TSA workers at Logan Airport receive $10K bonuses after government shutdown

Nearly 300 TSA workers at Boston's Logan Airport are receiving $10,000 bonuses from the Department of Homeland Security for perfect attendance during the government shutdown. The bonuses, paid from Fiscal Year 2025 carryover funds, recognize the dedication of TSA officers who continued to work without pay during the 43-day shutdown, the longest in US history. The DHS cited the exemplary service of these workers in maintaining airport operations and security during a period of economic uncertainty.

The announcement coincides with the FAA's lifting of all restrictions on commercial flights at 40 major US airports, including Logan, which were implemented due to staffing shortages at air traffic control facilities during the shutdown. Airlines are resuming normal flight schedules, although Massport, which operates Logan Airport, anticipates potential brief delays as airlines readjust their crews and aircraft schedules. Windy conditions are also expected to contribute to potential delays as the airport returns to full capacity.

Massport reopened Runway 27 on Friday and expressed confidence in managing upcoming Thanksgiving holiday travel without major disruptions. The bonuses and the restoration of normal flight operations signal a return to stability for Logan Airport after the challenges posed by the government shutdown. The situation highlights the critical role of TSA personnel in maintaining smooth airport operations and the broader impact of government shutdowns on the aviation industry.

The FAA enacted restrictions on November 7, initially cutting flights by 4% and later by 6%, before rolling them back to 3% after the government reopened. The complete removal of these restrictions allows airlines to fully restore their schedules and accommodate passenger demand, particularly as the holiday travel season approaches. The events at Logan Airport serve as a microcosm of the broader challenges and recovery efforts experienced across the US aviation system during and after the shutdown.

The DHS did not provide specific reasons for selecting Logan Airport for these bonuses or indicate whether similar bonuses will be issued at other airports. The focus on Logan underscores the airport's significance as a major transportation hub and the importance of maintaining its operational efficiency.