Trump asked air traffic controllers to return to work, threatening penalties for absences, in the context of a budget impasse.

President Trump issued an ultimatum to air traffic controllers, demanding that they return to work immediately, emphasizing that those who do not comply will be substantially penalized. This situation was generated by the cancellation of flights due to the budget impasse, which led to the absence of many unpaid controllers. Trump promised rewards for those who continued to work during the 41 days of the shutdown and stated that he would welcome the resignations of those who did not show up for work. Additionally, staffing issues worsened, with up to 40% of controllers absent from work at the largest 30 airports. Following these absences, airlines canceled over 1,600 flights and recorded thousands of delays, and the situation could continue to deteriorate.