John Katko: “Today, most actions in Congress are viewed through a partisan lens, but the 21st Century AIRR Act is a bill with…”

“Today, most actions in Congress are viewed through a partisan lens, but the 21st Century AIRR Act is a bill with significant support from both Republicans and Democrats, as well as a number of groups representing a wide array of political ideologies. Modernizing air traffic control has historically been a bipartisan issue. In fact, 20 years ago, then-President Clinton said: ``The FAA's 20-year effort to modernize its air traffic control technology simply has not been able to keep pace with either the emergence of new technology or the growth and demand for air travel. . . . We can continue on the current course and continue to experience crowded airports, flight delays, and even higher passenger frustration. But if we act now to improve our infrastructure, we can ensure that air travel in the 21st century is the safest, most cost-effective, most efficient in the world.'' These words are still true today. Because we have failed to act decisively, the FAA is struggling to give Americans the 21st century air traffic control system they deserve. We have the opportunity to change that with the AIRR Act. Many former top administration officials from both parties support reform as well as a broad coalition of stakeholders. Air traffic control reform hasn't been a partisan issue, and it shouldn't become one now. I urge all my colleagues to pass this critical bill for American aviation. ____________________”