TSA workers at COS Airport keep operations smooth during payless shutdown

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- As spring break travel reaches its peak, airports across the country are struggling to keep up. The partial government shutdown has left TSA workers without pay for over a month, with many calling out sick. That's not the case at the Colorado Springs Airport (COS), where TSA wait times range from 4-12 minutes.

"I came through O'Hare and it's long lines over there," said Bakary Kanyi, who was set to fly out of Colorado Springs. "So, it's pretty good to come here and not having to be in line for an hour or two."

Another traveler, Heidi Mignonne said it's easy to get in and out of COS. "I have heard people say I don't wanna fly because I've heard stuff with TSA. And I'm like, well I haven't had problems."

One reason COS has remained efficient is the presence of TSA. Workers have continues to show up despite the partial government shutdown, which has left them without pay for a month.

"They come to work every day. We have not seen any significant call outs since the un-funding of staffing started, Director of Aviation Alex Kovacs said. "Our expectation on a regular basis is under 15 minutes for you to go through the check-point."

There's been an outpouring of support from the community to TSA staff. "Visit COS" handed out a pair of gift cards to more than a hundred TSA employees to help pay for food and gas.

"We know that there are long lines in Denver, and we know there's long lines in Chicago; (and) in other big cities," Visit COS President and CEO Doug Price said. "For us, all we can really do is take care of those closest to us. And those 107 TSA employees over there really deserve our thanks."

If you would like to donate food or gift cards to TSA employees, you can set that up by sending an email to: Janell.feria@coloradosprings.gov.