NEW YORK - More than 70 staffers from the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey are flying out Friday to assist relief operations in storm-ravaged Puerto Rico.
The agency is sending staff from its Aviation Department to help their counterparts at San Juan International Airport and other airfields resume full flight operations.
They will also be on the ground to help re-establish shipping commerce and security initiatives.
Meantime, President Donald Trump is defending his administration's work in Puerto Rico, even as storm victims say they are not getting the help they need.
Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rossello just stated: "The Administration and the President, every time we've spoken, they've delivered......
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 29, 2017
...The fact is that Puerto Rico has been destroyed by two hurricanes. Big decisions will have to be made as to the cost of its rebuilding!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 29, 2017
On Twitter Thursday, the president said "FEMA & First Responders are doing a GREAT job in Puerto Rico".
He went on to mention his upcoming visit to the island next Tuesday, and says "Wish press would treat fairly!"
But on the ground in Puerto Rico, many are still desperate for food, water, power, and medical supplies more than a week after Hurricane Maria struck the island.
The situation is particularly dire in rural areas outside the capital city of San Juan.
Storm response efforts are being hampered by logistical problems.
A lack of distribution support is leaving tons of relief supplies sitting on the docks, instead of reaching those in need.
A man charged with managing shipping containers says disorganization has led to more suffering.
At a news conference Thursday, House Democrats accused the Trump administration of dragging its feet in it's response to Puerto Rico.
They're demanding Congress pass a substantial aid package by next week.