Anytime the FAA decides to make changes to the air traffic control system, questions arise about safety and service. AOPA thinks the best way to proceed on such initiatives is through a public process with pilots and others in the aviation community that fully explores the impacts.
In Palm Springs, California, the FAA wants to consolidate the Palm Springs Tracon into the Southern California Tracon (SoCal) in June.
"While the FAA contends that there will be no degradation in services, questions have been raised about possible delays and a reduction in service at numerous Southern California airports, including Palm Springs International," wrote Andy Cebula, AOPA executive vice president of government affairs, in a letter to the FAA. "Holding public meetings provides a forum for the FAA to hear from pilots directly and address their concerns."
For more information, see AOPA's Air Traffic Services brief.
April 26, 2007