The Wall Street Journal ran a Valentine’s Day editorial that had nothing to do with love, at least not with folks on either side of the ATC privatization debate. The piece, “Private Jet-Setters Against Better Air Travel,” took the National Business Aviation Association to task for blocking reforms of the nation’s air traffic control system by creating a “misinformation campaign.” The WSJ said the NBAA’s smoke and mirrors rhetoric has created the appearance that the airlines will control the new ATC board. Supporters of Rep. Bill Shuster’s legislation, H.R. 2997, continue to be amazed at how the GA and business aviation groups can possibly be worried about airline domination of a private system that way it’s been outlined.
Still Wondering Why GA/Biz Av Think the Airlines Will Run a Privatized ATC System?
Key Takeaways:
- The article addresses the debate around H.R. 2997, which proposes privatizing the U.S. air traffic control system, specifically the concerns of General Aviation (GA) and business aviation (Biz Av) groups about potential airline domination of the new ATC board.
- Contrary to a Wall Street Journal editorial downplaying airline influence, GA/Biz Av groups argue that while major airlines would nominate only one member, other board positions (from regional/cargo airlines, pilot/controller unions, and commercial airports) are likely to align with major airline interests.
- An analysis of the proposed 13-member board suggests that groups focused on airline operations could collectively secure a majority (6-7 seats), potentially marginalizing the interests of GA and business aviation.
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