NATCA Bookshelf

Q & A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Does NATCA support privatization of air traffic control? What type of 'FAA reform model' does NATCA support? Does NATCA support a for-profit reform model? Does NATCA have a preferred funding system? Does NATCA support the current F Y 2016 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations levels at the FAA? • We are opposed to any system that would create a for-profit reform model for the air traffic control system. However, NATCA supports a not-for-profit model, as long as it supports the system with a stable and predictable funding stream and protects the NAS and the frontline workforce. • We have been very open to having a discussion about structural change at the FAA as long as safety remains the top priority. • The NAS currently lacks a stable and predictable funding stream, which has led to delayed modernization projects, difficulty maintaining a fully staffed system, and the repeated furloughs of FAA employees. • NATCA does not support a specific funding system, but the status quo is unacceptable. • The NAS needs a stable, predictable funding stream so the FAA can move forward with modernization and technology improvements, as well as infrastructure projects. Yes. Despite the fact that Congress is currently facing a very tough budget environment, the House and Senate Appropriations Committees have continuously worked to provide sufficient funding for the FAA. NATCA has been working hard to ensure that the FAA is properly funded and we greatly appreciate the support of Appropriators over the years. The enacted budget for the FAA in F Y 2016 totaled $16.28 billion. Funding for the specific FAA accounts are as follows: ê Operations: $9.909 billion ê Facilities & Equipment: $2.855 billion ê Research, Engineering & Development: $166 million ê Airport Improvement Program: $3.35 billion NATCA has publicly stated that any FAA reform must achieve the following: ê Ensure that the frontline workforce is fully protected; ê Retain safety and efficiency as top priorities; ê Provide for a stable, predictable funding stream that must adequately support air traffic control services, staffing, hiring and training, long-term modernization, preventative maintenance, and ongoing modernization to infrastructure; ê Maintain a dynamic aviation system that continues to provide services to all segments of the aviation community, from commercial passenger carriers and cargo haulers to business jets and general aviation, at all major airports and small airports in rural areas. No, NATCA does not support any proposal that would create a for-profit reform model. Safety should remain the number one priority. At the same time, we do not support any proposal that would maintain the status quo, which is unacceptable. FAA REFORM FAA FUNDING 33

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