Reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration Programs

Floor Speech

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Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to applaud the passage of H.R. 302, the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act of 2018.

This bipartisan legislation includes a 5-year reauthorization of FAA programs that promote safety and American leadership in aviation. It also strengthens consumer voices and invests in our airport infrastructure.

Importantly, the Essential Air Service program was reauthorized for an additional 5 years through fiscal year 2023.

This program is vital for rural America. It ensures taxpayers in small, rural communities are connected to the national transportation system. This program provides links to hub airports at more than 170 locations in 36 States and territories, including three in my congressional district, which would otherwise lack commercial air service.

Reliable transportation plays a key role in growing jobs all over the country, and rural America should be no exception.

Additionally, this bill includes important reforms to the Federal Contract Tower Program, which has a proven record of enhancing aviation safety and provides significant cost savings to the taxpayers.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased the House approved this bill to keep all Americans connected to reliable and safe air transportation.

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