AIAA Encouraged by Congressional Passage of FAA Extension Written 13 July 2016

July 13, 2016 – Reston, Va. – The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) is encouraged by the recent short-term extension of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); however, it does not go far enough to ensure the agency’s long-term funding and policy direction. While the act does include much-needed provisions related to aviation security, unmanned aerial vehicles, and consumer protections, future legislation must be more comprehensive. Congress should provide multi-year funding to allow for the successful implementation of NextGen and the advancement of commercial space transportation operations, along with reforms to streamline the certification process for new aircraft and bring products to market faster.

“While we applaud the extended authorization of the FAA through the end of the next fiscal year, AIAA is cognizant that this is only a short-term solution that does not go far enough to fund the critical programs that are required to sustain America’s leadership in aerospace,” said Sandy Magnus, AIAA executive director. “Predictable and sustained funding is essential to giving the FAA the means necessary to achieve its long-term goals. Adequate funding and sound policy direction are instrumental to providing certainty and stability for the aerospace marketplace and workforce. We urge the next Congress to swiftly pass a comprehensive, multi-year FAA authorization.”