TSA Sets Single-Day Record, Screening Over 3.13 Million Passengers

TSA recorded a new single-day high of more than 3.13 million passenger screenings, exceeding the prior peak of roughly 3.09 million from June 22. All of the agency's 10 busiest days have come in the past two years, and the third-place total occurred on the Sunday after Thanksgiving last year. The record comes fewer than three weeks after a 43-day government funding lapse that disrupted pay and operations; FAA flight limits were lifted on Nov. 17. DHS announced $10,000 bonuses for some TSA employees, and agencies have been asked about back pay.

07:27 AM, 12/02/2025Society

The Transportation Security Administration screened a record 3.13 million passengers at U.S. airports on Sunday, the agency announced on X. That total surpasses the previous single-day high of about 3.09 million set on June 22.

All 10 of TSA's busiest days have occurred within the last two years. The day now ranking third recorded more than 3.08 million screenings and fell on the Sunday after Thanksgiving last year.

This milestone comes fewer than three weeks after a 43-day federal funding lapse that left many TSA officers and air traffic controllers without pay. The staffing and payroll disruptions contributed to widespread travel delays and prompted temporary flight reductions ordered by the Federal Aviation Administration; those restrictions were lifted on Nov. 17.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that certain TSA employees would receive $10,000 bonuses for their "exemplary" efforts during the shutdown. Agencies have been asked whether affected workers have received back pay, and no comprehensive public update has been released.

Travel industry observers say the new record underscores strong consumer demand and the resilience of airport operations after a difficult month for staffing. Travelers should still expect busy terminals during peak periods and are encouraged to arrive early and check with airlines for real-time updates.

TSA Sets Single-Day Record, Screening Over 3.13 Million Passengers

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