Story perspectives

Airlines Waive Change Fees Amid TSA Staffing Crisis

3/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Airlines are waiving change fees for passengers facing long security waits caused by a partial U.S. government shutdown affecting TSA staffing.
Delta, United, and Allegiant are among those offering flexibility as TSA agents work without pay.
Reports indicate up to 40% of TSA staff at major airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta and George Bush Intercontinental, are absent.
ICE agents have been deployed to assist with crowd control.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown, lasting 16 days, resulted from a budget impasse over the Affordable Care Act, leading to 800,000 federal employees furloughed and significant service disruptions. Airports like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, serving over 107 million passengers annually, faced long security lines due to TSA staffing shortages. This crisis prompted airlines to adopt more flexible policies, reflecting lessons learned from past disruptions.

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Story summary

Airlines are waiving change fees for passengers facing long security waits caused by a partial U.S. government shutdown affecting TSA staffing.
Delta, United, and Allegiant are among those offering flexibility as TSA agents work without pay.
Reports indicate up to 40% of TSA staff at major airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta and George Bush Intercontinental, are absent.
ICE agents have been deployed to assist with crowd control.

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