Speaking at a National Journal policy breakfast last week, representatives from both competing presidential campaigns were not very illuminating when it came to the subject of where their bosses stood on general aviation issues. Senator Barack Obama’s transportation advisor noted the need for greater investment in aviation infrastructure, including “getting an ATC system that works.” Among the short-, mid-, and long-term goals for transportation in general were considerations for energy independence, the environment and the economy. An FAA reauthorization bill-in limbo since mid-2007-was labeled as a “long-term” goal that needs to be achieved “soon.” Senator McCain’s representative was similarly vague, also citing energy independence as a priority. McCain does not support Obama’s proposed federal “infrastructure bank” for fear it is too similar to the infamous Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae mortgage entities. McCain believes the burden for transportation infrastructure needs to be shared among federal, state and local governments as well as private industry.
Presidential Candidates Are Not Very Specific on Plans for Aviation
Key Takeaways:
- Both presidential campaigns offered vague positions on general aviation issues, though their representatives discussed broader transportation goals.
- Obama's campaign emphasized investment in aviation infrastructure, including modernizing the ATC system, and linked transportation to energy independence, environmental concerns, and the economy, also pushing for a swift FAA reauthorization.
- McCain's campaign also prioritized energy independence but opposed Obama's proposed federal "infrastructure bank," advocating instead for a shared financial burden among federal, state, and local governments, as well as private industry.
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