Senate’s FAA Reauthorization Fails on Test Vote

The Senate on May 6 failed to limit the debate on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill in a floor vote along party lines, 49-42. 

Congressional sources indicate that the bill will likely now be pulled from floor consideration as the Senate moves onto other issues. Meanwhile, negotiations on how to proceed on the FAA reauthorization bill are expected to continue, as Republicans and Democrats remain conflicted over the amendment process and non-aviation revenue-related items. 

Unless an agreement on the debate procedures is reached soon, the comprehensive FAA reauthorization bill may not be scheduled for a floor vote. Since the existing FAA extension expires June 30, congressional leaders could move to pass an extension of FAA programs and taxes through Fiscal Year 2009.  Should this occur, it is unlikely that there will be a final, multi-year FAA reauthorization bill this year.

Contact ACI-NA’s Scott Weaver  or Channon Hanna for more information»