UPDATE: President Donald Trump has just announced a controversial proposal to offer a $10,000 bonus to air traffic controllers who did not call in sick during the ongoing government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2025. In a stark message posted on Truth Social, Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with controllers who took time off, stating he is “NOT HAPPY” with their actions.
The president’s remarks come as air traffic controllers, like many federal workers, have been working without pay for weeks. Many have opted to call in sick due to the financial strain, leading to significant delays and cancellations across U.S. airports. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy reported that there were 81 staffing triggers nationwide on Saturday, with between 18 and 22 controllers in Atlanta absent from work, exacerbating travel disruptions as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches.
In his post, Trump praised those who remained on the job as “GREAT PATRIOTS” and suggested that air traffic controllers who took sick leave would face a negative mark on their records. He emphasized that any controllers who fail to return to work immediately could face significant pay deductions, stating, “If you want to leave service in the near future, please do not hesitate to do so, with NO payment or severance of any kind!”
The situation has sparked outrage and concern, with House Speaker Mike Johnson expressing sympathy for the controllers who are struggling to support their families while working without pay. “It’s a very stressful job, and even more stressful exponentially when they’re having trouble providing for their families,” Johnson said during a press conference earlier today.
As flight delays continue to mount, the impact of the shutdown on air travel is becoming increasingly evident. Many travelers are facing uncertainty and frustration as thousands of flights have been affected, with disruptions worsening since the government implemented a 10% reduction in flights across 40 major U.S. airports.
The situation remains fluid, with air traffic controllers urging for solutions to address their pay and working conditions. As the holiday season approaches, the pressures on both employees and travelers are set to intensify.
Readers are encouraged to stay updated on this developing story as tensions rise between federal workers and the administration amid ongoing negotiations regarding the government shutdown.
