US homeland security shutdown could mean airport delays, travel groups say

BBC News - WorldEN 3 min read 100% complete February 14, 2026 at 06:04 AM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

A partial US government shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) began after Congress failed to pass a funding bill. Travel groups and airlines warn of potential disruptions, including flight delays and longer wait times, due to possible unscheduled absences by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers. Democrats are pushing for immigration reform within the DHS, including restrictions on ICE, in exchange for a funding deal. The shutdown, which began Saturday, could affect agencies like the US Coast Guard and TSA. Congress is in recess until February 23rd, potentially extending the shutdown until after the State of the Union address.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Minnesota 30% US Coast Guard 40% Renee Good 40% Alex Pretti 40% Congress ×250% Donald Trump ×260% US Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) 60% Democrats ×470% United States ×370% Transportation Security Administration (TSA) ×270% Department of Homeland Security (DHS) ×890%

Keywords

government shutdown 100% homeland security 90% airport delays 80% funding deal 70% travel disruption 70% tsa 60% immigration reforms 60% federal workers 50% ice 50% congress 40%