Mar 16, 2026, 3:33 p.mMar 16, 2026, 3:33 p.m
In the past few days there have been repeated waiting times for hours at airports in the USA, especially at security checks. Videos circulating on social media show passengers and travelers queuing in long lines.
The reason for the long waiting times is that the US federal government is partially at a standstill. In addition, spring break is beginning in many parts of the USA and more passengers are expected than usual.
Video: watson/nina bürge
A federal government shutdown occurs when Congress and the President fail to agree on a budget. A shutdown occurs when the budget expires and no follow-up financing has been decided. Non-essential government agencies will be furloughed during this time because government employees will not receive pay during a shutdown. Currently only the Department of Security is under this standstill, which also includes the employees at security checks at airports.
The airport employees do not receive any wages. However, US President Donald Trump asked them to go to work anyway. However, the majority of employees at security checkpoints, also known as TSA checks, are staying at home. This leads to a shortage of workers and slows down the screening process, which is why many passengers face long waiting times.
The US government’s longest shutdown did not end until November 2026. It began on October 1 and lasted 43 days. (nib)
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