Archive · 21 Nov 2025
Only Perfectly Attendance Air Traffic Controllers Get Shutdown Bonus
During the US government shutdown, some air traffic controllers had to work without pay.
President Trump promised bonuses to those who didn't miss any shifts.
However, many controllers had to call out due to financial struggles, causing delays and flight cuts.
Now that the shutdown is over, controller staffing has improved, and flights are back to normal.
Only 776 air traffic controllers with perfect attendance during the US shutdown will receive $10,000 bonuses.
Controllers started calling out due to financial pressure, causing delays and flight cuts at busy airports.
President Trump suggested bonuses for those who stayed and pay docking for those who missed work.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy praised controllers' dedication and acknowledged staffing shortages.
Since the shutdown ended, controller staffing has improved, and airlines resumed normal operations.
- Who
- Air traffic controllers
- What
- Received $10,000 bonuses for perfect attendance during the US government shutdown
- When
- During the 43-day shutdown and after
- Where
- US airports
- Why
- To acknowledge their dedication and keep the flying public safe
Controllers' Union
FAA/Transportation Department
Pay docking for missed shifts
Controllers' Union
Opposes docking pay for controllers who missed shifts due to financial hardship
FAA/Transportation Department
Has not publicly announced plans to penalize controllers
- Total controllers
- Over 10,000
- Controllers receiving bonuses
- 776
- Shutdown duration
- 43 days
- Airports affected by flight cuts
- 40 busy airports
- FAA staffing status
- Critically short on air traffic controllers