US airlines call for swift action in air traffic hiring

The trade group representing major U.S. airlines on Tuesday urged the Federal Aviation Administration to take swift action to address a long-standing air traffic controller shortage ahead of the start of the busy summer travel season.

Airlines for America, whose members includes American Airlines AAL, Delta Air Lines DAL, United Airlines UAL and Southwest Airlines LUV, said the "lack of (air traffic control) staffing has a direct impact on airline operations and the traveling public."

FAA Deputy Administrator Katie Thomson rejected the criticism saying the agency "is focused on the safety of the flying public. Rather than funding publicity stunts, we’d welcome support in a serious effort to help recruit more controllers."