ICE agents deployed to Atlanta airport as TSA shortages cause delays

Federal immigration agents arrived at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Monday in hopes to reduce long lines amid the partial government shutdown.

More than 3,000 Transportation Security Administration officers did not report for work nationwide causing major delays at security checkpoints over the weekend. Some wait times at the Atlanta airport reached up to six hours on Saturday.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are assisting TSA with airport security. The partial government shutdown is in its sixth week with no agreement to fund the Department of Homeland Security.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens released a statement Sunday saying that the ICE agents were at the airport to assist TSA and not enforce immigration laws.

“Atlanta remains committed to ensuring that residents and travelers feel safe, informed, and supported as they move through the world’s busiest and most efficient airport,” read the statement.

Travelers have been navigating a chaotic experience in the airport.

“All the staff doesn’t seem to know where we’re supposed to go, so they’re kind of just pushing us in different directions. One minute you’re going one way, the next minute you’re going the next. So it’s a lot to figure out,” traveler Brandy told CBS News.

Brandy’s companion, Michelle, said that once they found the right line, the process improved.

“I mean, I think that it was a little chaotic when we got here, but we got into a line finally, and now we’re here,” Michelle said.

Airport officials are recommending that passengers arrive at least four hours early. Delays could persist as long as the partial shutdown continues to impact TSA staffing, officials said.