TSA wait times have stretched to hours at some airports as the partial government shutdown continues, with George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston experiencing lines topping six hours. Travelers face unpredictable delays as 40% of officers at some locations are calling out, forcing airports to recommend passengers arrive four hours or more before domestic flights.

Fliers seeking faster passage can consider TSA PreCheck, with wait times typically under 10 minutes for the $85 five-year membership. Clear offers another option at $209 annually, using biometric identification to expedite security, though both services have seen lane closures at the most congested airports during the shutdown.

Airlines have accommodated travelers who miss flights due to security bottlenecks, usually waiving change fees. However, travel insurance generally doesn't cover these delays as they're considered foreseeable. Travelers should monitor airport websites and social media for real-time updates and contact airlines immediately if they're at risk of missing their flight.