Wait times at security checkpoints at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport saw significant improvement on Sunday as the TSA worked to mitigate staffing shortages, with immigration officers offering additional support.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) faced a funding deadlock, resulting in a shutdown lasting over 40 days that left TSA employees without pay.
Negotiations in Congress remain stalled, particularly regarding funding for ICE’s enforcement and removal initiatives.
While the Senate approved a bill on Friday to fund the DHS, it did not allocate resources for ICE, leading to its demise in the House. Conversely, the House passed a version extending funding for the entire DHS, including ICE, for a duration of 60 days.
Improvement in Wait Times at BWI
Many travelers at BWI experienced long security lines on Sunday morning, resulting in some passengers missing their flights. However, by evening, wait times had notably decreased.
Around 1 p.m., airport officials reported that delays at checkpoints in Concourses A, B, and C had “significantly improved” since Saturday night, while checkpoints D and E were approaching normal operational levels.
BWI officials cautioned that wait times can fluctuate throughout the day due to varying passenger traffic. They continue to advise travelers to arrive at least three hours ahead of their scheduled flights. One traveler, Grant Anderson, shared his frustrations: “I arrived early thinking I’d be through in about 20 minutes, but it turned into over an hour.”
Saturday marked a particularly challenging day for travelers, with some waiting in security lines for over four hours. Brian Graham told a local news outlet that despite arriving more than four hours prior to his Saturday morning flight, he faced such lengthy delays that he had to return to the airport Sunday morning to try again.
Governor Moore Expresses Gratitude to TSA Workers and Travelers
Maryland Governor Wes Moore expressed his appreciation for TSA employees both in Maryland and nationwide who are enduring long hours and working without pay. The issues stem from halted DHS funding initiated last February.
“We are thankful for their patience and positive attitudes as they continue working without pay due to ongoing federal government issues,” Moore stated. He also acknowledged those who provided food to workers and encouraged travelers for their understanding during this difficult period.
“I understand the frustrations involved, but your patience truly aids our efforts,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of unity during this challenging time.
ICE Assistance at Baltimore Airport
On March 28, the Maryland Aviation Authority (MAA) announced that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would send officers to assist at BWI’s security checkpoints. The MAA clarified that ICE’s role is focused on security operations rather than immigration enforcement.
ICE officers will assist in screening passengers and baggage, collaborating with TSA staff to enhance the efficiency of security lines. Shanetta Griffin, executive director and CEO of BWI, thanked passengers for their patience and remarked, “We appreciate the cooperation of our stakeholders as we prioritize safe and efficient travel.”
The deployment of ICE officers to various airports nationwide began last week, according to officials. While some travelers expressed mixed feelings about their presence, there is a consensus that securing the necessary funding for TSA employees is crucial for improving the situation.
TSA Staffing Challenges at BWI
The staffing situation at BWI remains critical, with the TSA attendance rate reported at just 33.6%, one of the highest among major airports across the country. Nearly 500 TSA employees have resigned during the shutdown, while many others have called in sick.
DHS spokesperson Lauren Biss highlighted the consequences of the shutdown, stating, “This reckless shutdown has driven nearly 500 TSA employees into retirement and has forced thousands more into difficult situations, affecting their ability to pay for essentials.”
In response to ongoing challenges, President Trump recently signed an executive order, allowing the agency to resume payments to TSA employees, who had gone more than a month without paychecks. DHS confirmed that some employees could receive payments as soon as Monday.
