If you’ve got a flight out of JFK, LGA, or EWR today, we have a small bit of better-ish news.
While the ongoing blizzard continues to pummel New York City today, and as a result cancelled and delayed many flights out of the Tri-State area, we’re here to report there’s at least one other sticky travel situation that has been resolved (for now).
After a weekend of pure airport anxiety, the government has officially pivoted on a decision that would have made your (normal) Monday morning air travel a total nightmare.
Here is the deal: after a “quick pause” that had everyone panicking, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are largely back in business—though things are still looking a little different than usual.
What happened over the weekend
Over the weekend, a partial government shutdown caused the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to make a shock announcement: they were suspending “special privilege” programs to focus on general security.
This meant no PreCheck lanes and no Global Entry kiosks.
Naturally, travelers (and airlines) lost it.
TSA PreCheck: you’re good to go
After quick implementation and some uproar, the decision was quickly overturned — and TSA PreCheck returned to be operational.
Following massive pushback from the travel industry, the TSA confirmed on Sunday morning that the program remains open with “no change for the traveling public.”
You can keep your shoes on, keep your laptop in your bag, and avoid the standard 2-hour morning crawl at Terminal 4.
Global Entry: still a little “frozen”
Here’s where it gets slightly tricky.
While PreCheck is back to business as usual, Global Entry remains officially “paused” in many locations as the DHS tries to manage staff shortages.
- The reality: While the program is technically suspended, some airports (including reports from travelers at JFK) are still seeing kiosks working, while others are being redirected to standard lanes.
- The secret hack: If you’re landing from an international flight and Global Entry is down, use the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app. It’s free, and often just as fast as Global Entry during these staffing surges.
What NYC travelers need to know right now
While the lanes are open, the shutdown is still very much a thing.
Here’s how to navigate the city’s hubs this week:
- Expect consolidated lanes: Even though PreCheck is “on,” individual checkpoints at LGA or Newark might merge lanes if they’re short-staffed.
- Arrive early (no, seriously): Between the shutdown drama and Winter Storm Hernando grounding flights, the airports are a zoo. Give yourself an extra hour.
- Be kind to your agents: TSA and CBP officers are currently working without pay. A “thank you” goes a long way.
We’re keeping a close eye on the DHS funding status—stay tuned for updates as the situation continues to unfold!