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Statement of Ted Stevens
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Hearing: Nominations Hearing
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Thursday, February 7, 2008
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Thank you Mr. Chairman. I think these are two very important positions for public transportation and I look forward to this hearing today. Aviation is a very important part of any state in the union, and it is literally the life blood of Alaska. 70% of our state can be reached only by air year round. You must use a boat from time to time. But year round transportation is dependent on aviation. It is important that the FAA maintain knowledge of Alaska, and Mr. Sturgell I am a little concerned about the retention of people in the FAA in Alaska. The retention seems to be a critical thing, attrition is very high and as a cause of our unique terrain it is an enormous aviation community. It is essential that we have the people up there who understand the state and understand the weather. I look forward to having the chance to discuss this with you and I want to work with the Chairman, and both of you, and try to see if we can do our best to improve the aviation system of our country.
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