New Orleans, United States – Travelers faced extreme congestion and slow-moving queues at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport on the morning of March 22, 2026.

Hundreds of passengers stood packed shoulder-to-shoulder with luggage, backpacks, rolling suitcases, and carry-ons under bright fluorescent lights and soaring ceilings. Large white pillars and murals of misty trees lined the terminal as the line extended far into the concourse near signs for “All Gates,” “Ticketing,” and “Bag Claim,” with no end in sight.

People shifted in place, checked phones, or looked around while waiting, but progress was slow. One traveler reported being in line for 45 minutes without even reaching the start of the TSA screening area.

The severe delays are linked to staffing shortages caused by the partial U.S. government shutdown, which has affected the Department of Homeland Security. Many TSA agents are absent due to unpaid leave, resulting in hours-long waits at major airports during spring-break travel.

The same traveler described the scene as: “Absolute chaos at the New Orleans Airport this morning due to the government shutdown. We have been in line for 45 minutes and still haven’t gotten to the ‘start’ of the TSA line.”

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