TSA workers have begun receiving paychecks after weeks without pay during the federal shutdown, a development that is already easing long lines at Houston’s largest airport.

President Trump has signed an emergency executive order to temporarily pay TSA workers amid a federal shutdown, aiming to alleviate staffing shortages and long airport security lines in Houston and nationwide.

As the TSA shutdown eclipses the 40 days mark, security screening lines are reaching 4+ hours at Houston’s airports. There’s a lot of questions.

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.

ICE officers are now assisting TSA agents screen passengers as callouts from TSA officers continue to rise during the ongoing government shutdown.

Additional TSA deployment officers are opening limited screening lanes at Bush Airport, while ICE officers assist with crowd control as shutdown-related staffing shortages continue to impact wait times.

Travelers flying out of Houston should plan to arrive hours earlier than usual as long TSA lines continue, with experts warning there is no quick fix to avoid delays.

Federal officials have confirmed that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are now operating inside U.S. airports to support security operations as staffing shortages continue to impact screening lines.

For years members of Congress and their staff had special privileges at airports, allowing them to quickly skip TSA screening lines.

Members of Congress who typically get special accommodations at airports won’t get that same service on one major airline during the ongoing TSA partial government shutdown.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are now working alongside TSA officers at Houston-area airports, but exactly what they’re doing—and how much authority they have—remains unclear.

Congressman Christian Menefee is calling on Republican leaders to end the ongoing federal government shutdown, citing major disruptions at airports and growing strain on federal workers.

Travelers flying out of George Bush Intercontinental Airport should be prepared for long security lines again on Friday as the partial government shutdown continues to impact TSA staffing levels.

Airline CEOs are urging Congress to address the impact of the government shutdown, which has left TSA workers unpaid, leading to significant airport delays. With TSA officers receiving no paychecks and increased absenteeism, security lines are lengthening, and airlines are struggling to manage the situation during peak travel periods. The CEOs emphasize the urgency of the issue, advocating for legislative solutions to ensure aviation personnel are compensated during shutdowns, warning that without action, travel disruptions will persist.

A surge in jet fuel prices, driven by geopolitical tensions in Iran, is exerting financial pressure on airlines, potentially leading to fewer flights and higher ticket prices. Deutsche Bank reports that low-cost carriers may struggle more than full-service airlines due to their reliance on price-sensitive travelers. Concurrently, staffing disruptions at airports, exacerbated by a Department of Homeland Security funding lapse, are causing significant delays, especially as airlines anticipate a record 171 million travelers during the spring season. The combined effects of rising fuel costs and federal staffing issues may impact travel plans and costs, notably for Houston-area travelers on long-haul and international routes.

More than half of the TSA agents scheduled to work at Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) on Saturday didn’t show up for work.

One month into the Department of Homeland Security shutdown, Houston's airports face significant strain, with lengthy TSA lines amid the spring break travel surge. Over 300 TSA employees have quit due to the shutdown, exacerbating delays as workers, deemed essential, continue without full pay. This situation arose after funding expired on February 13 due to political clashes over immigration policies, impacting travelers nationwide. Passengers are advised to arrive at airports earlier to navigate the increased congestion.

A recent security scare at Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport is raising new concerns about airport safety as the federal government shutdown continues to strain the nation’s airport security workforce.

A taser was discovered aboard a Southwest Airlines plane at Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport, prompting passengers to be removed and re screened before departure.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston is under a ground stop Wednesday morning.

As spring break travel ramps up across Houston, some passengers flying out of William P. Hobby Airport are facing unusually long waits to get through security.

Travelers at IAH and Hobby Airport should expect long security lines due to TSA staffing shortages. Arriving early and being prepared can help you breeze through security and stay on schedule.

Catch up on the latest news updates from Houston and around the world.

The Spring Break travel rush at William P. Hobby Airport is experiencing significant delays due to rainy weather and a TSA staffing shortage caused by a partial government shutdown. Travelers are advised to arrive early as long wait times of up to two hours have been reported, with PreCheck services closed and only CLEAR lanes operational. Airport officials emphasize flexibility as security operations could vary daily.

Spring break travel is officially underway in Houston, and airport officials say travelers should expect busy terminals over the next several days.

The federal government shutdown has led to longer wait times at Houston's William P. Hobby Airport due to a staff shortage at the TSA, exacerbated by employees working without pay. The shutdown began on February 14 following a funding impasse for the Department of Homeland Security, affecting agencies like ICE and FEMA, with no clear end in sight.

A passenger’s attempt to enter the cockpit on a Delta Air Lines flight departing Houston’s Hobby Airport early Wednesday is the latest example of a problem aviation officials say never fully returned to normal after the pandemic: unruly behavior in the skies.

