Published on February 25, 2026
Image generated with Ai
U.S. airlines are preparing for another record-breaking spring travel season as Airlines for America (A4A) forecasts that 171 million passengers will fly between March 1 and April 30, 2026. This represents a four percent increase over last year’s spring travel period. With 2.8 million passengers expected to travel per day, airlines are adding two percent more flights and seats to accommodate the surge, ensuring they can handle the anticipated increase in demand.
However, as U.S. airlines gear up for the busy season, concerns loom over the potential impacts of the ongoing government shutdown on air travel. TSA (Transportation Security Administration) and CBP (Customs and Border Protection) services are facing disruptions due to federal funding lapses, leading to significant concerns about staffing shortages and the ability to maintain smooth and efficient operations at major U.S. airports.
A4A is calling for a swift resolution to the government shutdown to ensure that the TSA and CBP can continue to operate at full capacity throughout the busy spring season. These concerns are amplified by the suspension of the Global Entry program, which has traditionally helped expedite screening for frequent international travelers.
According to the A4A forecast, U.S. airlines are expecting an average of 26,000 daily passenger flights with 3.5 million seats during the spring months. This will be a major logistical challenge, with airlines working to manage peak demand during spring break travel periods. Notably, airlines like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and JetBlue Airways are among those ramping up operations to accommodate travelers heading to top spring break destinations like Florida, California, Hawaii, and the Caribbean.
Advertisement

The increase in passenger numbers is driven by domestic and international demand, with Florida and California continuing to be the top destinations for U.S. vacationers. Orlando, Miami, and Los Angeles are expected to see some of the highest passenger traffic, with New York and Washington D.C. also continuing to attract large numbers of tourists. Internationally, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe are expected to see strong demand from U.S. travelers looking for warmer climates and cultural experiences.
Airlines are focusing on efficient flight scheduling and ensuring timely arrivals to help avoid congestion and minimize delays. However, challenges remain with the TSA’s role in ensuring smooth security checks at crowded airports. With government shutdown concerns looming, there’s heightened urgency for travelers to prepare for potential delays at security checkpoints, as staff shortages could increase wait times for travelers.
Advertisement
Advertisement
As 171 million travelers take to the skies, the ongoing government shutdown raises concerns about the availability of TSA and CBP officers, essential to keeping airports running smoothly. TSA is responsible for security screenings for domestic travelers, while CBP ensures proper customs checks for incoming international flights. A lack of sufficient staff could lead to longer wait times at security and customs checks, especially during peak travel periods like spring break.
A4A President and CEO, Chris Sununu, voiced concerns over the challenges travelers might face during the peak travel season. “It’s time for Congress to come to the table and ensure TSA and CBP can fully operate and ensure that their frontline employees can be paid,” he said. The TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs, which streamline the screening process for frequent travelers, are key to maintaining efficient operations, and the suspension of Global Entry due to the shutdown adds additional frustration for travelers.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Global Entry, a program that offers expedited screening for trusted travelers, is particularly impactful for those traveling internationally. Last year alone, 18 million travelers used the Global Entry program, helping to save about 300,000 officer hours at airports. Eliminating Global Entry means that CBP officers are forced to spend additional time processing passengers, potentially adding to delays during the busy spring travel period. A4A urges the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to promptly reopen the Global Entry program to minimize disruption and improve the traveler experience.
With 171 million passengers expected to fly during the spring months, travelers need to plan ahead and account for potential delays, especially if the government shutdown continues. While airlines are ready for the influx of travelers, passengers should be aware of possible delays at TSA and CBP checkpoints, particularly during spring break.
Travelers should consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, if eligible, to streamline the security process and avoid the long lines at security. Additionally, travelers should keep an eye on any updates from TSA and CBP about staffing levels or program changes, especially if the shutdown persists through the peak travel season.
As spring 2026 unfolds, U.S. airlines are ready for a record-breaking travel season, with strong demand from both domestic and international travelers. Despite concerns about the government shutdown, airlines are focused on ensuring that passenger flights run smoothly and that travelers can enjoy their spring vacations without disruptions. With A4A and the airline industry urging a swift resolution to the shutdown, the continued growth of U.S. airlines will help meet the increased demand for affordable, efficient air travel.
As 171 million travelers head to their spring destinations, the resilience of the U.S. aviation industry will be tested—but with strong operations and expanded flight services, airlines are ready to make spring 2026 the best yet for travelers.
Advertisement
Tags: 171 million passengers, airline forecasts, airlines prepare for spring travel, CBP, global entry program suspension

I want to receive travel news and trade event updates from Travel And Tour World. I have read Travel And Tour World's Privacy Notice .
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Wednesday, February 25, 2026

source