Spring Break Travelers May Face Long Security Lines as Partial Government Shutdown Continues

As millions of Americans prepare to travel this spring break season, airports across the country are preparing for long lines at security.

With a partial government shutdown in effect, the Department of Homeland Security has been missing its funding since mid-February.

While Democrats and Republicans remain deadlocked over immigration reform, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers are set to miss their first paycheck this week.

TSA

That has led many to call off work.

Many Airports Have Been Plaqued by Long Security Lines

With the TSA short-staffed, security lines at airports across the country have grown longer and longer.

Photo: AP Photo/John Raoux

This problem will only intensify as more schools begin to let out for spring break.

For example, according to a report from CNN, Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport saw wait times reach three hours Monday morning. The airport is now advising passengers to arrive four to five hours before their flights.

Photo: Yahoo

“We’re seeing strong travel demand with fewer screening lanes open at some checkpoints,” Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports, explained on social media. “When more passengers meet fewer security lanes, wait times can grow quickly.”

What About Orlando International Airport

The good news for travelers visiting Walt Disney World is that Orlando International Airport has been spared from the TSA troubles plaguing other airports.

Photo: MCO

So far today, wait times at MCO have ranged from 15 to 30 minutes, which is fairly standard.

The fear, however, is that the government shutdown will continue through the peak spring break season.

Photo: Orlando International Airport

That will inevitably cause delays, even if they are not as severe as the ones already seen in Houston.

So, if you have an upcoming vacation scheduled, make sure you plan ahead.

Photo: Jerry Driendl / Getty Images

You may need to get to the airport earlier than usual.

As always, be sure to check back with MickeyBlog. We will continue to update you on all the news coming out of Walt Disney World.

Photo: MickeyBlog