One-third of Houston TSA agents called out. Here’s what it means for your flight

A partial government shutdown is causing severe delays at Houston’s airports.

HOUSTON — A partial government shutdown is causing major travel headaches at Houston’s two major airports, where one-third of TSA agents called out at both George Bush Intercontinental and William P. Hobby airports, prompting long security lines and checkpoint closures.

Wait times at Bush Airport’s Terminal E peaked at three hours Thursday, according to the Department of Homeland Security. The staffing shortage, driven by agents calling out and others quitting amid the shutdown, forced airports to close several security checkpoints to manage the reduced workforce.

The Houston Airport System is advising travelers to arrive three hours before their scheduled flights to account for the delays.

TSA call out stats

Highest nationwide call out number for the shutdown was March 16, 2026: 10.22%

March 19, 2026 rate: 9.81%

Significant major airport TSA call outs for Thursday:

Check Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) TSA wait times here.

Check Hobby Airport (HOU) TSA wait times here.