FAA's data system is insufficient, says GAO

The Federal Aviation Administration lacks comprehensive, nationwide data, according to a report released Monday by the Government Accountability Office.

The report attributes the weakness to FAA field offices having to maintain independent, site-specific databases on enforcement because the nationwide system is insufficient.

The report recommends standards for monitoring programs and improving the FAA's control over information processing and systems. The FAA has instilled some management controls over enforcement efforts and programs but has poor oversight in evaluating performance, GAO concluded.

Another GAO report, also released Monday, found that the Postal Service has improved its delivery of services.

The report noted that changes in "technology and demographics have helped bring about the development of new ways to access postal services, such as from self-service machines or through the Internet."