ICE Agents seen at New Orleans airport amid long lines
NOLA.com • • nation
Key Points:
- U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were deployed to Louis Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans to assist TSA amid long security lines caused by a partial government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security.
- The deployment follows President Trump's directive to send ICE officers to 14 airports nationwide to support TSA workers, who have been working without pay since February 14 and are experiencing high sick-out rates.
- At MSY airport, security delays have stretched into parking areas, with some passengers waiting three to four hours and missing flights; TSA reported a one-third callout rate among its workers last Wednesday, the highest in the country.
- DHS officials blamed Democrats for the shutdown, highlighting the impact on TSA staffing and passenger safety, while Louisiana’s governor expressed support and readiness to deploy the National Guard if needed.
- Passengers are advised to arrive three hours early, especially during peak times, as lines remain long despite the additional ICE support, with TSA Pre-Check passengers also facing significant delays.
