The original intent of Congress was that those who use the air traffic control system should pay for it. It was a simple concept and it worked – for a while. Today, however, the system is out of balance. Corporate planes are paying for only 6 percent of system cost, even though they account for 17 percent of system use.
Ordinary passengers – business travelers, tourists, family members off to visit with loved ones – are being forced to subsidize, through airline ticket taxes, corporate executives flying on private jets. These high-flying executives may be traveling from one business meeting to another, but often they are jetting off to play golf, ski or spend a weekend at the beach.
It is time to restore balance to the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, to once again ensure that those who use – and benefit from – the air traffic control system are paying their fair share. Congress should put an end to the “free ride” for corporate jets.
We need a 21st century air traffic control system that will safely, efficiently, and equitably meet the growing needs of civil aviation and our national economy.