HOUSTON – As the TSA shutdown eclipses the 40 days mark, security screening lines are reaching 4+ hours at Houston’s airports.
Houstonians have a lot of questions.
RELATED: Former TSA administrator warns TSA staffing crisis could pose security risks
KPRC 2’s Gage Goulding is answering the most common questions.
Q: What is done if we are traveling with someone in a wheelchair?
A: Try Terminal C. This checkpoint is for those with mobility issues and families with super small kiddos.
Q: Is ICE actually helping with security?
A: Today (Thursday), we learned that ICE went through a standard TSA training and is helping screen passengers, including checking IDs and operating TSA equipment.
Q: How much longer before IAH considers scaling back flights?
A: The airport itself wouldn’t scale back flights. However, airlines could—and likely will. United’s CEO, Scott Kirby, already announced they’re reducing about 5% of their flights due to rising jet fuel prices. I would reckon this situation might have something to do with it, too.
A former TSA administrator said that massive airports like Bush Airport in Houston likely wouldn’t see a closure. Smaller regional airports are the ones at risk.
Q: Since when do you need to notify an official if you need to leave the line for the restroom when you’re with your spouse?
A: Yeah, that one was interesting to me.
I think the folks at George Bush Intercontinental Airport are just doing the best they can to ensure everything is fair and there are no line jumpers.
I heard announcements today saying, “If you need to leave the line, only airport staff can hold your spot—not unauthorized people.”
I think they’re trying to get ahead of people standing in line without a ticket just to sell their spot.
Q: My flight’s at 5 a.m.—can I show up the night before and wait it out?
A: My answer: yes—if you feel like you need to, do it. The airport might have something else to say…
Look, here’s the deal: TSA opens sometime between 3 and 4 a.m., depending on the day and staffing. There’s simply not enough time unless you’re literally the first person in line. You’re nearly guaranteed to miss that flight.
I did a story today about ways to avoid waiting in line. One of the biggest tips: book a later flight. It gives you more time to get through the checkpoint.
PRO TIP: I’ve slept on airport floors before—it’s not fun. If you plan on it (good luck!), bring an extra sweatshirt to use as a pillow. Also, bring something warm—you’ll probably get cold. And set several alarms so you don’t miss your flight.
Q: Are the TSA PreCheck or Clear Plus lines opened at IAH?
A: Unfortunately, no. They’ve been closed for a while to ensure that they can screen everyone.
Q: Why is IAH so much worse than other major airports?
A: Likely due to a combination of high passenger volume, major events happening in Houston, and among the highest TSA callout rates in the nation.
Q: Do I need to check in my bag first and then go wait in the long TSA line?
A: Yes—just like normal. Some folks have asked if they can check bags while a family member waits in the TSA line. Technically, no. Airline employees will check the ID of the person checking the bag. If it’s not your name on the bag tag, you won’t be able to check it.
Q: Can my partner be in TSA line for both of us while I check my bag?
A: Okay, this is a tough one. There’s two parts to this…
1. If you’re checking your bag and yours only, this could work. Remember, the airline is going to check the ID of the person dropping off luggage. It all has to match up.
2. It depends on how sour the folks are behind you, but they could accuse you of line cutting. Not that you’re going to be dragged away in handcuffs, but it could make for an awkward couple of hours in line.
I don’t have a simple yes or no for this one. It’s at your own risk.
Have a question? Drop it in the comments below or email Gage Goulding at ggoulding@KPRC.com.
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