Read, Watch or Listen

The government shutdown delivered $0 paychecks to some FAA employees, forcing essential workers to keep the skies safe while families keep heat off, burn firewood, and tighten belts. Radar technician Cleverson Schmidt in Washington, DC, continues certifying aircraft systems without pay, juggling creditors and side jobs. In Boston, a controller’s spouse says grueling schedules, missed family time, and new financial strain are fueling exhaustion and anger; some controllers are calling out sick, triggering delays. Union PASS says it represents about 11,000 FAA staff, roughly 5,000 now working unpaid, with no clear end in sight.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.