"It is worth noting that, the specified towers in the FAA Contract Tower Program were all operational in 2009, when the FAA received less funding than it will under sequestration, " the two said in their letter.

CNN: Who's in the tower? At some regional airports soon: Nobody

As AMR and its pilots once again engage in contract negotiations, the airline has made a good will gesture and operational performance has improved after a dramatic decline in September.

FORBES: Prospects Seem Dim as AMR and Pilots Seek Contract