Long security lines at JFK as immigration officers begin airport support
At Terminal 8, lines were already stretching through the terminal early in the morning, even as the area outside appeared calm.
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Travelers at John F. Kennedy International Airport are being told to arrive early Monday as long security lines build inside terminals and a new plan to bring in immigration officers begins.
At Terminal 8, lines were already stretching through the terminal early in the morning, even as the area outside appeared calm.
The changes come during an ongoing federal funding standoff that has impacted staffing at airports. Many Transportation Security Administration workers have continued working without pay, with some calling out sick or leaving the job.
Airport officials warn that could lead to longer wait times at security checkpoints.
Starting Monday, immigration officers are expected to assist at airports. Officials say they could help with tasks like checking IDs and managing lines, allowing TSA agents to focus on screening passengers and bags.
Video shows immigration officers already at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.
TSA workers say airport security requires specific training.
“At the airports, we are specifically trained for certain things that may affect aviation,” one TSA worker said. “So it’s different than what at the borderline may be looking at.”
There are also concerns from lawmakers and union leaders, who question whether immigration officers are prepared for airport security roles and warn the move could increase tension for travelers.
Passengers at JFK say the experience has already been frustrating.
“I actually thought it was a joke,” said traveler Kareem Jandali. “It literally wrapped around the entire building. It’s probably going to take three hours to get through.”
Another traveler, Lenny Gusel, said he hopes the right people are in place.
“I want to make sure that we have the right personnel here to grant security wherever they need to come from,” he said.
The situation is still developing, and it remains unclear whether the added help will improve wait times.
Travel at area airports is also being affected by a crash and closure at LaGuardia Airport.
For now, officials say the best advice is simple - arrive early and be prepared for delays.
