The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee advanced last week a bill to enhance women’s place in the aviation industry.
The bill is the result of bipartisan efforts between U.S. Reps. Elizabeth Esty (D-CT), Jackie Walorski (R-IN), Cheri Bustos (D-IL), Barbara Comstock (R-VA), and Mimi Walters (R-CA). The Promoting Women in the Aviation Workforce Act would express a Congressional belief that the aviation industry should promote and encourage women to pursue careers in the field. It would also help create an advisory board at the FAA for that purpose.
“This important legislation sends a strong message of encouragement to aviation enthusiasts who are looking to fulfill their dreams of becoming an airline pilot,” Captain Tim Canoll, president of the Air Line Pilots Association, International, said. “When we look back at the extraordinary history of women in aviation, we see smart, courageous women who overcame tremendous obstacles to become pioneering pilots. However, there is certainly more work to be done.”
ALPA has turned out in support of the bill. It was advanced at the same time as seven others.
“Today the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed multiple bipartisan bills ranging in issues from encouraging women to pursue careers in aviation, to helping federal agencies identify and manage the risks of extreme weather events and increase resilience and coordination,” Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Peter DeFazio (D-OR) said. “I am proud of the bipartisan efforts made by members of our committee and look forward to seeing these bills signed into law.”
The legislation now heads to the full House floor for further consideration.