Back in 1996, Congress decided subsequent FAA Administrators should have a five-year minimum term. Supposedly, this decision was made to prevent political meddling in the agencys affairs and ensure the FAA would make the “right” decisions. Right. This was, for what its worth, the same law removing from the agencys mandate the concept of promoting aviation. This coming September-the 13th, to be exact-marks five years since current Administrator Marion C. Blakeys tenure began, the crowning achievement of which is not having been in office on Sept. 11, 2001. By then, its unlikely Congress will have reached a decision on proposals imposing general aviation user fees in lieu of the existing excise tax scheme, or whether some other “option” will arise. 195
Departures/Arrivals
Back in 1996, Congress decided subsequent FAA Administrators should have a five-year minimum term. Supposedly, this decision was made to prevent political meddling in the agencys affairs and ensure the FAA would make the "right" decisions. Right. This was, for what its worth, the same law removing from the agencys mandate the concept of promoting aviation.
Key Takeaways:
- FAA Administrator Marion C. Blakey's five-year term is ending, coinciding with an uncertain future for her proposed general aviation user fees, which have faced a "lackluster reception" in Congress.
- It is unknown whether Blakey will step down, potentially causing delays in appointing a new administrator during a critical period, especially as the user-fee proposal's fate remains undecided.
- Pilots attending upcoming air shows are strongly advised to obtain, read, and carry the relevant NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) to ensure safe and compliant arrival procedures.
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