Editor's Note: National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) President and CEO Ed Bolen issued the following statement Friday, thanking outgoing Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Norman Y. Mineta for his many years of distinguished public service and effective work to strengthen the nation's transportation system.

"The nation owes Secretary Mineta a debt of gratitude for his tremendous service in support of all of the nation's transportation segments, especially aviation," Bolen said. "For decades, the Secretary has proven himself an outstanding public servant, and a critical figure in shaping aviation policy in the U.S. and around the world.

"Norm Mineta's understanding of the general aviation sector helped guide to passage the General Aviation Revitalization Act, which was fundamental to the future of general aviation. The Secretary's National Civil Aviation Review Commission redefined the way the Federal Aviation Administration does business. His decisiveness, leadership and wisdom were never more in evidence than in the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, when Secretary Mineta ordered the successful grounding of all aircraft, then worked through the weeks following for the safe resumption of flight.

"Norm Mineta leaves behind a proud legacy of accomplishment for America's transportation system, which -- as he well recognized -- is a critical component in the nation's economy. NBAA and its Member Companies thank Secretary Mineta for his service and wish him well in his future endeavors."

FMI: www.nbaa.org