Political Quotes

“I rise in support of H.R. 3479, the National Aviation Capacity Expansion Act. I want to thank the gentlemen from Illinois (Mr. Kirk) and (Mr. Lipinski) and other members of the Illinois delegation and the surrounding region for their hard work in coming to an agreement on this legislation. O'Hare serves as the main hub for the Nation's two largest commercial airlines, and expansion is without a doubt going to be a tremendous benefit to travelers and businesses in the northern Illinois area, as well as the Nation. What I particularly appreciate about this legislation is that it acknowledges the role of other regional airports, especially the Greater Rockford Airport, and the role it can have in helping to alleviate congestion at O'Hare. This legislation clearly states how important it is for the FAA to consider existing infrastructure when constructing a plan to streamline traffic through O'Hare. With a runway that can land virtually any jet today at a distance of only 1 hour's drive from Chicago, Rockford Airport stands ready to immediately supplement traffic congestion at O'Hare during construction or in the future. The efficiency of our Nation's air travel is ready for a dramatic upgrade in the Chicago area, and this bill is a critical step in addressing that need. I urge my colleagues to support its passage today.”