TSA looks at backup plan as government shutdown continues

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — TSA is trying to bolster its reserve of backup officers as the government shutdown continues.

CNN obtained an email from a TSA executive that was sent to TSA officials in more than 10 states with more than 100 airports.

It asked for some employees to move from the airport they usually work at, to others struggling with low staffing.

[KISS offers free food to TSA workers during ongoing government shutdown]

There have been reports of TSA officers calling in sick while temporarily working without pay, which is a concern for many travelers.

“I think my biggest concern is getting through security checkpoints and just ensuring that passenger safety is best kept, while this government shutdown is going on,” traveler Linda Allen said. “But I really hope it ends soon.”

[TSA screener sick-outs hit 10 percent over holiday weekend]

The union representing TSA employees across North Carolina is holding a protest Wednesday outside Raleigh-Durham Airport.

Channel 9 reached out to a spokesperson for TSA to ask specifically about staffing levels at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. She said she won't be able to check on it until Wednesday.

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Cox Media Group