TGI Fridays® is once again putting its motto—“where the world goes to celebrate”—into action. The iconic restaurant chain announced a nationwide initiative to offer free meals to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and air traffic control workers affected by the ongoing government shutdown.
Feeding the Workforce That Keeps America Moving
From October 9 through October 23, federal aviation employees can stop by any participating TGI Fridays® location and receive one complimentary meal per day. The offer includes a select menu of fan favorites such as the signature Cheeseburger with fries, Chicken Fingers with fries, Crispy or Grilled Chicken Sandwich with fries, and the Chicken Caesar Salad. The deal applies at more than 80 U.S. locations—including both traditional restaurants and airport venues—except for Atlanta airport, which is running its own local offer for TSA employees.
To redeem the offer, workers simply need to show a valid employee ID. Meals are available all day, every day during the two-week window, while supplies last or until the shutdown ends. At airport locations, meals will be provided to-go to keep service lines moving, while full dine-in service will be available at traditional restaurant locations.
Ray Blanchette on Why Fridays® Stepped Up
Ray Blanchette, CEO of TGI Fridays®, summed up the motivation behind the effort with a straightforward message: appreciation. “TSA and air traffic control workers keep our country moving, and we wanted to do our part to support them,” Blanchette said. “Whether they’re grabbing a meal at one of our airport locations during a shift or sitting down at a neighborhood Fridays® after a long day, we want them to know we appreciate them and we’re here for them.”
That kind of message carries weight during uncertain times. For many federal workers, the shutdown means financial strain and unpredictable schedules. A free meal might not solve every problem, but it’s a meaningful gesture from a national brand acknowledging those who continue showing up for critical work—without interruption.
A Longstanding Culture of Connection
TGI Fridays® has built its reputation around creating a space for people to gather and celebrate life’s moments, both big and small. This new initiative fits neatly into that tradition. By extending hospitality to federal aviation employees, the brand reinforces its commitment to community and connection—a philosophy that has kept the Fridays® name relevant for decades.
Restaurant chains often talk about giving back, but actions like this stand out because they touch the everyday workers who keep society functioning. Whether it’s a TSA agent checking bags at 5 a.m. or a controller managing traffic at 30,000 feet, these professionals keep air travel safe and efficient. Fridays® simply decided that now was the right moment to say “thank you” in the most practical way possible—over a good meal.
Program Details at a Glance
- Dates: October 9 – October 23, 2025
- Who Qualifies: TSA and air traffic control employees with valid ID
- Where: 80+ participating TGI Fridays® locations across the U.S., including airport restaurants
- Menu Options: Cheeseburger with fries, Chicken Fingers with fries, Crispy or Grilled Chicken Sandwich with fries, or Chicken Caesar Salad
- Availability: One free meal per day per employee, dine-in or to-go (airport locations are to-go only)
Small Gestures, Big Impact
While it’s easy to take airport staff for granted, their work is what allows the rest of the country to keep moving. By offering free meals during a tough time, TGI Fridays® makes a simple but powerful statement: those who keep the country running deserve recognition, and sometimes that starts with dinner on the house.
More information about participating locations can be found at www.tgifridays.com.
Final Thoughts
TGI Fridays® didn’t just make an announcement—it made a promise to the people keeping America’s airways open. Amid the frustration of a shutdown, this effort serves as a reminder that even small acts of gratitude can keep morale from hitting the ground. For an industry built on connection, that feels right on brand.