Bill Shuster still thinks it’s a great idea, and apparently so does Sam Graves, but it’s starting to feel like the rest of Congress is ready to move on from the ill-fated idea of ATC privatization and focus on the real issue at hand: how to properly fund the FAA so the agency can complete critical air traffic modernization projects.
ATC Privatization Plan Hits Turbulence
Key Takeaways:
- A Senate panel rejected the Trump Administration's ATC privatization proposal, instead approving a bill that allocates $16.7 billion for FAA funding to complete modernization projects.
- General Aviation (GA) leaders strongly oppose privatization, arguing it's "a solution in search of a problem" and that stable, multi-year FAA funding is the proper solution for modernization.
- EAA Chairman Jack Pelton accused Rep. Shuster, a key proponent, of employing "strong-arm tactics" and threats to secure votes for ATC privatization.
- Despite current setbacks and opposition, the issue of ATC privatization remains active, with proponents expected to renew their efforts after the summer recess.
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