Bolen Discusses Fight Against ATC Privatization at SoCal Event

Nov. 6, 2017

NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen brought a Washington, DC perspective to California last week when he discussed the general aviation community’s concerns with so-called ATC privatization legislation at an event in Palm Springs, CA.

Bolen was the featured speaker at an event sponsored by the Southern California Aviation Association (SCAA) and the Southern and Northern California Schedulers and Dispatchers Association (SONO), which hosted the networking function at the Palm Springs Air Museum on Nov. 2.

On top of Bolen’s agenda was NBAA’s strong opposition to H.R. 2997, proposed congressional legislation that would turn ATC over to a private entity unaccountable to Congress, putting citizens, companies and communities that rely on general aviation at risk.

“The airlines are working harder than ever to take control of the country’s air traffic control system, so they can operate it for their own benefit,” Bolen told attendees. “Therefore, it’s up to all of you to contact your congressional representatives – not just once, but multiple times – and tell them to vote ‘no’ and defeat H.R. 2997.” Bolen encouraged attendees to use the atcnotforsale.com website, and use a toll-free number – 833-GA-VOICE – to contact lawmakers.

“Regional groups like SCAA and SONO have had great success working together with NBAA on issues affecting business aviation,” said Cheli Morrison, vice chair of SONO. “And with joint events such as this one in Palm Springs, SCAA and SONO are helping to build a stronger aviation community on the West Coast and doing our part to lead the way in the larger business aviation community.”

The networking/dinner event, of which NBAA was one of the sponsors, has grown every year and attracted about 250 attendees. “This function is one of the highlights for both groups each year,” said Debi Carpenter, executive director of SCAA.

The event also featured a charity golf tournament on Nov. 3. Proceeds will go toward scholarships for students whose focus is on aviation.