As the possibility of a government shutdown looms, thousands of air traffic controllers are facing uncertainty about their pay and work schedules. According to the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), controllers will be required to report to work without pay if a shutdown occurs after 12:01 a.m. Saturday.
The last normal paycheck for these controllers is expected to be received on Christmas Eve, adding to the financial strain during the holiday season. NATCA acknowledged the concerns of its members and stated that all paid leave will likely be canceled, with employees on authorized absence being placed on furlough status.
The Department of Transportation's operations plan indicates that nearly 13,000 air traffic controllers will be expected to work during a shutdown. However, hiring and training of new controllers will cease, potentially exacerbating the existing shortage of air traffic controllers.
This shortage could have a significant impact on the nation's control towers and radar facilities, which handle tens of thousands of flights daily. Recent staffing shortages at Newark airport have already affected airlines like United during the Thanksgiving travel period.
Concerns are mounting that a government shutdown will further strain the air traffic control system. Despite no immediate staffing impacts being reported by the FAA as the Christmas travel season begins, the potential consequences of a shutdown on air travel remain a cause for worry.
