In a Truth Social post, President Trump ordered US air traffic controllers to 'get back to work, NOW!!!' and proposed $10,000 bonuses for those who remained on duty during the ongoing government shutdown. The FAA is grappling with significant staffing shortages and mounting flight disruptions at major airports across the United States.
Sydney Kingsfordsmith International Airport experienced significant disruptions on January 15, 2026, due to air traffic controller staff shortages. At least 30 Qantas and Jetstar flights were cancelled or delayed, with Airservices Australia attributing the issue to last-minute staff absences.
The FAA is facing an audit by the Department of Transportation's Office of Inspector General, which aims to examine the effectiveness of air traffic controller training programs. The review comes as the FAA tries to reverse a long-running shortage of certified controllers, with retirements, training washouts, and staffing disruptions continuing to hinder efforts.