FLETCHER, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Asheville Regional Airport is asking the community to support local Transportation Security Administration officers working without pay during the partial federal government shutdown.
About 96 TSA employees at the airport are continuing to screen travelers despite not receiving paychecks. In response, AVL has launched a community support drive.
Residents can donate gift cards in amounts of $20 or less to grocery stores, gas stations, or prepaid debit cards, in accordance with federal guidelines. Donations can be dropped off at three locations:
- Terminal ticket lobby, before the TSA security checkpoint
- Terminal Guest Services, near baggage claim
- Marathon Gas Station, 95 Terminal Drive, just south of the airport terminal
All contributions will be distributed to TSA officers who need extra support during the shutdown. AVL officials thanked the public for helping the airport’s security team continue its work safely.