Critics say that FAA inspectors cut airlines too much slack

[alaskaflyer]

http://www.csmonitor.com/2008/0314/p03s04-usgn.html

Calls are increasing for an overhaul of the Federal Aviation Administration, after Southwest Airlines this week grounded about 40 planes because of maintenance concerns.

For years, the FAA has been accused of being "too cozy" with the airlines it is charged with regulating. It even routinely refers to them as "customers," according to aviation watchdogs.

How many times has the NTSB said the same thing?