"Trump Takes Aim at Air Traffic Controllers Amid Shutdown Chaos"

President Trump Criticizes Air Traffic Controllers Who Called Out During Government Shutdown President Trump sparked controversy on Monday by slamming U.S. air traffic controllers who called out of work during the government shutdown, which has left them without pay. According to a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with the controllers, stating that he was "NOT HAPPY" with those who took time off and warning that anyone who doesn't return to work will be "substantially 'docked'." Trump's comments come as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grapples with a shortage of air traffic controllers, which has worsened during the shutdown. Some controllers have taken on second jobs or called in sick due to the lack of pay, exacerbating the staffing crisis. The FAA has been working to mitigate the shortage, but the situation remains precarious. According to NPR News, Trump praised air traffic controllers who continued working without pay, labeling them "GREAT PATRIOTS" and suggesting a $10,000 bonus for their service. This move is seen as an attempt to boost morale among the controllers, who are facing financial hardship due to the shutdown. The government shutdown, which began on December 22, 2018, has left hundreds of thousands of federal employees without pay, including air traffic controllers. The shutdown has also had a significant impact on the nation's air travel system, with some flights delayed or canceled due to staffing shortages. Air traffic controllers are a critical component of the nation's air travel system, responsible for ensuring the safe takeoff and landing of aircraft. According to the FAA, there are approximately 14,000 air traffic controllers in the United States, who work tirelessly to manage air traffic and prevent accidents. The situation has sparked concerns among aviation experts and union representatives, who argue that the shutdown has put air traffic controllers in an impossible situation. "It's unacceptable that air traffic controllers are being forced to work without pay," said a spokesperson for the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, a union that represents air traffic controllers. "We urge the administration to resolve the shutdown and provide fair compensation to our members." The FAA has not commented on Trump's comments or the situation with air traffic controllers. However, the agency has acknowledged the staffing shortage and is working to address it. In the meantime, air travelers can expect continued disruptions to air travel, as the shutdown continues to affect the nation's air travel system. As the shutdown enters its 35th day, it remains unclear when it will be resolved. In the meantime, air traffic controllers will continue to face financial hardship and staffing shortages, which will have a ripple effect on the nation's air travel system.