WASHINGTON, March 23 — Airports across the United States are facing extended wait times and operational strain as staffing shortages among Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel persist amid a partial government shutdown, officials and reports said.

Travelers at several major airports have reported longer-than-usual security lines, with delays attributed to increased absenteeism among unpaid federal workers. In some locations, checkpoints have been reduced, contributing to congestion during peak travel periods.

In response, federal authorities have begun deploying additional personnel, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, to assist with non-specialized airport duties. The measure is intended to ease pressure on TSA operations and maintain passenger flow.

The staffing challenges stem from a political standoff over federal funding that has left thousands of employees working without pay. No resolution has been reached, and agencies are continuing to operate under constrained conditions.