The FAA is awarding $10,000 bonuses to 776 air traffic controllers who demonstrated perfect attendance during a recent government shutdown. This bonus program, initiated by President Trump, is intended to recognize the dedication of those who worked without pay for 43 days.
Many controllers faced financial hardships during the shutdown, leading some to call out of work due to inability to afford childcare or transportation, or by taking on second jobs. These absences resulted in flight delays and cancellations at numerous airports.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated the bonuses acknowledge the commitment of controllers who maintained perfect attendance. However, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association union expressed concern that thousands of other controllers who consistently reported for duty and ensured flight safety while working without pay were excluded from this recognition.
The union noted that only 311 of its members qualified for the bonuses, suggesting some may be going to managers. Democratic Representative Rick Larsen also criticized the administration's decision to exclude controllers who worked through the shutdown, asserting that all of them deserve a bonus and back pay.
The union hopes to collaborate with the Transportation Department to find alternative ways to acknowledge the contributions of all air traffic controllers who worked during the shutdown. The FAA was already facing a shortage of air traffic controllers prior to the shutdown, a situation exacerbated by some staff quitting and experienced controllers retiring during the unpaid work period.
The increased pressure on the remaining staff, coupled with safety concerns arising from controller absences, prompted flight reductions. With the end of the shutdown, controller staffing has improved, and normal flight operations have resumed.
