The Trump administration reversed its earlier decision on Sunday to suspend the TSA PreCheck program, hours after announcing the halt amid a partial government shutdown. This program, which allows millions of travelers to pass through airport security more quickly, will continue operating for now.
What Happened?
Earlier Sunday, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that TSA PreCheck would be temporarily suspended starting at 6 a.m. EST due to staffing concerns from the government shutdown. The abrupt announcement sparked alarm among airlines and travelers, particularly with spring break travel underway.
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More than 20 million Americans rely on TSA PreCheck to move through airport security faster, and the potential suspension would have caused significant delays and confusion.
Later Sunday morning, the TSA clarified that PreCheck remains operational. The agency said it will monitor staffing constraints case by case and adjust operations if necessary. Courtesy escorts, such as those for members of Congress, will be suspended instead.
Global Entry Status Still Unclear
The announcement did not fully clarify whether Global Entry the program that speeds up customs and immigration for low-risk international travelers will continue uninterrupted.
Why This Matters
Airlines and travel groups were quick to criticize the initial suspension. Chris Sununu, CEO of Airlines for America, said the abrupt notice left travelers unprepared at a time when U.S. air travel is at record levels.
The reversal highlights the uncertainty created by government shutdowns and shows how quickly public services can be disrupted even for programs that millions depend on daily.
Also Read: How U.S. Government Shutdowns Affect the Economy: What You Need to Know
Additional Shutdown Impacts
The DHS shutdown also affected FEMA, which suspended the deployment of hundreds of aid workers to disaster-affected areas.
Takeaway for Travelers
For now, TSA PreCheck continues as usual, but travelers should:
• Arrive early to airports in case of staffing delays.
• Monitor airline notifications for potential security lane changes.
• Keep updated on Global Entry operations, as changes may still occur.
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