Updated Oct. 3, 2018
The U.S. House of Representatives and Senate recently passed legislation to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which does not contain the controversial plan to “privatize” our nation’s air traffic control (ATC) system. Under the bill, FAA programs and funding are reauthorized for five-years, through 2023.
The general aviation community should be extremely proud of its efforts to oppose the so-called ATC privatization plan, which would have restricted our access to airports and airspace- threatening the future of business aviation.
In addition to reauthorizing the FAA, the bill contains many provisions that are priorities for the general aviation community. For example, the bill seeks to address aviation workforce challenges through grant programs and high-level task forces. It also preserves the Block Aircraft Registration Request (BARR) program which protects the privacy and security of aircraft operators and keeps the FAA registry operating in case of a government shutdown.
There are also significant changes to the regulation and certification of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and continued improvements to aircraft certification. Finally, the bill seeks to streamline FAA oversight of operators and provide for more consistent regulatory interpretations across the agency.
With its broad reaching implications, NBAA members should carefully review the FAA bill to determine how it impacts their specific operation.
Review FAA Reauthorization Bill
Review a House/Senate Summary of the Bill
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.