FAA Awards $10,000 Bonuses to Air Traffic Controllers with Perfect Attendance During Government Shutdown

The FAA was already facing a critical shortage of air traffic controllers before the government shutdown began. (File)

Out of more than 10,000 air traffic controllers who worked without compensation during the government shutdown, only 776 will receive the $10,000 bonuses that President Donald Trump had proposed. The Federal Aviation Administration announced Thursday that these bonuses would be restricted to controllers who maintained perfect attendance throughout the shutdown period.

As the shutdown extended beyond a month, many controllers began missing work due to financial hardships. Some sought alternative employment, while others couldn't afford essential expenses like childcare or fuel for their commute. These absences led to widespread flight delays across the country, forcing the government to reduce flights at 40 high-traffic airports.

President Trump suggested these bonuses for those who remained on duty in a social media statement, while also indicating that controllers who missed work should face pay reductions. FAA officials have not publicly disclosed any plans to implement penalties for absent controllers.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that the bonuses recognize the commitment of controllers who attended every shift during the 43-day shutdown period. "These patriotic men and women never missed a beat and kept the flying public safe throughout the shutdown," Duffy remarked.

Before the shutdown, the FAA was already struggling with a significant shortage of air traffic controllers. Duffy had been working to increase controller recruitment and simplify the extensive training requirements, hoping to address the staffing deficit over the coming years.

Duffy reported that during the shutdown, some students and controllers resigned, while more experienced controllers opted for early retirement. Many controllers typically work six-day weeks with 10-hour shifts due to the severe staffing shortages at the FAA.

As controller absences increased, the FAA instructed airlines to reduce flights to alleviate system pressure. Duffy repeatedly expressed that FAA safety experts became concerned as absences grew, citing reports from pilots about controller responses and several runway incursion incidents.

Since the conclusion of the shutdown, controller staffing has significantly improved, allowing airlines to resume normal operations this week.