The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed legislation that would privatize the air traffic control system in the United States.
The 21st Century Aviation Innovation, Reform, and Reauthorization Act (H.R. 2997) would transfer operation of air traffic services currently provided by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to a separate not-for-profit corporate entity, the American Air Navigation Services Corporation. Lawmakers said it would help modernize the system.
It would also reauthorize the FAA for another six years, with air traffic control being spun out.
Lawmakers contend that privatizing the air traffic control system would reduce government bureaucracy and funding uncertainties, and would allow the FAA to focus on safety.
“We thoroughly debated the legislation, considered approximately 80 amendments, approved substantial improvements offered by Members from both sides of the aisle, and voted to move forward to give Americans the safe, efficient, modern aviation system they deserve,” Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) said.
The bill is expected to be taken up in the House before August.
“Today’s debate demonstrated that there is a clear consensus the status quo is not working and more can be done to move our aviation system into the 21st century,” Aviation Subcommittee Chairman Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ) said. “Without sacrificing the safest system in the world, the U.S. can and must move to a more efficient and effective system for future growth.”
It passed the committee by a vote of 32 to 25.
“The Committee’s action today underscores our commitment to keeping America in the lead by modernizing our air traffic control system,” Aviation Subcommittee Vice Chair Paul Mitchell (R-MI) said. “This transformative change will improve America’s competitiveness, enhance aviation safety, improve service for customers, strengthen general aviation, and preserve access for rural and small communities.”