Knight Aerospace Research Measures Pass House

Press Release

Legislation by Representative Steve Knight (CA-25) to ensure the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) expands its research and development programs that underpin the safe, efficient, and growing use of our National Airspace System passed the House floor with unanimous support on Monday.

Earlier this year Rep. Knight introduced H.R. 4489, the FAA Leadership In Groundbreaking High-Tech Research and Development Act (FLIGHT R&D Act.) This bill, which would authorize funding for the FAA to study and utilize improvements in aerospace technology with the goal of advancing aviation safety, security, and economic competitiveness, passed the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology with bipartisan support in February.

Several key provisions from the FLIGHT R&D Act were added to a larger piece of legislation that would extend funding for the FAA, called H.Res.818, the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act. The bill passed with the support of the entire House along with Knight's provisions and others that would increase public safety and private commerce.

"America's freedom is increasingly targeted by enemies at home and abroad. It's because of this threat that we need to ensure our aviation system remains safe, stable, and secure," said Speaker Paul Ryan about H.Res.818. "With this legislation, we can protect our citizens by updating airport security and aviation safety requirements while working on a long-term solution."

Knight's provisions focused largely on integrating Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) into the National Airspace System. It would direct the FAA to coordinate UAS research to ensure efficient and effective use of taxpayer funding and to provide biennial report to Congress on its efforts to coordinate research and development. Additionally, the bill includes several components to strengthen the FAA's ability to defend against cybersecurity threats by organizing and bolstering cybersecurity research and development at the agency. Rep. Knight says these initiatives are crucial to the future of American flight and will have positive economic impacts on the many companies in Southern California that are involved in aerospace manufacturing.

"Aviation research and development means more jobs and more opportunities for our small businesses - especially in the Antelope, Santa Clarita, and Simi Valleys," said Rep. Knight. "I am glad that my colleagues are joining me in strengthening America's aviation program. When the aerospace community grows, our local economy thrives."

H.Res.818 passed the House with unanimous support and was previously approved by the Senate. It now awaits signature by the President.

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