Amid the record government shutdown, over 10,000 air traffic controllers worked without compensation, yet only 776 are set to receive the proposed $10,000 bonus from President Donald Trump. This bonus is limited to those who achieved perfect attendance during this period.
As the shutdown continued for more than a month, many controllers felt immense financial strain and began leaving their jobs. While some managed to find extra work, others faced challenges with childcare and transportation expenses.
The absence of many controllers resulted in operational delays at airports nationwide, leading the government to reduce flight schedules at 40 major locations.
In a social media post, Trump suggested bonuses for those who remained on duty but also hinted that those who missed shifts should see their pay cut.
Officials from the Federal Aviation Administration have yet to disclose any disciplinary actions concerning the controllers. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy highlighted that the bonuses are meant to acknowledge the commitment of those who didn’t miss a day throughout the 43-day shutdown.
Duffy stated, “These dedicated individuals worked hard to ensure the safety of the flying public.” However, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association indicated that only 311 of its members would receive the bonus, implying some funds would go to administrators instead.
The union expressed that while those with perfect attendance deserve acknowledgment, the contributions of all controllers should not be overlooked. They conveyed concern about excluding thousands of professionals who ensured safe travel during the shutdown while working without pay, stating, “More than 311 of these dedicated professionals helped move America forward.”
Democratic Rep. Rick Larsen criticized the decision, questioning why additional bonuses weren’t granted to all controllers who worked diligently during the shutdown. He remarked, “The Trump administration is mistaken not to reward all the dedicated workers. They all deserve bonuses and back pay.”
The air traffic controllers’ union aims to collaborate with Duffy to find a way to extend recognition to all controllers who worked through the shutdown.
Recently, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that TSA employees going above and beyond while unpaid would receive similar bonuses, although she didn’t clarify how many would qualify beyond those recognized at a press event.
Even prior to the shutdown, the FAA was already grappling with a significant shortage of controllers. Duffy has been focused on hiring more personnel and simplifying training processes in hopes of addressing this shortfall in the coming years.
Since the shutdown, some controllers have resigned, while experienced staff have retired. The FAA’s staffing issues have resulted in controllers frequently working 10-hour shifts for six days a week.
As the situation continues to evolve, airlines have been ordered to reduce flight schedules further due to the increasing number of absent controllers, which has raised safety concerns in the cockpit.
Following the end of the shutdown, controller staffing has improved, allowing airlines to gradually resume normal operations.
