Trump criticizes air traffic controllers during shutdown, threatens replacements, promises $10,000 bonuses for “true Patriots” who continued working.
President Donald Trump on Monday criticized air traffic controllers who took time off during the federal shutdown and warned they could be replaced by “true Patriots.”
“All Air Traffic Controllers must get back to work, NOW!!! Anyone who doesn’t will be substantially ‘docked,’” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “For those Air Traffic Controllers who were GREAT PATRIOTS, and didn’t take ANY TIME OFF… I will be recommending a BONUS of $10,000 per person for distinguished service to our Country.”
The FAA has faced staffing shortages during the shutdown, causing delays at major airports. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy acknowledged the difficulties faced by essential employees working without pay. “We have controllers who… are making decisions to feed their families as opposed to come to towers… and do their jobs,” Duffy said.
Nick Daniels, head of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, urged recognition for the workforce. “Air traffic controllers have continued to show up… they absolutely not only deserve their pay, they deserve to be recognized for what’s going on.”
Trump warned that those who “did nothing but complain” could face negative marks on their records.