Press Releases
Rep. Young Supports FAA Reauthorization"The dropped user fee increase is a victory in my book, as that would have been a big hit to a state that lacks a proper road system and therefore is reliant on aviation." -Rep. Young
Washington, D.C.,
September 20, 2007
Alaskan Congressman Don Young voted today in favor of H.R. 2881, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2007. H.R. 2881 authorizes $66 billion for FAA programs over the next four years which will enable the FAA to make needed repairs and replace aging equipment as well as provide for high-priority safety systems. In addition, this bill replaces the proposed user fees, which would have proven detrimental to general aviation, with a more manageable five cent increase on aviation gasoline, and a 14 cent increase for jet fuel. It also calls for the reopening of contract negotiations between the FAA and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA). "This bill is by no means a perfect bill," said Rep. Young. "However, it is better than the bill proposed by the Administration and better for Alaskans and general aviation. The dropped user fee increase is a victory in my book, as that would have been a big hit to a state that lacks a proper road system and therefore is reliant on aviation. The majority of Alaskan communities are considered rural and many depend on Essential Air Service. Per this piece of legislation, these communities will receive additional resources including the repeal of the local participation match. In addition, this bill includes a provision for a Merrill Field land reversion that will give land to (the Municipality of) Anchorage for a road widening project. This is a very important addition that will help ease congestion coming into Anchorage by way of the Glenn Highway. "Again," continued Rep. Young, "this bill is by no means perfect but it is much better than what we were originally dealt. I have spoken with many Alaskans on this issue over the past few months, and I feel comfortable that at this time I’ve voted for the version of the Reauthorization that will support them the best. My hope is that once it goes through the Senate, the final version will be a good compromise that benefits both general aviation and the consumer." Other important portions of this bill are: Increases total authorized funding for Essential Air Service each year from $127 million to $133 million (including $50 million derived from overflight fees). Authorizes $35 million annually for the Small Community Air Services Development program. Allows pilots to fly until age 65 under certain conditions. Requires airlines and airports to have emergency contingency plans in place to take care of passengers that are involved in long flight and tarmac delays. #### |