Denver International Airport Working to Support Federal Employees Working Without Pay

DENVER - Nov. 5, 2025 - As the government shutdown has extended to the longest in U.S. history, Denver International Airport (DEN) is seeking ways to lessen the impact on federal employees working at the airport.

Today, DEN submitted a request to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) asking whether airport revenue could be used to fund wage support for the air traffic controllers working at DEN. The FAA Policy and Procedures Concerning the Use of Airport Revenue, published at 64 FR 7696 (February 16, 1999) (the "Policy") outlines appropriate use of airport revenue and DEN has requested a waiver on any prohibition on utilizing airport revenue to support air traffic controllers and other federal employees as they conduct essential airport operations. In asking for a waiver, DEN will also request reimbursement from the federal government for covering wages for the controllers, once the shutdown is over.

"This is a critical time for travel both here at DEN and around the country. Staffing issues are already being identified at a number of airports, impacting travel. As the shutdown drags on, air traffic controllers, in particular, are being stressed unnecessarily," said DEN CEO Phil Washington. "As part of our airport family, it's our hope that we can reduce the hardship on them by covering their wages during the shutdown, with reimbursement by the FAA later. We would love to be able to do more and provide wage support for all the federal workers at DEN, as they are all critical to our operation, but given the number of federal employees, we are only able to support controllers at this time."

DEN has also created a food and essentials pantry for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and other federal employees who continue to work at DEN without pay during the federal government shutdown. While the airport community has been donating items, DEN is also seeking donations from the public to help keep the pantry stocked for the duration of the shutdown.

"DEN's federal employees continue to do all they can to ensure our airport operates efficiently, without getting paid. But as this shutdown continues, just getting to work and covering the everyday expenses of life becomes increasingly challenging for many of the 1,800 federal workers at DEN. As an expression of our gratitude and support, we have set up a pantry and are collecting monetary contributions to help make this difficult time a little more bearable for our federal colleagues. We welcome the public's help in providing additional support," added Washington.

Non-perishable food, toiletries, baby supplies and pet supplies can be dropped off at the Final Approach cell phone lot building along Peña Boulevard (7684 N Wenatchee Street) or at the Information Booth in center of the Terminal/Great Hall, level 5. Monetary donations and merchant gift cards for essential items are also being accepted and can be dropped off at the Airport Office Building, located between the West Security Checkpoint and the A Bridge, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Checks can be made payable to DEN Experience. Or email [email protected] to make other arrangements.

Examples of items being collected:

• Proteins: Canned tuna, beans, etc.
• Grains: Pasta, rice, and cereals
• Produce: Canned fruits and vegetables
• Soups, stews, and chili
• Snacks: Peanut butter, nuts and granola bars
• Baking and cooking essentials
• Specialty items: (e.g., gluten-free, kosher, vegan)
• Toiletries
• Household goods: Cleaning supplies and paper products
• Baby supplies: Formula, baby food and diapers size 3-6
• Pet food and treats

Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world. DEN is the primary economic engine for the state of Colorado, generating more than $47.2 billion for the region annually. For more information visit https://www.FlyDenver.com, check us out on YouTube and Instagram, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. Sign up for DEN's monthly newsletter Nonstop News.

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