Congress Passes FAA Funding Extension
The House and Senate passed legislation extending funding for the FAA through September 30, 2017, as Congress continues to debate a full FAA reauthorization bill. The extension bill, which was signed into law by President Obama on July 15, includes several priorities advocated for by the general aviation community, while rejecting controversial proposals for creating a privatized air traffic control system, funded by user fees.
NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen responded to the bill by saying, “Although a long-term FAA reauthorization bill that included important certification reforms would have been the best outcome in this debate, we commend House and Senate leaders for recognizing that resources must continue to be provided for the agency’s critical safety, infrastructure, modernization and other programs.”
Bolen also said that the FAA reauthorization debate is far from over, and much work remains to ensure the U.S. has the largest, safest, most efficient and diverse transportation system in the world. First and foremost, remaining fit for the fight on ATC privatization, when it reemerges.
Registration Open for Annual Safety Standdown
The 20th annual Safety Standdown in the United States being held September 27-29, 2016 in Wichita, Kansas is now open for registration and space is limited.
Safety Standdown is a global, year-round program that promotes knowledge-based aviation safety training along with personal discipline and responsibility as essential elements of aviation professionalism and safety. Bombardier initiated and continues to sponsor the Standdown, which includes training seminars and workshops that are free and open to all pilots, crewmembers, maintenance technicians and managers regardless of aircraft or manufacturer, on a first-come, first-served basis.
For those who can’t attend in person, Bombardier will be live webcasting the general sessions and select workshops. Remote attendees can also interact and ask questions of presenters in real time.
For a specific agenda and more information on the Standdown, or to register, go to www.safetystanddown.com.
Aircraft Management Fee Tax Relief Bill Approved by House Panel
The U.S. House Ways and Means Committee approved a bill that clarifies that aircraft management fees are not subject to the 7.5-percent air transportation tax, making it clear that management services provided to assist an aircraft owner in the operation of its aircraft are not subject to the ticket tax imposed on commercial air transportation. The approval clears the bill for full House consideration.
Leave a Reply