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Trump Demands Air Traffic Controllers Return Amid Shutdown

11/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump criticized air traffic controllers who called out during the government shutdown and demanded they return to work immediately.
He threatened pay reductions for those who did not comply and proposed a $10,000 bonus for those who continued working without pay.
The 41-day shutdown led to significant flight delays and cancellations due to staffing shortages.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association said no American should work without pay, calling the situation "un-American."
Pete Buttigieg, former U.S. Transportation Secretary, condemned Trump's remarks, highlighting the challenges controllers face.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump criticized air traffic controllers who called out during the government shutdown and demanded they return to work immediately.
He threatened pay reductions for those who did not comply and proposed a $10,000 bonus for those who continued working without pay.
The 41-day shutdown led to significant flight delays and cancellations due to staffing shortages.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association said no American should work without pay, calling the situation "un-American."
Pete Buttigieg, former U.S. Transportation Secretary, condemned Trump's remarks, highlighting the challenges controllers face.