CR Brings Much-Needed Relief, Long-Term Funding Necessary

The National Air Transportation Association issued a statement on November 12 welcoming the passage of the Continuing Resolution to end the federal government shutdown and the start of restoring full operations across the DOT, FAA, TSA, CBP, and other federal agencies.

The temporary funding through January 30, 2026 does bring much-needed relief to those federal employees who worked without pay in safety-critical positions and across all aviation-related businesses, but NATA stressed the need for a full-year appropriations package.

Throughout the shutdown, NATA worked with industry coalitions and federal partners to advocate for actions that prioritized safety, minimized operational impacts, and protected the safety of customers and the vigor of general and business aviation.

Curt Castagna, President and CEO of NATA, released the following statement:

“The shutdown created real challenges for aviation businesses and the FAA and TSA professionals who serve them. We welcome the reopening of government functions and the steady restoration of full FAA and TSA operations, which are critical to the safety, security, efficiency, and growth of our industry.

“NATA and its members stood in solidarity with the thousands of dedicated public servants and contractors who were furloughed or faced uncertainty during this period. Their commitment to safety and service, even under strained circumstances, reflects the professionalism that defines our nation’s aviation community.

“Our members’ adaptability and professionalism once again underscored the indispensable role of the aviation business community in sustaining our national airspace system. This experience also underscored what we’ve long known—air charter and general aviation operations place minimal strain on major airports and the air traffic control system.

“Air charter operators and aviation businesses at over 5,000 public airports provide vital flexibility and connectivity that strengthens the broader air transportation network, especially in times of disruption.

“Our nation’s critical air traffic control and transportation security functions should no longer be subject to dangerous government shutdowns. NATA will continue to advocate for long-term stability and policies that keep aviation safe, secure, efficient, and strong.”

FMI:  nata.aero/