Number: RL33789
Title: Reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration: An Overview of the Issues Before Congress
Authors: Bart Elias, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: Reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other aviation programs is likely to be a high priority in the 110th Congress as funding authorizations for aviation programs and the aviation tax structure that provides revenue for the aviation trust fund will expire at the end of FY2007. Congress may consider a variety of financing options to provide a sufficient revenue stream for ongoing operational costs and planned infrastructure improvements. One particularly controversial option under consideration is a more direct user fee system, which is supported by the airlines but strongly opposed by many other system users. Congress may also examine airport financing mechanisms including airport improvement program (AIP) grants, passenger facility charges (PFCs), bonds, and other revenue sources.
Pages: 11
Date: January 9, 2007