Gardner slams FAA application backlog

Rep. Cory Gardner (R-Colo.) released a scathing report Monday, which found that the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Denver office has some of the longest application wait times in the country.

“This report highlighted the many problems in the FAA permit approval process,” Gardner said Monday. “We must hold the FAA accountable for their negligence and ensure that a new system is put in place so that those who follow the rules are not punished for it.”

{mosads}Gardner had requested that the Department of Transportation Office of the Inspector General audit the FAA after constituents complained of long wait times. He said if the FAA doesn’t make suggested reforms, he would introduce legislation to force action.

“I’m glad to see that this report highlights four recommended reforms, and I would encourage the Denver FSDO [Flight Standards District Offices] to work with the FAA to implement these fixes,” Gardner said. “However, if the FAA does not make significant improvement on their own, I will explore legislative options to prevent this type of backlog in the future.”

Gardner is running against Sen. Mark Udall (D-Colo.) for the Senate this November.