Airlines for America (A4A) reports the launch of a campaign for a National Airline Policy. A comprehensive policy will support the role the domestic airline industry plays in connecting people and goods globally, spurs economic growth and creates more high-paying U.S. job, A4A says.
“A National Airline Policy is good for passengers and shippers, businesses and our economy because it will take a holistic look at what impedes the industry from competing globally, including high taxes, excessive regulation, infrastructure challenges and volatile fuel prices,” said A4A President and CEO Nicholas E. Calio.
“The U.S. airline industry safely and efficiently transports 2 million customers and 50,000 tons of cargo every day, and is a critical driver of the U.S. economy, creating $1 trillion in economic activity and 10 million jobs. We can do even more in an environment that recognizes the airlines as a national asset," Calio says.
Calio, along with airline CEOs, are unveiling the campaign on Capitol Hill this week and continuing to brief legislators on the benefits of a comprehensive policy, A4A says.
The five priorities of the National Airline Policy include:
• Reduce Taxes: Air travel is taxed at a federal rate that exceeds those on alcohol and tobacco, products that are taxed to discourage use. A National Airline Policy would help keep ticket prices affordable.
• Reform Regulatory Burden: Airlines are among the most highly regulated deregulated industries. A National Airline Policy would help reform regulations that add unnecessary costs and do not improve safety or the customer experience.
• Modernize Air Traffic System: The air traffic control system dates back to the 1950s. With the right policies and procedures in place, U.S. airlines could reduce flight delays, missed connections and cancellations while lowering fuel burn and related emissions.
• Compete Globally: U.S. airlines are increasingly competing with foreign carriers that have more favorable tax and regulatory environments. A National Airline Policy would help ensure U.S. carriers can compete and maintain air service to smaller communities and invest in new aircraft.
• Stabilize Energy Prices: Fuel is the largest expense for airlines, and prices are high and volatile. A National Airline Policy would support a balanced and comprehensive national energy policy.
To coincide with the launch, A4A is running a series of advertisements at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport during the holiday season. In addition, A4A is gathering initial support by encouraging its network of advocates and airline employees to visit the campaign's website – NationalAirlinePolicy.com – to sign the petition. Interested parties can also follow the campaign on Facebook at facebook.com/nationalairlinepolicy, Twitter at twitter.com/natl_air_policy and Google+ at http://bit.ly/Xi4PGg.
Throughout 2013, A4A said it will be building a coalition of state and local organizations, businesses and others to support the priorities of the Policy. A4A will be promoting the campaign to the traveling public via social media campaigns, earned media placements, and print, digital and mobile advertising.
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