UPDATE: Less than 10% of air traffic controllers are receiving the promised $10,000 bonus for working through the recent government shutdown. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) reports that only 311 of over 10,000 eligible members will benefit from this payout, raising significant concerns among union officials and lawmakers.
The bonus was initially promised by former President Donald Trump, who urged air traffic controllers to “get back to work” on November 10. Trump emphasized the importance of their role during the shutdown, stating on Truth Social, “All Air Traffic Controllers must get back to work, NOW!!! Anyone who doesn’t will be substantially ‘docked.’” He also criticized those who took time off despite knowing they would eventually be compensated.
The NATCA has expressed disappointment over the low number of bonus recipients. “We are concerned that thousands of air traffic controllers who consistently reported for duty during the shutdown, ensuring the safe transport of passengers and cargo across the nation, while working without pay and uncertain of when they would receive compensation, were excluded from this recognition,” the union stated. They highlighted that these dedicated professionals were crucial in maintaining operations during a challenging period.
Democratic Representative Rick Larsen joined the criticism, questioning why other essential airport staff were not included in the bonus distribution. “For the Trump administration to not give a bonus to every single one of these hardworking women and men is wrong; they all deserve a bonus and back pay,” Larsen asserted.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed in a post to X that the bonus would be awarded only to air traffic controllers with “perfect attendance.” He praised their commitment, stating, “These patriotic men and women never missed a beat and kept the flying public safe throughout the shutdown.”
The urgency of this situation is heightened by the broader implications for air travel safety and the morale of essential workers. As the air traffic control workforce continues to grapple with the aftermath of the shutdown, the NATCA’s concerns signal a need for reevaluation of compensation practices for all aviation staff.
Moving forward, the NATCA plans to advocate for a comprehensive review of bonus eligibility criteria. They aim to ensure that every employee who contributed to the nation’s air travel safety during the tumultuous period is recognized and rewarded appropriately.
As more developments unfold, attention will remain focused on how the administration addresses the concerns raised by air traffic controllers and other airport personnel, potentially influencing future policies regarding worker compensation during crises.
