NBAA Applauds "Solid Grasp Of Transportation Policy"

Three of the largest aviation "letter groups" weighed in Thursday on the expected nomination of Illinois Congressman Ray LaHood as Transportation Secretary. As ANN reported, President-elect Barack Obama is expected to announce LaHood's name for the top job at the Department of Transportation Friday.

"Aviation in the United States faces a number of critical issues including the need to boost investment in infrastructure and modernization of our outdated air traffic control system. These issues cry out for the kind of bipartisan action and leadership that have been the hallmark of Congressman LaHood's career." said Greg Principato, president of Airports Council International-North America. "Upon confirmation, we look forward to working with him to solve these problems and build an air transportation system that will support economic growth in the 21st century.”

National Business Aviation Association President and CEO Ed Bolen noted LaHood "is widely recognized as an effective public servant, with a solid grasp of transportation policy, as demonstrated by his work on the House Appropriations Committee.

"NBAA congratulates him on his nomination as Transportation Secretary, and we look forward to working with him to continually strengthen and transform the nation's aviation system, so that it remains the world's largest, safest and most efficient."

Craig Fuller, incoming president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, noted LaHood currently is a member of the House Appropriations Committee. "That’s a good sign for general aviation," said Fuller. "The Appropriations Committee has adamantly opposed aviation user fees, and with that experience, his input at the White House should be helpful to GA. And his past efforts in supporting GA airports indicate that he understands the importance of general aviation to the national transportation infrastructure."

Fuller also called LaHood a "leading advocate" for improving the state of Illinois’ transportation infrastructure, including being a proponent for improving local airports. The moderate Republican is known for consensus building and has long-term relationships with both Obama and his chief of staff, Rahm Emanuel.

"That's a critical relationship in Washington," said Fuller. "It means LaHood would have great access to the President and his full confidence."

LaHood's nomination is subject to confirmation by the US Senate. "If LaHood is confirmed as Transportation Secretary, AOPA would look forward to working closely with him to pick the right leader for the FAA and to address the challenges of aviation safety; modernizing the nation’s air traffic control system; establishing a fair, long-term financing system; and responding to energy and environmental issues," Fuller said.

FMI: www.aci-na.org, www.nbaa.org, www.aopa.org