TSA PreCheck Is Back, but Global Entry Remains Suspended Amid DHS Shutdown

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) suspended its popular Global Entry Trusted Traveler program over the weekend amid an ongoing partial government shutdown.

The decision was made to “preserve limited funds and personnel to mitigate the national security and public safety damage” during the shutdown, according to the agency. Global Entry was officially suspended at all participating airports at 6 a.m. on Sunday morning.

When arriving in the country, the DHS said Global Entry participants who are United States citizens and permanent residents will now be directed to the lane for other arriving citizens and residents, while non-residents will be directed to visitor lanes.

The DHS initially indicated its TSA PreCheck program would also be suspended, but later confirmed the program would remain operational with no changes.

“As staffing constraints arise, TSA will evaluate on a case by case basis and adjust operations accordingly,” a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) spokesperson confirmed to Travel + Leisure on Monday.

Over the weekend, the U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman urged the DHS to reinstate its Global Entry program, while highlighting “the uncertainty and strain placed on both travelers and the dedicated men and women working on the frontlines of airport security.”

“These Trusted Traveler Programs strengthen aviation security and improve screening efficiency,” Freeman said in a statement shared with T+L. “They are funded by user fees, and there is no reason at this time for them to be suspended.”

In addition to pausing Global Entry, the DHS also suspended all airport courtesy escorts “to allow officers to focus on the mission of securing America’s skies.”

Currently, many DHS employees, like TSA officers, are working without pay. In a video posted to X over the weekend, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem encouraged travelers to express gratitude if they see officers at an airport.

While TSA PreCheck remains operational for expedited security, travelers are encouraged to arrive at the airport earlier than usual during the partial shutdown to prepare for potential long lines. Travelers can also check airport websites ahead of their trip since many post real-time security wait times, including New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Orlando International Airport (MCO), and more.

The latest partial shutdown comes on the heels of the longest government shutdown late last year with industry stakeholders warning the current shutdown could result in slower or closed TSA security lines and overall lost revenue for the travel industry