In the midst of a federal government shutdown, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport has become a beacon of community support. As TSA agents continue to work without pay, local efforts have surged to assist these essential workers, highlighting the power of community in times of need.
Despite the partial government shutdown affecting airports nationwide, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport in Pittston Township has managed to maintain smooth operations. However, the airport’s TSA staff, numbering between 40 to 45 agents, have faced the same financial struggles as their peers at larger airports, having been unpaid since mid-March.
Recognizing the financial strain on the TSA workforce, the airport’s interim executive director, Stephen Mykulyn, noted that local TSA managers reported their staff were “squeezed” and in need of assistance. In response, Dana Monahan, the airport’s marketing and communications director, initiated a public appeal for donations on March 18.
The Community’s Generous Response
The call to action was met with overwhelming generosity from the public, resulting in an abundance of donations including food, home supplies, and gift cards. “Tables were covered,” Mykulyn remarked, reflecting on the substantial support received from the community.
The donations, collected in the airport board meeting room, were made available to TSA agents on March 20. This initiative provided much-needed relief for the agents, who have been without a paycheck for six weeks due to the ongoing shutdown.
Support extended beyond individual contributions. Fidelity Deposit and Discount Bank offered interest-free loans of up to $10,000 to TSA agents, and U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan delivered pizzas as a gesture of solidarity. Despite legislative attempts to resolve the funding impasse, the situation remains uncertain. President Donald Trump’s recent executive order aims to expedite payments, but its impact is yet to be seen.
Words of Gratitude
During a recent board meeting, Mykulyn shared an email from TSA’s Michael Kichline, highlighting the positive impact of the community’s support on staff morale. While some TSA agents declined to comment on the situation, one agent confirmed the donations were indeed helpful.
Leadership Transition at the Airport
Amid the array of donated goods, the airport board appointed Mykulyn as the interim executive director and engaged ADK Consulting & Executive Search to find a permanent replacement for Carl Beardsley Jr., who went on sabbatical in November and will not return. Mykulyn, currently the engineering director, is uncertain if he will pursue the role long-term.
ADK senior consultant Sia Schatz emphasized the firm’s expertise in airport executive recruitment, highlighting their tailored approach to attract qualified candidates. The search is expected to conclude by July, with hopes of appointing a new executive director by then.
Meanwhile, the airport reported a 6.1% decline in February departures compared to the previous year, marking the sixth drop in seven months.
