines
Keeping those records may make it easier to file a claim if travel plans go sideways.
Disclaimer: Travel insurance benefits vary by provider and policy. Smart Senior Daily does not provide insurance or financial advice. Travelers should review their policy details or speak with their insurance provider to understand what coverage may apply to missed flights or travel delays.
