FAA cuts rating of Israeli air system

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FAA cuts rating of Israeli air system
« Thread Started on Dec 19, 2008, 11:19am »

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FAA cuts rating of Israeli air system
Posted: 01:12 PM ET
From Mike M. Ahlers
CNN
WASHINGTON (CNN) — Israel, long considered to be the “gold standard” when it comes to preventing attacks on its planes, now has a tarnished reputation when it comes to the everyday business of flying planes.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration lowered Israel to a Category 2 rating Friday, meaning it does not meet with international aviation safety standards. It based the action on an assessment made last July.

Both Israel and the FAA declined to specify reasons for the demotion. But the FAA said that in general, the lower rating “may involve a country lacking laws or regulations” needed to oversee airlines, or the country may be lacking in areas such as technical expertise, trained personnel, record keeping, or inspection procedures.

The United States pointedly noted that the assessment did not look at aviation security. Israel is renowned for its ability to prevent hijackings, bombings and other assaults.

The lowered safety rating will mean that Israeli air carriers will not be allowed to establish new service to the United States until problems are corrected.