Nov. 30, 2015
The New Mexico Airport Managers’ Association (NMAMA) has written its state’s congressional leaders asking them to oppose proposals to privatize the nation’s aircraft control system.
In a letter dated Nov. 24, and signed by NMAMA President Robert Hudson, the association expressed its concern that proposals to transfer oversight of the ATC system from the FAA to private entities “…will lead to a system of user fees that will be detrimental to aviation interests.
“We currently have the safest and most efficient air traffic control system in the world. Privatizing this system will not result in increased safety or efficiency and will only increase the financial burden placed on the users of the system,” he added.
“We appreciate NMAMA’s concerns for the future of New Mexico’s airports under a privatized air traffic organization funded by user fees,” said Stacy Howard, NBAA’s Western regional representative. “New Mexico’s state aviation system is largely represented by rural airports and communities that depend upon regional air service and general aviation to fulfill their air transportation needs for passengers, goods and services.
“Doubts about whether or not a system controlled by the major airlines will meet those needs are justified,” she added.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.