Read other 2006
   Press Releases

Statement from AIA President And CEO John W. Douglass on Legislation To Modernize The Air Force’s Fleet Of Aerial Refueling Tankers

WASHINGTON, D.C., November 13-- The aerospace industry applauds the Senate for passing the FY 2004 Defense Authorization bill, which includes a provision for the Air Force to acquire 100 new Boeing 767 tankers through a combination of leasing 20 and purchasing 80.

The provision comes at a critical time for the aerospace industry. Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the U.S. aerospace industry workforce has declined by 13 percent. The purchase of these aircraft will help strengthen the aerospace industrial base and stabilize the workforce.

The leasing provision ultimately represented a sound long-term investment since aerial refueling resources will continue to grow in importance as the Pentagon deploys increasing numbers of next-generation combat aircraft such as the F-22 and the Joint Strike Fighter. The compromise legislation to recapitalize the fleet balanced the need for modernization with the concerns of the taxpayer in a way that was fair and supportive of national security.

P.A. Rel 2003-34

11.13.03

-AIA-

Contact: Matt Grimison, AIA
(703) 358-1076
matt.grimison@aia-aerospace.org