WASHINGTON >> President Donald Trump demanded air traffic controllers return to work today as government-directed flight cuts and air traffic staffing absences continue to wreak havoc with U.S. 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.”

Shares of the biggest U.S. airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Airlines and United Airlines, turned negative after Trump’s social media post. The shutdown has led to sho

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