Existing comment:
The PATCO Strike
In August 1981, 13,000 members of the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO) called an illegal strike, demanding higher wages, shorter hours, and better retirement benefits. By paralyzing the air transportation system during a peak travel time, PATCO hoped the federal government would give in to their demands, as it had during previous "sick-outs."
To PATCO's surprise, President Ronald Reagan fired the controllers, who, as federal workers, were not allowed to strike. The FAA replaced them with supervisors, military controllers, and controllers who did not strike. Airlines flew reduced schedules until enough controllers were on the job. |