Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) President and CEO Eric Fanning has expressed support for the fiscal year 2026 budget released by the Department of Transportation and Federal Aviation Administration. The budget includes investments that are welcomed by the AIA and its members, who are involved in developing, manufacturing, and maintaining commercial air and spacecraft.
Fanning stated, "The Aerospace Industries Association and our members that develop, manufacture, and maintain the safety of commercial air and spacecraft welcome the investments included in the President’s budget request for the Federal Aviation Administration." He emphasized that safety is a shared priority with the administration. According to Fanning, this budget will sustain essential workforce, technology, systems, and infrastructure to maintain American airspace as a global leader.
Furthermore, Fanning noted that alongside investment from the reconciliation bill, this budget request marks an initial step towards overhauling the air traffic control system. This effort aims to introduce a new era of safer and more efficient flight operations. However, he highlighted that additional upfront funding is crucial to achieve these goals.
"AIA stands ready to help chart a course forward," Fanning added. He expressed eagerness to collaborate with Congress to ensure timely enactment of this budget so that the FAA can continue safeguarding American aerospace leadership.
