NEW YORK, NEW YORK — About 1,500 contracted workers the New York City area's three major airport received layoff notices as the novel coronavirus altered everyday life and travel for Americans.

Those workers helped clean airplanes at JFK, LaGuardia and Newark airports, handled baggage and came face-to-face with travelers from around the world, according to the labor union 32BJ SEIU.

"They are the most at risk in the face of this global pandemic, and they are the least who can afford to lose wages and benefits during this time of crisis," Kyle Bragg, president of 32BJ SEIU, said in a release.