Grayson to FAA: Keep Kissimmee Gateway Airport Control Tower Open
Airport Control Tower Serves National Security Interest
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – In his second letter sent to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding the Kissimmee Gateway Airport, Congressman Alan Grayson (FL-09) warned the agency about the national risks associated with shutting down the facility’s air control tower.
The FAA has stated publicly that the only criteria to be used in deciding whether a facility can remain open is if it impacts the national interest. In a letter to the FAA, Congressman Grayson responded with a long list of national consequences if the tower is forced to close.
Highlighting the key points in his letter, Grayson commented, “The reality is that the closure of this tower will not just impact Kissimmee, it will affect our national security. Kissimmee Gateway’s control tower protects the Disney Temporary Flight Restricted Area immediately northwest of the airport, playing a crucial role in the safety of visitors to Walt Disney World, which was closed on 9/11 following security concerns. It also provides support for overflow and operations at the Orlando International Airport, one of the world’s busiest airports. It facilitates 3,000 to 4,000 business flights annually as a result of its proximity to the Orange County Convention Center, the second largest convention venue in the nation. Kissimmee Gateway Airport also hosts military aviation traffic and medical evacuation helicopters that serve as first responders for the attractions area. I strongly encourage the FAA to pursue every single avenue for keeping this important facility open. The national interest demands it.”
The control tower may close as a result of FAA budget cuts imposed by sequestration. Grayson has been a strong advocate for maintaining the facility, working with airport stakeholders to urge the FAA to keep the tower operational.
Congressman Alan Grayson represents Florida’s 9th Congressional District, which includes Osceola County, as well as parts of Orange and Polk counties. He previously served as the U.S. Representative for Florida's 8th Congressional District in the 111th Congress.
