U.S, March 11 -- The United States government has restored the Global Entry trusted traveler program after suspending it for more than two weeks during the ongoing partial shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The decision follows strong pressure from airlines, travel associations, and lawmakers who warned that suspending the program would worsen congestion at airports just as the spring travel season begins.

The reopening was welcomed by the U.S. Travel Association, whose President and CEO, Geoff Freeman, praised the White House and U.S. Customs and Border Protection for reinstating the program.

"We welcome today's decision by the White House and leaders at U.S. Customs and Border Protection to reopen Global Ent...