A report of a possible cockpit breach on a Delta flight is under investigation after Houston police confirmed receiving a call related to the incident.

As more than 3.4 million travelers prepare to navigate Houston’s airports during the Christmas travel season, one Southwest Airlines employee is working to make their journey a bit more melodic.

The holiday season is upon us, and that means bustling airports and millions of travelers passing through Houston!

Ground delays have been announced due to staffing issues at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport.

How are the lines looking at Bush? KPRC 2 is sending photojournalists to the airport to figure that out.

Ground delays are in place at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) because of continued staffing issues.

Travelers at IAH and Hobby Airport should expect long security lines due to TSA staffing shortages. Arriving early and being prepared can help you breeze through security and stay on schedule.

The government shutdown is causing chaos, with the longest wait lines at Bush Intercontinental Airport. What are your rights as an air traveler during a shutdown?

Ground stops are possible at George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport in Houston due to staffing issues.

Ground stops are possible at George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport in Houston due to staffing issues.

The FAA has updated its policy to prohibit cordless curling irons and flat irons with butane or gas cartridges from checked luggage due to fire risks in airplane cargo holds.

A ground stop has been issued at Bush Intercontinental Airport due to scattered thunderstorms Wednesday evening.

Travelers at William P. Hobby Airport can now enjoy SpindleTap Brewery near Gate 28, offering craft beers, spirits, coffee, and quick bites. Additionally, Killen’s BBQ, a Houston barbecue spot, has opened a location.

A ground stop has been issued at William P. Hobby in Houston after thunderstorms have passed through the city Monday afternoon.

Those traveling in and out of Houston Hobby Airport Sunday might have experienced delays after the runway was closed for repairs.

Houston’s Hobby Airport is experiencing a power and equipment outage starting from 1 p.m., leading to delays for incoming flights.

Travelers in Houston are feeling the ripple effects of significant delays at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), a major hub for United Airlines. With many Houstonians relying on flights to and from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) that connect through Newark, these disruptions could impact summer travel plans.

DEADLINE APPROACHING: If you’re traveling for the summer, you might want to make sure your information is REAL ID compliant by May 7!

Get ready to enjoy the flavors of Killen’s Barbeque, Common Bond Bistro and Bakery, Spindletap Brewery, and Yard House as part of the airport's ongoing concessions improvement project.

Flight delays are possible at Bush Intercontinental Airport and Houston William P. Hobby Airport due to severe thunderstorms in the Houston area.

Investigators said they were called to a taco truck near Telephone Road and found two men shot inside a car. One of them died, and another was rushed to a nearby trauma center.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport is back in full swing after Tuesday’s winter storm caused a city-wide shutdown of air travel.

The City of Houston is preparing for the potential impacts of an incoming winter storm, which has prompted the decision to close its airports.

Do you know if your ID or driver’s license is a REAL ID?

Walking into the TSA screening machine and raising your hands is part of the travel ritual. But did you know your bag goes through a more advanced screening?

Reporter Gage Goulding gets exclusive behind-the-scenes access to see how TSA ensures luggage is safe to load onto an aircraft

Having two major airports in Houston is both a blessing and a curse for some travelers.

Packing for your next trip? Ensure a smooth journey by knowing what to pack in your carry-on versus your checked luggage.

Several flights with Southwest Airlines that were scheduled to fly into Houston are diverting to other nearby cities due to an emergency at the William P. Hobby Airport.

Houston police have charged a third suspect, Darius Limar Sonnier, with capital murder in connection with the fatal shooting of 75-year-old That Huu Le outside an H-E-B parking lot on January 20, 2018.

Houston’s airports are on pace for a year that will go down in the record books.

A ground stop has been issued at both George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport Wednesday afternoon due to severe thunderstorms in the Houston area.

Highways and airports are likely to be jammed the next few days as Americans head out for Memorial Day Weekend getaways and so will the return home. In Houston, the number of people passing through is going to surpass previous years!

Severe weather impacting Houston area flights.

Passengers flying into Houston got more action than they bargained for Friday afternoon, when their aircraft’s landing crew collapsed as they were landing in William P. Hobby Airport.

As investigations into U.S. plane manufacturer Boeing continue, the number of airplanes they’re building is trailing off.

Safety in the skies is on a lot of passengers’ minds given recent incidents involving airplanes.

Airlines will now be forced to offer full refunds for flights that don’t get off the ground or are delayed, among other issues.

The Federal Aviation Administration says a Southwest Airlines jet leaving Denver was forced to land after the engine cover fell off and struck the wing flap during takeoff.

A Southwest Airlines flight headed to Houston was forced to make an emergency landing after an engine cover was torn off the airplane causing damage to part of the wing.

