Air traffic controllers rarely take center stage, but they are essential to air travel and have worked for weeks without pay during the shutdown.

During the shutdown, air traffic controllers worked without pay, resulting in some not showing up as they searched for other jobs.

The government shutdown has underscored why the Air Traffic Control system shouldn't be part of the government.

Air traffic controllers rarely take center stage, but they are essential to air travel and have worked for weeks without pay during the shutdown.