Senator Tammy Duckworth from Illinois is advocating for a $10,000 bonus for all air traffic controllers and FAA technicians. She asks the U.S. Transportation Department to extend this bonus to all employees who worked without compensation during the government shutdown.
Background on the Bonus Proposal
During a recent 44-day government shutdown, only a small fraction of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees were eligible for bonuses. The Transportation Department announced that 776 air traffic controllers and technicians would receive the $10,000 bonus. However, this decision excluded 96% of the FAA’s workforce, raising concerns about fairness and morale.
Senator Duckworth’s Concerns
- Duckworth described the exclusion as “unfair, divisive, and disrespectful” to the 20,000 employees who ensured airspace safety during the shutdown.
- In her letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, she emphasized that many dedicated professionals faced stressful conditions without pay.
- Duckworth also expressed worries about the implications of limiting bonuses, fearing it might encourage unhealthy work practices among controllers.
Union Response
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) expressed concern over the limited distribution of bonuses. They stated that while the hard work of aviation safety professionals deserves acknowledgment, it’s unfair to exclude many from the recognition.
Government and Union Statements
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy defended the decision, asserting that full pay was provided to all controllers during the shutdown. He emphasized the idea of rewarding perfect attendance but faced criticism over the implications of this policy.
The House Transportation Committee ranking Democrats also supported Duckworth’s initiative, calling it wrong not to reward all who worked during the crisis.
Future Implications
The Transportation Department has committed to initiating the bonus payments by December 9. However, the morale among controllers remains at an all-time low, with many advocating for a more inclusive approach to bonuses in future instances.
Senator Duckworth has reiterated her request for a swift expansion of the bonus to ensure that all dedicated air traffic controllers and technicians are recognized for their service during challenging times.
