Houston Daily

Washington, D.C. - Aviation Subcommittee Chairman Troy E. Nehls (R-TX) addressed the hearing titled "FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024: Stakeholder Perspectives on Implementation One Year Later," highlighting the significant milestones and challenges in implementing the act.

May 16, 2025, marked one year since the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 became law. This comprehensive legislation was crafted over two years with input from over 2,100 stakeholders and Members. Chairman Graves led the effort to create what is described as the largest and most comprehensive FAA reauthorization act.

The act focuses on maintaining aviation safety as a priority for the FAA, introducing a general aviation title to strengthen America's sector, addressing workforce development challenges for pilots, mechanics, and air traffic controllers, investing in airport infrastructure with a focus on small and general aviation airports, integrating new technologies like drones and advanced air mobility safely and efficiently, and enhancing passenger experience reforms.

The act includes over 500 mandates for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) to implement within five years. Chairman Nehls expressed eagerness to hear from witnesses about progress made in implementing these mandates.

Nehls acknowledged that implementing such a large-scale law requires coordination across government and industry but noted historical struggles with similar challenges. He pointed out that provisions from previous acts remain unimplemented.

Despite its ambitious nature, Nehls stated that the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 sets an achievable timeline for implementation. He expressed confidence in the Trump Administration's ability to maintain the United States' reputation as a leader in aviation by partnering with President Trump and Secretary Duffy.

Nehls highlighted delays in several important provisions: section 372 concerning an Enhanced Qualification Program for restricted airline transport pilot certificates; section 930 involving rulemaking for safe operations of unmanned aircraft systems beyond visual line-of-sight; and section 1110 regarding federal policies establishing leadership in civil supersonic aircraft.

He emphasized holding DOT and FAA accountable for achieving legislative goals alongside broader aviation community efforts. Nehls thanked witnesses present at the hearing for their contributions towards ensuring timely implementation of this pivotal law.