Honors Reps. LoBiondo, DeFazio For Commitment To Safety

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association honored Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ) and Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR) with its annual "Sentinel of Safety" award during each Congressman’s respective appearances Tuesday before more than 350 air traffic controllers gathered at NATCA’s annual legislative conference, "NATCA in Washington."

The "Sentinel of Safety" Award was created as a way to honor a member of the aviation and legislative communities who has displayed outstanding achievement in the advancement of aviation safety. The award is open to all leaders of the aviation community, with a special emphasis on those whose leadership on aviation safety issues NATCA considers to be historic, aggressive and courageous.

A former ranking member of the House Aviation Subcommittee and now a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure committee, Congressman DeFazio has dedicated himself to promoting efficiency and fairness for all users of the National Airspace System, according to the controllers union. Throughout his Congressional tenure, DeFazio has authored, co-sponsored and supported bills and initiatives calling for vast overhauls in the aviation system -- including his introduction of legislation that would amend Title 49 of the Federal Code, to provide an expanded collective bargaining process for FAA employees.

"Congressman DeFazio has fought to ensure that the United States continues to operate the safest and most efficient aviation system in the world. He has been the voice of reason and integrity and a champion for aviation employees," said NATCA President Patrick Forrey. "Throughout his career, he has stood as a friend for NATCA, often times selflessly defending us from our sharpest critics. His pointed commentary during committee hearings and working sessions has always been spot on in its support of NATCA, our membership and most importantly, the flying public."

Currently serving his seventh term in the US House, Congressman LoBiondo is also beginning his fourth year as the Co-Chair of the Republican Labor Caucus. In that role, NATCA states, he has been an outspoken leader on issues affecting the lives of working union members and their families. Most notably, the union says LoBiondo has championed NATCA's fight with the FAA for a new collective bargaining agreement. He has also co-sponsored legislation to improve aviation security after 9/11, supported beefed up and standardized training for aviation cabin crews, and voted to implement the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission.

"As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (including the Aviation Subcommittee), Congressman LoBiondo has stood up time and again for NATCA, fighting with the FAA on our behalf for a fair contract and a positive work environment for our members," Forrey said. "For that great effort we owe him a debt of gratitude."

FMI: www.natca.org, www.house.gov/lobiondo, www.defazio.house.gov/