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 is a rare bipartisan achievement in a politically polarized Congress, demonstrating how the recognized value of aviation can lead to significant legislative collaboration.
This comprehensive act introduces extensive reforms and advancements across airports, airspace, aircraft, and aviator provisions, with a particular focus on General Aviation (GA).
Key impacts include simplified funding for small airports, protection for GA airports, infrastructure development for electric aircraft, modernization of regulations (e.g., MOSAIC deadline), integration of new technologies (AI, drones, supersonic, hydrogen aviation), and improved aviator provisions like expanded BasicMed and 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.