Councils are also being urged to merge for functions including transport.

BBC: Lord Adonis reveals plans for North East economy

It also confers certain aviation security functions on the CAA and widens the transport secretary's powers so that holidays sold by airlines could be included in the ATOL scheme in the future.

BBC: MPs open debate on Civil Aviation Bill

"These towers serve other important functions -- including law enforcement activity, medical transport flights, search and rescue missions, business and commerce and supporting flight schools across America, " the association said in a statement.

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