ACI-NA Opposes Slot Auctions

It seems nobody backs the Department of Transportation’s move to auction off landing and takeoff slots at New York City area airports. The Port Authority of NY/NJ and air carriers have already threatened legal action. Now, Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) has filed comments opposing the proposal to auction two slots (one round trip flight) at Newark Liberty International on September 3.  ACI-NA says the FAA should defer to local initiatives to resolve problems of congestion and delay whenever such methods are consistent with the safe and efficient use of the airspace and otherwise comply with applicable law.  “FAA unlawfully seeks to usurp the proprietary right of the PA/NY/NJ to control how its facilities are used,” said ACI-NA President Greg Principato. “Instead of pursuing its misconceived ‘slot auction’ proposal, the FAA should work collaboratively with the Port Authority and the air carriers to develop and implement a reasonable and effective program of congestion management.”