AAAE/USCTA credit FAA for decision to delay tower closures

J. Spencer Dickerson, Executive Director of the U.S. Contract Tower Association (USCTA), released the following statement in response to the decision today by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to delay until June 15 the closing of 149 contract air traffic control towers, which were previously scheduled for closure beginning on April 7:

“We appreciate the decision by DOT Secretary LaHood, FAA Administrator Huerta and their teams to delay the imminent closure of 149 contract air traffic control towers in light of the serious and unanswered questions that have been raised by airports, aviation system users, affected communities, and members of Congress.” Dickerson said. “Today’s decision is a welcome development, and we remain hopeful that DOT and FAA will find a way forward to deal with budget realities in a way that doesn’t disproportionately target contract towers, which provide immense safety benefits in a cost-effective manner. We look forward to continued engagement with the department, the agency, and Congress to ensure that these critical air traffic facilities remain open and operational over the long-term.”

The USCTA is an affiliate organization of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).