WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) released the following statement on Senate passage today of a short-term reauthorization for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which will last until September 16, 2011:

“Aviation represents one of the most important components of Kansas’ economy, and provides thousands of jobs for Kansans. I am pleased this short-term reauthorization was agreed upon today so American workers can return to their jobs – but there is more work to be done. Congress needs to pass a multi-year reauthorization bill to provide long-term stability, improve aviation safety, and make important investments in aviation infrastructure across the country. When Congress returns to Washington in September, I am hopeful the policy disputes that have prevented a long-term extension will be resolved so this important industry can better plan for the future.”

Air transportation in Kansas is essential for business attraction and retention. Airports play a key role in economic development for many communities by enabling businesses to improve customer service and timely delivery of products to market. Kansas is home to nearly 3,200 aviation and manufacturing businesses, including Cessna, Hawker-Beechcraft, Bombardier-Learjet, Boeing, Spirit AeroSystems, Garmin and Honeywell. Wichita was one of the first cities to establish a commitment to aircraft manufacturing, earning the title of “Air Capital of the United States” in the 1920s.

When Congress began debating the FAA reauthorization bill nearly three years ago, more than 40,000 employees in Wichita and surrounding communities made their living building planes, manufacturing parts and servicing aviation. Unfortunately, due to rough economic conditions, aviation related jobs have dropped to under 25,000.
 

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