All across the country, travelers are facing unusually long security lines and delays at airports, driven by ongoing TSA staffing shortages amid a partial federal shutdown.
With fewer agents available to screen passengers, travelers are encountering longer waits, unpredictable delays, and increased congestion throughout airport terminals.
Here in NYC, the impact is especially noticeable at the three major airports: John F. Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty (EWR).
Wait times that might normally take just a few minutes can now stretch into hours, particularly during peak travel times. Passengers are being urged to account for these delays when scheduling rides, check-in, and boarding times.
To stay ahead of potential delays, travelers can check real-time TSA wait times before heading to the airport. Each of the New York City airports provides updated information on their official websites, and the MyTSA mobile app offers wait times refreshed approximately every 15 minutes.
Staying informed can help travelers adjust their arrival times, plan for alternative routes through the airport, and make the overall travel experience less stressful.
Here’s how to check TSA wait times by airport.

✈️ Check Delays: John F. Kennedy International Airport
Security times can be found on the homepage of the airport’s official website.
✈️ Check Delays: Newark Liberty International Airport
Travelers can find a designated “security wait times” link on the airport’s official website.
✈️ Check Delays: LaGuardia Airport
Travelers can find a designated “security wait times” link on the airport’s official website.