Global Entry has resumed in the United States, a move welcomed by the travel industry as policymakers work to keep the aviation system functioning during a partial government shutdown.
The U.S. Travel Association said the reopening of the Trusted Traveler Program reflects its role in maintaining both security and efficiency at airports, while industry leaders also urged Congress to support Transportation Security Officers who continue working without pay.
Global Entry allows pre-approved travelers to receive expedited clearance when entering the United States, helping reduce wait times at airports. The program is part of a broader group of Trusted Traveler Programs designed to streamline border and airport security procedures.
The travel industry had pushed for the reopening in recent weeks, arguing that programs such as Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are essential to keeping passenger flows moving while maintaining strong security standards.
“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 Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association.
Freeman said the travel sector had spent the past two weeks engaging members of Congress and administration officials to highlight how Trusted Traveler Programs help balance security with efficiency at airports.
“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,” Freeman said.
He added that collaboration across the travel sector and public outreach had reinforced a central message: Trusted Traveler Programs strengthen security while helping keep travel moving.
Freeman also stressed that while reopening Global Entry is an important step, lawmakers must address the situation facing airport security staff during the shutdown.
“Today’s step is an important one, but Congress must also act to support the Transportation Security Officers who keep our aviation system functioning,” Freeman said.
He noted that many of these employees continue reporting to work without pay during the partial government shutdown and 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,” Freeman said.
