PRESS RELEASE
by Congressman Bruce Westerman
In the 4th District, we are fortunate to have numerous small and medium-sized airfields that serve Arkansans and visitors from across the country, and we are home to a robust agricultural aviation industry. As such, Congress must make timely and strategic investments that will bolster our aviation capabilities.
As a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee and Aviation Subcommittee, I actively work to ensure this happens. A few weeks ago, the U.S. House passed historic, bipartisan legislation from the T&I Committee to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the next five fiscal years. The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act improves efficiency at the FAA, enhances passenger experience, encourages aviation innovation, and more.
I submitted two amendments to the bill that will strengthen data privacy and improve the safety of agricultural aircraft like crop dusters. I also supported provisions that make significant advancements to support the El Dorado, Hot Springs, Camden, Texarkana, and Mena Airports. The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act affects more than just passengers and pilots. This legislation will benefit farmers, business owners, healthcare providers, and everyday folks through provisions that bolster aviation safety, economic growth, and local investments.
The bill authorizes funds to support the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in the next five years. This program ensures commercial air service from smaller regional airfields like Hot Springs Memorial Field and South Arkansas Regional Airport in El Dorado. This program serves much of the rural West, especially in areas where folks are often several hours away from the closest major airport. This program is essential to maintain air service and the economic activity that comes with it in rural communities that otherwise wouldn’t have the capabilities to engage in that industry.
Legislation like the Supporting Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act includes strategic and timely provisions to support General Aviation airports, like most airports in the 4th District. It also bolsters the safety of agricultural aviation aircraft, like crop dusters, which play an essential role in the success of our agriculture and aviation industries in the state and across the country. While the 4th District may not be home to what some may call a large or major airport hub, we can be a leader in the aviation industry, and legislation like this is a significant step in getting us there.