President’s Proposal for Air Traffic Controllers
On Monday, President Trump announced his intention to recommend a $10,000 bonus for air traffic controllers who continued to work through the government shutdown. He emphasized that those who did not report for duty would not receive severance pay.
“All air traffic controllers must get back to work, NOW! Anyone who doesn’t will face significant consequences,” Trump stated on Truth Social. He expressed gratitude towards those controllers he deemed ‘great patriots’ and promised the bonus as recognition of their service during what he referred to as the ‘Democrat Shutdown Hoax.’
The president further criticized those who called out sick, stating, “For those that did nothing but complain and took time off, even though everyone knew they would be paid in full shortly into the future, I am not happy with you.” He warned that such absences would negatively impact their records.
Trump added that individuals wishing to leave their positions should do so without expecting any payment or severance. “You will be quickly replaced by true patriots who will do a better job,” he remarked.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported last week a 10% reduction in air traffic across 40 major airports due to staffing shortages caused by the shutdown. The situation worsened as many air traffic controllers called out sick.
On Sunday alone, over 10,000 flights were delayed within or into the U.S., marking one of the most disruptive days since the start of the shutdown. More than 3,200 flights were canceled as well.
Since October 1st, air traffic controllers have been working without pay and have been required to work six days a week with mandatory overtime. This has led to an increase in absences and widespread travel disruptions across the country.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that if the shutdown persists, delays and cancellations could worsen significantly as holiday travel approaches. However, late Sunday night saw Senate Democrats reach an agreement with congressional Republicans and the White House aimed at ending the shutdown. This agreement passed its first hurdle with a vote of 60-40 in favor.
