Editor's note: TSA reversed course on Sunday, Feb. 22 โ PreCheck lanes remain operational. See our updated coverage: [TSA PreCheck Still Running at SAN Despite Government Shutdown](/articles/tsa-precheck-operational-government-shutdown-update-2026)
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The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has suspended the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry trusted traveler programs as a partial government shutdown continues, creating potential headaches for San Diego International Airport travelers from Santee and the East County.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced the suspension Saturday, stating the agency is "prioritizing the general traveling population at our airports and ports of entry" and suspending "courtesy and special privilege escorts." Both programs are designed to expedite security screening for pre-approved travelers โ TSA PreCheck allows eligible fliers to use dedicated lanes with fewer screening requirements, while Global Entry speeds customs processing for returning international travelers.
For Santee and East County residents who regularly fly through San Diego International Airport, the suspension means travelers who typically skip standard security queues through TSA PreCheck will now wait in regular lines, which can run significantly longer during busy travel periods. The timing is particularly relevant with spring travel season approaching.
The partial government shutdown began Feb. 14 after the White House and congressional Democrats failed to agree on legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security. Democrats have sought changes to immigration enforcement operations that are central to the current administration's deportation campaign, while the administration declined to budge on those policies.
Airlines for America, the trade group representing major U.S. carriers, urged Congress to reach an agreement and called the announcement "deeply concerning," noting it was issued "with extremely short notice to travelers, giving them little time to plan accordingly." Travelers are advised to arrive at the airport earlier than usual until the shutdown ends and both programs are restored. No timeline for restoring the programs was given.