“To support operations, a small number of TSA National Deployment Officers (NDOs) have been deployed to IAH,” Houston Airport Systems said in its updated news release Thursday. “These officers assist airports nationwide during periods of staffing shortages, peak travel demand and major events.”

Chron has reached out to the mayor’s office and TSA officials for additional confirmation. 

More than 40 percent of TSA officers have reportedly called out during the shutdown, leaving checkpoints operating at roughly one-third to one-half of normal capacity, according to Jim Szczesniak, aviation director for Houston’s airport system.

Meanwhile, efforts in Washington to end the shutdown remain uncertain. Senators are expected to vote on a Republican proposal that would fund the TSA and much of the Department of Homeland Security, though the measure is not expected to pass.

Even if funding is restored soon, experts have warned that recovery will take time. That timeline raises concerns as Houston prepares to host matches during the 2026 World Cup, when millions of visitors are expected to travel through the region.

For now, travelers may need to continue adjusting expectations because even with reinforcements, long lines at Houston’s busiest airport are likely to persist.