Pearce Introduces Legislation Allowing 135 Operators To Give Scheduled Service To Small Communities

Congressman Steve Pearce (R-NM) has introduced legislation to improve air transportation to small communities by allowing on-demand air charter operators to conduct limited scheduled service between two destinations.

H.R. 488, “Serving Economies through Aviation and Technology in the 21st Century Act (SEAT 21),” would permit on-demand Part 135 operators to conduct public charter flights, provided the service consists of fewer than five round trips per week. The purpose of the legislation is to provide supplemental air service to small communities who often lack sufficient scheduled air service.

“NATA is supportive of Congressman Pearce’s efforts to involve the on-demand air charter industry in providing increased access to the air transportation system for small communities,” NATA president James K. Coyne said today.  “H.R. 488 will enhance service to communities in a more efficient and cost-effective manner by utilizing the flexibility on-demand charter operations can provide.

“This bill provides an innovative and thoughtful approach to new forms of air transportation,” Coyne concluded.  “I am pleased Congressman Pearce recognizes the important role air charter plays in the nation’s transportation system, and I commend him for his leadership in exploring new ideas to help small communities.”
 
H.R. 488 has been referred to the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, where it awaits consideration.

FMI: http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d109:h.r.00488: