New Delhi, March 26 -- The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is grappling with unprecedented airport delays as a weeks-long Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding shutdown exacerbates staffing shortages, long lines, and operational disruptions nationwide.

Acting TSA Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill told Congress on Wednesday (March 25) that some airport wait times have exceeded 4.5 hours, marking the longest in agency history. The shutdown, now 40 days old following a lapse on February 14, has already led to the departure of more than 480 transportation security officers.

Airports in Atlanta, Houston, and New York have been particularly affected. Lines have extended through terminals, baggage claims, and even outdoors, ...