Obama Administration, Congress Must Fully Support Modernization

Following testimony Wednesday before the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure’s Subcommittee on Aviation, Capt. Lee Moak, president of the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), issued a statement calling on Congress and the Obama Administration to fully support the modernization of the air traffic control system.

Capt. Moak Testifies Wednesday

“Today’s national airspace system simply cannot meet the demand for air transportation today much less what we expect to see in the future. As airline pilots, every day we experience an outmoded infrastructure and antiquated facilities and procedures," Moak said in his statement. "We grow increasingly frustrated that we have technology in the cockpits of our aircraft that we cannot use to its full advantage.

“NextGen technology is desperately needed because a truly modern air transportation system will ensure that the United States continues to set the world standard for safe and efficient air transportation and will foster a robust airline industry that strengthens our economy and provides jobs. Moreover, a modern air transportation system is necessary to position the United States to compete economically in the global air transportation arena.

“Our government needs to step up and assume leadership, make the required decisions to provide direction to industry, provide the resources necessary, and finally advocate globally on behalf of our industry. The safety, efficiency, and viability of our industry are just too important to our country.”

FMI: www.alpa.org