Federal Aviation Administration

This testimony discusses the need for reforms at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as the agency positions itself for the 21st century. Congress is considering several reform proposals, ranging from granting FAA more authorities under its current structure to devising a new organizational structure for federal aviation functions--including creating (1) an independent agency outside of the Transportation Department and (2) a public or private air traffic control corporation. The impetus behind these reforms is frustration with the slow pace of modernization of the air traffic control system and concern that the effort to cut the federal budget deficit will constrain spending for aviation. This testimony focuses on the following three key areas: air traffic control modernization, funding, and organizational structure.