FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024

FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023

This bill reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through FY2028, including activities and programs related to airport planning and development, facilities and equipment, and operations.

The bill also addresses a wide range of issues, including by

• expanding air traffic controller training capacity and requiring the FAA to update the training process for air traffic controllers and the FAA Contract Tower Program;
• prohibiting aircraft dispatchers from working remotely, with limited exceptions for emergencies;
• requiring the FAA to operationalize key programs under the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) by December 31, 2025;
• requiring air carriers to provide a full refund, upon request, to passengers who hold a nonrefundable ticket for a cancelled or significantly delayed flight;
• requiring the Department of Transportation (DOT) to establish a policy directing certain air carriers to seat a young child next to an accompanying adult if adjacent seats are available without charging an additional fee;
• requiring DOT to issue rules on minimum training standards for airline personnel who assist wheelchair users;
• requiring air carriers to publish information related to the stowage of powered wheelchairs, including cargo hold dimensions;
• establishing a new DOT grant program for airports to dispose of products that contain per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), such as certain firefighting equipment, and purchase fluorine-free firefighting alternatives;
• requiring the FAA to update safety standards for commercial air tour operators (i.e., sightseeing airplane and helicopter flights); and
• requiring the FAA to establish a regulatory pathway for the certification or approval of commercial unmanned aircraft (i.e., drones) to operate beyond the visual line of sight.

The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, also known as Bill 118 s 1939, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. This bill aims to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and provide funding for its operations for the next several years.

Some key provisions of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 include:

1. Funding for the FAA: The bill allocates funding for the FAA to continue its operations, including air traffic control, safety oversight, and airport infrastructure improvements. 2. Modernization of the National Airspace System: The legislation includes provisions to modernize the National Airspace System, including the implementation of new technologies and procedures to improve safety and efficiency. 3. Drone regulations: The bill addresses the regulation of drones, including requirements for registration, licensing, and operation of unmanned aircraft systems. 4. Airport security: The legislation includes measures to enhance airport security, including increased funding for security personnel and equipment. 5. Environmental considerations: The bill includes provisions to address environmental concerns related to aviation, such as reducing emissions and noise pollution. Overall, the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 aims to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of the US aviation system while addressing key issues such as modernization, drone regulation, airport security, and environmental considerations.