Coalition of prominent aviation organizations has united in a call to action, sending a letter last week to urge the U.S. Senate to expedite the progress of an FAA Reauthorization bill and promptly confirm the next FAA Administrator. Notably, FAA reauthorization legislation had been introduced in both the Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives in June of the previous year. While the House successfully passed its bill the following month, parallel legislation has encountered delays in the Senate. With the FAA's current authorization set to expire on September 30, the urgency of this matter cannot be overstated.
The letter, dated September 13, underscores the critical and transformative nature of the current aviation landscape. It emphasizes the necessity of providing the FAA with permanent leadership and unequivocal direction to ensure the industry remains aligned with its evolving needs. The organizations stress that a completed FAA Reauthorization bill, coupled with the prompt confirmation of an Administrator in 2023, will significantly bolster the agency's initiatives to enhance safety, efficiency, infrastructure, and innovation. Additionally, it will lend support to the FAA's workforce and bolster the job prospects and global competitiveness of the U.S. aviation sector.
Signed by 28 influential organizations, including the Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA), Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), and National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), the letter was addressed to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), alongside Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee Chair Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) and Ranking Member Ted Cruz (R-Texas).