Table of Contents
- Shutdown Hits Air Traffic Controllers
- What Missed Pay Means for Controllers
- Why They Can’t Just Stop Working
- Historical Context: Past Shutdown Impacts
- Calls for Emergency Funding
- Sources
Shutdown Hits Air Traffic Controllers
As the federal government shutdown enters its second week, air traffic controllers are bracing for their first fully missed paycheck on October 28. Many already received a reduced payment earlier this month because the shutdown began mid-pay period—leaving thousands of essential aviation workers scrambling to cover rent, car payments, and childcare.
Despite being deemed “excepted” employees who must continue working during a shutdown, these air traffic controllers are not guaranteed timely compensation. Their next scheduled payday falls entirely within the shutdown window, meaning no federal funds will be disbursed unless Congress acts swiftly.
What Missed Pay Means for Controllers
For many controllers, the financial strain is immediate. “I’m looking at my bank account wondering if I can afford groceries this week,” said Marcus Lee, a controller at Chicago O’Hare. “We’re keeping planes safe in the sky, but we can’t pay our own bills.”
Unions report that some members have already taken out payday loans or asked relatives for help. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) warns that prolonged financial stress could impact morale—and, eventually, performance—in one of the nation’s most high-stakes professions.
Why They Can’t Just Stop Working
Unlike furloughed federal workers, air traffic controllers are required by law to report to work during a shutdown. Their roles are classified as essential to national safety and security. Walking off the job isn’t an option—doing so could ground flights nationwide and trigger chaos across the aviation system.
“They’re holding the entire U.S. airspace together with no promise of when they’ll get paid,” said Paul Rinaldi, NATCA president. “That’s not just unfair—it’s unsustainable.”
Historical Context: Past Shutdown Impacts
During the 35-day shutdown in 2018–2019—the longest in U.S. history—air traffic controllers missed two full paychecks. The strain led to a spike in sick calls and contributed to a temporary ground stop at LaGuardia Airport due to staffing shortages.
The FAA later acknowledged that the shutdown degraded operational resilience. With over 14,000 controllers managing more than 45,000 daily flights, even small dips in staffing can ripple through the system.
Calls for Emergency Funding
Lawmakers from both parties have introduced emergency legislation to guarantee back pay for essential workers, but broader funding negotiations remain stalled over border policy and defense spending.
“These aren’t bureaucrats—they’re the people who keep your family safe at 35,000 feet,” said Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), a former Army helicopter pilot. “They shouldn’t be held hostage by political gridlock.”
As October 28 approaches, pressure is mounting on Congress to act. For now, air traffic controllers continue their shifts—monitoring radar screens, guiding landings, and ensuring safety—all while wondering when they’ll see their next paycheck.
Sources
Government Shutdown Threatens Pay for Air Traffic Controllers – The New York Times
