The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) today applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passage of HR 2862, the Science, State Commerce and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2006, setting the funding levels for NASA for FY06. The bill calls for a NASA funding level of $16.5 billion, $275 million more than the FY05 funding level, and $15 million more than the FY06 budget request.

"We are very pleased with the work the House did in securing this appropriation to fund NASA. The funding shows a commitment by Congress to support the President's 'Moon, Mars and Beyond' initiative. Additionally, we are pleased to see the House act to address issues facing the Aeronautics Mission Directorate, increasing the funding by over $53 million above the President's budget request. Although more funding is necessary, this plus-up is a step in the right direction. We hope to see the Senate take a similar stand in calling for improved funding of aeronautics research and development," stated AIAA Executive Director Bob Dickman.

Headquartered in suburban Washington, DC, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) serves over 35,000 members in 65 regional sections and 79 countries. AIAA membership is drawn from all levels of
industry, academia, private research organizations, and government and focuses on emerging technologies in aviation, space and defense.

FMI: www.aiaa.org