Congress fails to extend FAA’s authorization

Earlier this afternoon, Congress adjourned without passing a clean FAA reauthorization extension.  And because of its inaction, states and airports won't be able to work on their construction projects and thousands of people around the country will have to go without a paycheck.

This is no way to run the best aviation system in the world, and I'm tremendously disappointed by today’s events. 

The current FAA reauthorization expires at midnight tonight.  And without an extension, airports across the country will also be forced to halt important construction projects and other airport activities.  The FAA will be unable to provide roughly $2.5 billion for airport projects in all 50 states that could put thousands of people to work in good paying jobs.  For example:

• Orlando International Airport in Orlando, Florida is still waiting on funding to rehabilitate a major taxiway. 
• Houghton County Memorial Airport in Hancock, Michigan is still waiting on funding to modify their terminal building and discourage wildlife from entering the active airfield.
• Richmond International Airport in Richmond, Virginia is still waiting on funding to proceed with construction of a new apron for a terminal concourse.
• Lubbock International Airport in Lubbock, Texas is still waiting on funding to begin the third phase of a critical runway rehabilitation.
• Adams Field in Little Rock, Arkansas is still waiting on funding to begin the rehabilitation of taxiway lighting, construction of a Runway Safety Area, and the installation of a Precision Approach Path Indicator that helps pilots land safely.

In addition, the Federal Aviation Administration will be forced to furlough nearly 4,000 employees--men and women across the country who perform valuable work for our nation's aviation system and our economy.  These are real people with families who do not deserve to be put out of work during these tough economic times.

Every day, thousands of people across our country show up to work to make our aviation system as safe, efficient, and reliable as possible.  I couldn’t be prouder of their efforts. 

There is no excuse for Congress failing to pass this FAA extension.  It’s crucial to our economy, it’s crucial to tens of thousands of middle-class families who will see paychecks stop, and it’s crucial to our transportation system.

We cannot afford to wait--Congress needs to come back to Washington, finish its work and pass a clean extension of the FAA Bill.

Comments

[Adam D Tate]

I found out about this yesterday on WNYC an NPR affiliate radio station in NYC and I am terribly troubled to hear the failure of Congress to act on this matter. It is deeply troubling and inconceivable that an extension was not granted. Perhaps they are all driving to their destinations via the recess? This is just one more way our Congress and Government is failing it citizens and visitors to this nation. Is it truly sickening.

[Steve]

Congress' ineffectiveness is disappointing, although your poor writing skills certainly aren't helping anyone.

[Terry Anderson]

I'm glad they're taking the time to ponder it. I live near the Philly airport, which is trying to encroach on our town. The FAA has too much power.

[M]

Thanks Congress, I saved about $20 on the flight I booked this weekend! Love the tax free weekend for air travel!

[Novelty Pens]

Air travel has become a vital part of our economy. It's basically "bus" service for this century. As demand increases so must the capability of the air infrastructure.

[Gregg Weber]

I wrote a comment on 22 July that apparently was contrary enough not to be approved.
The question was if this was a one way propagation, or a conversation or debate. Not including the comment gives this citizen the answer if government listen to the people.
Bye.

[short boots]

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