Smith Fights Proposed Cost Increases to Small Airports

Press Release

Smith Fights Proposed Cost Increases to Small Airports

Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) has joined with Rep. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) to introduce an amendment to H.R. 915, the four-year Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill. Smith's amendment would save small airports from having to comply with costly new regulations.

Currently, the FAA reauthorization bill includes a provision which could force small airports to comply with National Fire Protection Association standards, which would lead to increased staffing, training, equipment and infrastructure requirements. Small airports particularly, such as those serving the Third District of Nebraska, would be particularly hard hit by the unfunded mandate.

New equipment and infrastructure requirements also could force airports to divert scare resources away from critical safety, security, and capacity projects at a time when airports are striving to improve runway safety.

"Small and mid-sized airports play a key role in local communities by attracting and retaining businesses dependent on commercial air service. These airports also enable citizens in rural areas of Nebraska expanded and more convenient access to specialized healthcare often absent in rural communities.

"Congress has the responsibility to ensure air travel is safe and efficient. We should not, however, be leveling increased costs on small, rural airports - many of which are struggling to survive and have exemplary safety records," Smith said.

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