FAA Delays Air Tower Closures Until June

Under pressure from politicians

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said Friday it will delay the closure of nearly 150 air traffic control towers after facing mounting pressure from lawmakers and airports. 

The agency had planned to gradually roll out the closures at 149 air traffic control towers over several months, but FAA officials announced on Friday that it was delaying all of them until June 15. 

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said the additional time would give the FAA improved ability to ensure the flight tower closures did not impact the safety of flying in the U.S.