Airports across the U.S. are advising travelers to arrive significantly earlier than usual due to staffing shortages and increased security measures. Seven major airports, including San Diego, Atlanta, and New York City, now recommend arriving 2.5 to 4 hours early for domestic flights, up from the standard two hours. This adjustment comes amid TSA staffing shortages, ICE agent deployments, and a fatal runway collision at LaGuardia Airport, which have contributed to delays and cancellations.
Travelers report rising costs and longer wait times, prompting some to opt for alternative transportation. Hillary LaReau, an emergency nurse practitioner, canceled her flight from Denver to Oklahoma City after finding fares had doubled to $500–$600. Instead, she drove the 10-hour trip. Others, like Emily Calandriello, missed flights due to TSA line delays, forcing them to spend the night in airports.
TSA agents have been working without pay due to the partial government shutdown, leading to increased absenteeism and longer security lines. Some airports have deployed ICE agents to assist with screening, though the impact of this measure remains unclear.
The disruptions have led to longer wait times, missed flights, and higher travel costs, forcing travelers to adjust their plans. While some airports have increased recommended arrival times, others continue to advise the standard two hours for domestic and three hours for international flights.