Dear NBAA Members:

The statement below was released today by House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-9-PA).

From the statement, it appears that as a result of the outstanding work of NBAA’s Board, AMAC, Leadership Council, membership and staff – as well as a chorus of opposition from a diverse, informed and united coalition – the airlines’ effort with regard to ATC privatization will not go forward as part of the FAA reauthorization process.

We are profoundly grateful for everyone who has made their voice heard on this critical issue. Now, it is time to focus our full attention on a long-term FAA bill that ensures the U.S. has the world’s best air transportation system for decades to come.

Sincerely,

Ed Bolen

House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Press Release

Washington, DC – Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) released the following statement regarding H.R. 2997, the 21st Century AIRR Act:

“Many, including myself, continue to believe that the air traffic control provisions of the 21st Century AIRR Act are good government reforms, and necessary for the future efficiency, effectiveness, and safety of our entire Nation’s aviation system and its users.

“We built strong support for this critical reform over the last two congresses, and we had a golden opportunity to move beyond the status quo and accomplish positive, transformational change with this bill.

“Despite an unprecedented level of support for this legislation – from bipartisan lawmakers, industry, and conservative groups and labor groups alike – some of my own colleagues refused to support shrinking the federal government by 35,000 employees, cutting taxes, and stopping wasteful spending.

“Although our air traffic control reform provisions did not reach the obvious level of support needed to pass Congress, I intend to work with Senator Thune and move forward with a reauthorization bill to provide long-term stability for the FAA.”

View the release on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee website.