In a strong statement directed at Congress, GBTA called for immediate action in funding the FAA and says the shutdown is harmful to the economy and the future of aviation.

GBTA says for three years it has called for passage of a long term re-authorization bill.

GBTA executive director and COO, Michael W. McCormick said, “I am outraged as to how Congress can adjourn and allow an agency that is important to the safety and efficiency of the traveling public to partially shutdown. Not only is travel in general vital to the economy, but business travel in particular is essential to corporations and the private sector’s out-sized position in helping the economy recover. Congress needs to reauthorize the FAA. Enough is enough.”

Absent a resolution to the funding impasse, GBTA calls on President Obama and the Internal Revenue Service to quickly clarify its policies and guidance for excise taxes purchased on tickets prior to the FAA shutdown.

GBTA says it is focused on the impact the partial shutdown of the FAA is having on its members, whose companies may be eligible for substantial tax refunds given the volume of air travel they purchase.  GBTA says it’s dedicating resources to this cause, providing real-time updates on the situation and offering other guidance to members.

Source: GBTA