Bipartisan Bill Aims to Protect Air Traffic Controllers During Shutdowns

Wed Nov 19 2025 04:43:09 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A new proposal in Congress seeks to ensure air traffic controllers are paid during government shutdowns, utilizing an unused flight insurance fund for support.

Following a recent government shutdown that disrupted flights, congressional leaders from both parties have introduced a bipartisan bill to secure pay for air traffic controllers during future shutdowns. The legislation proposes using a little-known insurance fund with $2.6 billion to cover salaries, making it a financially attractive solution. This move aims to enhance aviation safety and prevent flight disruptions due to staffing shortages in critical air traffic operations. However, concerns remain over the bill's approval ahead of the next funding deadline.

In a rare bipartisan effort, both Democrats and Republicans in Congress have introduced a bill that would ensure air traffic controllers receive pay during future government shutdowns. The legislation suggests using a $2.6 billion insurance fund established post-9/11, which could provide the necessary funds without significant new costs.

During the recent 43-day government shutdown, air traffic controllers were among many federal workers left unpaid, creating vulnerabilities in the aviation system. Rep. Sam Graves, a sponsor of the bill and chairman of the House Transportation Committee, emphasized that this measure would safeguard the traveling public and maintain operational safety.

As lawmakers aim to move forward with this proposal, uncertainty remains regarding its timeline, especially with another funding deadline approaching at the end of January. While some similar bills have been proposed in the past, none have yet succeeded in providing a lasting solution for essential aviation workers during budgetary conflicts.