AIA | Election 2008 Issues

Keeping America Strong: Advance U.S. Global Leadership in Aerospace and Defense

Air Transportation Is Essential to America's Economy and Our Way of Life

fast facts

Fuel burned per seat in today's aircraft is down more than 70 percent from early jets.

The aviation sector is responsible for only 2 to 3 percent of the total emission of gases that are believed to contribute to global warming.

Since 1975, noise has been reduced 90 percent. Today the total number of people in the United States exposed to significant noise levels is less than the population of Nashville.

Studies show that modernization of the air traffic management system will improve fuel efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 10 to 15 percent.

Aviation Innovations Will Benefit the Environment

Environmental issues are the largest barrier to aviation growth. The aerospace industry has made great strides at minimizing the environmental impact of its products through technological advancements and operational practices that reduce airport congestion, noise, and emissions.

Coordinated government and industry research and development investments are needed to achieve major breakthroughs in engines, aerodynamics, materials, and flight systems that will further advance environmental goals. As proposed, FAA's NextGen vision has significant environmental benefits. Reduced flight time will mean that aircraft engines operate less, burn less fuel, and generate less noise and fewer emissions.

America Needs:

R&D investment in revolutionary and evolutionary technologies to reduce the environmental impact of aviation.
Federal R&D of suitable alternative fuels that can reduce aviation emissions, improve air quality, and help minimize climate change.
Continued U.S. leadership of a global approach to address aviation environmental issues.