TSA workers have begun receiving paychecks after weeks without pay during the federal shutdown, a development that is already easing long lines at Houston’s largest airport.

The Transportation Safety Administration says most of its officers received most of their backpay Monday for working during the shutdown.

President Trump announced he will sign an emergency order instructing the Secretary of Homeland Security to immediately pay TSA workers amid an ongoing partial government shutdown.

Long security lines and widespread TSA staffing shortages at airports across the country are raising concerns about potential security vulnerabilities, according to a former top federal aviation official.

ICE officers are now assisting TSA agents screen passengers as callouts from TSA officers continue to rise during the ongoing government shutdown.

Additional TSA deployment officers are opening limited screening lanes at Bush Airport, while ICE officers assist with crowd control as shutdown-related staffing shortages continue to impact wait times.

Travelers flying out of Houston should plan to arrive hours earlier than usual as long TSA lines continue, with experts warning there is no quick fix to avoid delays.

Members of Congress who typically get special accommodations at airports won’t get that same service on one major airline during the ongoing TSA partial government shutdown.

Airline CEOs are urging Congress to address the impact of the government shutdown, which has left TSA workers unpaid, leading to significant airport delays. With TSA officers receiving no paychecks and increased absenteeism, security lines are lengthening, and airlines are struggling to manage the situation during peak travel periods. The CEOs emphasize the urgency of the issue, advocating for legislative solutions to ensure aviation personnel are compensated during shutdowns, warning that without action, travel disruptions will persist.

A surge in jet fuel prices, driven by geopolitical tensions in Iran, is exerting financial pressure on airlines, potentially leading to fewer flights and higher ticket prices. Deutsche Bank reports that low-cost carriers may struggle more than full-service airlines due to their reliance on price-sensitive travelers. Concurrently, staffing disruptions at airports, exacerbated by a Department of Homeland Security funding lapse, are causing significant delays, especially as airlines anticipate a record 171 million travelers during the spring season. The combined effects of rising fuel costs and federal staffing issues may impact travel plans and costs, notably for Houston-area travelers on long-haul and international routes.

A federal judge has granted a preliminary injunction to stop Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem from killing a collective bargaining agreement for Transportation Safety Administration workers.

DEADLINE APPROACHING: If you’re traveling for the summer, you might want to make sure your information is REAL ID compliant by May 7!

Do you know if your ID or driver’s license is a REAL ID?

Packing for your next trip? Ensure a smooth journey by knowing what to pack in your carry-on versus your checked luggage.