Duffy Doubles Down on Trump’s ATC Bonuses, Vows ‘Action’ for Sick-Outs

Transportation Secretary says president's idea of bonuses for controllers who worked every scheduled shift is ‘brilliant.’

Jack Daleo

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 09:53 AM ET

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Jack Daleo

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy delivers remarks at Chicago O’Hare International Airport. [Courtesy: U.S. Department of Transportation]

Key Takeaways:

Air traffic controllers (ATCs) are promised full compensation quickly after the government reopens, with plans to penalize those who were absent during the shutdown and reward diligent workers.
The shutdown severely exacerbated a pre-existing ATC staffing shortage, leading to widespread flight delays and cancellations, increased safety concerns, and mandatory reductions in air operations.
This crisis has resulted in a surge of ATC retirements and trainee dropouts, posing a significant long-term challenge for the FAA to meet staffing goals and maintain aviation safety, given the extensive training required for new controllers.

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U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said that air traffic controllers (ATCs)—thousands of whom have been working without pay during the federal government shutdown—will soon be compensated in full.

Speaking at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (KORD) on Tuesday, Duffy said ATCs will receive about 70 percent of their pay within one to two days of the government reopening, with the rest coming within one week. The Senate on Monday passed a bill that would restore federal appropriations, sending it to a House vote on Tuesday.