Despite much opposition from other government agencies and leaders, the U.S. Department of Transportation will auction off takeoff and landing time slots to New York City-area air travelers flying out of JFK, LaGuardia and Newark airports. The Bush administration believes that airport slot auctions could help reduce air delays and increase the quality of air travel for fliers.

"Without slot auctions, a small number of airlines will profit while travelers bear the brunt of higher fares, fewer choices and deteriorating service," -- Transportation Secretary Mary Peters

"It is simply shocking that the DOT is unabashedly continuing this ideological battle despite the staunch opposition from the entire aviation community and the independent finding that the DOT lacks the power under the law to implement the proposal in the first place," -- New York Senator Charles Schumer

"We conclude that FAA may not auction slots under its property disposition authority, user fee authority, or any other authority, and thus also may not retain or use proceeds of any such auctions," -- GAO general counsel Gary Kepplinger