Shelley Berkley: “a recent executive order paves the way for privatization of our air traffic control system. The order states that air…”

“a recent executive order paves the way for privatization of our air traffic control system. The order states that air traffic control is no longer an inherently governmental function. Air traffic controllers play a significant role in our national security. National security is inherently a government function. On September 11, our air traffic controllers safely grounded nearly 4,500 aircraft in less than 2 hours, proving that the current system works and works well. Proponents of privatization cite the systems in Great Britain, Canada, and Australia as efficient and effective. However, the systems in Great Britain and Canada are facing financial crisis and the controllers in Australia report poor working conditions. Our system works. Our air traffic controllers have demonstrated it time and time again. We should not privatize our air traffic control system.”