WASHINGTON — Acting Deputy Transportation Security Administration Administrator Adam Stahl warned Tuesday on Fox News that airports across the United States could face partial or full closures if the ongoing Department of Homeland Security funding lapse continues.

Stahl said staffing shortages are worsening as screeners miss paychecks, with rising absenteeism and resignations straining operations.

According to the agency, about 10% of TSA officers called out over the weekend, up from roughly 2% before the funding lapse. Hundreds of workers have also left their jobs in recent weeks.

Airports have already begun advising travelers to arrive hours earlier than usual due to long security lines, with wait times in some locations approaching three hours.

Stahl said smaller airports could be most at risk if staffing levels continue to drop, noting that some officers are struggling financially without consistent pay.

The funding lapse began in mid-February amid a dispute in the Senate over immigration-related provisions in a DHS appropriations bill. While some DHS personnel continue to be paid, TSA screeners are among those affected.

Officials warn that without a resolution, delays could worsen and additional operational disruptions may follow.