Air traffic controllers didn't get paid during the government shutdown. Here's how much they make normally.

• US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy claimed new air traffic controllers start their careers making $180,000. • That's way off. Most new controllers make around $55,000, according to three ATCs and their union. • Business Insider reviewed their pay scale to gain a clearer picture of their salaries.

The longest government shutdown in US history ended Wednesday, and air traffic controllers — who can have very stressful jobs — are finally getting paid again.

Controllers went more than a month without pay, receiving two $0 checks since October. With the government reopened, they'll now receive full back pay, which many will need to pay overdue bills.

The shutdown reignited debate over controller salaries after Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said on X that new hires start at $18