10% of Air Safety Agents Called in Sick on Sunday

Air Safety

The Transport Security Administration, a subsidiary of the United States Department of Homeland Security, has been hit hard by the current government shutdown. The situation is starting to take its toll on worker morale, which can be seen in the record number of Air Safety Agents that called in sick for work this past weekend.

Almost 60,000 TSA Air Safety Agents are now furloughed or working without pay during the federal funding lapse. Unlike some other government positions, TSA agents are considered essential, with most front-line staff being called into work despite the agency lacking funds for paychecks.

Air Safety Agents Non-Attendance Record Broken

On Saturday, seven percent of the TSA workforce called in sick for work, setting a new record. It was quickly broken on Sunday, when the figure rose to ten percent. During the same period last January, only three percent of the workforce was absent.

The agency has said that many employees simply cannot afford to report to work, due to financial hardship related to the government shutdown.

TSA workers will miss their second scheduled paycheck of 2019 if the shutdown is not resolved this week.

TSA Says Delays are Minimal

Despite no-shows from thousands of TSA screeners, the agency has told media outlets that very few passengers experienced significant delays when passing through screening. The agency reported that it screened 1.78 million passengers on Sunday alone, and only 120,000 of those had wait times longer than 15 minutes when passing through security.

The problem could have been worse, if it were not for the cancellation of more than 4,400 flights during the weekend. Severe weather in the Northeast and Midwest caused the cancellations. On a busier weekend, the impact could have been much higher.

Not every airport uses the TSA for security screening. San Francisco airport is an example where private security contractors are used. A prolonged government shutdown could force other airports to seek alternatives.

President’s Day Weekend Could be a Watershed Moment

If the shutdown continues into February, then President’s Day Weekend could be a major problem. This is typically a busy time for air traffic, and analysts have warned that people will cancel their travel plans if there is no progress on a shutdown resolution.

The shutdown now enters its 32nd day, making it the longest in history by more than 10 days.

 

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The reports, research and newsletter are based on current and historical market data, as well as publicly available financial data.They are intended to be a starting point for investors. They do not provide every material fact about a company or industry, nor are they recommendations to buy or sell. The writers and the company make no warranties or representations as to the accuracy of these reports.   You should NOT rely solely upon the information or opinions read in the content. Rather, you should use the content as a starting point for doing independent research on the independent analysis and trading methods in the content. The content is impersonal and does not provide individualized advice or recommendations for any specific reader or individual portfolio. By accessing this website you have agreed to our disclaimers and privacy policy.

 

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