U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford have announced a $10,000 award for 776 air traffic controllers and technicians. The recipients are being recognized for their work in keeping the National Airspace System operational during a recent 44-day government shutdown.
The announcement comes after President Donald Trump directed that air traffic personnel who maintained operations throughout the shutdown should be honored. The employees receiving the award worked without interruption, despite not receiving pay due to repeated congressional votes against funding.
“These patriotic men and women never missed a beat and kept the flying public safe throughout the shutdown,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “Democrats may not care about their financial well-being, but President Trump does. This award is an acknowledgement of their dedication and a heartfelt appreciation for going above and beyond in service to the nation.”
“I am profoundly proud and grateful for the air traffic personnel who worked during extraordinary operational challenges to keep the NAS running safely during the longest government shutdown,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “Their dedication represents the highest levels of public service.”
According to officials, only those employees with perfect attendance during the shutdown will receive this payment. Notifications will be sent out automatically starting November 24, with payments expected by December 9.
