FAA Shutting 'Only' 149 Air Traffic Towers

In case you're counting: The FAA is now planning to close 149 air traffic control towers due to sequestration, not 173 as originally reported. And all of the closings will be at small airports, not mid-sized as well, reports the AP. Affected airports will remain open, which leaves pilots to organize takeoffs and landings with each other via radio. Airport directors have voiced fears about traveler safety, but the FAA says it will make an effort to ensure things go smoothly without control towers. The closures will be phased in over four weeks starting April 7, CNN reports. Click for a list of affected airports. (More sequestration stories.)