Story perspectives

Airport Delays Surge Amid Government Shutdown; Private Security Outperforms

3/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

A partial U.S. government shutdown has produced four-to-five-hour wait times at many airport security checkpoints.
San Francisco International and Kansas City International, along with 17 other airports, use private security under Screening Partnership Program.
These airports report shorter wait times, with average peak waits under 10 minutes.
By contrast, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staffing shortages at non-SPP airports have caused delays, underscoring the contractors' relative effectiveness during the crisis.

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Story summary

A partial U.S. government shutdown has produced four-to-five-hour wait times at many airport security checkpoints.
San Francisco International and Kansas City International, along with 17 other airports, use private security under Screening Partnership Program.
These airports report shorter wait times, with average peak waits under 10 minutes.
By contrast, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staffing shortages at non-SPP airports have caused delays, underscoring the contractors' relative effectiveness during the crisis.