US aviation sector requests emergency funds after recent alarming crashes

Major aviation groups urge Congress in a joint letter to take action for more air traffic control technology and staffing

The US aviation sector on Wednesday called for robust emergency funding" from Congress for air traffic control technology and staffing after a series of crashes that have raised alarm.

Airlines for America, the Aerospace Industries Association, International Air Transport Association and others, including major aviation unions, urged Congress in a joint letter to take action, noting the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) faces serious technology needs and is about 3,500 air traffic controllers short of targeted staffing levels.