The following statement is attributable to A4A President and CEO Chris Sununu:

“Today, tens of thousands of TSA employees are receiving empty paychecks. Zero dollars. Two weeks ago, these same TSA employees received partial paychecks. Last fall, they had to survive 43 days without pay.

“This failure of government to simply pay federal aviation employees is wrong. It is unfair. And it is a disgrace that Congress cannot reach an agreement or act on viable bipartisan solutions that have already been introduced.

“TSA employees have to put food on the table, put gas in their cars and pay their rent. Media reports include stories of TSA workers quitting their jobs in order to find something that does pay them in real time. One large airport has issued a public plea asking travelers to donate grocery store gift cards.

“During this spring travel season, we want to remind travelers that TSA officers are showing up for work, keeping our skies secure and doing their patriotic duty. Let’s all make it a priority to pack our patience and thank them for doing their jobs!”