Byron Dorgan

If we do not implement critical safety changes before then, and another accident occurs, we can only blame ourselves.

But, with very different levels of skill and experience. Do you agree?

We must learn from accidents so we can prevent future occurrence.

I think that decision was the correct one at the time, and I think it remains correct, that the FAA needs to be the principal enforcer.

I mean, we have--in fact, I've written about one of the carriers that flies an empty Airbus 320 to El Salvador for repair.

This is a hearing of the subcommittee of the Senate Commerce Committee, the Subcommittee on Aviation.

I think that we could have greater enforcement.

Thank you for your time. And I'm open, also, to answering questions.

This is the second hearing that we have held this month to discuss the subject of aviation safety.

I think the tragic crash in Buffalo, New York, has activated a lot of interest in asking questions.

I want to thank all of you for joining us today to talk about the importance of the issue of aviation safety.

We need new diligence here, a new level of interest in making certain that we have one standard, that passengers can rely on one standard when they board an airplane.

I do want to say, as well, as we start this hearing, that I had intended and wished to have representatives of the carriers themselves at a hearing.

Concentration in ownership of the media, including television, radio and the proposals for the cross-ownerships of newspapers--it's a very serious issue, because it will have a significant impact on what people in this democracy can see…

We're finally going to have an FCC with all five members seated, present and willing to debate and vote on issues.

The foundation for democratic self-government is basic information to the American people.

We still have not made good on the 9/11 Commission's recommendation to build an interoperable public safety communications network.

I think this Commission now with a full complement of Commissioners will be making decisions that will have a profound impact on what the American people see, hear and read in the coming years.

I have introduced legislation with Senator Snowe and others on this Committee to require the Commission to work with NTIA on a comprehensive spectrum inventory.

I am going to support both nominees.

The quarterly contribution rate to the Universal Service Fund is as high as it has ever been.

Many of us think that concentration has been very unhealthy.

I support Robert McDowell's nomination. I think the President has sent us a nomination that is a solid nomination of someone well qualified.

I think you are going to see some of the biggest challenges that we have faced in this field.

We hope that you will commit in the hearings to a strong, candid, and really cooperative relationship with the Committee.