Greenville Reporter

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On July 20, 2023, Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) proudly announced the successful passage of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Bill. This bipartisan legislation marks a significant step towards ensuring the efficiency and modernization of our nation's aviation infrastructure while advancing aviation safety and workforce development.

"I am thrilled to see the passage of the FAA Reauthorization Bill, which will pave the way for transformative changes in our aviation industry while supporting small and regional airports," said Congressman Davis. "The upgrades to airport infrastructure will enhance safety, improve efficiency, and provide a better travel experience for the people of North Carolina and Americans across the country. The measures addressing workforce challenges will also help attract and retain skilled professionals, ensuring a robust and capable workforce for future generations. At the same time, the bill addresses many of the issues that travelers have faced recently during high-volume travel periods, including the winter holidays."

The FAA Reauthorization Bill includes provisions that Congressman Davis fought for, including those that focus on upgrading airport infrastructure and addressing workforce shortages in aviation. These provisions will directly and positively impact the constituents of eastern North Carolina, delivering tangible benefits to their communities.

In addition, the deliverables secured by Congressman Davis will plus up funding for airport infrastructure upgrades, helping non-hub airports, like Pitt-Greenville, to modernize their facilities. The bill also supports larger airports by expanding their capacity and enhancing safety measures. These investments will improve the overall travel experience, promote economic growth, and attract more business and tourism to the region.

Key provisions of the FAA Reauthorization Bill include:

• Improving FAA Efficiency and Operations: The bill streamlines the regulatory process, enhances innovation, and improves the overall efficiency of the FAA while maintaining ongoing safety efforts.
• Strengthening America's General Aviation (GA) Sector: Recognizing the vital role of GA in the aviation system, the bill includes the first-ever general aviation title, ensuring the long-term success of the industry.
• Growing the Aviation Workforce: To address workforce shortages, the bill removes barriers to pursuing aviation careers, expands the aviation workforce pipeline, and enhances training standards. The bill creates the National Center for the Advancement of Aerospace, as well as the Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and Employment Readiness (CAREER) Program; creates the Bessie Coleman Women in Aviation Advisory Committee to advise on the recruitment, retention, education, and treatment of women in U.S. aviation; and establishes a DOT-DOD working group to advise on improving the career transition between the military and civilian workforces. 
• Investing in United States Airport Infrastructure: Robust funding is authorized for airport infrastructure, with a focus on small and GA airports, to strengthen community connections, create jobs, and drive economic growth.
• Upholding America's Gold Standard in Safety: The bill addresses safety issues, including runway incursions, to maintain the United States' position as the global benchmark in aviation safety.
• Encouraging Aviation Innovation: To foster innovation, the bill facilitates the testing and integration of new technologies, such as drones and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), while ensuring safety standards.
• Enhancing the Passenger Experience: The bill includes reforms to improve the overall experience for air travelers, ensuring a seamless journey.

As this FAA Reauthorization Bill moves forward, Congressman Davis remains committed to advocating for his constituents' interests, ensuring that the upgrades to airport infrastructure and workforce development initiatives are effectively implemented. He will continue championing policies promoting safety, innovation, and economic vitality within the aviation industry.

Original source can be found here.