Long lines hit US airports as TSA staff quit

President Donald Trump said he may deploy National Guard troops to airports to help with security.

WASHINGTON: Major airports across the United States reported unusually long lines on Wednesday as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) struggled with a surge in staff resignations during the partial government shutdown.

Ha McNeill, a senior TSA official, told lawmakers that more than 480 officers have quit since mid-February, adding to the strain on the agency’s 50,000 employees who continue working without pay. She warned that smaller airports could face closures if staffing shortages worsen.

President Donald Trump said he may deploy National Guard troops to airports to help with security. Meanwhile, Congress remains locked in debate over funding for the Department of Homeland Security, with Democrats demanding changes to immigration enforcement rules and Republicans resisting those proposals.

The staffing crisis comes during the busy spring break travel season, with passenger volumes up about 5 percent compared to last year. Absences have spiked to more than 10 percent, leading to wait times of over four hours at some airports. McNeill described the toll on workers, saying many are sleeping in cars, selling plasma, or taking multiple jobs to make ends meet.

She also expressed concern about the upcoming soccer World Cup, warning that further resignations could make it difficult to manage the expected surge in air traffic. DHS said more than 3,160 TSA officers, or 11.1 percent of the workforce, did not show up for work on Tuesday.