Panel calls for ‘urgent action’ to stop US plane crashes after series of close calls

Independent reviewers cite problems with FAA including shortages of air traffic controllers and lack of funding

An independent US aviation review team called on Wednesday for urgent action" to prevent plane crashes, and made a series of recommendations to boost safety after a series of close calls involving passenger jets.

The panel, named by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), released a 52-page report citing problems that included shortages of air traffic controllers, technology issues, outdated systems and dramatic funding needs. Since January, the National Transportation Safety Board has opened seven investigations into near-miss incidents, including some that could have been catastrophic.