Southwest Airlines has delayed and cancelled dozens of flights from Houston to Florida due to weather conditions.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced $970 million in grants have been awarded to 114 airports across the country. The announcement includes money for Hobby and Bush Intercontinental Airports in Houston.

Extreme weather wreaks havoc on travel plans, leaving frustrated passengers stranded

Houston Airports are experiencing some flight delays as heavy rainfall hits the Houston area this Friday.

Travelers are seeing long waits to check in for Southwest Airlines at William P. Hobby Airport on Tuesday.

Houston Airports says it is ready to welcome its largest winter holiday travel crowd on record, reportedly exceeding the passenger total set in 2019.

Two planes collided on a runway at William P. Hobby Airport in Houston on Wednesday.

A robbery suspect is in custody after firing shots at an officer near William P. Hobby Airport Thursday, the Houston Police Department said.

Four Families will cease operating inside Hobby Airport at 11:59 p.m. Thursday. Eight temporary dining options will operate in their place.

Common Bond and Pinks Pizza are among the local restaurant concepts coming to William P. Hobby Airport under a new concessions contract Houston City Council approved Wednesday.

A warehouse caught fire twice in a 12-hour period.

Thunderstorms have caused the stops at Bush Intercontinental Airport, William P. Hobby Airport and Austin -Bergstrom International, according to the Federal Aviation System.

Both Houston-area airports, William P. Hobby Airport and George Bush Intercontinental Airport, have temporarily grounded all flights due to the storms in the area.

The Federal Aviation Administration issued a ground stop at William P. Hobby Airport Monday evening as airport personnel work to resolve an issue with the lighting system on a runway, according to airport officials.

Houston police are investigating a possible threat at William P. Hobby Airport.

Hobby Airport to Welcome New Airline

Both Houston-area airports, William P. Hobby Airport and George Bush Intercontinental Airport, have temporarily grounded all flights due to the storms in the area.

HOUSTON – Holiday weekend travel at George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport is down dramatically from past years. “This is going to be our peak of number of passengers since April,” said Houston Airport System spokesperson Augusto Bernal. However, TSA data shows only 87,000 passengers traveled by plane on April 14. As of this morning, the airport system showed 60% of parking available at both major airports. “Unfortunately a lot has been shut down, a lot has been closed,” said Rob Wigington, the Executive Director of Airport Restaurant and Retail Association.

HOUSTON – Houston’s travel and tourism industry has been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Houston hotels still strugglingBut the outlook for the Houston area’s hotel industry isn’t as clear. “The accommodation sector is at nearly a 35% unemployment rate,” said Sawan Patel, who owns several Houston hotels with his father. Great travel deals availableThe good news that there are great travel deals available as airlines and hotels try to boost their businesses. Find hotel and dining deals in HoustonFind hotel and dining deals in AustinFind hotel and dining deals along San Antonio’s famous Riverwalk

HOUSTON – More than a dozen air carriers have restarted service of international flights from Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport, according to a release from Houston Airports. “The latest air carrier service restorations from Air France, Qatar Airways, and United Airlines on Sept. 2 mark Houston’s significant rebound in connectivity to European, Middle Eastern and Latin American destinations,” officials wrote in a press release. “Nearly two-thirds of the airlines providing international service at George Bush Intercontinental airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby airport (HOU) have now been restored following a sharp decline of air service due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”The following carriers have restarted their international services to and from Houston:“We are an international city with an economy that thrives on global connectivity,” Mayor Sylvester Turner said in the release. “These significant steps in restoring air service will help Houston begin to recover from the economic challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic. I can assure you that this meaningful and significant restoration of international air-service is being matched with a strong emphasis on safety.”These are the destinations Houstonians can fly to due to the resumption of service:

Just two months ago, the Houston Airport System touted a record year with 59 million passengers moving through George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport in 2019. Airport operations rely on passenger facility charges, better known as a PFC. Every time a Houston-area passenger books a flight through one of the Houston airports, $4.50 of the ticket price goes back to the airport system. “Let me say the airport system has done a pretty good job establishing a meaningful reserve, I believe it’s $500 million,” Turner said. On March 17, KPRC 2 was provided with an email from a high ranking city official showing numerous airport projects were being deferred or canceled.

HOUSTON – Fire crews responded to a hangar fire at William P. Hobby Airport Saturday morning. The fire was reported at a hangar on Nelms Street. The hangar sustained minimal smoke damage but did not sustain any structural damage, according to an official with the Houston Airport System. There were no aircraft in the hangar , according to the official. The fire did not impact airport operations or traffic.

1, while the San Antonio International Airport came in at No. Ontario International Airport - Ontario, California8. Sacramento International Airport - Sacramento, California9. San Antonio International Airport - San Antonio, Texas10. Portland International Airport - Portland, OregonClick here to view the full report and methodology.