The U.S. government resumed operations on Monday following an agreement in Congress to end the longest federal shutdown in the country's history. This measure will allow for the partial restoration of public services and the payment of back wages to thousands of federal employees. According to The Washington Post, the legislative package passed by the Senate provides funding until January 30 for key agencies such as agriculture, military construction, and veterans affairs, while negotiations continue on pending appropriations. With the reopening, sectors like transportation and air traffic control are expected to gradually return to normal operations. Following the announcement of the agreement, President Donald Trump called on air traffic controllers to immediately return to their jobs. “Anyone who does not do so will be sanctioned with a substantial reduction in salary,” he stated. In a message posted on his social media, he wrote: “All air traffic controllers must get back to work, now!” The Washington Post noted that the agency will continue to implement temporary flight cuts while the personnel stabilizes and pending payments are resumed. Trump also warned that those who do not report to work “will be replaced” and that there will be back pay for those who were absent during the shutdown. He added that he will propose a bonus of $10,000 per person “for those great patriots who did not absent themselves during the shutdown and who rendered distinguished service to the country.” The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the country's major airports are operating with limited capacity after weeks of disruptions. This stance has raised concerns among aviation sector unions, which are demanding that priority be given to ensuring operational safety and fulfilling salary obligations before any disciplinary measures are taken.
