US: House members slam air-traffic control privatisation

House lawmakers who decide how much to spend on the FAA blasted president Trump’s proposal to privatise air-traffic control Thursday, saying that the plan lacks govt oversight. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart said he is opposed because congressional oversight is the best way to protect against higher fees or noise complaints from new flight routes. Rep. David Price said he has “grave concerns” about reduced govt oversight and the “unprecedented giveaway” of FAA facilities. But transportation secretary Elaine Chao told the House Appropriations subcommittee on transportation that moving controllers from the govt to a non-profit corporation is crucial to modernising equipment and training. <br/>