Kansas Senator Jerry Moran says he plans to introduce an amendment to the Senate Continuing Resolution that would stop the FAA planned funding cuts to 7-air traffic control tower in Kansas including the one in Hutchinson.

He says the FAA Contract Tower Program serves airports that otherwise would not have air traffic control services. Irresponsible cuts from sequestration will put the flying public at risk, impair access to rural areas, jeopardize national and civil security missions, and cost jobs.

Sen. Moran’s amendment comes on the heels of a Kansas Congressional Delegation letter to U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and FAA – Administrator Michael Huerta opposing the planned funding cuts.

Given the success of the Contract Tower Program and its importance to Kansas and national aerospace safety, Sen. Moran believes the FAA should focus its cuts elsewhere.

Sen. Moran’s amendment would withdraw $50 million in unobligated FAA research and capital funds from prior appropriations bills. The $50 million is based on Administrator Huerta’s statement when testifying to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, where he stated that the FAA’s plan to close 173 contract towers on April 7 will save up to $50 million.

Sen. Moran’s amendment is supported by the National Air Traffic Controllers Association and aviation industry groups.