Hobby Airport is seeing some of the highest TSA callout rates in the country, raising concerns about delays during travel.
HOUSTON — Travelers across the country are seeing longer airport security lines as staffing shortages grow, and new federal data shows Houston is among the hardest-hit areas. Here’s what travelers need to know before heading to the airport.
At William P. Hobby Airport, lines were moving smoothly early Tuesday morning, with no major delays reported. But officials say that could change quickly.
New data from the Department of Homeland Security shows TSA callouts — when agents don’t report to work — have more than doubled since the partial government shutdown began Feb. 14.
Before the shutdown, callout rates were typically below 2%. Now, they’ve surged nationwide.
In Houston, the impact has been especially sharp.
At Hobby Airport, callout rates climbed above 50% over the weekend, with the highest single-day rate reaching 55%. Data also shows callout rates in Houston have topped 30% on multiple days during the shutdown.
Fewer officers screening more travelers can lead to longer lines and delays, especially during busy travel periods.
The issue is also drawing attention from lawmakers.
During a tense exchange at an airport in Austin, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn and U.S. Rep. Greg Casar clashed over funding and the ongoing shutdown.
“Senator, I was hoping that we could,” Casar said.
“Why don’t you tell your Democrats to vote?” Cornyn said.
“Let’s do it,” Casar said.
“I voted for it,” Cornyn said.
“Don’t yell at me. There’s a bipartisan bill just to fund the TSA can we do that,” Casar said.
“Not acceptable,” Cornyn said.
As the shutdown continues, pressure is mounting on lawmakers to address the staffing issues affecting airports nationwide.
For now, TSA officials recommend travelers arrive early, especially as passenger volume increases and staffing levels remain uncertain.
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