Houston Airports Chaos: 40% TSA Absenteeism

0:00George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston stands out as a prime example of how the partial government shutdown is disrupting air travel. Nationwide, TSA workers, unpaid during the shutdown, are calling out at much higher rates here, leading to security lines stretching up to four hours. Nationally, about 11% of TSA staff miss shifts on Tuesday, but at Bush it hit nearly 40% with similar issues at Houston's, hobby airport. Several factors make Houston's airports hit harder. Bush handles over 48 million passengers a year and serves as a major hub for United Airlines, boosting traffic. March brings extra crowds from spring break, the Houston lock-stock show, and rodeo drawing 2.6 million visitors, energy conferences, baseball, events, and upcoming NCAA tournament games. Americans have voiced frustration after waiting hours and lines, with some stuck since early morning. Airport leaders know fewer security lanes open, sometimes just a third of the usual 37.

1:03Union reps point to workers financial strains from prior shutdowns and rising costs, saying everyone would show up if paychecks flowed. Conditions ease the bid by Wednesday, with weights dropping under two hours. Officials praise the TSA staff who do report for duty amid the chaos. Americans tourism remains strong, marking the busiest march ever for hotel bookings, even as experts warned delays could worsen until Congress resolves. The shutdown, local news, powered by AI, this is Canada News Today.