As the Senate Commerce Committee considers the reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), we must remain aware of the impact our policies may have on various segments of the aviation industry.  The industry is a large part of the economy and increasingly the preferred method of travel for many Americans.  The FAA currently estimates aviation contributes $690 billion dollars annually to our Gross Domestic Product (GDP).  The policy decisions we make this year, both in the area of modernization and funding, will have a profound affect on the U.S. national airspace system (NAS) and our aviation industry for decades to come.

 

These issues are particularly important to my constituents, the people of Hawaii.  We depend on aviation to connect us as a state, as well as to the rest of the country and the world.  Our economy is uniquely dependent on aviation, and the ability of people to travel in a safe, efficient, and timely manner at reasonable prices.  Any policies we adopt must recognize the relationship between aviation and the economy, as I cannot support any policy that will adversely affect Hawaii’s airlines or their customers.

 

Today, we will hear from aviation stakeholders on the plan the FAA unveiled that would fundamentally change the current aviation system and how it is financed.  We must ensure that the air system continues to serve the public well, and at the same time, the air traffic control system must be modernized and it must be done quickly so our social and economic growth are not stifled.

 

Unfortunately, the FAA has not yet made a solid case supporting their proposed changes.  Specifically, the Committee needs to know how this plan affects consumers, local communities and various aviation stakeholder groups.  We must determine whether the FAA plan is equitable to all parties involved.  The entire country, rural and urban, will feel the impact of the FAA reauthorization that we enact.  Any aviation proposal that moves through Congress must deliver the promise of improving access and providing affordable, secure and quality air service to all Americans, regardless of geographic location.

 

Today is another step in understanding this important issue.  We must proceed in a dedicated, cooperative manner that ensures we enact the best legislation for the system and our nation.