US: Schumer opposes Trump plan to privatise air traffic control

Senator Charles Schumer says president Donald Trump's plan to privatise the nation's air traffic control system could mean higher costs for consumers. The New York Democrat and Senate minority leader said Sunday that the plan Trump announced June 5 would give airlines too much control over costs. He also said that during any national security emergency, privatisation could hamper communication between air traffic controllers and the Department of Defence. Trump said air traffic control operations should be separated from the FAA. He said privatisation would increase safety and reduce passenger wait times. White House officials said a 13-member board including airline industry representatives and other stakeholders would oversee the system under Trump's plan. <br/>