Air Traffic Control issues still uncertain

WASHINGTON, DC:  Dr. Dan Benishek (MI-01) today released the following statement after he voted in support of legislation that will provide the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) more authority to restore air traffic control operations that have closed airport control towers and caused nationwide flight delays:

“This legislation will offer a chance to fix this mess at our airports without spending more money our nation doesn’t have. This bill provides more authority to the FAA to keep our airport towers open, but ultimately it will be up to President Obama to act or not. Over the past few months, I’ve been disappointed to see the Obama Administration and Washington bureaucrats make cuts to America’s air traffic control operations, instead of getting rid of some wasteful federal spending. Our government wastes millions on things like Moroccan pottery classes and caviar consumption studies, yet the President chooses to make cuts that make life more difficult for Northern Michigan families. Frankly, it’s ridiculous and boneheaded. Instead of just trying to score political points, it’s time to do what’s best for the American people.”

The Sawyer International Airport tower is among 149 slated to close June 15 due to the Sequestration budget cuts.