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Tuesday, November 10, 2026Nov 10

City leaders seek to keep state from taking over Atlanta’s airport

The Associated Press / In this Oct. 13, 2016, file photo, a Delta Air Lines jet sits at a gate at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta.
The Associated Press / In this Oct. 13, 2016, file photo, a Delta Air Lines jet sits at a gate at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta. The Associated Press / In this Oct. 13, 2016, file photo, a Delta Air Lines jet sits at a gate at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta.

ATLANTA (AP) – Atlanta city leaders are preparing for another attempt by Georgia lawmakers to put the world’s busiest airport under the state’s control.

Some prominent politicians say that establishing a strong and independent Inspector General position could be key to staving off a state takeover of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

The Inspector General position is seen by some as key to combating City Hall corruption – and helpful in keeping airport operations under local control.

The City Council in November solidified its opposition to a state takeover of the airport. They say that’s a top goal when the Georgia General Assembly begins its session later this month.

The council has also sponsored legislation to establish the Inspector General position.