GBTA Calls for Action on FAA Bill

Hours before President Obama's unveiling of his plan for creating more jobs in a joint session of Congress, the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) urged action by Obama and Congress on the still pending Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) re-authorization bill. President Obama’s nationwide speech to Congress is scheduled for 7 PM ET today. FAA re-authorization became the subject of intense controversy last month and got a temporary approval until September 16 when it expires.

"GBTA is hopeful President Obama and Congress reach an agreement on a long term re-authorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). A strong bill is critical for moving forward with FAA’s Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen), which will modernize the nation’s air travel system. This program is vital to ease congestion, reduce delays, and lessen fuel use." GBTA said in a statement.

"GBTA implores Congress and President Obama to act quickly to achieve a long-term agreement before the current extension of the FAA bill expires on September 16, 2011 to avoid another partial shutdown of this critical agency," GBTA said.

GBTA executive director and COO Michael W. McCormick said, “Finalizing the FAA Reauthorization bill should be a high priority for the federal government.  We are hopeful a long-term authorization will be passed before the current extension expires on September 16th. Passing the bill allows FAA to improve the transportation system and ensure the safety of air passengers. Travel is vital to the nation’s economy, corporations spend on travel to grow their business and further contribute to the economy and improving our system is crucial to ensure travel continues. The FAA reauthorization is long overdue. It’s time to get this done.”  

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