WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has suspended TSA PreCheck and Global Entry airport security programs nationwide, including Miami International Airport, as a partial government shutdown continues.
TSA plans to suspend its PreCheck lanes at MIA by 11:30 a.m. Sunday, according to Greg Chin, communications director for the Miami-Dade Aviation Department.
The airport security programs are designed to help speed registered travelers through security lines, and suspending them could cause delays for fliers.
In response, MIA has increased staffing at TSA checkpoints and international arrival facilities to help passengers move through security as quickly as possible.
Due to Winter Storm Hernando affecting flight schedules across the Northeast, travelers are advised to monitor their flight status with their airline and arrive extra early if their flight is confirmed.
Miami officials said they appreciate travelers’ patience as it works with federal and airline partners to minimize disruptions and keep passengers moving safely and efficiently.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a statement that “shutdowns have serious real world consequences.” She added that “TSA and CBP are prioritizing the general traveling population at our airports and ports of entry and suspending courtesy and special privilege escorts.”
The partial government shutdown began Feb. 14 after Democrats and the White House were unable to reach a deal on legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security. Democrats have sought changes to immigration operations that are central to President Donald Trump’s deportation campaign.
Democrats on the House Committee on Homeland Security criticized the decision on social media, saying the administration was “kneecapping the programs that make travel smoother and secure” and accused officials of “ruining your travel on purpose.”
Airlines for America, a trade group representing major carriers, said “it’s past time for Congress to get to the table and get a deal done.”
The organization said it is “deeply concerned” that “the traveling public will be, once again, used as a political football amid another government shutdown.” It also criticized the Saturday evening announcement, saying it was “issued with extremely short notice to travelers, giving them little time to plan accordingly.”
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