NATA Praises Senate Commerce Committee's Approval of Consensus FAA Reauthorization Legislation

The Senate Commerce Committee approved by voice vote S.1405, the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2017, bipartisan legislation reauthorizing FAA programs through September 30, 2021. The following is a statement by National Air Transportation Association President Martin H. Hiller:

“NATA thanks Chairman Thune (R-SD), Ranking Member Nelson (D-FL) and the other Commerce Committee members for approving consensus legislation benefiting the entire aviation community. The fact the Commerce Committee could act so swiftly today on this major piece of aviation legislation stands in sharp contrast with Tuesday’s long and contentious House markup.

We appreciate the Committee's inclusion of Senator Catherine Cortez Masto’s (D-NV) amendment directing the FAA to report on its efforts to combat illegal charter. Her amendment will help us better understand the scope of the issue and what future steps the Committee might need to take to protect passengers and legitimate businesses. This, and other NATA supported recommendations included in the bill, will allow the agency to continue to move toward a more efficient operating structure.

NATA deeply appreciates the Commerce Committee’s rejection of the partisan, divisive approach taken by the House Transportation Committee and hopes the full Senate will take-up and approve this legislation before the August recess.”