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Flying can be stressful, especially if you face long TSA lines. Imagine arriving at the airport, only to be greeted by a line that wraps around the terminal. What if you miss your flight?
Currently, many travelers are dealing with severe delays as the TSA faces staffing shortages due to a partial government shutdown. Wait times have been reported at over four hours in some airports, according to the TSA.
Sean Cudahy, an aviation reporter with The Points Guy, emphasizes, “Airlines are trying to assist passengers, but help isn’t guaranteed.” Some airlines have started more flexible rebooking policies, allowing passengers to change flights without hefty fees.
When planning a flight, it’s wise to check TSA wait times online or through social media. The MyTSA app, which usually provides real-time updates, is currently unavailable. As a result, travelers should look up wait times directly on airport websites.
Fueling the chaos, the TSA lines can differ greatly by airport. For example, during a recent Friday afternoon, wait times at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport ranged from 90 minutes to 2.5 hours, while Los Angeles International Airport reported barely any wait.
If you find yourself stuck in a long TSA line, Cudahy advises asking airport staff if there’s a shorter line. It might take some walking, but it could save you valuable time.
While waiting, stay calm and consider alternatives if you miss your flight. Check your airline’s app for other available flights. If you booked a ticket outside basic economy, changing flights may be easier. Remember, you don’t want to be marked as a no-show, as that can jeopardize your entire itinerary.
“Airlines want to help,” says Cudahy, noting that in some cases, flights might be held for passengers delayed at TSA.
So what should you do if you miss your flight? First, contact your airline through whatever method is quickest—whether that’s online, through an app, or over the phone. Frequent flyer accounts can help airline agents access your information quickly.
Additionally, refer to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Cancellation and Delay Dashboard for guidance on passenger rights regarding delays and cancellations. Each airline’s policies differ significantly, so knowing your options is crucial.
Airlines like Delta and United have begun to relax their policies, allowing passengers to adjust flights while waiting in TSA lines, with some waiving fees altogether as long as the new ticket is in the same fare class. Allegiant Airlines is also working with passengers to rebook without additional charges during this frustrating period.
If airlines can’t accommodate you, think outside the box. You might consider renting a car or taking a train. Be mindful of peak traveling times, as traveling during off-peak days might save you from long waits at the airport.
Unexpected delays are a hassle, and while insurance can sometimes help, it may not cover missed flights due to TSA delays. Daniel Durazo from Allianz notes, “Missing a flight from a TSA wait won’t typically be covered under standard travel insurance policies.”
Traveling can be unpredictable, but staying informed and calm can help reduce stress during your journey.
For further updates and reliable information, consider checking the TSA’s official website here.
