TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Suspended
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has suspended both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry airport security programs due to the ongoing partial government shutdown. Expedited security screening is currently unavailable for millions of travelers, leading to longer lines and significant delays at airports nationwide. No reinstatement date has been announced.
- The suspension impacts over 32 million travelers enrolled in these "Trusted Traveler Programs"; as of 2024, TSA PreCheck had more than 20 million members and Global Entry had over 12 million. - This is the first instance of a nationwide suspension of these programs during a government shutdown; in previous shutdowns, the expedited lanes remained open, though new enrollments were often paused. - The partial shutdown, which began on February 14, 2026, is due to a legislative standoff over funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the parent agency of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). - With dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes closed, all travelers must now use standard security lines, eliminating benefits for members such as keeping on light jackets and leaving laptops and liquids in their bags. - While most of the Global Entry process is automated, the suspension is expected to create congestion and longer wait times at customs and passport control for international arrivals. - TSA and CBP officers who staff airport checkpoints are considered essential and are required to work without pay during the shutdown, a situation that has historically led to increased unscheduled absences and staffing shortages. - Membership for TSA PreCheck costs between $78 and $85 for a five-year period, while Global Entry, which includes PreCheck benefits, costs $120 for five years. - In justifying the suspension, the DHS Secretary stated the agency is prioritizing the "general traveling population" and redirecting limited resources and staff to standard screening lanes.
