Austin, January 6, 2026
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport has faced unprecedented TSA wait times during the holiday season, with some travelers waiting up to 34 minutes at security checks. This surge has placed AUS among the top 10 U.S. airports for the longest TSA lines. The increase in wait times is attributed to heightened passenger volume, construction-related lane closures, and staffing constraints. In response, the airport has implemented enhanced staffing measures and recommends travelers to arrive early to avoid delays.
Austin, Texas – Airport Experiences Record TSA Wait Times During Holiday Season
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has reported unprecedented TSA wait times during the recent holiday season, with some travelers experiencing delays of up to 34 minutes. This surge in wait times has placed AUS among the top 10 U.S. airports for the longest TSA lines during this period.
Unprecedented TSA Wait Times
During the peak holiday travel period, AUS saw TSA wait times reaching up to 34 minutes, with Sundays at 2 PM being particularly congested. This significant increase in wait times has positioned AUS among the top 10 U.S. airports for the longest TSA lines during the holiday season.
Contributing Factors
The surge in wait times can be attributed to several factors:
- Increased Passenger Volume: The holiday season traditionally brings a surge in travelers, leading to higher passenger volumes at security checkpoints.
- Operational Challenges: The closure of Checkpoint 3 for construction has reduced the number of available security lanes, contributing to longer wait times.
- Staffing Constraints: Despite efforts to hire additional staff, the airport has faced challenges in meeting the increased demand during peak travel periods.
Airport’s Response and Recommendations
In response to the increased wait times, AUS has implemented several measures:
- Enhanced Staffing: Additional staff have been deployed to assist travelers and manage queues more effectively.
- Operational Adjustments: The airport has optimized staffing and operations to handle the higher passenger volume during the holiday season.
- Traveler Recommendations: AUS advises passengers to arrive at least 2.5 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international departures to accommodate potential delays.
Background Context
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport has experienced significant growth in passenger traffic over the past decade. The airport has been undertaking various infrastructure projects, including the construction of new terminals and the expansion of security checkpoints, to accommodate the increasing number of travelers. However, these projects have also led to temporary disruptions, such as the closure of Checkpoint 3, which have impacted TSA wait times during peak periods.
Looking Ahead
As AUS continues to expand and improve its facilities, travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, stay informed about current wait times, and arrive early to ensure a smooth travel experience during future peak periods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What were the TSA wait times at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport during the holiday season?
During the peak holiday travel period, TSA wait times at AUS reached up to 34 minutes, with Sundays at 2 PM being particularly congested.
What factors contributed to the increased TSA wait times at AUS?
The surge in wait times can be attributed to increased passenger volume during the holiday season, operational challenges due to the closure of Checkpoint 3 for construction, and staffing constraints despite efforts to hire additional staff.
What measures has AUS implemented to address the increased TSA wait times?
AUS has deployed additional staff to assist travelers, optimized staffing and operations to handle higher passenger volume, and recommends passengers arrive at least 2.5 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international departures to accommodate potential delays.
How has AUS’s infrastructure development impacted TSA wait times?
Infrastructure projects, including the construction of new terminals and expansion of security checkpoints, have led to temporary disruptions, such as the closure of Checkpoint 3, impacting TSA wait times during peak periods.
What is the recommended arrival time for travelers at AUS during peak periods?
Travelers are advised to arrive at least 2.5 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international departures to accommodate potential delays during peak travel periods.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Record TSA Wait Times | Unprecedented TSA wait times at AUS during the holiday season, with delays up to 34 minutes. |
| Contributing Factors | Increased passenger volume, operational challenges due to Checkpoint 3 closure, and staffing constraints. |
| Airport’s Response | Enhanced staffing, operational adjustments, and recommendations for travelers to arrive early. |
| Infrastructure Development | Ongoing projects leading to temporary disruptions, such as Checkpoint 3 closure, affecting TSA wait times. |
| Traveler Recommendations | Arrive at least 2.5 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international departures during peak periods. |
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