Nov 7, 2018
NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen returned to this year’s Citation Jet Pilots Association (CJP) to thank the group for its efforts in helping defeat congressional proposals for so-called ATC privatization and update the group on general aviation-related news in Washington, DC.
In his remarks, Bolen noted the hard-fought legislative battle included opposition from hundreds of general aviation groups, like CJP, which would have been negatively impacted had the plan moved forward. Additionally, well-known industry advocates, such as singer/songwriter Dierks Bentley and famed pilot Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger spoke out against the idea in videos, ads and newspaper op-eds, as Congress considered the matter as part of FAA reauthorization.
Ultimately, Congress set aside the controversial proposal, and a long-term FAA reauthorization bill was passed this year without an ATC privatization proposal.
“In the debate over this legislation, the general aviation community made its voice heard as never before, and it made all the difference in the outcome,” Bolen said. “The so-called privatization proposals put forward would have restricted our access to airports and airspace – threatening the future of business aviation.”
“It was great for Ed to attend the CJP annual convention this year,” said Andrew Broom, CEO of CJP. “He not only expressed his appreciation for CJP, but also the collaborative efforts between CJP and NBAA on issues like ATC privatization, and also aviation safety. We look forward to building even stronger ties and enhancing each other’s future safety endeavors.”
Also speaking at the CJP convention, held Oct. 24-26 in San Antonio, TX, was renowned air show pilot Sean D. Tucker, who was awarded the association’s Al Ueltchi Award for Humanitarian Leadership at the association’s convention in October.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.