Five Policy Priorities
The U.S. airline industry is a critical engine of economic growth and employment in America. It moves approximately 2 million passengers and 50,000 tons of cargo each day. The U.S. commercial aviation industry creates more than $1 trillion per year in economic activity. More importantly, commercial aviation helps drive nearly 10 million American jobs and 5 cents of every dollar of U.S. gross domestic product. And for every 100 airline jobs, some 360 are supported outside of the industry in local communities.
However, from 2000-2010, the U.S. airline industry lost $55 billion and 150,000 jobs, or one-third of its workforce, battling recession, skyrocketing fuel prices and multiple bankruptcies.
We need a cohesive National Airline Policy that will support the integral role the domestic airline industry plays in our economy. Multiple federal government commissions, such as the Future of Aviation Advisory Committee that reports to the Secretary of Transportation, have made recommendations to strengthen the industry, which are included in the National Airline Policy.
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Reducing the taxes and fees we pay on airline tickets would make sure prices remain affordable for consumers and businesses. > Learn more
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Eliminating inefficient and costly rules that do not impact safety or the customer experience would help reduce flight cancellations and shorten flights and security lines. > Learn more
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A modernized air traffic control system would transform our air travel experience. Implementing the most cost-beneficial parts of the system would save frequent fliers and businesses billions of dollars and reduce delays and congestion while improving environmental performance. > Learn more
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Foreign governments are investing significantly in their airlines, allowing them to acquire new aircraft and expand deeper into the United States. If this trend continues, domestic air service – particularly to smaller and rural communities – would suffer the most, unless U.S. airlines are able to compete more effectively. > Learn more
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Stabilizing energy prices and curbing excessive oil speculation would reduce economic uncertainty for airlines, businesses and the traveling public, and would help spur investments in alternative fuels. > Learn more
