HOUSTON – Long security lines and widespread TSA staffing shortages at airports across the country are raising concerns about potential security vulnerabilities, according to a former top federal aviation official.
Former Transportation Security Administration Administrator John Pistole said the current situation. marked by high callout rates and continued passenger volumes, creates what he described as “a bad time” for airport security operations.
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“It’s an unfortunate confluence of events,” Pistole said. “It’s just sad for the traveling public and for the TSA officers who have nothing to do with this.”
Passengers at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) have faced wait times stretching hours, with reports that a significant number of TSA officers have called out.
The shortages come as millions of people continue to fly nationwide each day.
To help ease the strain, officials with the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are now assisting with passenger screening.
READ MORE: ICE agents are now helping TSA screen passengers, check IDs
Those agents have received abbreviated TSA training and are helping check identification and operate screening equipment.
Pistole questioned whether that approach could introduce risks.
“If you put people who are not qualified in charge of security … an opportunist, whether it’s a terrorist or just somebody … wanting to make a name for themselves,” he said, could exploit weaknesses.
When asked directly whether using ICE agents with limited training could create a vulnerability, Pistole responded: “Oh, I think so.”
Federal officials have said it typically takes several months to fully train TSA officers.
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Passengers at Bush Airport also voiced concern.
“It’s worrisome,” one traveler said. “I feel like it’s a safety hazard for sure.”
Despite the challenges, Pistole emphasized that TSA officers remain committed to their mission.
“The TSA officers have a saying, ‘Not on my watch,’” he said, noting the workforce is trained to remain vigilant even under pressure.
Still, he warned that prolonged staffing shortages could have broader implications.
“This is a national security issue,” Pistole said, adding that long lines themselves can become potential targets.
The staffing crunch is tied in part to ongoing funding issues affecting TSA employees, many of whom have missed multiple pay periods.
Pistole said the financial strain is contributing to high callout rates and could worsen retention problems.
“TSA will have difficulty recruiting and retaining qualified people with these types of shutdowns,” he said.
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Additional TSA personnel, including National Deployment Officers, began arriving in Houston this week to help open limited additional screening lanes. However, Bush Airport leaders said the numbers remain small.
At Bush Airport, TSA PreCheck and other expedited screening options have also been unavailable at times due to staffing constraints.
The Department of Homeland Security has not yet responded to questions about Pistole’s concerns regarding security risks.