FAA bonuses to air traffic controllers with perfect attendance during shutdown leave thousands out

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded $10,000 bonuses to only 776 of its more than 10,000 air traffic controllers who worked without pay during a record government shutdown. This selective bonus program, which required perfect attendance throughout the 43-day shutdown, left thousands of dedicated controllers unrewarded, sparking debate over fairness and the recognition of essential civil aviation personnel.

During the prolonged shutdown, many US air traffic controllers faced severe financial pressure, leading some to miss work due to inability to afford childcare, gas, or to seek side jobs. These absences directly impacted commercial aviation operations, forcing widespread flight delays at airports across the United States and prompting the US government to mandate flight reductions at 40 busy air hubs. The FAA's safety experts expressed growing concern as controller absences increased, citing reports from pilots regarding controller response times and a rise in runway incursions.

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy defended the bonuses, stating they acknowledged the unwavering dedication of controllers who maintained safety throughout the shutdown. However, Democratic Representative Rick Larsen, a ranking member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure committee, criticized the administration's decision, arguing that all controllers who worked during the shutdown deserved recognition and bonuses.

The incident highlighted pre-existing staffing challenges within the FAA's air traffic control system. Even before the shutdown, the agency faced a critical shortage of controllers, with many already working demanding 10-hour shifts, six days a week. The shutdown further exacerbated these issues, with some students and experienced controllers reportedly quitting or retiring. While staffing has improved and US airlines resumed normal operations post-shutdown, the episode underscores the fragility of the air traffic control system and the critical need for robust staffing and support for its workforce.