I know we all love traveling, especially when that involves airplanes, but sometimes the journey itself can be a bit… challenging. With so many other crises happening, this partial government shutdown has for many of us been moved to the backburner. However, if you have any air travel plans scheduled soon, things are getting pretty dicey at TSA checkpoints across the US.
What’s happening? Wait times at airport security checkpoints were much longer, especially this past weekend due to TSA agents not getting paid during the shutdown. TSA operates under the Department of Homeland Security, so until agreements can be made on ICE funding, this shutdown may be with us for some time.
So, what should you do to navigate this situation?
Give Yourself Extra Time – Lots of It!
If you usually arrive at the airport two hours before your domestic flight, consider arriving three hours ahead. And if you’re flying internationally, give yourself even more time. It’s better to be early and relaxed than to be rushed and stressed. TSA PreCheck is still in operation, which will get you to the gates faster and don’t forget TSA PreCheck’s Touchless ID program which is rolling out in more and more airports across the US.
I’ve read that downloading the MyTSA app may be helpful with updating on wait times at airports, but I’ve also heard that due to the shortage of workers within the TSA, the app may not be updated consistently, so don’t put all your eggs in that basket.
In addition to TSA being slow getting into the airport, if you are flying into the US from an international airport, you will find that Global Entry services have been halted as well, sending you to the regular customs agents. You may be able to overcome that headache by downloading the Mobile Passport Control app (see my post on MPC).
Finally, muster up all the patience you can and be kind to the TSA agents who are working hard to keep us safe, often under stressful conditions. They’re not the ones responsible for the shutdown, so give them a smile and remember they aren’t getting paid.
So, pack your bags, give yourself plenty of time, and get ready for your next adventure. And as always, happy travels!