GAO Report Says That's A Hindrance To Progress

The people who work at the FAA are so resistant to change that they've actually hindered progress in trying to modernize the agency. So says a new report from the General Accountability Office.

The report is especially critical of FAA managers whose unwillingness to think progressively has led to a shortage of technical expertise and a resulting over-dependence on outside contractors.

"Such resistance is a characteristic of FAA personnel at all levels," the GAO report said, according to Reuters. "And management, in the experience of some panelists, is more resistant than employees who may fear that technologies will threaten their jobs."

The report was based on a review conducted by former FAA officials, economists and educators.

The GAO committee indicated the problem went beyond inside-the-box thinking, though. It also said the FAA's continued efforts to cut the budget by trimming modernization programs -- cuts that amount to $400 million this year and $80 million next -- could eventually erode the quality of air traffic control services.

But the official FAA line takes strong issue with the GAO report.

"We have been consistently meeting targets and meeting deadlines. We're implementing financial management controls. We're hiring top level executives that have substantial operational experience," said FAA spokesman Greg Martin.

FMI: www.faa.gov