BWI airport minimum wage will rise to $18 an hour for workers directly employed through Maryland Aviation Administration contracts. Gov. Wes Moore announced the increase on Labor Day, September 7, 2026, as the Baltimore Chronicle notes.
The measure applies to direct MAA contract workers at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. The Maryland governor’s office confirmed the change Monday.
Moore also plans emergency legislation when Maryland lawmakers return in 2027. That proposal could extend higher wages to workers employed through indirect airport contractors.
BWI workers will receive at least $18 an hour
The new BWI airport pay rate covers employees working under direct Maryland Aviation Administration contracts.
Moore said airport employers need higher wages, annual increases and paid leave. He also called for health and welfare benefits supporting employer-paid insurance.
The administration argues that better compensation could help BWI retain experienced airport staff.
The main changes announced are:
- Direct MAA contract workers will receive at least $18 per hour.
- Moore plans emergency legislation for the 2027 legislative session.
- Future rules could cover indirect contract workers.
- Proposed reforms would also address paid leave and health benefits.
The immediate wage increase does not automatically cover every contract worker at BWI. That distinction is central to the governor’s next legislative proposal.
Secure Maryland Wage Act left hundreds of workers outside coverage
Maryland enacted the Secure Maryland Wage Act in 2021. The law established wage and benefit requirements for certain workers at BWI and Baltimore Penn Station.
However, several categories remained outside its coverage. The governor’s office estimates that roughly 700 to 800 BWI workers were excluded.
The current framework can be summarized this way:
| Worker group | Current position |
|---|---|
| Direct MAA contract workers | Minimum wage rises to $18 |
| Some indirect contract workers | Not included in the new increase |
| Potential expanded group | Could be covered after 2027 legislation |
Maryland law currently contains specific definitions and exemptions for covered airport employees. The General Assembly statute excludes several types of businesses.
That is why legislation will be required for broader coverage. The next dispute will center on which airport employers must comply.
Union backs higher wages and benefits at BWI
32BJ SEIU President Manny Pastreich welcomed Moore’s decision.
He said fair wages, health insurance and paid leave are essential for workers who clean planes and secure terminals. Airport employees also assist passengers across BWI.
Pastreich argued that stronger compensation could improve employee retention. Experienced workers, he said, are also important for airport safety.
The announcement therefore goes beyond a single hourly wage change. It sets up a broader labor policy fight in Annapolis during the 2027 legislative session.
Earlier we wrote that Justice Department challenges Maryland military vehicle fees under SCRA