The Federal Aviation Administration and US Department of Transportation Announce December Bonuses for Air Traffic Controllers, Update You Need to Know Now

Published on November 24, 2025

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the US Department of Transportation (DOT) have confirmed that hundreds of air traffic controllers (ATCs) and FAA technicians will receive $10,000 bonuses in December as a recognition of their dedication during the government shutdown. The bonuses are being awarded to those who maintained perfect attendance while working without pay during the prolonged shutdown.

Acknowledging Perfect Attendance During the Shutdown

Out of approximately 11,000 air traffic controllers and 6,600 technicians, 776 were recognized for their commitment and flawless attendance during this challenging period. These individuals will be notified next week and payments are expected to be made no later than December 9, 2025.

The shutdown, which left federal workers without pay, created significant operational challenges for the nation’s air traffic control system. Despite the difficult circumstances, air traffic controllers remained at their posts, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the National Airspace System (NAS). The dedication of these employees was commended by FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford, who expressed gratitude for their role in maintaining operations under extraordinary conditions.

Prompt Backpay and Financial Relief for Workers

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy previously emphasized that air traffic controllers would receive approximately 70% of their backpay within two days after the government reopens, with the remaining amount to be paid within one week. These measures were part of the government’s efforts to ensure that those who continued to work during the shutdown would be compensated promptly.

The $10,000 bonus program was initially proposed by President Donald Trump in November 2025. Secretary Duffy strongly supported the idea, referring to it as a brilliant way to recognize the hard work of air traffic personnel. However, the President also suggested that pay should be substantially docked for controllers who took leave during the shutdown. He indicated that those who had not shown up for work could face replacement without pay or severance. The DOT, however, did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding a potential review of controller attendance records during the shutdown.

The Role of Air Traffic Controllers in Previous Shutdowns

Air traffic controllers have historically played a crucial role in ending previous government shutdowns. During the 2018-19 shutdown, for example, an increase in controller sick-outs resulted in the FAA implementing flight restrictions due to staffing shortages, which ultimately led Congress to reopen the government. While controllers are prohibited from engaging in coordinated work actions, including sick-outs, Transportation Secretary Duffy noted that there had been a slight increase in sick leave during the shutdown in October 2025. In response to these challenges, some controllers took on secondary jobs, such as driving for Uber or DoorDash, to make ends meet during the period of uncertainty.

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) president, Nick Daniels, highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by controllers. According to Daniels, approximately 91% of U.S. air traffic control facilities were understaffed, with many controllers being required to work extended hours. About 40% of controllers were reportedly working 10-hour shifts six days a week, contributing to an already strained workforce. The shutdown further exacerbated these pressures, with some controllers unable to afford basic necessities such as gas, food and childcare.

Operational Disruptions and Their Impact on Aviation

FAA officials stated that the government shutdown led to severe operational disruptions, particularly between November 7-9, 2025, which were identified as some of the worst days for staffing shortages. To manage the situation, the FAA had to implement airspace flow programs and less stringent ground stops. These measures were necessary to ensure that air traffic operations remained as stable as possible despite the staffing shortages. On November 10 alone, there were 81 staffing triggers, illustrating the strain faced by the air traffic control system during the shutdown.

The impact of the shutdown was felt across the aviation industry, with more than 6 million travelers reportedly affected by the disruptions. Airlines experienced delays and cancellations, prompting calls for immediate legislative action to prevent future disruptions to the national air transportation system.

Legislative Efforts to Secure Future FAA Funding

Looking ahead, lawmakers and aviation trade groups are emphasizing the importance of securing funding for the FAA and its employees if a government shutdown were to occur again. The current continuing resolution, which temporarily restored appropriations, is set to expire on January 30, 2026. Several pieces of legislation have already been introduced to ensure that air traffic controllers are compensated during any future shutdowns.

One such proposal, introduced in September 2025, aims to tap into the Airports and Airways Trust Fund to continue paying air traffic controllers during future shutdowns. This fund, which supports the national air transportation system, is financed by taxes on passenger tickets, commercial fuel, general aviation gasoline and cargo. Another bill, introduced by senior members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, seeks to utilize the Aviation Insurance Revolving Fund to pay air traffic controllers. This fund, which was initially set up to cover insurance claims for airlines in the Civil Reserve Air Fleet program, could serve as a source of financial stability during future shutdowns.

Representatives supporting these proposals, including Representative Troy Nehls (R-Texas), emphasized that ensuring uninterrupted funding for the FAA and its employees is critical to preventing disruptions like those seen during the most recent shutdown. Aviation industry leaders, including Sharon Pinkerton of Airlines for America, have voiced strong support for these legislative efforts, noting that the aviation system must remain protected to ensure safe and reliable travel for the millions of people who rely on it.