DHS Reverses TSA PreCheck Pause Amid Government Shutdown; Global Entry Remains Suspended

TSA PreCheck Resumption Amid Shutdown

• ⚠️ The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) briefly paused TSA PreCheck services on a Sunday morning due to the partial government shutdown.
• 💡 This decision was met with pushback from aviation groups, airports, travelers, and lawmakers who argued it would slow airport throughput and worsen security risks.
• ✅ Following urgent talks between DHS, the White House, and TSA, officials concluded that keeping PreCheck operational would preserve airport efficiency and reduce the workload on unpaid screeners.
• 🚀 The program was restored within hours, with DHS stating it will remain available nationwide for the foreseeable future.

Global Entry Suspension and Trusted Traveler Programs

• ✈️ Global Entry, the international program, remains suspended due to the partial government shutdown.
• 📌 Travelers returning from international trips will need to use standard passport control lanes, which may result in longer wait times.
• 🚧 Enrolling in any trusted traveler program is not advisable at this time, although some airports continue screening passengers.

Impact on Airport Operations and Staff

• 📉 TSA officers are currently working without pay amid the shutdown.
• 💰 The TSA PreCheck program is fee-funded, meaning it is not directly reliant on government funding that may lapse during a shutdown.
• 🚧 All congressional escorts at airports for members of Congress remain suspended throughout the shutdown.
• ⏳ While TSA PreCheck is back online, travelers are advised to arrive at the airport a little earlier due to potentially longer lines resulting from the shutdown's impact.