Warns Job Actions Illegal: Could Disrupt NAS, Lead To Dismissal

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association is urging its members to avoid any ‘job actions’ that could lead to disruptions in the National Airspace System, as the shutdown of the federal government extends into a second week.

The union issued its warning after reports of staffing issues at several U.S. airports including temporary tower closures and delays associated with a rise in sick calls among controllers working without pay. Controllers are considered essential employees and are working, but not being paid during the shutdown.

NATCA posted a statement on its website that said, in part, “NATCA does not endorse, support, or condone any federal employees participating in or endorsing a coordinated activity that negatively affects the capacity of the NAS, or any other activities that undermine the professional image and reputation of the people we represent. Air traffic controllers and other aviation safety professionals take their responsibility to protect the safety of the flying public very seriously.”

The union emphasized that such actions are illegal and could lead to dismissal. “Participating in a job action could result in removal from federal service. It is not only illegal, but it also undermines NATCA’s credibility and severely weakens our ability to effectively advocate for you and your families,” said the union.

Federal law stipulates that air traffic controllers and other government employees are prohibited from striking or participating in coordinated job actions, including “sickouts.”

Nick Daniels, President of NATCA, repeated that message during a press conference with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean P. Duffy calling for an end to the shutdown which has forced tens of thousands of FAA employees to work without pay.

Daniels said, “We need to bring this shutdown to a close so that the FAA and the committed aviation safety professionals can put this distraction aside and focus completely on their vital work.”

He also added that the objectives of increasing the pace of hiring controllers and modernizing the ATC system “require our full and immediate attention.”

FMI:  www.natca.org/