It’s Spring Break in many parts of the country and another week during which TSA employees and some other federal airport workers are going without paychecks due to the ongoing partial government shut down.
The mashup of higher passenger numbers than usual at many airports and security lane closures due to short staffing is causing longer than usual wait times at many airport security lanes.
And lots of headaches for travelers. Even for those with paid memberships in TSA PreCheck, which is designed to expedite the checkpoint experience.
Many airports, including those in Houston, New Orleans and Atlanta are urging travelers to arrive earlier than usual.
That’s always a good idea, but right now it’s especially important. As is actively monitoring any of the social media updates about checkpoint wait times your airport may (or should) be offering.
On their websites, many airports post real-time wait times at the security checkpoints. Check those out. And check to see what’s happening at the checkpoints you may not usually use at your airport. In some cases, you may be better off heading to an alternate entrance.
More airports opening food pantries for unpaid airport workers
Last week we told you about Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), Orlando International Airport (MCO), Portland International Airport (PDX), Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) and other airports setting up food pantries and accepting donations for TSA and other federal employees who must show up for work during the partial government shutdown even though they’re not getting paid.
This week more airports are jumping in to lend a hand.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) has once again opened a pop-up pantry at the airport and is collecting non-perishable food, househood goods and personal hygiene items.
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) has officially reopened the Food & Essentials Pantry it set up during the last shutdown to support federal airport workers missing paychecks.
Donations of high-need items including nonperishable food items, toiletries and hygiene products, baby supplies, household essentials, and pet supplies are being collected at the Airport Control Center.
And Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) has once again partnered with local service ageny, The Children’s Cabinet to deliver resources to impacted federal employees at the airport, including weekly grocery deliveries.
Contributions, whether in-kind or monetary, can be made direction through the Children’s Cabinet. Just mentioned that your donation is for federal airport employees.
We’ll update the list as we learn of more airports stepping up to help out.
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