Washington, D.C. – Rep. Bruce Braley (IA-01) on Friday sent a letter to the Federal Aviation Administration in opposition to the proposed closure of the Dubuque Regional Airport’s air traffic control tower.
The proposed closure is a result of so-called sequestration – federal budget cuts that went into effect on March 1. On Monday, the FAA announced that 189 air traffic control towers at small- and mid-sized airports across the country could be closed due to the cuts.
Braley wrote, “Having represented Dubuque for six years, I understand very well the impact this airport has on the local economy and jobs. This closure would negatively impact all aspects of the airport, but most drastically the University of Dubuque’s Part 141 Professional Pilot program.”
Braley continued, “With an airline pilot shortage forecasted by the FAA, I am troubled that a tower that ensures the safety and prudence of future pilots is being considered for closure. Instead we should be maintaining these institutions to ensure private sector job growth.”
Full text of Braley’s letter follows; a copy can be downloaded at the following link: http://1.usa.gov/ZVy3JR
