HOUSTON – Passengers traveling through George Bush Intercontinental Airport are facing extended security wait times this week, with some reporting delays of more than four hours as staffing challenges impact screening operations.
The disruptions come as the Transportation Security Administration continues to operate with reduced staffing levels during a partial federal government shutdown.
Officials have said increased employee callouts are contributing to longer wait times at airports nationwide, including in Houston.
SEE ALSO: TSA agents go without pay as Houston lawmakers respond to government shutdown
Terminal C Checkpoint Access Raises Questions
Amid the long lines, a separate security checkpoint in Terminal C has remained open with restricted access.
According to the Houston Airport System and United Airlines, the checkpoint is intended for families with small children and passengers with mobility needs.
However, KPRC 2 observed additional groups being allowed through the checkpoint on Monday and Tuesday. Airport and airline employees stationed at the entrance told KPRC 2 that access also included:
- United Premier 1K members (the airline’s highest frequent flyer tier)
- United Polaris ticket holders (long-haul international business class passengers)
- Families with small children
- Passengers with mobility needs
Passengers without those designations—including some flying on United without elite status—were turned away.
The observed access on Tuesday appears to differ from information previously shared by the airport on social media Monday evening, though officials have not clarified whether criteria changed or were applied inconsistently.
What Those Designations Mean
United Premier 1K status is typically earned by frequent flyers who spend significant amounts annually on qualifying flights. United Polaris is the airline’s premium international business class product, offering upgraded seating and services.
Passenger Reactions
Some travelers said they understood prioritizing families and passengers needing assistance but questioned access tied to airline status.
“It was only for 1K members, and I’m not one,” said passenger Garrett Niss, who said he was denied entry.
Another traveler, AB Twako, said he had been trying for a second day to reach New York and expressed frustration with the situation.
Both said their primary concern was not priority access for those needing assistance, but whether airline status should factor into access to shorter security lines.
Response From Officials
KPRC 2 requested clarification from both the Houston Airport System and United Airlines regarding the criteria used at the Terminal C checkpoint.
Both organizations responded but did not directly address why some passengers appeared to be granted access based on airline status.
What Travelers Should Know
With screening delays expected to continue, travelers are being advised to arrive at least four hours before their scheduled departure.