Congress finally passes FAA reauthorization bill and sends it to Biden for signature

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Federal Aviation Authority reauthorization bill on Wednesday, sending it to President Joe Biden’s desk for approval. The bipartisan bill, which was previously passed in the Senate, renews the FAA’s funding for five years and includes a range of safety measures, consumer protections, and initiatives to address the nation’s shortage of air traffic controllers.

Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., hailed the bill as a victory for Americans, emphasizing the importance of increased air traffic controllers and improved pilot training. The legislation also includes new consumer protections, such as the right for families with small children to sit together without additional fees and mandates refunds for delayed or canceled flights.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., played a key role in amending the bill to include refund requirements, following positive public response to similar rules introduced by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The bill also addresses safety concerns at U.S. plane-maker Boeing and includes provisions for more realistic evacuation testing and regulations for passengers with disabilities.

Additionally, the bill provides funding for the hiring and training of more air traffic controllers to alleviate the critical shortage in the industry. It also adds five new slot pairs at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, exempt from the perimeter rule limiting flight distances.

Despite some objections and concerns about potential congestion at DCA, the bill is expected to be signed by President Biden in the coming days, marking a significant legislative effort to improve air travel safety and passenger experience.