Fewer politicians flying on Florida's dime

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Fewer Florida politicians are flying on the taxpayer’s dime, as charges for flights on state planes have dropped 63 percent over two years.

In 2007, nearly $1.1 million was spent, compared to $407,420 in 2009.

Media scrutiny, budget cuts and the sale of one plane have all contributed. Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp, Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink and Attorney General Bill McCollum have all been scrutinized for racking up miles on state planes.

Gov. Charlie Crist, who is running for U.S. Senate, spent almost twice as much time on the planes his first year in office than his third. A spokesman said Crist is traveling more on commercial planes.

Flights charged to the senate were down 99 percent last year compared to 2007.