Long TSA Lines Possible at New Orleans Airport This Weekend

NEW ORLEANS, La. (KMDL-FM) - If you're flying through Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport this weekend, you may or may not need to get there extra early, depending on the day.

TSA Staffing Shortage Causing Delays

Due to the ongoing partial federal government shutdown, there remains a shortage of TSA workers at security checkpoints at some of America's major airports.

Long Security Lines Reported Last Weekend

Last weekend, the New Orleans Airport experienced a shortage and what many believe was a "sickout," in which many TSA workers didn't report to work. The result was security checkpoint lines backed up into the parking garage.

READ MORE: Massive TSA Lines Reported at New Orleans Airport

In anticipation of a higher volume of passengers expected this Sunday, March 15, and Monday, March 16, airport officials in New Orleans are encouraging passengers to arrive at least three hours ahead of their scheduled departure to allow enough time to pass through security screening.

When Wait Times Could Be Longest

Wait times on Sunday could reach up to two hours, especially during peak hours, which are typically between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

What Travelers Should Do Before Their Flight

Passengers traveling on Saturday should not expect longer-than-average wait times. Officials are suggesting that passengers arrive at least two hours ahead of their scheduled departure as normal.

For the latest flight updates, you should check with your airline directly. For specific information about TSA staffing, please reach out to the agency directly.