TSA says PreCheck is still operational, right after DHS head Kristi Noem said it was suspended due to government shutdown

Fortune

by Ali Swenson, The Associated Press

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has reaffirmed that its PreCheck program remains operational despite an earlier announcement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) suggesting a suspension due to the ongoing government shutdown. This clarification came after DHS Secretary Kristi Noem had stated that such services were being paused as part of "emergency measures" to reallocate resources amid the shutdown, which began on February 14 over disagreements between Democrats and the White House regarding immigration policies. The PreCheck program, designed to expedite security screening for enrolled travelers, has been a critical service for over 20 million Americans. Its continued operation is crucial, especially during peak travel periods like the current winter storm hitting the East Coast, which has already led to widespread flight cancellations at major airports such as JFK, LaGuardia, and Boston Logan. TSA emphasized that while PreCheck remains active, any staffing shortages may require case-by-case adjustments. Global Entry, another key service managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), also hangs in the balance. If suspended, it would disrupt millions of international travelers who rely on it for expedited entry into the United States. The shutdown's timing, coupled with the winter storm, has caused significant inconvenience for airlines and passengers alike. Airlines for America (A4A) criticized DHS for announcing the potential PreCheck suspension with little notice, calling it a "political football" that adds unnecessary stress to travelers. The situation highlights the broader impact of the government shutdown on critical infrastructure and services. TSA's decision to keep PreCheck operational has been welcomed by industry groups like the U.S. Travel Association, which fears further disruptions could harm the travel economy. Meanwhile, Democrats have accused DHS of weaponizing these programs to divert attention from other issues, as evidenced by Senator Andy Kim's assertion that the administration is using such tactics to manipulate public perception. In summary, while TSA PreCheck continues to function, the uncertainty surrounding Global Entry and potential future disruptions underscores the challenges posed by the shutdown. For businesses, particularly airlines and travel services, this situation serves as a reminder of how political gridlock can directly affect operational efficiency and customer experience. The ongoing impasse over immigration policies not only strains airport security but also raises concerns about its long-term impact on U.S. trade and

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/22/2026