Voters Are Clear: “Don’t Privatize Air Traffic Control”

Details: Published: September 23, 2015

Last week, a new poll revealed that the majority of voters oppose plans to privatize the air traffic control system. The survey, which was released on September 17 by the Alliance for Aviation Across America, the League of Rural Voters and Air Care Alliance, indicated that 55 percent of voters surveyed are against a Republican plan that would privatize the air traffic control system.

The survey, which was conducted by Global Strategy Group, polled 801 registered voters nationwide. The fact that the majority of those surveyed were against privatization of the air traffic control system is especially revealing since most participants were in favor of privatization of government functions in general. However, opinions changed when asked about removing air traffic functions “from the FAA and turning it over to a non-profit corporation.” The responses were not influenced by the political leanings, demographic or flying frequency of those surveyed.

In addition, the survey revealed that most feel that the FAA is performing well, especially as it pertains to air traffic control. The majority of respondents—67 percent—gave the FAA an overall positive rating, and the percentage increased to 80 percent when specifically asked about operating the nation’s air traffic control system.

“It is clear that the American people are against the plan to privatize our air traffic control system,” said National President Mike Perrone. “I would hope that those pushing for privatization listen to the message being sent by their constituents.”