FAA has new tower closing lists

Federal contract towers at Stennis International Airport in Kiln, Miss., Hawkins Field in Jackson, Miss., and Dothan, Ala., are among 149 that will close beginning April 7 as part of a sequestration plan. But the Federal Aviation Administration chose to keep open 24 towers that were previously proposed for closing because a shutdown would have a "negative impact on national interest." The 24 towers saved from the chopping block include towers at Brookley Aeroplex in Mobile, Ala., Meridian, Miss., and Columbus/Starkville, Miss. Another 16 federal contract towers under the "cost share" program will remain open because Congressional statute sets aside funds every fiscal year for these towers. These cost-share program funds are subject to sequestration but the required 5 percent cut will not result in tower closures. (Sources: FAA, Sun Herald, 03/22/13)