Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is managing to keep its security lines moving smoothly despite ongoing flight disruptions caused by the federal government shutdown. On November 9, 2025, travelers at the airport experienced a mix of anxiety and relief as they navigated through TSA checkpoints amid a backdrop of reduced air traffic operations mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
As the government shutdown entered its fourth week, air traffic controllers continued to work without pay, leading to significant delays and cancellations across various airlines. One traveler, North Carolina resident Harris, expressed her frustration while waiting to return home after attending a work conference. “I have a two-year-old at home. I just want to get home to my family,” she stated, anxiously checking her flight updates.
TSA lines at Terminal B showed a wait time of only 5-10 minutes, according to an automatic sign outside the checkpoint. Heather Redfern, a spokesperson for PHL, emphasized that cancellations and delays are ultimately at the discretion of individual airlines. She encouraged passengers to contact their airlines directly and register for alerts regarding flight status updates.
For travelers such as Carol and Dan Raab, the situation was a mixed bag. While they were registered for text alerts, they faced unexpected gate changes while preparing for their flight to Miami. “Hopefully we get home. We had to go to special services, and they said Miami especially is having a big problem with delays,” Carol Raab noted, highlighting her appreciation for the relatively quick TSA lines. Dan Raab, reflecting on the current state of air traffic management, remarked, “What is happening now is way worse; they deserve better.”
Despite the ongoing challenges, many travelers reported shorter than expected security lines. Salem Ahmed, on his way to an Eagles game in Chicago, was pleasantly surprised by the quick progress through security. “I came a little earlier because I keep seeing long lines. This doesn’t look too bad at all,” he said, contrasting his experience with friends traveling from Newark Liberty International Airport, who faced longer wait times and delays.
A TSA spokesperson reiterated the importance of arriving at the airport with ample time, regardless of the current situation. “Despite the funding lapse, TSA remains fully committed to ensuring safe and efficient travel for the public,” the spokesperson stated. Travelers were reminded to follow security guidelines and heed the instructions of TSA officers.
The impact of the shutdown has also been felt acutely by passengers like Tabari Wright, who encountered multiple gate changes in less than 24 hours. After losing his Saturday flight to Kansas City due to a last-minute gate switch, Wright was rescheduled for a Sunday flight that was ultimately delayed. “It’s kind of annoying, but we can’t be mad because we can’t control it, especially with people not getting paid to work,” he remarked, acknowledging the efforts of TSA personnel.
Wright’s mother, Shondrea Everett, expressed her anxiety as she waited for her son to navigate TSA. “There isn’t enough personnel in the control towers, the employees are not getting paid, they are not at full staff and my baby is flying,” she said. Her worries highlight the personal stakes involved in the current travel disruptions.
As the government shutdown continues to impact air travel, Philadelphia International Airport remains a critical hub, managing its operations while ensuring passenger safety and security. The combination of swift TSA processing and ongoing communication with airlines provides a glimmer of hope for travelers navigating a challenging travel landscape.
