Trump Proposes $10K Bonus for Air Traffic Controllers Amid Shutdown
In a recent announcement, President Donald Trump proposed a $10,000 bonus for air traffic controllers who continued to work during the ongoing government shutdown. The President commended these employees as “great patriots” for their dedication to maintaining safety and operations in the nation’s airspace during a period of uncertainty.
During a press briefing, Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with those who chose to take time off amid the shutdown, warning that they would face significant financial penalties. “Those who have not shown up for work will be substantially docked,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of commitment to duty in critical roles such as air traffic control.
Trump’s remarks come as the government remains partially closed due to a standoff between the White House and congressional Democrats over budgetary issues. The President urged all air traffic controllers to return to their posts immediately, reinforcing the need for a fully operational aviation system during this challenging time.
In addition to addressing the workforce, Trump highlighted advancements in the nation’s aviation technology, referring to the new state-of-the-art systems that are being implemented. “We have some of the best aviation systems in the world, and it is crucial that we maintain their functionality,” he remarked. “God bless America!”
The proposed bonus for air traffic controllers is part of a broader strategy to incentivize essential workers to remain on the job during the shutdown. The President’s comments reflect a focus on ensuring that critical infrastructure continues to operate smoothly, despite the political impasse affecting federal funding.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how Congress will respond to the ongoing shutdown and whether negotiations will lead to a resolution that addresses the concerns of both federal employees and the administration.