You may be following all the rules, but certain items and behaviors can still get travelers flagged for extra screening at the airport.

On any given morning at major U.S. airports, thousands of travelers move through security checkpoints staffed by Transportation Security Administration officers responsible for identifying threats in a matter of seconds.

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Exploring airport security privatization should be on every airport’s to-do list.

The proposed End Special Treatment for Congress at Airports Act would mandate that lawmakers follow standard screening rules set by the Transportation Security Administration and prohibit the use of federal funds for expedited or preferential access at airport checkpoints.

Commercial airports can hire private security companies instead of using federal employees under a program with the Transportation Security Administration.

Travelers should allow extra time at the airport and check for wait time updates. Officials warn that delays and TSA staff call-outs will likely worsen as the shutdown continues. For travelers hoping to board a plane this week,