	usair u says dot public counsel backs merger usair group inc said the u s department of transportation s office of public counsel has urged that expedited non hearing procedures be used in its proposed uisition of piedmont aviation inc pie the company said that america west airlines inc awal o was the only party voicing opposition to the uisition the department of transportation had asked parties to submit statements by june either supporting or opposing the uisition usair said it and piedmont again requested expedited approval for the uisition the company said the office of public counsel could find no evidence that the uisition would substantially lessen competition in any market reuter 
