The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is experiencing long lines on Sunday morning due to the partial government shutdown.
Airport staff say that at peak times, more than 2,000 people were in line, and there is still a lot of congestion.
The line has spanned all the way from the parking garage, across the main level airline ticket counter area, and then down to the second-floor TSA check-in.
Airport leaders say this is due to impacts from the partial government shutdown.
While TSA employees are working to keep the lines moving, the delays have left many travelers upset.
Many people have said the backup caused them to miss their flights, and they are hoping to make it through TSA faster this time.
Airport leaders recommend travelers get to the airport at least three hours early before their flight.
The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport issued an updated statement regarding the TSA lines:
“Due to impacts from the federal government’s partial shutdown, there is a shortage of TSA workers at the security checkpoint at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), which is causing longer-than-average lines.
Passengers are advised to arrive at least 3 hours before their scheduled departure to allow plenty of time to undergo security screening. Wait times can be up to 2 hours. The delays could continue through the rest of the week.
For the latest updates on flight status, travelers are encouraged to check directly with their airline.
The Airport has staff on hand to help keep the lines organized, and we will continue to coordinate with our federal partners with the TSA as they navigate this issue.”
MSY statement on long lines and flight delays:
“Due to impacts from the federal government’s partial shutdown, the TSA at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is experiencing a shortage of workers at the security checkpoint, which is causing longer-than-average lines.
Passengers with travel scheduled today are advised to arrive at least 3 hours before their scheduled departure to allow plenty of time to undergo security screening.
For the latest updates on flight status, travelers are encouraged to check directly with their airline.
The Airport has staff on hand to help keep the lines organized, and we will continue to coordinate with our federal partners with the TSA as they navigate this issue.”
READ MORE:New Orleans airport seeing long lines, delays due to partial government shutdown
