No private company has an obligation to amplify anything and especially not messages that strike at the heart of our democracy.

These private companies presumably must advance the lies, conspiracy theories, and personal attacks promoted by radicals.

FedEx can use those pilots.

It is encouraging that general aviation has become significantly safer over the past four decades with the number of fatal and nonfatal accidents declining since 2000.

I had a constituent who was a friend and a great member of our community in Memphis who died in a plane accident maybe 6 months, 1 year ago.

With more than 200 airports throughout that State, 80 percent of the communities are dependent on aviation for year-round access.

The use of leaded avgas continues to remain a significant public health concern.

As we kick off our first Aviation Subcommittee hearing and continue our efforts to reauthorize the FAA, I welcome this opportunity to discuss the challenges facing the general aviation community.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. That was an interesting story about your having that experience when you were 8 years old.

General aviation is an important sector of our aviation system, spanning from sport and recreational aviation to medical transport to business travel to aerial firefighting and more.

I have argued that it is a bridge to more pollution and disasters, and have strongly encouraged them to rethink this approach.