Trump Orders Air Traffic Controllers Back as Shutdown Grounds Thousands of Flights. U.S. President Donald Trump is demanding air traffic controllers return to work as flight cancellations and delays pile up during the ongoing government shutdown. The aviation system has been thrown into chaos, with more than a million passengers affected over the weekend. Many controllers have been working without pay for over a month — some forced to take second jobs or stay home due to child care costs.Trump warned that anyone refusing to report to work would have their pay "substantially docked," while promising $10,000 bonuses to those who continue working. But it's unclear how the administration could legally carry out those threats or rewards once the government reopens. The Federal Aviation Administration says staffing shortages have hit nearly two dozen facilities, forcing ground delays at major hubs from New York to San Francisco. Airlines are now cutting up to 10% of daily flights, raising fears of nationwide gridlock as the busy Thanksgiving travel season approaches. Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT