US President Donald Trump speaking at the White House. (Photo: AP)

President Donald Trump demanded air traffic controllers return to work on Monday as government-directed flight cuts and air traffic staffing absences continue to wreak havoc with US air travel.

Trump added that he will reward those who did not take any time off during the 41-day federal government shutdown, but it is not clear how many controllers could qualify. Trump said he would welcome the resignation of those who took time off.

“All Air Traffic Controllers must get back to work, NOW!!! Anyone who doesn’t will be substantially ‘docked,'” Trump wrote on social media. “REPORT TO WORK IMMEDIATELY.” The shutdown has led to shortages of air traffic controllers who, like other federal employees, have not been paid for week

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