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FAA Shutting 'Only' 149 Air Traffic Towers

Sequestration forces cuts at small airports

By Neal Colgrass,  Newser Staff

Posted Mar 22, 2013 3:01 PM CDT

(Newser) – In case you're counting: The FAA is now planning to close 149 air traffic control towers due to sequestration, not 173 as originally reported. And all of the closings will be at small airports, not mid-sized as well, reports the AP. Affected airports will remain open, which leaves pilots to organize takeoffs and landings with each other via radio. Airport directors have voiced fears about traveler safety, but the FAA says it will make an effort to ensure things go smoothly without control towers. The closures will be phased in over four weeks starting April 7, CNN reports. Click for a list of affected airports.

This May 17, 2005 photo shows the Provo Airport control tower  before it was operational in Provo, Utah.
This May 17, 2005 photo shows the Provo Airport control tower before it was operational in Provo, Utah.   (AP Photo/The Deseret News, Stuart Johnson)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 34 comments
YouLikeDont
Mar 23, 2013 12:28 PM CDT
Hey thanks Republicans, here's your "less government" BS you guys have been shoving in everyone's orifices.
slammer
Mar 23, 2013 10:35 AM CDT
welcome to obamastan! we now give you the new fly and die program enjoy! ps please to not forget to bring your knife!!!!!!!!!!!!
backpath2
Mar 23, 2013 6:35 AM CDT
Leave the air traffic controllers alone, and cut the TSA agents. The former are much more important to aircraft safety than the latter.
 

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