FAA Reauthorization Act Revisited

GA-specific legislation is included for the first time.

Friday, September 06, 2024 at 08:59 AM ET

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While precious little meaningful lawmaking occurred in year one of the 118th Congress, there is one very bright spot in year two—the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act. [iStock]

Key Takeaways:

The 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act stands as a rare bipartisan legislative accomplishment by the otherwise unproductive 118th Congress, highlighting the common ground found in aviation.
This comprehensive legislation introduces a dedicated section for General Aviation (GA) for the first time, signaling a significant focus on modernizing and supporting GA and the broader U.S. aviation system over the next five years.
Key provisions include enhancements to airport infrastructure (e.g., electric aircraft charging, protection against closure, unleaded fuel transition), modernization of airspace and aircraft regulations (e.g., drone integration, MOSAIC, hydrogen aviation), and expanded support for aviators (e.g., BasicMed, diversity initiatives).

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It’s no secret that the politically polarized 118th Congress hasn’t been able to accomplish much. In fact, this Congress has passed fewer bills in its first full year than any since the Great Depression—only 34. As a matter of perspective, the 117th Congress passed 362 bills during the Joe Biden administration and the 116th Congress passed 344 during the Donald Trump administration.

While precious little meaningful lawmaking occurred in year one of the 118th Congress, there is one very bright spot in year two—the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act.