Climbing Fast Into the New Year

As we begin 2024, business aviation faces a legislative and regulatory landscape that offers both challenges and opportunities.

The House passed its version of a bipartisan FAA reauthorization bill last July that includes a general aviation title reflecting several of our priorities. That said, as of this writing, the legislation remains under consideration in the Senate, due in part to proposed changes to requirements for commercial pilot training. NBAA will continue to support passage of a final bill that includes key provisions supported by the association and the broader GA community.

At the FAA, new permanent Administrator Michael Whitaker starts the year with NBAA’s full support. Business aircraft operators await the agency’s final rule after a proposed rule that would expand safety management system mandates beyond the airlines. NBAA has already made members’ voices heard by providing comments to the FAA proposal, noting – among other concerns – the expanded mandate. As we know, NBAA members also mobilized to provide their own comments, which have been very helpful as the agency continues its review. Naturally, the association will continue to support members on this issue as it develops in the new year.

Also, an FAA Notice of Intent (NOI) filed last August suggests the possibility of revisions affecting Part 135 charter carriers conducting Part 380 flights. NBAA has joined several other aviation organizations in raising concerns that changes to public charter regulations could negatively impact air service to some areas, including remote regions with already limited access. The association intends to continue engaging fully with the FAA about possible repercussions from any proposed revisions.

On another front, opposition to business aviation based on misperceptions about climate change is on the rise and will require a stepped-up response in the coming year. Our concerns about this matter can be seen in the policy and media environments surrounding a Senate bill that was introduced to raise taxes on business aircraft based purely on climate change grounds.

Setting the record straight on the industry’s sustainability leadership with key audiences – including policymakers and media outlets – is the aim of the recently launched industry campaign “Climbing. Fast.,” which showcases business aviation’s societal benefits, highlights workforce opportunities and encourages innovations in sustainability. In the coming year, it will be a top priority for NBAA and the campaign’s other stakeholder groups to put a sharp focus on the industry’s sustainability leadership.

We’re armed with effective advocacy tools, and we know we can count on your mobilization, as needed. Thank you for your membership and continued support as we look to the new year together – climbing fast toward an even brighter future.