Trump Demands Air Traffic Controllers Return to Work
U.S. President Donald Trump is urging air traffic controllers to return to duty as soon as possible, threatening to cut pay for those who refuse to work during the government shutdown when funding is halted.
"All air traffic controllers must return to work immediately!!!" Trump explained.
In this situation, the president is offering financial incentives to those who continue working even during the shutdown. There are even reports of a potential $10,000 bonus for air traffic controllers who do not take leave during this period.
Air Traffic Controllers Without Pay and Staffing Issues at Airports
Currently, air traffic controllers in the U.S. have been working without pay since the start of the government shutdown on October 1. This has led to numerous delays and cancellations due to employees increasingly taking sick leave because of financial issues.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy noted that many air traffic controllers may simply be unable to withstand the lack of paid work, which could lead to flight reductions at major airports due to staff shortages.
Major airports worldwide, such as O'Hare (Chicago), LaGuardia (New York), and Newark Liberty, have recorded a significant number of canceled flights, amounting to no less than 8% of scheduled flights. Snowfall in Chicago has further complicated the situation.
Currently, the U.S. is experiencing a record number of canceled and delayed flights, leading to a serious shortage of air traffic controllers at airports due to the government shutdown. In cities like Orlando and Washington, flight delays are reaching critical levels, creating significant inconveniences for travelers.
The government shutdown in the U.S. has begun to affect the aviation industry, forcing air traffic controllers to work without pay and creating staffing issues at airports, impacting the operations and safety of air travel in the country.