Arlington, Va. – Aerospace Industries Association President and CEO Eric Fanning today made the following statement after Congress unveiled the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation–Housing–Urban Development (THUD) funding bill, which funds the Federal Aviation Administration among other key transportation agencies.
“This year’s Transportation–Housing–Urban Development appropriations bill sends a clear signal: Congress is committed to strengthening the safety, efficiency, and innovation that define America’s aviation system.
“With a total of $22.209 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration — a $1.220 billion increase above last year’s enacted level — this legislation accelerates the modernization of our air traffic control system, advances new technologies, and invests in the infrastructure to support the next generation of air travel,” Fanning said. “We are especially encouraged by the strong support for key industry activities at the FAA, including aviation safety; commercial space transportation; research, engineering & development; certification; and workforce grants, including $10 million exclusively for manufacturers.
“We are grateful to Chairman Cole, Ranking Member DeLauro, Subcommittee Chair Womack, and Ranking Member Clyburn for their continued partnership with the aerospace industry. We urge Congress to quickly pass this legislation to reinforce American leadership in aviation and ensure U.S. skies remain the safest in the world.”
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