PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Travelers at Philadelphia International Airport experienced mostly normal security wait times Tuesday, even as airports across the country reported hours-long lines caused by the partial government shutdown.
Passengers in other cities described stressful delays as they tried to make their flights.
“I was just terrified we’d miss our flight,” said Julia Stevenson of Mississippi.
Kevin Smith of Louisville, Kentucky, added, “It’s scary because you plan your whole day, your whole week.”
Airport officials said Philadelphia has so far avoided the severe backups seen in places such as Houston and New Orleans, where security lines stretched for hours. Still, some travelers said even the possibility of delays was unsettling.
“It’s very inconvenient for someone who’s traveling to have to wait a longer period of time than what they originally thought,” said Jadyn Jones of Reading, Pennsylvania.
While passengers worry about their flights, TSA employees are facing financial strain. Workers currently on duty are not being paid.
“They got a partial paycheck two weeks ago. The next check that’s coming out should have no money in it,” said Richard Gennetti of the American Federation of Government Employees District 3. He said some TSA workers have taken second jobs to make ends meet. It is the second time in four months that TSA employees have worked without pay during a shutdown.
Reduced staffing can lead to longer lines, and travel experts warn that delays could worsen.
“Get here early. Some airports are advising 3-4 hours. Some are 4-5 hours,” said AAA spokesperson Jana Tidwell. She recommended signing up for text updates, using airport and airline apps and following those agencies on social media to monitor wait times.
Union leaders cautioned that Philadelphia’s situation could change quickly.
“I’m being told today that they’re sending a number of (Transportation Security Officers) to Houston. Guess what? Philadelphia will be shorthanded,” Tidwell said.
For now, travelers who have avoided long lines say they are grateful.
“It’s crazy. I’m glad I’m not in it,” said Ed Kleine of Nashville, Tennessee.
With spring break approaching, travel experts expect passenger volumes to rise, which could affect wait times at Philadelphia and other airports. They advise travelers to arrive early and to consider not only their departure airport, but also the conditions they may face on their return.
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