Cohen: Shutting Down Air Traffic Control Tower at Millington Regional Jetport Will Jeopardize Aviation Safety, Harm Local Economy

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today said he was concerned about the air traffic control tower at Millington Regional Jetport being shut down on April 1 as a result of sequestration. Last week, Congressman Cohen sent a letter to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Michael Huerta expressing concern about a possible shutdown of the tower and its negative effects on the 9th District. The Congressman urged the FAA to reconsider the shuttering of the tower.

“The closing of the air traffic control tower at Millington Regional Jetport would have a negative impact on aviation safety, cargo flow, and economic growth,” said Congressman Cohen, who voted against the bill that created the committee that resulted in the sequestration option.  “The flow of cargo is so important to our country’s economy, especially in the Memphis region with FedEx.  We used to say what is good for General Motors is good for the country; but now, what’s good for FedEx is good for the nation. It’s important that we do our best to find a way to keep this air traffic control tower open.”

The Millington Airport Authority was recently informed by the FAA that budget cuts will force the air control traffic tower to shut down.

###