ATC
Inspector General Audit Report Raps ATC Tower Efficiency
Inefficient tower operations cost the government $853 million over five years, according to the Department of Transportation inspector general.
The tower at Washington Dulles International Airport was among those ranked 'frequently least efficient.' (Photo: Bill Carey)
The tower at Washington Dulles International Airport was among those ranked 'frequently least efficient.' (Photo: Bill Carey)

Inefficient operation of some ATC towers the Federal Aviation Administration manages cost the U.S. government $853 million in additional controller hours and equipment over a five-year period, according to the Department of Transportation inspector general. The FAA agreed with its parent organization that tower efficiency can be improved, but said the IG’s methodology in assessing efficiency is flawed.