ALA Legislative Issues Conference Features Updates on Reauthorization, Appropriations & Security

The Airport Legislative Alliance (ALA) held its 2006 Summer Legislative Issues Conference this week, July 17-18, in Washington, D.C. Attendees heard first-hand from Members of Congress, congressional staff, and key policymakers on the latest issues facing the aviation industry. Speakers discussed the next Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill, the Departments of Transportation and Homeland Security appropriations bills, and aviation security issues.

On Monday, Gina Marie Lindsey of McBee Strategic Consulting briefed conference attendees on the baggage screening investment study, which she expects to be completed this summer. She indicated that the study has identified a number of innovative funding and financing alternative for integrated explosive detection systems (EDS)/out of lobby solutions for baggage systems, including tax credit bonds.

On Tuesday, Reps. John Mica (R-Fla.) and James Oberstar (D-Minn.) addressed the conference. When asked about the possibility of a Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) increase in the next FAA reauthorization bill, Mica, who is chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation, said that both raising the PFC and expanding its use could be an option to help airports meet their capital needs. Oberstar, ranking member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, expressed his support for a PFC increase, saying, "Aviation is nine percent of Gross Domestic Product and its incremental growth drives our economy. We need to invest in the future of aviation." Oberstar said he is also supportive of cost saving initiatives for FAA operations, including consolidating air route traffic control centers.

The ALA is a joint initiative of ACI-NA and the American Association of Airport Executives to bring the voice of airports to Capitol Hill. For additional information, visit ACI-NA's Legislative Update section.