TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Services Suspended Nationwide
Trusted traveler programs including TSA PreCheck and Global Entry were temporarily suspended across the United States. The nationwide suspension could cause significant travel disruptions for Bay Area residents and other frequent flyers who rely on the expedited security screening services. The reason for the sudden suspension was not immediately provided by officials.
The initial, chaotic suspension of both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry stemmed from a partial government shutdown that began on February 14, 2026. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) cited the need to reallocate personnel to prioritize security for the general traveling public amidst a funding dispute with Congress over immigration policies. Following a swift and strong backlash from the travel industry and lawmakers, the decision to suspend TSA PreCheck was reversed within 24 hours. However, the suspension of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) Global Entry program, which serves over 13 million pre-vetted international travelers, remained in effect. The suspension of Global Entry is particularly impactful for business travelers, with the Global Business Travel Association warning of slowed airport processing, reduced productivity, and disruptions to corporate travel, which supports billions in annual spending. Industry leaders have highlighted that longer wait times for international arrivals could lead to rescheduled meetings and increased operational costs for companies. Trade groups have heavily criticized the decision, pointing out that both PreCheck and Global Entry are primarily funded by user application fees, not congressional appropriations. The U.S. Travel Association argued there is "no fiscal—or logical—rationale for this decision," as the program saves the government money by automating screening and freeing up CBP officers. For San Francisco-based professionals, the halt of Global Entry means joining standard customs queues at SFO, a major international gateway. While TSA PreCheck remains operational for domestic travel, the disruption to international arrivals adds a layer of uncertainty and potential delays for those returning from business trips abroad. This isn't the first time a government shutdown has impacted travel, with a previous 43-day shutdown in the fall of 2025 costing the travel industry an estimated $6.1 billion due to flight delays and cancellations. The current suspension of Global Entry is seen by many in the travel sector as using travelers as "political footballs" in a larger political disagreement. While Global Entry kiosks are powered down, some frequent travelers may find relief through the Mobile Passport Control app, which is a free alternative that can still expedite the customs process at some airports, though it is not a direct replacement for the suspended program. Large employers are reportedly advising their traveling employees to add an extra 60-90 minutes to their arrival schedules.
