BHM launches gift card drive to support TSA agents during shutdown

In the midst of the partial federal government shutdown, the Birmingham Airport Authority has launched a gift card drive to support unpaid Transport Security Administration (TSA) workers. Here’s how you can help.

How you can help TSA workers caught up in the partial government shutdown

As the partial federal government shutdown drags into its 41st day, the Birmingham Airport Authority is taking steps to support the 160 TSA agents working at the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM).

“We’ve heard from so many travelers and community organizations who want to help these workers during this difficult time. We hope the gift card drop-off makes it easy for travelers and members of the community to donate in a way that will really be meaningful to our partners at TSA.”

Kim Hunt, Vice President of Communications, Birmingham Airport Authority (BAA)

Inside the airport, travelers will find a new place to drop off gift cards to help supplement lost wages for the TSA agents, who have been working—unpaid—since January 30.

Here’s what you need to know:

• The gift card drop-off is located inside the terminal, right across from the main entrance to the TSA checkpoint.
• TSA agents are allowed to accept gift cards valued at $20 or less.
• Gift cards must be for gas, grocery stores or restaurant gift cards. Cash or Visa gift cards are not allowed to be accepted.
• The donated cards will be distributed among agents by the TSA.

Is BHM affected by the partial government shutdown?

Planning to fly out of BHM in the coming weeks? Here’s a few things to keep in mind.

• At BHM, lines at the security checkpoint are occasionally longer than normal; however, most travelers through BHM are only experiencing wait times of a few minutes.
• Despite the mostly normal wait times, the TSA recommends travelers arrive two hours before their flight—particularly for early-morning flights between 4AM and 6AM.

Have you flown out of BHM recently? How were your wait times? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know.