Daniel Fisher, vice president of legislative affairs for the Aeronautical Repair Station Association (ARSA), issued the following statement in response to President Obama’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) fiscal year 2016 budget proposal.  The administration has requested $15.8 billion, including $9.915 billion for agency operations, a slight increase over current funding levels. However, the White House also proposes once again to alter business aircraft depreciation schedules.

“ARSA commends the administration for requesting Congress provide the FAA more resources to do its job. For repair stations, good safety is good business and the maintenance sector is dedicated to continuing its impeccable safety record regardless of government oversight. However, since aviation maintenance companies rely on the FAA for congressionally-mandated certifications and inspections, any shortfall results in administrative delays and ultimately undermines American competitiveness.

“Unfortunately, the administration’s call to reduce the depreciation schedule for general aviation aircraft is an unnecessary political gambit. It will impact the entire aviation industry – a sector that lifts the American economy, creating jobs for millions of people in communities across the country – from parts suppliers to repair stations. ARSA encourages lawmakers to reject measures that would hurt the hardworking men and women who keep the nation safely in flight.”

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