The Transportation Security Administration says staff shortage issues will likely continue to get worse, the longer the government shutdown continues.
As essential workers like FAA air traffic control staff, TSA workers are required to keep working even though they are not getting paid.
The TSA says as household and other bills continue to pile up, TSA officers will find it harder and harder to continue showing up for work.
They will only get backpay once the shutdown ends.
The TSA has acknowledged staffing shortages have been causing long lines for security screening at airports including major hub Atlanta.
The shutdown is now entering its third week.
