The chief executives of major U.S. airlines, including American, Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue, have issued a joint call to Congress to restore funding to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and ensure airport workers are paid. The CEOs warn that a funding shortfall could severely impact Transportation Security Administration (TSA) operations and airport security screening, leading to significant travel disruptions.
In a letter dated March 17, 2026, the airline leaders stated that the current funding levels are insufficient to maintain necessary staffing and resources for critical security functions. They emphasized that any reduction in TSA capabilities would directly result in longer passenger wait times and potential safety vulnerabilities at airports across the country.
The CEOs also highlighted the urgent need to secure pay for essential airport workers, including those employed by federal contractors. They argue that stable funding is crucial not only for national security but also for the reliability of the aviation system, which is a key driver of the U.S. economy.
The appeal comes as Congress debates the annual appropriations bills. The airline executives urged lawmakers to prioritize a bipartisan solution to fully fund DHS operations before the end of the current fiscal period to avoid operational degradation.
