The head of the Transportation Security Administration warned Thursday that a prolonged partial U.S. government shutdown could lead to longer wait times at airports.
The TSA, which runs security screening at airports, said about 59,000 of its 62,000 employees are considered essential and will continue to work without pay in the event of a shutdown starting Saturday unless the government reaches a funding deal.
Air traffic controllers and TSA agents are among the public workers who are expected to continue working but would not be paid.
“While our staff is prepared to handle a high volume of travelers and ensure safe travel, please be aware that an extended shutdown could result in longer wait times at airports,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske on social media.
The agency expects to screen a record 40 million passengers over the holidays, after setting records during the Thanksgiving holiday.
Without a deal, the Federal Aviation Administration estimates it will have to lay off more than 17,000 employees and stop training air traffic controllers.
In 2019, during the 35-day shutdown, the number of absences of TSA screeners and agents increased because workers did not receive wages, extending waiting times at checkpoints at some airports. The FAA was forced to slow air traffic, putting pressure on lawmakers to end the gridlock.
Related News :