In a significant development for air travel operations, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced that air traffic controllers will receive 70 percent of their owed salaries within 48 hours of the government reopening. This announcement comes as the longest government shutdown in US history continues to cripple aviation operations across the country.
Immediate Payment Priority for Critical Staff
Secretary Duffy emphasized that ensuring timely payment to air traffic controllers remains his top priority to restore full airspace operations. "This is a TOP priority for me so we can get our airspace back to 100 percent," Duffy stated in a social media post on platform X.
The staffing situation reached critical levels over the weekend, with the number of air traffic control centers experiencing staff shortages climbing to 81 on Saturday. This represents the highest shortage level since the government shutdown began on October 1, according to Sunday statements from the Transportation Secretary.
Massive Flight Cancellations and Operational Impact
The aviation sector has been severely impacted by the combination of weather conditions and air traffic control staffing shortages. Airlines have cancelled more than 7,500 flights since Friday, as reported by ABC News. Meanwhile, Associated Press data indicates even higher numbers, with over 9,000 flight cancellations across the United States.
These disruptions followed the Federal Aviation Administration's decision to mandate flight reductions last week. The measure aimed to ease pressure on understaffed control towers during the federal government shutdown, which has now entered its 41st day.
Recovery Timeline and Ongoing Concerns
While the government appears poised to reopen in the coming days, aviation experts warn that normal operations won't resume immediately. Even after the Department of Transportation lifts its 10 percent flight reduction mandate, airlines will require several days to recalibrate their networks and restore regular schedules.
Secretary Duffy issued a stark warning about potential further disruptions if the House fails to vote on reopening the government. "If the government doesn't open, it is going to radically slow down," Duffy told ABC News. He expressed hope that lawmakers would vote to end the shutdown, noting "they're in a good mood to come in and vote to open the government."
Payment Details and Political Developments
According to ABC News reports, air traffic controllers will receive their remaining 30 percent pay within one week after the government reopens. The payment structure aims to provide immediate financial relief to essential aviation personnel who have worked without pay during the shutdown.
In related developments, President Donald Trump threatened to curtail pay for controllers who didn't report to work during the shutdown, while promising $10,000 bonuses to those who continued working without taking time off. However, officials questioned the legality of such measures under existing union contracts.
The aviation crisis highlights the broader economic impact of the prolonged government shutdown, with the transportation sector bearing significant operational and financial burdens that will take time to resolve even after government operations resume.
