Duffy Says Small Airports Will Close If DHS Shutdown Continues

March 19, 2026, 2:15 PM UTC

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the partial government shutdown will lead to airport closures as challenges grow for Transportation Security Administration agents who are not receiving paychecks.

“As we get into next week and they’re about to miss another payment, this is going to look like child’s play what’s happening right now,” he said in an interview with CNBC. “You’re going to see small airports I believe shut down.”

Passengers will also see “extensive lines,” he said, and possible gridlock for air travel.

Duffy’s comments followed a similar warning from one of TSA’s top officials earlier this week on Fox ...

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