Delta Presses Congress to End DHS Shutdown, Warns of Longer TSA Lines

‍ATLANTA — Delta Air Lines (DL) is urging Congress to end the partial U.S. government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), warning that airport operations—especially security screening—are already showing signs of strain as Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers continue working without pay.

In a March 19 update, Delta said TSA officers received a US$0 paycheck after the DHS funding lapse began Feb. 14, calling the situation “simply unacceptable.” DL added that TSA wait times may run longer than usual and that expedited lanes may be unavailable at some airports while the shutdown continues.

CEOs call for shutdown pay protections

Delta CEO Ed Bastian joined other airline and cargo executives in calling on Congress to restore DHS funding and pass measures that would keep federal aviation workers paid during shutdowns.

The CEOs warned that as spring travel ramps up, the risk isn’t just inconvenience—it’s throughput: fewer staffed screening lanes can quickly cascade into missed flights and disrupted schedules.

What travelers should expect

Delta’s message aligns with reporting that some airports are already seeing lengthening TSA queues and staffing instability as the shutdown drags on.

For passengers, the practical impact is straightforward: arrive earlier than normal, monitor airport advisories, and don’t assume expedited screening will be available. Departure banks affected include especially ATL, LGA/JFK, MSP, DTW, and SLC.