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 slated to receive full back pay shortly after the government reopens, though there are differing views on the exact timeline for full compensation.
The government shutdown led to severe ATC staffing shortages, causing widespread flight delays and cancellations, with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy vowing to address no-shows and reward dedicated controllers.
The shutdown exacerbated a pre-existing critical shortage of over 3,000 ATCs, leading to an increase in retirements and trainee attrition, posing a significant long-term challenge to staffing and operations.
The FAA prioritized safety above convenience, implementing reduced operations at major airports due to increased system stress and reported safety concerns like runway incursions and loss of separation.

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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.