A years-long push by Representative Greg Stanton (D-AZ) paid off last week when federal officials announced that Mesa Gateway Airport has been selected as one of just two airports nationwide to participate in a new FAA pilot program, one he helped write into law.
The program, embedded in the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act, converts high-traffic contract air traffic control towers from private management to direct FAA oversight. Mesa Gateway, currently the busiest contract tower in the entire country and the 37th busiest tower overall, was a natural and urgently needed candidate.
This comes at a significant time as the airport has been struggling. Severe staffing shortages have forced operational changes, creating headaches for travelers and raising safety concerns across the East Valley aviation corridor.
Rep. Stanton, who worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to craft the Contract Tower Conversion pilot program, says the selection couldn't have come at a better time.
"I fought to create this pilot program because Mesa Gateway's growth depends on it, and so does the safety of everyone flying in and out of the East Valley," Stanton said. "Getting this across the finish line is a win for our airport, our air traffic controllers, and Mesa's economy."
Upcoming Transition
The transition will bring Mesa Gateway's tower under direct FAA training and operations. Notably, qualified controllers already working at the facility, more than 70 percent of whom are veterans, will be allowed to stay on.
Airport officials were quick to credit Stanton, saying: "Their efforts to include this provision in the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act will have a positive, long-term impact on the economy of the Phoenix East Valley," calling his support "steadfast."
Of the roughly 264 towers currently operating under private contract arrangements nationwide, Mesa Gateway will now be among the first to make the switch.
The stakes are significant as the airport generates over $2 billion in annual economic impact and completed a new $30 million FAA-compliant control tower in 2023, federal funding Stanton also helped secure.
"Airport staffing shortages can cause serious delays for travelers," Stanton posted on X. "This is a win for travelers and workers alike."
