The NBAA has commended congressional leaders for their timely action on legislation to reauthorise the FAA through to September 2028.

The House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee passed its version of the bill (H.R. 3935), the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, on Wednesday, 14 June. That sends the bill to the full House, which is expected to consider the measure next month.

“We are encouraged to see chairman Sam Graves and ranking member Rick Larsen act swiftly on this important bipartisan legislation that includes critical provisions to enhance the nation's air traffic control (ATC) system, bolster efforts to attract more workers to the US aviation industry and support future aviation programmes and aircraft,” says NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. “This bill includes the first ever general aviation title, which will strengthen a sector that is foundational to our broader aviation system.”

Graves introduced the bill on 9 June, with Larsen, Aviation Subcommittee chairman Garret Graves and Aviation Subcommittee ranking member Steve Cohen as co-sponsors.

NBAA-supported priorities in the House bill include addressing industry workforce challenges, support for the safe and efficient integration of advanced air mobility (AAM) technology and infrastructure, and recognition of the important role of general aviation (GA) in attracting new talent to the industry.

H.R. 3935 includes provisions to streamline the aircraft registration process, require safety management systems (SMS) for certain air tour operations and increase engagement between industry stakeholders and the FAA in the rule making process and to resolve disputes.

The bill requires consultation with the NextGen Advisory Committee to expedite, prioritise and fully implement NextGen programmes. It would also sunset the use of the term 'NextGen'.

During the two day mark up, the House committee accepted an amendment to provide grant funding for electrification at the nation's public airports. This would support AAM operations through reliable and efficient airport power supplies and aircraft charging stations.

In the Senate, Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation chair Maria Cantwell introduced the FAA Reauthorisation Act of 2023 (S.1939) with ranking member Senator Ted Cruz, Aviation Subcommittee chair Senator Tammy Duckworth and Subcommittee ranking member Senator Jerry Moran as cosponsors.

The committee is expected to mark up the bill in the next week. Current FAA authorisation expires on 30 September, 2023.