ARSA To Congress - Keep The Baby

On April 3 and 10, 2008, the House and Senate respectively held hearings to examine aviation safety and, as a result, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) found itself on the hot seat. Although the focus of the hearings was on oversight lapses surrounding the maintenance at Southwest Airlines, committee members took issue with FAA programs such as the Customer Service Initiative (CSI) and Voluntary Disclosure program.

Because ARSA members rely on these programs we felt it was important to weigh in with the Hill, urging caution before changes are proposed. ARSA President Dave Latimer sent a letter to Chairman John D. Rockefeller, IV (D-WV), Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX), Chairman James Oberstar (D-MN-8) and Ranking Member John Mica (R-FL-7) encouraging them to carefully review these programs and not to throw the baby out with the dirty bathwater.

When problems arise, Congress tends to change the rules rather than punish those who broke them. Use this opportunity to educate lawmakers on the industry and your need for a professional (not bullying or cozy) relationship with the FAA. Send a letter to your member of Congress letting them know where you stand on maintaining a system that ensures standardized, fair and equal treatment under the regulations and that allow for self-disclosure without fear of retribution.

Read Dave Latimer’s letter here.

Use this sample letter to send to your members of Congress.