EAA Joins GA Groups to Keep Aircraft Registry Open

January 24, 2018 - While Monday’s congressional passage of a stopgap funding measure temporarily made the point moot, EAA and other GA groups urged the Department of Transportation to declare the FAA aircraft registry as performing essential functions and maintaining operations during government shutdowns.

A letter, signed by EAA CEO and chairman of the board Jack J. Pelton, as well as the leaders of NBAA, AOPA, NATA, GAMA, and HAI, asked DOT Secretary Elaine Chao to use her authority under the Anti-Deficiency Act to staff the U.S. Registry as vital to human life and property. The letter was delivered to Secretary Chao on Sunday.

“The FAA has long recognized the importance of accurate U.S. Registry information in carrying out its responsibilities in overseeing the safety and operation of aircraft on the U.S. Registry and in fulfilling its obligations under international treaties governing aviation,” the letter stated.

The House and Senate approved a three-week funding measure on Monday afternoon, temporarily ending concern over access to the FAA registry. However, the issue could resurface as Congress struggles to fund the government past these deadlines.