Political Quotes

“I want to applaud the passage of the Federal Aviation Administration FAA Reauthorization, as it strengthens security, provides for critical aviation infrastructure, and maintains access to affordable travel for Montanans as well as the rest of the country. However, while many important provisions were addressed in the FAA reauthorization, improvements to the Federal Contract Tower Program that I advocated for were not included. There are currently 253 airports in 46 States that participate in the Contract Tower Program, including three airports in my home State of Montana. The Contract Tower Program is a prime example of a successful government-industry partnership and provides safety and air traffic efficiency benefits to airports across our country. The Bozeman, Kalispell, and Missoula airports in Montana count on the Contract Tower Program to provide essential and cost-effective services. That is why I introduced an amendment in the Senate passed FAA reauthorization bill that would protect contract towers and require the FAA to respond to airports when additional control staff and hours are needed. Unfortunately, this 14-month FAA authorization extension legislation does not include this broadly supported provision. Congress must take seriously the management of taxpayer dollars, and be good stewards of such. The Contract Tower Program is a clear example of a cost-efficient program that provides essential safety services.…”