What consequence did the PATCO Air Traffic controllers face for striking in 1981?

The consequence faced by the PATCO Air Traffic controllers for their strike in 1981 was that they were fired outright. This event was significant in labor relations history, as President Ronald Reagan decisively responded to the strike by terminating more than 11,000 air traffic controllers who participated. The strike was deemed illegal because federal employees were prohibited from striking under the law. This swift and firm action by the federal government marked a turning point in labor relations and set a precedent regarding how strikes by federal employees would be handled in the future.

This outcome reflected Reagan's administration's broader stance against union power and had lasting implications for labor unions in the U.S. The other options, such as receiving promotions, being honored with awards, or facing fines, do not accurately represent the severe consequences that the controllers faced for their actions. The decision to fire them directly affected not only the individuals involved but also had broad implications for labor practices in the government sector.