Advocacy Update-From the American Council of Engineering Companies

FAA Extension Approved Through March 8, 2024

Last night, the Senate cleared the House-passed extension of Federal Aviation Administration programs and funding. The short-term measure runs through March 8, 2024. This was necessary to avoid a lapse in authorized funding and aviation taxes and fees, and gives lawmakers more time to work on a full five-year reauthorization.

Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), the chair of the Senate Commerce Committee's aviation subcommittee, said Senate negotiators are "close to finalizing a strong, full FAA reauthorization bill," which is encouraging. The Senate bill has been stalled for months over disputes about pilot training requirements and airline safety issues, but recent reports indicate there may be some progress to address these concerns.