TSA Releases Average Wait Times for Travelers at U.S. Airports
The Transportation Security Administration has released average wait times for travelers at U.S. airports.
Wait times have dropped in recent days, TSA reported. Those reports came amid concerns about staffing shortages as the government shutdown continues.
- On October 22, TSA officers "screened nearly 2.3M people (-0.2% YoY). Average wait times were 3.93 minutes in standard lanes and 1.93 minutes in TSA PreCheck lanes."
- On October 21, "TSA officers screened nearly 2.1M people (-0.9% YoY). Average wait times were 3.69 minutes in standard lanes and 1.81 minutes in TSA PreCheck lanes."
- On October 20, "TSA officers screened nearly 2.8M people (+1.4% YoY). Average wait times were 7.11 minutes in standard lanes and 3.10 minutes in TSA PreCheck lanes."
- On October 19, "TSA officers screened nearly 2.99M people (+1.3% YoY). Average wait times were 5.30 minutes in standard lanes and 2.38 minutes in TSA PreCheck lanes."
The TSA Warned of Longer Wait Times
Despite the drop in average wait time, the TSA recently warned that wait times might rise due to the government shutdown.
"While TSA is prepared to continue screening about 2.5M passengers a day, an extended shutdown could mean longer wait times at airports. We kindly ask for our passengers’ patience during this time," the agency wrote on October 1.
"Despite this challenge, we will remain vigilant and focused on performing our vital security mission on behalf of the American people," the agency noted.
According to AZ Family on October 21, TSA "acknowledged a staffing shortage caused long lines for security screening last weekend in Atlanta." According to AJC, there are TSA personnel shortages because agents are working without pay due to the shutdown.
TSA Posts Photos of Unusual Objects Confiscated During Security Screens
A passenger @EGEairport stepped out of line and through the walk-through metal detector, and their shoes alarmed. Once they removed their sneakers and put them through the X-ray, a multi-tool was discovered hidden inside. Should have just placed it in a checked bag. pic.twitter.com/VDd7qY25TU
— TSA (@TSA) September 30, 2025
On its X page, TSA frequently posts photos of unusual objects confiscated by its agents at airports.
"A passenger @EGEairport stepped out of line and through the walk-through metal detector, and their shoes alarmed. Once they removed their sneakers and put them through the X-ray, a multi-tool was discovered hidden inside. Should have just placed it in a checked bag," read one post.
Need a great way to know what’s good to go in your carry-on or checked bags? Try our “What Can I Bring?” tool: https://t.co/S3mtG5xIAT
— TSA (@TSA) September 29, 2025
We dislike when passengers end up having to voluntarily abandon prohibited items at security. pic.twitter.com/LBN0uk2SAL
"We dislike when passengers end up having to voluntarily abandon prohibited items at security," TSA wrote, sharing a photo of multiple confiscated items.
"GOOD CATCH: Officers at West Virginia International Yeager Airport discovered an inert landmine in a passenger's checked bag. REMINDER, even inert explosives are prohibited in luggage as they can pose safety and security concerns," the agency wrote with another photo.
GOOD CATCH: Officers at West Virginia International Yeager Airport discovered an inert landmine in a passenger's checked bag. REMINDER, even inert explosives are prohibited in luggage as they can pose safety and security concerns. pic.twitter.com/c7UKySWCrV
— TSA (@TSA) October 9, 2025
Not all of the confiscated items were dangerous. "We absorb several lost & found items left in our screening areas. Whether it’s bikini bottoms, pineapples, or seashells, it’s understandable you could get a little krabby about leaving something behind. Find a link with more info in the thread below," TSA wrote.
We absorb several lost & found items left in our screening areas. Whether it’s bikini bottoms, pineapples, or seashells, it’s understandable you could get a little krabby about leaving something behind. Find a link with more info in the thread below. pic.twitter.com/5PxkdgaW3N
— TSA (@TSA) September 25, 2025
"The Golden Age of Travel is all about efficiency + security + ease. That includes family screening lanes and benefits for military and uniformed service members. Because every parent – and every patriot – deserves a smoother journey," TSA wrote on X.