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WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Monday approved a comprehensive agreement that ensure the country's aviation system maintains high-quality standards, ensuring the health of the aviation sector.
The Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act of 2024 will be voted on in the House of Representatives next week, NJ Congressman Jeff Van Drew said in a release.
"I am thrilled to announce that our efforts to secure the FAA Technical Center as a permanent fixture in our South Jersey community have finally paid off, he said. The inclusion of my provisions in the FAA Reauthorization will have a long-lasting impact on our local economy by creating new public and private sector jobs in research and technology which will grow our South Jersey aviation economy.
A section of the bill expands the role of the William J. Hughes Technical Center in Egg Harbor Township, which advances aerospace research and development, and aerospace safety.
According to a synopsis of the bill, the Technical Center will identify opportunities to improve aviation safety and efficiency of the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system and related facilities.
The bill also renames, the former William J. Huges Technical Center.
"In this bill, the Technical Center will also be renamed to the FAA William J. Hughes Center for Advanced Aerospace,' expanding the FAA Technical Center to include opportunities to further improve aviation safety as well as develop and test drone technology. This work is crucial in our fight to uphold America's position as a global aviation leader and maintain competitiveness against adversaries like China, Van Drew said.
Additionally, the bill improves air travel for people with disabilities.
"My provisions will transform the air travel experience of those with disabilities by requiring more communication and transparency from airlines, staff training for proper engagement with individuals with disabilities, and accessible designs to ensure a comfortable boarding and deplaning process, Van Drew said.
Link to section-by-section summary
