The first official meeting of the Senate General Aviation Caucus, co-chaired by Senators Mark Begich (an Alaska Democrat) and Mike Johanns (a Nebraska Republican) took place Thursday, Jan. 28, composed of 23 members. The meeting addressed the role that GA serves in the U.S., and how the concerns of the GA community could be elevated in the Senate. The Senate Caucus was founded in September. Its members will seek to serve as a platform for bipartisan action on issues important to the GA community. Specifically, “The goal of the Senate General Aviation Caucus is to work with pilots, aircraft owners, the aviation industry, and relevant government agencies to insure a safe and vibrant environment exists for General Aviation (GA) in America,” according to Begich’s Web site. The House General Aviation Caucus, formed last year with assistance and urging from AOPA, held its first meeting in May. GA advocacy groups support the organization of the caucuses as a better-organized vehicle to advance their concerns. The caucuses so far hold more than 100 members on their rosters.
Said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen, “The continued growth of these caucuses underscores the recognition by Congress that general aviation creates jobs, provides a transportation lifeline to communities across the country, helps businesses succeed and supports people and communities in times of crisis.” NBAA has compiled a list of active General Aviation Caucus members listed by state for both the House and Senate. It is available here.
