News
HAI applauds new FAA funding bill
October 4, 2018 By Helicopters Staff
Helicopter Association International of Alexandria, Virginia, released a statement applauding Congress for passing a long-term FAA reauthorization bill, noting this five-year bill provides long-term stability to the FAA and advances important priorities for general aviation.
“This reauthorization bill provides significant improvements for general aviation and the helicopter industry specifically,” said Matt Zuccaro, HAI president and CEO. “The helicopter industry faces a severe pilot and mechanic shortage, and this bill provides important solutions to help address this critical industry issue. Additionally, the bill addresses needed reform to FAA regulations pertaining to training programs at aviation maintenance technician schools.
“H.R. 302 also provides needed clarity on the safe integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace, allowing that sector to move forward with exciting commercial opportunities,” continued Zuccaro. “The bill also addresses an important helicopter safety issue: crash-resistant fuel systems. We commend Congress for their perseverance on this issue and for adopting the recommendations of the Rotorcraft Occupant Protection Working Group.”
HAI in particular points to the work by Senate Commerce Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.) and Ranking Member Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), along with House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-Pa.) and Ranking Member Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.).
