Privatization of Federal Aviation Administration Functions

GAO discussed a proposal to privatize the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) functions and responsibilities. GAO noted that, although FAA faces numerous problems and deficiencies in its operations, it has taken constructive measures to correct the problems. GAO believes that: (1) privatization of FAA functions would not solve the fundamental problems facing FAA; (2) any shifts in responsibility should make provisions to retain adequate accountability for safety to the executive branch, Congress, and the public; and (3) the President's Commission on Privatization should consider alternatives short of full privatization of FAA work forces.