The U.S. Global Entry program was reinstated Wednesday amidst public and travel industry backlash. U.S. customs and immigration clearance program for pre-approved, low-risk travellers entering the United States was suspended by the Department of Homeland Security on Feb. 22 amidst the U.S. government shutdown.
The suspension of the program has contributed to hours-long lines at some U.S. facilities. A similar suspension of TSA Pre-Check had been reversed soon after implementation.
“We welcome today’s decision by the White House and leaders at U.S. Customs and Border Protection to reopen Global Entry and reaffirm the value of Trusted Traveler Programs,” said U.S. Travel CEO Geoff Freeman. “Over the last two weeks, the travel industry has been clear about the role programs like Global Entry and TSA PreCheck play in both security and efficiency…
“Today’s step is an important one, but Congress must also act to support the Transportation Security Officers who keep our aviation system functioning. These essential employees continue to report to work without pay during the partial government shutdown, and they deserve to be compensated without delay.
“The travel industry will continue working with policymakers to ensure these programs remain strong and that the aviation workforce gets the support it needs.”
Chris Sununu, CEO for Airlines For America (A4A) similarly called for a resolution to the ongoing customs issues.
“As TSA officers are facing a $0 paycheck this week, we are seeing firsthand the significant strains that the current DHS shutdown is causing across the aviation system. TSA lines are two and three hours long at some airports, causing flights to be delayed and passengers to miss flights,” he said.
“The shutdown is having very real consequences, and hardworking federal aviation workers, the airline industry and our passengers are being used as a political football once again. This is simply unacceptable and un-American.
“We are in spring break travel season and expecting record numbers of people to take to the skies. Airlines have done their part to prepare; now Congress and the administration must act with urgency to reach a deal that reopens DHS and ends this shutdown. America’s transportation security workforce is too important to be used as political leverage.”
If you enjoyed or found this story useful, we’d appreciate if you would forward it to a colleague or friend who may also enjoy it. If, on the other hand, a friend shared it with you, welcome! You can get all the latest travel news and reviews from Travel Industry by simply clicking HERE.