We’ve got some bad news for those traveling soon, more specifically, if you use Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
TSA lines at MCO
These services are additional costs that allow travelers to skip longer security lines, as their information and background checks have already been stored in the system, to move them through security more quickly. This is often vital for many people’s travel plans, as travelers with these additions often don’t allow as much time to get through security before their flight, or rely on the additional time to grab something to eat or relax. If you’re someone who uses these services, we’ve got bad news — as of 6 AM this morning, Sunday, February 22nd, there has been talk about TSA PreCheck and Global Entry being closed.
ABC has just reported that, due to the Department of Homeland Security shutdown/lapse of funding, Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are both being suspended for the time being. In a statement, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said, “TSA and CBP are prioritizing the general traveling population at our airports and ports of entry and suspending courtesy and special privilege escorts.” Other sources are reporting that TSA PreCheck will not be closed, but only Global Entry, but either way, it’s a good idea to get to the airport early if you’re traveling right now and expect longer wait times.
MCO Airport
Any DHS personnel usually assigned to these programs will be moved to work with the general public getting through security, for the time being. This will likely result in longer lines overall at airports, even with the additional personnel, and will likely frustrate many travelers, not just those who usually use the services. This is an interesting move, many feel, as during the last shutdown, these programs were not suspended.
TSA PreCheck
Travelers are also concerned about the impending winter storm coming to areas of the East Coast, where 5,000 flights have already been canceled. Additionally, the Federal Emergency Management Agency will also halt “all non-disaster related response to prioritize disasters,” which also has travelers concerned.
PreCheck signage
The move is being criticized by many, including U.S Travel, a non-profit organization that represents the nation’s travel industry. In a statement, they mentioned being “disappointed” with the choice, continuing on to say, “Travelers should be prioritized, not leveraged. Travel is the gateway to the American economy, and Americans should not have their mobility, security, or travel experience diminished because elected leaders fail to resolve their differences.”
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When you pay for the arduous process of applying for Global Entry (including traveling to another state for the interview), you should get the service that you paid for. Unacceptable for it to be arbitrarily yanked.