At 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, the U.S. government shutdown began, bringing effects across several sectors, including Houston airports. According to CW39, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers and air traffic controllers, considered essential, continue to work without pay. At Bush Intercontinental Airport, departures remained on time aside from one cancellation, and security wait times increased only slightly.
CBS News reported that a prolonged shutdown could affect financial stability and consistency in air travel. Former TSA officer Caleb Harmon-Marshall noted that shutdowns lasting more than two weeks often lead to staffing shortages and longer security lines.
The Department of Homeland Security’s plan indicated about 14,000 of its 271,000 employees could be furloughed, including those at agencies such as Customs and Border Protection and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. TSA agents at Hobby Airport and others still on duty are working without pay during the shutdown.
The U.S. Travel Association stated that a government shutdown could result in $1 billion in weekly economic losses. The group also highlighted an existing shortage of more than 2,800 air traffic controllers, with over 2,000 planned hires now uncertain due to the shutdown.
The Rail Passengers Association reported that train services are expected to continue without interruption, and passport services, categorized as essential, are also set to remain operational.
The Senate has rejected both Democratic and Republican spending proposals. Back pay for TSA and FAA employees will depend on the passage of a new funding bill.
