Democrats couldn’t do this for Americans but Trump could.
American travelers are finally seeing relief after the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that the Global Entry program has officially resumed operations, helping reduce airport delays during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.
Officials say the move is part of the Trump administration’s effort to minimize disruptions caused by the ongoing funding standoff affecting the Department of Homeland Security.
A DHS spokesperson told reporters that the trusted traveler program was reactivated Wednesday at 5 a.m. Eastern Time.
“We are continuing to evaluate every possible step to reduce disruptions for American travelers during the Democrats’ shutdown of the department,” the spokesperson said.
The agency added that officials are working to restore services and ease airport congestion as millions of Americans prepare to travel this spring.
Global Entry Program Restored
The Global Entry program allows pre-approved travelers to move through customs and immigration checkpoints much faster when entering the United States.
Participants must complete a background check and pay a $120 membership fee, which provides access to expedited processing for five years.
Last month, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) temporarily suspended the program at several airports after officers were reassigned to manage growing traveler backlogs during the partial shutdown.
With Global Entry now restored, frequent travelers and business passengers can once again bypass long customs lines and speed through airport checkpoints.
For millions of Americans who rely on the program, the change is expected to significantly reduce delays.
TSA PreCheck Still Operating
Despite the disruptions, TSA PreCheck remains operational at most airports across the United States.
However, officials say some security lanes are being evaluated on a case-by-case basis due to staffing shortages tied to the shutdown.
Transportation Security Administration agents have been working under difficult circumstances, with many facing reduced or delayed paychecks if the funding standoff continues.
Airport Delays Growing During Spring Break
The travel disruptions come at a difficult time, as spring break travel is already underway.
Major airports across the country have reported security wait times reaching up to three and a half hours, largely due to officer shortages and increased passenger traffic.
The TSA is advising passengers to arrive at airports earlier than usual to ensure they make their flights.
“Passengers should plan ahead and allow additional time for security screening,” TSA officials said.
Millions of Americans Expected to Travel
Despite the challenges, air travel demand continues to surge.
According to Airlines for America, an airline industry trade group based in Washington, D.C., roughly 171 million passengers are expected to fly between March 1 and April 30.
That represents a 4% increase compared with the same period last year.
Airlines estimate they will carry about 2.8 million passengers per day during the busy spring travel season.
Pressure Builds to End DHS Shutdown
Industry leaders are now urging Washington to resolve the funding dispute before travel disruptions worsen.
Chris Sununu, CEO of Airlines for America, warned that the nation’s transportation security workforce should not be caught in the middle of political battles.
“America’s transportation security workforce plays a vital role in keeping our aviation system safe and moving,” Sununu said in a statement.
“It’s far too important to be used as political leverage.”
Bottom Line for Travelers
For now, the return of the Global Entry program offers welcome relief for millions of travelers facing long lines and airport delays.
While the Department of Homeland Security funding standoff continues, officials say they will keep looking for ways to reduce travel disruptions and restore normal airport operations.
As negotiations in Washington move forward, travelers across the country are hoping for a long-term solution that keeps America’s airports secure, efficient, and moving again.