HOUSTON \u2013 With the ongoing government shutdown affecting TSA staffing, travelers at Houston\u2019s 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\u2019s busiest markets, Houston among them.<\/p>\n
In response, airlines are adjusting their schedules: Delta Airlines<\/a> has canceled roughly 170 flights, United Airlines<\/a> will preemptively cancel about 200 starting today, American Airlines<\/a> has called off around 220, and Southwest Airlines<\/a> has canceled approximately 100 flights.<\/p>\n READ: FAA cuts 10% of flights, causing delays at Houston airports<\/a><\/p>\n Over the past weekend, both George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)<\/a> and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re grateful for our TSA partners who continue to show incredible professionalism under difficult circumstances,\u201d said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. \u201cWe\u2019re 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.\u201d<\/p>\n READ: How to get through TSA lines faster at Houston\u2019s IAH and Hobby airports \u2014 without being turned back<\/a><\/p>\n 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\u2014but how do they work, and which one is right for your travel style?<\/p>\n TSA PreCheck<\/p>\n According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), TSA PreCheck\u00ae is an expedited screening program that assesses passenger risk before they arrive at the airport checkpoint. It\u2019s part of TSA\u2019s intelligence-driven, risk-based security approach\u2014created to strengthen aviation security while making travel more efficient and less stressful.<\/p>\n The program has expanded to roughly 200 airports across the U.S., and millions of travelers have already experienced the benefits. Once approved, you\u2019ll be able to move through security faster and with fewer hassles.<\/p>\n Benefits include:<\/p>\n Shorter security lines<\/p>\n No need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets<\/p>\n Laptops and approved liquids can stay in your carry-on<\/p>\n Available at most major airports nationwide<\/p>\n Cost: Starting at $76.75 for 5 years or your credit card or loyalty program may cover the application fee. <\/p>\n Enrollment is straightforward\u2014start by applying online<\/a>, then schedule an appointment at one of TSA\u2019s in-person enrollment<\/a> locations across the country.<\/p>\n Best for: Frequent domestic travelers who want a smoother, faster airport experience.<\/p>\n Global Entry<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Benefits:<\/p>\n Shorter security lines<\/p>\n Expedited entry into the U.S. at airports<\/p>\n TSA PreCheck privileges included<\/p>\n Cost: $120 one-time fee is required.<\/p>\n