President Donald Trump has called for a prompt return of air traffic controllers to their posts amid continuing disruptions at major U.S. airports due to flight cancellations linked to a government shutdown that is now the longest in the nation’s history. The invocation of this demand comes as travelers faced turbulence in their travel plans with nearly 2,000 flights cancelled on Monday alone.
In a show of determination, Trump announced that controllers who have not taken leave during the ongoing 41-day shutdown would be rewarded with a $10,000 bonus, while threatening to dock the pay of anyone who failed to report for duty. His emphatic message on social media directed controllers to “REPORT TO WORK IMMEDIATELY.”
The government shutdown has left 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents working without pay, prompting many to take on additional jobs or miss work for personal reasons. The FAA recently reported an alarming absence rate, with between 20% to 40% of controllers not on duty at major airports on any given day.
The dire situation continues to escalate, with more than 5,800 flights delayed on Monday and reports indicating that disruptions could worsen as the FAA has ordered flight reductions of up to 10%. A severe winter storm in Chicago has further hampered air travel.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that staffing shortages at control centers had reached a peak, compounding flight delays. As controllers experienced heightened stress levels and financial strain due to the lack of pay, their president, Nick Daniels of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, emphasized the importance of solidarity during these challenging times, stating their continued commitment to ensuring safety in the skies.
Critics of Trump’s assertions have pointed out potential legal quandaries regarding his threats to dock controller pay, as their compensation is typically governed by union contracts. Likewise, industry leaders voiced concerns about the implications that the shutdown could have on travel safety and efficiency.
The value of dedicated federal employees, particularly air traffic controllers, remains evident as they navigate these staffing challenges. The hope is that as budget discussions continue, the federal government will find solutions to restore normal operations and support the vital workforce in aviation, ultimately fostering renewed confidence among travelers.