UPDATE: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has just announced that only 776 air traffic controllers will receive the $10,000 bonuses promised during the government shutdown. This decision affects more than 10,000 controllers who worked without pay, leaving many feeling the financial strain of the shutdown.
The FAA confirmed this development on Thursday, revealing that only those with perfect attendance during the shutdown will be eligible for the bonuses. Many controllers were unable to maintain perfect attendance due to the significant financial pressures they faced, including the inability to afford childcare or transportation costs.
Air traffic controllers across the country reported that they had to call out of work, leading to significant delays at 40 busy airports. This disruption forced the government to cut flights, exacerbating travel challenges for countless passengers during the peak season.
The announcement follows remarks from President Donald Trump, who previously suggested that all affected controllers would receive the bonuses. However, the FAA’s decision to limit the bonuses to those with perfect attendance has sparked outrage and disappointment among many controllers who felt they were left in a difficult position.
As authorities continue to assess the impact of the shutdown on air travel, the focus shifts to what happens next. Will the FAA reconsider its stance? And how will this affect the morale of air traffic controllers moving forward?
This urgent update highlights the ongoing struggles faced by those who keep our skies safe. Share this article to spread awareness about the challenges air traffic controllers are facing in the wake of the shutdown.
