- Threat of Firings: Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has warned that air traffic controllers calling in sick during the government shutdown may be fired, despite a national shortage of controllers.
- Widespread Air Traffic Disruptions: A small percentage of controller absences has led to significant flight delays at various airports, including major hubs and smaller facilities.
- Union’s Stance: The NATCA union urges members to continue working, stating that coordinated sick-outs are illegal and harmful to their professional standing and advocacy.
- Financial Hardship and Political Pressure: Controllers face significant financial stress due to unpaid work, a situation that is increasing pressure on Congress to end the government shutdown.
The U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has issued a warning that air traffic controllers who call in sick during the ongoing federal government shutdown risk termination. Despite a recognized shortage of controllers, Duffy stated that a small fraction of workers not reporting for duty is causing significant disruptions to national air traffic, a situation he deems unacceptable.
Duffy acknowledged the controllers’ frustrations regarding unpaid work during the shutdown. However, he emphasized that over 90 percent of controllers continue to report. He attributed more than half of recent airport delays, particularly at smaller hubs like Burbank and Nashville, as well as major airports including Chicago and Newark, to these no-shows. The Department of Transportation reiterated that “consequences are inevitable” for those who purposefully disrupt operations.
The National Association of Air Traffic Controllers (NATCA), the controllers’ union, has also urged its members to continue working, condemning any coordinated actions that disrupt the national airspace system as illegal and damaging to their advocacy efforts. Union officials, including Executive Vice President Mick Devine, stressed the importance of maintaining professional conduct.
Both Secretary Duffy and NATCA President Nick Daniels recognized the financial strain on controllers, who are working without paychecks. Daniels highlighted concerns about controllers potentially needing to seek second jobs to cover expenses, warning of potential burnout and the long-term impact on their well-being if the shutdown persists. Duffy, however, suggested that current absences might be acts of frustration.
The ongoing flight disruptions caused by controller absences could intensify pressure on Congress to resolve the government shutdown. Previous shutdowns, such as in 2019, saw similar situations leading to legislative action. Nevertheless, there are currently few indications of an imminent resolution between Democrats and Republicans.