TSA Sick Calls Surge: Houston Hobby Had 55% of Screeners Out on March 15

During the ongoing partial government shutdown, TSA agents are calling in sick at elevated rates because they are not receiving paychecks. On Sunday, March 15, 2026, 10% of TSA officers nationwide called in sick, five times the usual rate of 2%. Houston Hobby Airport (HOU) was particularly affected, with 55% of screeners calling in sick on that date, up from 41% the previous Sunday. Additionally, 366 TSA officers have quit since the shutdown began. The disparity in pay status between TSA (Department of Homeland Security) and air traffic controllers (Department of Transportation) is cited as a key factor. The trend suggests increasing delays, particularly on weekends and during spring break, as parents manage childcare costs without pay