Homeland Security Suspends TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Programs Amid Government Shutdown

Washington, DC — The US Department of Homeland Security has announced the temporary suspension of its TSA PreCheck and Global Entry airport security programs as the partial federal government shutdown continues.

The suspension begins at 6 am Eastern Time on Sunday, according to reports first published by The Guardian. The move affects millions of registered travelers who rely on expedited airport screening and faster customs processing.

The decision comes as lawmakers remain deadlocked over funding for the Department of Homeland Security.

What Is Being Suspended

TSA PreCheck Suspension

The TSA PreCheck suspension removes access to expedited security lanes at US airports. The program allows pre-approved passengers to move through screening with fewer restrictions, often keeping shoes and light jackets on and leaving laptops inside bags.

Without PreCheck, enrolled travelers will now enter standard security lines.

Global Entry Suspension

The Global Entry suspension affects international travelers returning to the United States. The program provides expedited customs clearance for low-risk, pre-approved travelers at participating airports.

With Global Entry paused, travelers may face longer processing times at customs checkpoints.

Why DHS Is Suspending the Programs

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a statement that “shutdowns have serious real-world consequences.”

She added that TSA and Customs and Border Protection are “prioritizing the general traveling population at our airports and ports of entry and suspending courtesy and special privilege escorts.”

The partial government shutdown began on 14 February after Democrats and the White House failed to reach an agreement on legislation to fund DHS operations.

At the center of the dispute are disagreements over immigration policies tied to President Donald Trump’s deportation campaign.

Political Reaction to the TSA PreCheck Suspension

Democrats on the House Committee on Homeland Security criticized the decision, accusing the administration of “kneecapping the programs that make travel smoother and secure.”

They also claimed the administration was “ruining your travel on purpose.”

The administration has not provided a timeline for when the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs will be restored.

Airline Industry Raises Concerns

The trade association Airlines for America expressed concern about the short notice given to travelers.

Chief executive Chris Sununu said the traveling public was once again being used as “a political football amid another government shutdown.”

He urged Congress to reach a funding agreement quickly.

Sununu also noted that a similar shutdown last year resulted in $6.1 billion in losses across the travel industry and related sectors.

Broader Impact on Travelers

The TSA PreCheck suspension and Global Entry suspension are expected to:

• Increase security wait times at major US airports
• Slow customs processing for international arrivals
• Disrupt frequent business travelers
• Add pressure to already stretched airport staffing

Travelers who previously relied on expedited screening should prepare for longer lines and possible delays.

In a related move, the administration has also ordered the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which operates under DHS, to suspend the deployment of hundreds of aid workers to disaster-affected areas during the shutdown.

What Travelers Should Do Now

If you are flying in the coming days:

• Arrive at the airport earlier than usual
• Monitor airline and airport alerts
• Allow extra time for international arrivals
• Check official DHS updates for program status

Until Congress resolves the funding dispute, both programs remain suspended.

Source: This article is based on reporting by The Guardian, including information from the Associated Press and Reuters.