NATA and Industry Coalition Urge Senate Passage of Bipartisan FAA Reauthorization Legislation

The National Air Transportation (NATA), along with a strong coalition of associations ranging from general and commercial aviation to manufacturers and drone interests, sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-NY) urging consideration of legislation providing long-term reauthorization for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Current funding authority for the agency expires September 30th. 

“It is essential that the FAA is provided long-term authorization for its activities and programs to maintain and advance the safest, most efficient aerospace system in the world. The U.S. aviation sector supports nearly 11 million jobs and contributes $1.6 trillion in economic activity. The aerospace industry needs dependable authority from the FAA and policymakers to continue to provide the highest level of service for aviation customers and meet the needs of the aviation industry and workforce.”

Last year, the legislation was unanimously passed by the Senate Commerce Committee and, in April, the House of Representatives passed its FAA reauthorization bill. “We appreciate the work of Chairman John Thune (R-SD) and Ranking Member Bill Nelson (D-FL) in advancing a bill out of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. Prompt consideration by the Senate will enable discussions with the House to resolve any outstanding differences between the two bills, prior to the expiration of authority on September 30,” the letter notes.

“Long-term legislation will allow employers, manufacturers, customers and communities the certainty to continue to build, invest, hire, innovate and grow in this dynamic industry. The 11 million people who work to make aviation fly count on this long-term legislation for their safety and security too. The FAA is foundational to the incredible safety record of aviation in the United States, making critical airport and air traffic investments in communities across this country and enabling innovation and the integration of new technology into the aviation system. The FAA’s success and that of the aviation system will be significantly enhanced by progress and passage of a long-term FAA reauthorization bill.”

The coalition reiterates the bipartisan support this legislation has in Congress, and will ensure the safety, economic benefits, regulatory reform, and international competitiveness needed to ensure our air transportation system remains the industry gold standard. “We are eager to assist you in securing consideration of this important legislation and we appreciate your leadership,” the letter concludes.