First, Here’s information from Washington, D.C. H.R. 2115, Vision 100. President Bush, allowing for $3.4 billion for the Airport Improvement Program in FY2004, and increasing to $3.7 billion by 2007 signed the Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act, which outlines aviation funding for the next four years.

Actual funding, however, was being held up until Congress reconvenes in January to consider the 2004 omnibus-spending bill to actually appropriate the authorized monies. FAA and air traffic control have been funded in the interim via a continuing resolution, while AIP has been held up until the new appropriations bill was passed.

Among some of the more unique provisions of Vision 100: reduced matching share from 10 percent to 5 percent) for small hub and smaller airports for federal grants; allowing non-primary airports, with DOT Secretary’s approval, to use GA entitlement funds to pay for fuel farms and hangars; and, authorization of $100 million to reimburse GA operations adversely affected by the 9/11 attacks.

Secondly, FAA is seeking bids on a proposal to outsource operation of its network of Automated Flight Service Stations. FAA also refuses to extend the January 1, 2004 deadline requiring the installations of emergency locator transmitters on turbojet aircraft.

The agency also unveiled its Stage 4-noise standard, requiring all new aircraft to be ten decibels quieter than stage 3 by 2006.

And, regarding air traffic control, FAA has launched a new Air Traffic Organization to transform the management and performance of ATC; to be headed up by COO Russell Chew.

Thirdly, DOT, approves the sport pilot/light-sport aircraft proposal, which moves to the Office of Management and Budget for a 90-day review.

Fourthly, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) names Adm. David Stone as acting administrator following the departure of James Loy, who becomes the deputy security of the Department of Homeland Security. TSA also issues its best practices guidelines regarding general aviation security; www.tsa.gov.

TSA has awarded $7.8 million in grants to eight airports to test and deploy security technology, and expects to award another $9.2 million in grants soon.

Regarding cargo, TSA unveils a strategic plan that requires airlines to start random inspections and seeks to enhance security throughout the airfreight supply chain.

Now, In Conclusion, Remember, we as MPA, USPA, EAA, AOPA, or any other State Pilot Associations, you may be a Member of, we all have powerful voice, be it here in Missouri, or whatever State you represent. Because every group of Pilots and Taxpayers carry a strong voice to Washington, D.C., and on the State Level.

So, Let’s not to forget to exercise our privileges, and continue to make a “Difference for General Aviation.”

Until Next Time!