A coalition of 32 aviation industry organizations recently sent a letter to U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), urging the legislators to pass a long-term reauthorization bill for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The most recent authorization bill expired in September 2015. Since then, the legislation has been extended through a series of short-term measures. The most recent extension expires Sept. 30.
“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 letter said. “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.”
Reauthorization will also keep passengers safe, the letter said, as the FAA plays a critical role in airport and air-traffic investments and enables innovation and integration of new technology.
The House of Representatives passed a long-term reauthorization bill April 27.
The organizations include the Aerospace Industries Association, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, and Airlines for America.