HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Houston’s two major airports are once again reporting some of the highest TSA callout rates in the nation, as the ongoing federal government shutdown continues to impact travel.

On Thursday, President Donald Trump announced that he will be signing an executive order instructing newly sworn-in DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin to pay TSA agents immediately, ABC News reported.

At both George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport, a significant number of Transportation Security Administration officers are not reporting to work, resulting in long security lines and frustrated travelers.

According to TSA data from Wednesday, the national callout rate was about 11%. In Houston, rates were far higher – roughly 32% at Hobby and nearly 40% at Bush, among the highest in the country.

Travelers say the delays are noticeable, with some waiting hours to get through security. Despite the frustration, many expressed sympathy for TSA workers affected by the shutdown.

Former TSA official Keith Jeffries said the situation is unprecedented in his experience.

He noted multiple factors could be contributing to the high callout rates in Houston, including cost of living, long commutes, and workplace culture. He also emphasized the strain on frontline workers who have gone weeks without pay, forcing them to make difficult financial decisions, such as covering rent, childcare, and basic necessities.

Airport officials say longer wait times were expected following fluctuating travel patterns, and additional personnel – including other airport staff and federal agents – are helping manage crowds and assist with operations.

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that agents from other agencies are assisting with logistics, crowd control, and ID verification using standard TSA procedures.

Experts warn the ongoing disruption could have longer-term effects, including challenges in recruiting and retaining TSA officers.

Meanwhile, with a busy travel weekend approaching, Houston airports continue to brace for heavy passenger traffic and extended wait times.

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