On the recordMarch 10, 2010
I cannot overstate the importance of a vibrant and strong aviation system. It is fundamental to our Nation's long-term growth--from the largest cities to the very smallest of towns--because it connects our citizens and it connects our businesses with the global economy. Increasingly, however, our air transportation system and the FAA--the Federal Aviation Administration--are strained beyond capacity. Our skies and airports have become plagued with congestion and delay, and what is more, on a pretty regular basis. Over the past decade, we have seen passengers delayed for hours on runways, and we hear about it. During peak times, such as the holidays, the system is often paralyzed--stopped. Disruptions at just one key airport--maybe JFK, maybe O'Hare, maybe Los Angeles, should they be in trouble at any one of those places--can quickly cascade throughout the entire system.
