Hearing of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee - Opening Statement of Rep. Graves, Hearing on "Looking Forward: Aviation 2050"

Hearing

Thank you Chairman Larsen and Ranking Member Graves for holding this hearing.

I would also like to express my condolences to the friends and families of those who perished as a result of the aviation accident in Ethiopia over the weekend.

While things are quickly developing in aerospace and aviation, we must never stop working to ensure the safest system possible. As a pilot, I appreciate the both importance of safety, as well as the opportunities that lie ahead for aviation businesses, consumers, and aviators.

The air transportation system of the future promises great advances in the way we move people and goods across town, around the globe, and into space. It will also allow us to better connect small and rural communities with the rest of the country and world.

But it is essential that safety be at the forefront of everyone's mind. We can allow for innovation while maintaining a safe and efficient air transportation system. That is the balance that must be struck in order to be successful.
Fostering innovation and incorporating advancements in technology into our infrastructure network is one of my top priorities

Advances in aircraft and launch vehicle technologies will change the way we live. In 2050, air travel could be a completely different experience. Imagine working in D.C., but going home to Missouri, Louisiana, Oregon, or Washington every night.

Focusing on what the system will look like in 30 years, and how to allow for new developments will ensure the United States remains the world's leader in air transportation. Just as important, it will create the environment for American ingenuity and job creation.

I am excited to hear about some of the newest users of the airspace, including drone operators, and commercial space transportation providers. I also look forward to hearing about how air taxis and the reemergence of supersonic flights will change air travel. As I said in the beginning, these are exciting times; the possibilities are limited only by our imagination.

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