After hours of uncertainty, the U.S. Senate struck a deal to reauthorize several Federal Aviation Authority programs for the next five years. The bill, which heads to the House for final approval, faced resistance from Democratic senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner of Virginia over a provision to allow more flights in and out of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The senators argued that this would compromise safety at the busy airport. Meanwhile, Republican Senator Ted Cruz pushed for more slots at the airport, particularly for a direct flight from San Antonio.
The bill also includes various provisions such as increasing air traffic controller hiring targets, raising the commercial pilot retirement age, and requiring airlines to automatically refund customers after flight delays. While some lawmakers hoped to attach unrelated provisions to the bill, the managers decided against allowing non-germane amendments.
The passage of the FAA reauthorization bill is seen as a major opportunity for lawmakers to push their priorities before the November elections. However, lawmakers like Senator Josh Hawley acknowledged that their proposals, such as the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, may not be added to the bill. Despite some disappointments, there was a sense of accomplishment with provisions like automatic refunds for consumers being included in the final legislation. Overall, the bill aims to enhance aviation safety, protect consumers, and address various issues in the aviation industry.
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