The expedited international arrival program Global Entry has resumed operations after being suspended for nearly 17 days during the ongoing partial federal government shutdown affecting the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Global Entry officially reopened at 5 a.m. EDT Wednesday, restoring the service that allows pre-approved travelers to bypass traditional passport control lines at major U.S. airports following international flights.
The program had been suspended since Feb. 22, when the shutdown forced the administration to pause certain services overseen by DHS.
Industry Welcomes Return of Service
The reopening of Global Entry was welcomed by the industry, which has warned that disruptions to traveler programs can significantly affect airport efficiency during peak travel periods.
“We welcome today’s decision by the White House and leaders at U.S. Customs and Border Protection to reopen Global Entry and reaffirm the value of Trusted Traveler Programs,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, in an official statement.
“Over the last two weeks, the travel industry has been clear about the role programs like Global Entry and TSA PreCheck play in both security and efficiency. Through outreach to members of Congress and administration officials, collaboration across the travel sector, and strong public engagement, we highlighted a simple reality: Trusted Traveler Programs enhance security while keeping travel moving,” Freeman added.
Long TSA Lines Continue at Major U.S. Airports
Despite the reinstatement of Global Entry, airport congestion remains a major concern across the U.S. aviation system. Several major airports are reporting longer security wait times as staffing shortages linked to the shutdown continue to affect the Transportation Security Administration.
According to multiple local news reports this week, TSA wait times at some airports have stretched to two to three hours, particularly as the spring break travel season ramps up. Industry observers say the delays highlight the operational strain created when federal aviation employees—including TSA officers—continue working without pay during a funding lapse.
