While the vast majority of aircraft mechanics are well trained and competent, a News 8 Investigation found decades of problems with the way the FAA is certifying and testing aircraft mechanics.

News 8 found that many people working on aircrafts in North Texas may not be able to read repair manuals because they can't speak English.

Now, North Texas congressional representatives are calling for change in the FAA.

Dozens of FAA inspectors and mechanics told News 8 FAA regulation on the repair process is full of holes.

"I would say it's more don't ask don't tell," said Gabe Bruno, a whistleblower, when asked what he thought of the licensing procedure.

"In my opinion, the FAA is corrupt and the southwest region is corrupt," said Gene Bland, said another whistleblower.

It's a problem some say has been around for quite some time.

"The FAA has been aiding and abetting, if not enabling, terrorists," said Tom Devine, with the Government Accountability Project.

Now, with an FAA funding bill before Congress, North Texas representatives say it's time for change.

"The day for sloppiness is over, and this agency must be run professionally and all credentials must be checked," said Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson.

Whistleblowers have been hounded by the FAA. Rep. Michael Burgess said he wants to improve protection for people like them.

"The amendment that I have on the floor is going to strengthen the existing whistleblower statute and provide them the full protection that we can offer within the FAA re-authorization bill," he said.

The bill will decide how much money the FAA gets in coming years. It will come up before Congress before the week is out.


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