On November 10, US President Donald Trump wrote on his Truth Social page that air traffic controllers who did not show up for work during the period of delayed salary payments should expect a "serious pay cut." He emphasized that "all air traffic controllers must return to work immediately."
Trump also referred to those continuing to work as "great patriots" and proposed that they be rewarded with a $10,000 bonus.
Due to the government shutdown in the US, which has lasted for more than 40 days, many controllers have not received their salaries for over two months. As a result, sick leave and resignations have increased.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered a reduction in the number of daily flights at 40 major airports across the country. This figure is expected to increase by up to 10 percent in the coming days.
Addressing those considering resigning, Trump advised them to do so "without hesitation, without any compensation," and said they would be replaced by "true patriots."
