WASHINGTON, D.C. — Corporate jets are getting a bum rap here since the deficit and budget have erupted into major political battlegrounds. But it is not jets alone that are the target — the use of any aircraft is being painted as a plum of the rich. While many in the aviation community may think […]
Is another FAA shutdown looming?
The 21st temporary extension of authorization for the FAA expires Sept. 16 and another period of possible shutdown looms. Congress returns Tuesday, Sept. 6, after an August recess — and early indications suggest continued disagreements between the Senate and House of Representatives over authorization funding for the agency. President Obama and the Senate committee on […]
Death — and billions of dollars — at risk with LightSquared plans
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A report from the FAA, leaked to the press, about the dangers of LightSquared’s plans to build a wireless communication system might be the reason the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association wonder why LightSquared is silent on the issue. The report indicates LightSquared’s plans could result […]
21…and counting?
WASHINGTON, D.C. — With the latest temporary funding of the FAA, reauthorization has reached adulthood — that is, temporary approvals are now at 21. The FAA hasn’t had a full authorization vote since 2003. On 21 occasions, the Senate and House have not been able to agree. They have until Sept. 16 to finally agree […]
FAA shutdown continues strong battle on Capitol Hill
General aviation should not experience many problems resulting from a month-long shutdown of the FAA, as most of our contacts with the government administration are related to flight safety, considered essential. The one area directly affecting flying is in the manufacturing. Twelve of the furloughed FAA individuals are in aircraft certification. A month’s delay should […]
GA groups ask FCC to withdraw waiver that threatens GPS
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) are strongly urging the Federal Communications Commission to take action to prevent interference with GPS reception and threats to the future of a GPS-based air traffic system. The FCC has applications from LightSquared, a company that wants to build […]
Will Congressional shoot out cause FAA shutdown?
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Will the U.S. Senate or House of Representatives blink before midnight Friday so another temporary extension can be passed and prevent a closing of the FAA over lack of funding? That’s the question many in all phases of aviation are asking here as the deadline for the end of the 20th temporary […]
A long hot summer
WASHINGTON, D.C. — “Long hot summer” in Washington is more than a description of the humid weather. This year it refers more to political struggles and how they are affecting general aviation. Opposing goals by the President and the Republican-controlled House of Representatives are causing all special interest groups — including aviation — to ratchet […]
Objections keep coming on Obama’s criticism of GA
“Obama is trying to demoralize the private plane industry and engage in class warfare.” That statement by U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns (R-Neb) sums up the atmosphere after the attack on business jets by the president at a press conference last week. Johanns is co-chair of the Senate Aviation Caucus. “It may be good politics at […]