From Phil Williams:
If someone asked whether federal taxpayers ought to pay for airline service between Cookeville and Nashville, most would probably burst out laughing.
After all, a number of us make that drive -- about 82 miles -- on a regular basis.
But a CBS News investigation discovered that you're paying for air routes that are just as implausible.
(For more information: Taxpayers Shell Out for Near-Empty Flights)
The program, known as the Essential Air Service, will cost you $127 million this year alone.
CBS News correspondent Sharyl Attkisson's fascinating report found that taxpayers spend about $2 million a year just to fly a few people the 83 miles between Macon, Ga., and Atlanta.
So why not Cookeville to Nashville?
Now, it doesn't sound like such a far-fetched idea.
Back to The Inside Story
Back to NewsChannel 5 Investigates
