Six general aviation associations have issued a statement strongly opposing the inclusion of provisions to privatize air traffic control services in the government reorganization proposal unveiled by the White House on Thursday. “We are disappointed that the Administration continues to reintroduce a failed proposal,” the groups said. “Instead, it should put its weight behind FAA legislation pending in Congress that will advance the aviation industry, including general aviation, which contributes $219 billion to the U.S. economy and creates over one million jobs in the U.S.”
According to the statement, opposition to privatizing ATC includes congressional leaders from both political parties, more than 100 aviation organizations, over 100 business leaders, 100 U.S. mayors, consumer and agricultural groups, conservative think tanks and the majority of Americans. It also points out that the idea has already been considered and rejected by Congress. The last attempt to introduce ATC privatization legislation came in the form of a last-minute amendment to the FAA reauthorization bill being voted on by the U.S. House of Representatives. The amendment prompted immediate opposition from the GA community and was removed from the bill.
Overall, approximately 300 aviation organizations, businesses, and officials have stated their opposition to ATC privatization. The groups issuing the statement are the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Experimental Aircraft Association, General Aviation Manufacturers Association, Helicopter Association International, National Air Transportation Association and National Business Aviation Association.
