Senate Unanimously Approves Flake, McCain Amendment to Evaluate FAA's Efforts to Coordinate with Stakeholders

Press Release

The Senate last night unanimously approved an amendment introduced by U.S. Sens. Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) and John McCain (R-Ariz.) to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act that would require the FAA to create an airspace management advisory committee to review and report to Congress on the agency's process for developing proposals that impact airspace changes. Specifically, the committee would look at how the FAA coordinates both internally within the agency and externally with stakeholders on the proposals. The amendment stems from the FAA's failure to engage with communities and airports before altering flight paths at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.

"While I continue to support efforts to improve the safety and efficiency of the national airspace system, the creation of an airspace management advisory committee will be critical in evaluating how the FAA is working with relevant stakeholders and consulting communities in the vicinity of airports when carrying out airspace changes," said Flake.

"While modernizing flight paths is critical to enhancing safety for all travelers, our communities and airports deserve to have a seat at the table before the FAA implements changes," said McCain. "This amendment builds upon the language Senator Flake and I championed in the FAA Reauthorization bill that would address the concerns of impacted communities -- like those around Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport -- by creating an airspace management advisory committee to review and improve the process surrounding airspace alterations. Senator Flake and I are committed to ensuring that impacted citizens in Phoenix and around the country have the opportunity to voice their concerns before any future changes go into effect."

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