TSA official warns some airports could shut down if officers' sick calls climb: "A serious situation" - CBS News

A TSA official has warned that some airports could face shutdowns if Transportation Security Administration officers continue to call in sick at elevated rates. The warning underscores staffing pressures at security checkpoints, where absences can reduce screening capacity and create operational bottlenecks. An increase in sick calls among TSA personnel—often tied to workplace conditions, pay, morale, or external factors like illness outbreaks—could force airports to reduce flights or temporarily close terminals if checkpoint staffing falls below minimum thresholds. The TSA official characterized the situation as "serious," flagging the risk that major transportation hubs could be unable to process passengers and aircraft. The potential for airport shutdowns raises questions about passenger safety, airline schedules, and the agency's ability to maintain security operations during periods of high staffing strain.