DHS Suspends TSA PreCheck and Global Entry as Shutdown Disrupts U.S. Travel
A partial U.S. government shutdown is now hitting travelers directly.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has temporarily suspended TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, two of the most widely used trusted-traveler programs in the United States, as the DHS funding standoff continues. Reports say the suspension begins Sunday at 6:00 a.m. ET, creating immediate concerns about longer security and customs lines.
For millions of frequent flyers, this means one thing: airport travel may get slower, more stressful, and less predictable.
Key Takeaways for Travelers
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are temporarily suspended due to the DHS shutdown.
The reported start time is Sunday, 6:00 a.m. ET.
PreCheck travelers may be routed into standard security screening lines.
Global Entry users may face slower customs and immigration processing. (Exact impact may vary by airport.)
Airlines and Democratic lawmakers have criticized DHS for giving travelers little warning and for escalating shutdown disruptions.
Why DHS Suspended TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?
DHS says the suspension is part of how it is managing operations during the partial shutdown.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said shutdowns have “real-world consequences” and that TSA and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are prioritizing the general traveling public while suspending expedited or special processing arrangements. Reuters, AP, and The Guardian all reported versions of that statement.
In simple terms: DHS is reallocating staff and resources while funding remains unresolved.
What Changes at the Airport for PreCheck Travelers?
No Fast Lane Access (Temporarily)
TSA PreCheck is designed to move approved, low-risk travelers through security faster. During the suspension, enrolled travelers may lose access to those dedicated lanes and may need to use regular screening lines instead.
That could lead to:
Longer wait times at checkpoints
More crowding during peak hours
Less predictable airport arrival timing
If you normally rely on PreCheck for business travel or tight connections, plan extra time.
What does this mean for Global Entry Users?
Slower Re-Entry Into the U.S. Is Possible
Global Entry usually helps pre-approved travelers clear customs and immigration faster when returning to the U.S. During the suspension, travelers should expect delays, especially at high-volume international arrival airports.
Reuters and other reports note uncertainty about how much of the disruption will affect automated kiosk-based processing versus staffing support, so the real impact may differ by airport.
The safest assumption: build extra time into your arrival and any onward connections.
Why This Shutdown Is Now a Travel Story?
The DHS partial shutdown began on February 14, 2026, after lawmakers failed to reach a funding deal tied to immigration-related policy disputes. AP and The Guardian report that the impasse has now spilled into day-to-day travel operations.
That’s what makes this development significant. Government shutdowns often create back-office delays. This one is now affecting airport security and border processing for regular travelers in visible, immediate ways.
Airlines and Lawmakers Push Back
Airlines and industry groups have criticized the short notice, warning that travelers are once again being caught in a political fight. Reuters reported objections from major airlines’ trade representation over the timing and lack of a preparation window.
Democrats on the House Homeland Security Committee also criticized the move, accusing the administration of making travel harder during an already tense shutdown period.
The political blame game is ongoing — but travelers are the ones feeling the immediate impact.
How Many Travelers Could Be Affected?
This is a large-scale disruption, not a niche policy change.
Reuters reported that more than 20 million travelers were active TSA PreCheck members in 2024, and that trusted-traveler programs cover more than 40 million vetted passengers overall.
That means even a temporary pause can affect a huge share of U.S. airport traffic, especially frequent flyers and international travelers.
Travel Tips If You’re Flying During the Suspension
1) Arrive Earlier Than Usual
Give yourself extra time for check-in, security, and customs.
2) Watch Airline and Airport Alerts
Conditions may vary by airport, and operational guidance can shift quickly.
3) Expect Regular Screening
If you usually use PreCheck, prepare for standard screening procedures.
4) Protect Tight Connections
If returning internationally, leave more buffer time between flights.
5) Follow Official Updates
This is tied to the shutdown, so the situation could change once DHS funding is restored.
Will TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Resume Soon?
The suspension is linked to the ongoing DHS shutdown, so a resolution depends on a funding agreement in Washington. Reports describe the pause as temporary, but no firm end date has been confirmed in the coverage reviewed so far.
Until lawmakers reach a deal, travelers should plan for delays and avoid relying on expedited screening or customs processing.
FAQs
Is TSA PreCheck canceled permanently?
No. Current reporting describes the action as a temporary suspension tied to the DHS partial shutdown.
Is Global Entry also affected?
Yes. DHS reports indicate that both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are part of the suspension.
When did the suspension start?
Multiple reports say the suspension begins Sunday at 6:00 a.m. ET.
Why is this happening?
DHS says it is reallocating staff and resources during a partial shutdown caused by a funding impasse.
Final Word
The suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry is one of the clearest signs yet that the DHS shutdown is moving from Washington politics into everyday travel disruption. If you’re flying soon, plan conservatively, expect slower processing, and track official updates closely.
References:
https://edition.cnn.com/2026/02/22/politics/shutdonw-tsa-precheck-global-entry-suspended-hnk
