Overview
- FAA officials said only 776 of more than 10,000 air traffic controllers qualify for the payment based on perfect attendance during the shutdown.
- Unpaid work led many controllers to miss shifts, causing delays and flight reductions at about 40 busy airports.
- President Trump proposed the bonuses for those who stayed on duty and also suggested docking pay for absences, though the FAA has not announced penalties.
- Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy framed the checks as recognition of dedication, while Rep. Rick Larsen called for broader bonuses or retroactive pay.
- Controller availability has improved since the shutdown ended and airlines have returned to normal schedules, but staffing and retention challenges persist.