Exclusive: Plane inspectors have been recalled from furlough by the FAA

"In order to keep U.S. aviation operational through the government shutdown, air traffic controllers have been working without pay. But for the people involved in inspecting our planes to ensure they follow Federal Aviation Administration safety standards, the situation is more complicated. While principal aviation inspectors were told to keep working, assistant-level inspectors and other support staff were sent home and then had to be recalled, several sources told Fast Company."

"The union doesn't have solid data yet, but says that some offices seem to be operating "business as usual," while others are using their discretionary authority "to furlough and recall employees on a day-to-day basis," Spero said. The situation is impacting about 1,200 workers who focus on flight standards and another 60 who work on aircraft certifications, according to the union. Because training isn't considered essential during a government shutdown, newer aircraft safety inspectors are still furloughed."

Air traffic controllers have been working without pay to keep U.S. aviation operational during the government shutdown, while aviation safety inspectors face inconsistent staffing and pay. Principal aviation inspectors were told to continue working, but assistant-level inspectors and support staff were sent home and later recalled, with some offices cycling employees in and out on a day-to-day basis. The staffing approach adds pressure on airlines trying to maintain schedules during an extended shutdown. Dave Spero, president of Professional Aviation Safety Specialists, confirmed that aircraft inspectors have been recalled. About 1,200 workers focus on flight standards and roughly 60 work on aircraft certifications. Newer inspectors remain furloughed because training is nonessential during the shutdown.

Read at Fast Company