ARLINGTON, Va. “The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018 takes vital steps toward preserving our nation’s security, underwriting its economic growth, investing in future space leadership and creating high-skill, high-wage jobs across America,” Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) officials in Arlington, Virginia, say. “We encourage Congress to pass the bill and President Trump to sign it into law.”
“The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018 appropriately funds key FAA programs that help the United States improve efficiency while maintaining unparalleled aviation safety,” adds AIA Vice President for Civil Aviation David Silver. “Predictable and stable FAA funding is necessary for the United States to introduce game-changing new aerospace technologies such as unmanned aircraft systems and supersonic civil aircraft safely.”
“Increased funding for important national space programs, along with smart changes to NASA’s spending rules, demonstrate real commitment to our nation’s civil space programs at NASA and NOAA. Continued increases in investment will ensure exciting advances in technology and demonstrate American leadership in discovery and exploration, inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers,” AIA Vice President for Space Systems Frank Slazer says.
“The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018 is a big step in the right direction for [the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)],” says AIA Vice President for National Security Policy John Luddy.“It makes significant investments in vital acquisition programs and provides necessary flexibility on operations and maintenance spending. To meet the strategic objectives outlined in the National Defense Strategy, we’ll need to sustain this level of investment for at least the next five years.”
“Funding the State Department, Commerce Department, and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency is key to our influence as a global leader,” says AIA Vice President for International Affairs Remy Nathan. “Although some accounts were not funded as fully as in previous fiscal years, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018 makes significant investments for security cooperation and trade promotion, and provides prudent flexibility for efficient operations and spending.”
