HOUSTON – With the ongoing government shutdown affecting TSA staffing, travelers at Houston’s airports are being urged to arrive early and allow extra time for security screening. In addition, the Federal Aviation Administration plans to reduce air traffic by about 10% across 40 of the country’s busiest markets, Houston among them.
In response, airlines are adjusting their schedules: Delta Airlines has canceled roughly 170 flights, United Airlines will preemptively cancel about 200 starting today, American Airlines has called off around 220, and Southwest Airlines has canceled approximately 100 flights.
READ: FAA cuts 10% of flights, causing delays at Houston airports
Over the past weekend, both George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) reported long lines. At IAH, wait times potentially exceeded three hours, while at HOU, lines stretched beyond an hour due to fewer open security lanes.
On Friday, Nov. 7, officials said wait times at IAH could still reach 45 to 60 minutes, and 30 minutes at HOU. Houston Airports urges passengers to remain flexible, as TSA staffing and wait times can vary by shift.
“We’re grateful for our TSA partners who continue to show incredible professionalism under difficult circumstances,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “We’re working together, shift by shift, to keep passengers moving safely and efficiently during this federal government shutdown. We thank travelers for their patience as the situation evolves.”
READ: How to get through TSA lines faster at Houston’s IAH and Hobby airports — without being turned back
Even though wait times have decreased, these delays have many passengers asking a familiar question: Is it time to invest in programs like Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or CLEAR to get through security and customs faster? These trusted traveler programs are designed to reduce wait times—but how do they work, and which one is right for your travel style?
TSA PreCheck
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), TSA PreCheck® is an expedited screening program that assesses passenger risk before they arrive at the airport checkpoint. It’s part of TSA’s intelligence-driven, risk-based security approach—created to strengthen aviation security while making travel more efficient and less stressful.
The program has expanded to roughly 200 airports across the U.S., and millions of travelers have already experienced the benefits. Once approved, you’ll be able to move through security faster and with fewer hassles.
Benefits include:
Shorter security lines
No need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets
Laptops and approved liquids can stay in your carry-on
Available at most major airports nationwide
Cost: Starting at $76.75 for 5 years or your credit card or loyalty program may cover the application fee.
Enrollment is straightforward—start by applying online, then schedule an appointment at one of TSA’s in-person enrollment locations across the country.
Best for: Frequent domestic travelers who want a smoother, faster airport experience.
Global Entry
According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to get expedited clearance when arriving in the United States. The program is designed to make international travel smoother and faster for frequent travelers.
Benefits:
Shorter security lines
Expedited entry into the U.S. at airports
TSA PreCheck privileges included
Cost: $120 one-time fee is required.
Requires an online application, background check, and in-person interview.
Best for: Frequent international or business travelers who want faster customs processing when returning to the U.S.
CLEAR
According to CLEAR, it is an opt-in service that speeds up the airport security process by expediting identity verification before you even reach the TSA checkpoint. CLEAR is currently available at 59 airports nationwide.
With CLEAR, travelers verify their identity using face-first biometric technology at a CLEAR Pod, then proceed directly to the physical screening area—whether it’s a standard lane or a TSA PreCheck lane.
Benefits:
Shorter security lines
Works alongside TSA PreCheck for maximum efficiency
Airport concierge service (curb-to-gate service, discounts on luggage shipments and travel documents, and more)
Traveling with kids? Children under 17 can accompany a CLEAR member for free
Members will also get fast entry at sports stadiums and arenas nationwide
Cost: $209 annually.
Membership requires signing up online or in person at a CLEAR location.
Best for: Families and frequent travelers who want to expedite the TSA ID check process, with children under 18 allowed to join for free.
Are you one of the travelers who has already signed up for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CLEAR—or is it time to join the club?
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