The controversial FAA reauthorization bill that includes privatizing the air traffic control system will begin its journey through what is expected to be a tough legislative process Wednesday with a hearing. Four witnesses, including representatives of Airlines 4 America, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, the Reason Foundation and NBAA President Ed Bolen will testify. In a way, the makeup of the hearing mirrors the primary concern of GA groups who have generally opposed the bill. The overriding worry is that the makeup of the board of directors is heavily weighted toward the airline industry and that other aviation sectors will not get the same access and benefits from the system. The National Air Transport Association added its concern about that Tuesday in a news release. After Wednesday's hearing, the bill heads to committee markup where it will be amended in preparation for presentation in the House.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at https://www.avweb.com/recent-updates/business-military/reauthorization-bill-scrutiny-begins