How ATC Personnel Could Get Shutdown Pay

President Donald Trump is reportedly exploring ways to compensate essential workers during the government closure.

Jack Daleo

Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 03:04 PM ET

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Jack Daleo

Inside an ATC tower [Courtesy: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

Amid a federal government shutdown, over 13,000 air traffic controllers are working without pay, prompting the Trump administration to seek ways to compensate them and prevent widespread flight disruptions as seen in 2019.
The lack of pay is causing significant stress, leading to longer work hours for ATCs, a rise in sick calls despite official threats, and a substantial increase in flight delays attributed to staffing shortages.
The administration faces challenges in securing the estimated $500 million per month for ATC payroll, exploring options like executive orders (similar to those used for military pay) or legislative measures, both of which encounter complexities and opposition.

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Amid the federal government shutdown, more than 13,000 air traffic controllers (ATCs) continue to manage 35,000 flights per day without a paycheck. The White House reportedly is looking to change that.

Sources within and close to Donald Trump’s administration told Politico that the president is exploring avenues to pay ATCs and other “excepted” personnel while the shutdown continues. Those discussions have also seeped into the FAA, two sources said.