Jan. 9, 2017: // NATCA Statement on Selection of Sen. Thune for Second Term as Commerce Committee Chairman
National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)
For Immediate Release
Jan. 12, 2017
Contact: Sarah McCann, 202-220-9813
NATCA Statement on Selection of Sen. Thune for Second Term as Commerce Committee Chairman
WASHINGTON – The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) today issued the following statement about the U.S. Senate ratification of Sen. John Thune to continue serving as Chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation:
“We extend our congratulations to Sen. Thune for his selection to serve a second term as Chairman.
“As Chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, Sen. Thune has worked hard to help alleviate the air traffic controller staffing crisis, including ensuring passage of the FAA Reauthorization extension last year that included language streamlining the hiring process and securing a path to employment for College Training Initiative students and military veterans.
“Sen. Thune also shares NATCA’s commitment to modernizing the National Airspace System to make sure controllers and other aviation safety professionals have the tools and equipment they need to continue providing the best service possible to all users of the NAS, and to maintain its sterling safety record.
“We look forward to continuing our work with the Senator and with members on both sides of the aisle in the 115th Congress. Our work has yielded progress in modernizing the system and positive results for the American people. However, there is more work to be done. The NAS does not have a stable, predictable funding stream and this uncertainty has caused many serious problems for the system. NATCA is prepared to collaborate with all aviation stakeholders to achieve the stable, predictable funding stream necessary to ensure the United States remains the world leader in aviation.”
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