Air traffic controllers receive second $0 paystub amid shutdown as DIA leaders search for solution

DENVER, Colo. (KRDO) – On Thursday, air traffic controllers nationwide received their second paystub reflecting a total net pay of $0 since the start of the government shutdown, according to records obtained from CNN.

The shutdown has stretched into its 37th day, breaking the 35-day record for the longest shutdown in U.S. history.

The historic shutdown has resulted in air traffic controller shortages nationwide, leading to numerous flight delays across the country. In response, the Trump administration has announced it will cut air traffic by 10% at 40 airports, including the Denver International Airport (DIA), beginning tomorrow if a deal to end the shutdown isn't reached.

Now, Colorado's biggest airport is searching for a temporary way to pay some of its air traffic controllers – mandatory workers who have now been forced to work without pay for two pay periods.

On Wednesday, DIA officials announced that they had submitted a request to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), asking for permission to use airport revenue to pay its air traffic controllers.

According to the airport, they have also asked the FAA for reimbursement from the federal government once the shutdown is over.

“As part of our airport family, it’s our hope that we can reduce the hardship on them by covering their wages during the shutdown, with reimbursement by the FAA later," Denver International Airport CEO Phil Washington said. "We would love to be able to do more and provide wage support for all the federal workers at DEN, as they are all critical to our operation, but given the number of federal employees, we are only able to support controllers at this time,”

In the meantime, DIA officials say they have also started a pantry for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and other federal employees who are continuing to work at the airport without pay.

Donations of non-perishable food, toiletries, baby supplies, and pet supplies can be dropped off at the Final Approach cell phone lot building along Peña Boulevard (7684 N Wenatchee Street) or at the Information Booth in the center of the Terminal/Great Hall, level 5. 

Airport officials say gift cards are also being accepted and can be dropped off at the Airport Office Building, located between the West Security Checkpoint and the A Bridge, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Examples of items being collected: 

• Proteins: Canned tuna, beans, etc.
• Grains: Pasta, rice, and cereals
• Produce: Canned fruits and vegetables
• Soups, stews, and chili
• Snacks: Peanut butter, nuts and granola bars
• Baking and cooking essentials
• Specialty items: (e.g., gluten-free, kosher, vegan)
• Toiletries
• Household goods: Cleaning supplies and paper products
• Baby supplies: Formula, baby food and diapers size 3-6
• Pet food and treats

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