Flying Out of O’Hare During the Partial Government Shutdown? 3 Pro Tips

Travelers flying out of Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport may want to pack something extra besides their carry-on… patience.

During the current partial government shutdown, Transportation Security Administration workers across the country have been calling out in high numbers after missing paychecks. That’s leading to major staffing shortages at airport security checkpoints.

At some airports, travelers have reported TSA lines stretching three hours or more. At a massive travel hub like O’Hare, that could easily turn into a missed flight if you’re not prepared.

And if you’ve ever flown out of O’Hare, you already know security lines can be unpredictable on a normal day. I’ve flown out of O’Hare enough to know… sometimes things move fast, and other times it feels like the line hasn’t moved since the Cubs last won the World Series.

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TSA Staff Shortages Causing Long Security Lines

The biggest issue right now is staffing. With some TSA workers missing pay during the shutdown, more employees are calling in sick or staying home.

Fewer agents working security checkpoints means longer wait times for travelers, especially at busy airports like O’Hare.

Why Chicago O’Hare Travelers Should Plan Ahead

O’Hare is one of the busiest airports in the United States, and many travelers from Northern Illinois and the Rockford area drive there for flights.

If security lines stretch for hours, showing up at the airport at the usual time may not cut it.

3 Tips to Help You Make Your Flight at O’Hare

Travel experts shared a few suggestions for getting through security faster:

• Budget extra time
  Arrive earlier than usual and research typical wait times before heading to the airport.
• Use TSA’s Touchless ID lane
  Some airports offer this faster security option that speeds up identity verification.
• Invest in TSA PreCheck
  PreCheck travelers can move through a dedicated lane that is usually much faster.

The Bottom Line for O’Hare Travelers

If you’re flying out of Chicago soon, the safest move right now is simple… get to the airport early and expect delays.

For more details and travel advice, you can read the full report from Business Insider.

READ MORE: Rockford Travelers Can Now Skip the Drive to O’Hare with American