Florence Regional Airport has taken steps to support its Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and air traffic control workers during the ongoing government shutdown that began on October 1. While some airports have faced temporary closures due to federal employees calling out, Florence Regional Airport has not experienced such disruptions.
“It’s important to stress to the community that without the FAA and the TSA, the airport wouldn’t run,” said Airport Executive Brad Beadles. “We love that they are coming to work and continuing to do their job despite what’s going on.”
To show appreciation for federal employees working through the shutdown, the airport launched a “federal employee appreciation” initiative starting October 15. The program provides free lunches on weekdays for TSA and air traffic control staff. On days when lunch is not provided, gift cards for groceries, gas, or other necessities are distributed instead. According to Beadles, this effort has expanded beyond just the airport community.
Michael Miller, President of the Florence Chamber of Commerce, emphasized how essential these workers are for both passenger travel and commerce in general. “The least (we can do) is show our support for them for what they do and (show) that they’re appreciated in playing a critical role every day,” Miller said. “Bringing them lunch is just one small part we can do during the shutdown to acknowledge what they’re doing and what their services really mean to us.”
