Asheville Regional Airport Rallies Support for Unpaid TSA Workers During Shutdown

The Transportation Security Administration is part of the Department of Homeland Security, and its officers are working without pay during the partial federal government shutdown. At Asheville Regional Airport, approximately 96 of those TSA team members are continuing to show up each day to keep air travel safe, without a paycheck.

With the partial government shutdown stretching into a sixth week, the airport launched a support drive asking members of the public to donate gift cards of up to $20. Airport spokesperson Angi Daus said staff initiated the effort to help TSA employees who have been working without pay since last month. TSA officers have worked without pay since Feb. 14.

"We just want to do whatever we can internally to support them," Daus said. "And, in doing so, we have had members of the community reach out to ask how they can support."

Community members who wish to assist are asked to donate gift cards in denominations of $20 or less to grocery stores and gas stations, or pre-paid debit gift cards. The $20 limit is due to federal guidelines. Cards can be dropped off in the airport ticket lobby, at the Guest Services counter in the baggage claim area, or at the Marathon Gas Station just south of the airport. The Marathon station is located at 95 Terminal Drive. All gift cards will be distributed to local TSA employees who need additional support during the shutdown.

In addition to the airport's efforts, MANNA FoodBank is supporting TSA workers in Asheville through a pop-up food bank. "We're grateful to partner with Asheville Regional Airport to support TSA employees and their families who may be experiencing financial strain during the government shutdown," MANNA CEO Claire Neal said in a statement. "Food insecurity can affect anyone, often unexpectedly, and when income is interrupted, the first pressure many households feel is at the grocery store. Our focus is simply on making sure our neighbors in Western North Carolina have access to nutritious food and know they are not facing this moment alone."

While the partial government shutdown continues, AVL and other airports remain open and operational. Passengers should plan to arrive two hours before boarding and check the airport's website and social media for the latest updates.

"The Asheville Regional Airport is very grateful to the dedicated officers that work here," said Daus, who serves as vice president of Air Service Development and Corporate Communications. "We really appreciate everything that they're doing to keep our traveling public safe.