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June 2, 2014 – Volume 13 Issue 22
 House Ways and Means Committee Approves Permanent Extension Of Bonus Depreciation
Last Thursday, the House Ways and Means Committee approved H.R. 4718, legislation to make permanent the immediate expensing of 50% of new investments in equipment and software. NATA joined other major associations including the National Association of Manufacturers and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in support of the legislation. During committee debate the bill's sponsor, Rep. Pat Tiberi (R-OH), explained to his colleagues that a permanent extension of bonus depreciation would create the certainty needed to increase investment, raise wages and create jobs. NATA President and CEO Tom Hendricks praised the leadership of Chairman Dave Camp (R-MI), Representative Pat Tiberi, and the other members of the Ways and Means Committee stating, "Studies have shown that by encouraging NATA member companies, and others, to make additional immediate investments in the U.S. economy we can create over 200,000 jobs.” The legislation is currently expected to be on the House floor in July.
NATA and Universal Work To Change Mexican Charter Regulation
NATA worked closely with Universal Weather and Aviation in advance of last week's U.S. - Mexico Transport and Telecom Conference to raise awareness of a new Mexican regulation intended to address illegal charter operators but could significantly affect the ability of U.S. fractional jet operators to conduct operations to Mexico. NATA raised the issue with both DOT and the FAA officials, providing a detailed analysis prepared by Universal, and it appears the Mexican government may be reevaluating the rule.
Hendricks to Speak At FABA’s Annual Conference and Trade Show Next Week
The Florida Aviation Business Association (FABA) hosts their 68th Annual Conference and Trade Show at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando from June 9-10, 2014. NATA President and CEO Tom Hendricks is scheduled to speak at the conference dinner on Tuesday, June 10th. Join FABA for an action packed agenda as they bring leaders of the aviation community together to discuss some of the industry’s hottest topics affecting Florida aviators.
Governors From Nebraska and New Jersey Recognize Importance of General Aviation
Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman and New Jersey Governor Chris Christie recently signed proclamations declaring May 2014 “General Aviation Appreciation Month.”
In Nebraska, general aviation accounts for $721 million in economic activity annually, and air transportation supports 5,250 jobs statewide. “General aviation and local airports are a tremendous asset for local communities and businesses across the state,” stated Thomas L. Hendricks, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association. “NATA and our member companies in Nebraska applaud Governor Heineman’s recognition of general aviation as a vital resource and economic driver.” Click here to view Governor Heineman’s proclamation.
In New Jersey, general aviation supports over 18,000 jobs and generates $1.7 billion in economic activity annually. “General aviation and local airports provide vast resources for communities and support opportunities for businesses and economic growth statewide,” stated Hendricks. “NATA and our member companies across New Jersey appreciate Governor Christie’s acknowledgment of general aviation as a key driver of the state’s competitiveness and growth.” Click here to view Governor Christie’s proclamation.
Commercial Operators Tax Seminar to Take Place in August
Conklin & de Decker Associates, Inc. and NATA are pleased to announce that they are partnering again this year to offer the Commercial Operators Tax Seminar, entitled, “Back to Basics.” This year’s Tax Seminar will be held in Van Nuys, California on August 5-6, 2014. Click here for additional details.
EASA TCO Rules Enter Into Force – Applications Being Accepted
On May 26, 2014 new certification requirements from EASA for so-called Third Country Operators (TCO) entered into force. The rules require all commercial operators conducting flights to the EU, including Part 135 on-demand air carriers, to obtain the TCO authorization. To ensure the process is completed in sufficient time to avoid operational interruptions, air carriers must initiate the authorization process before November 25, 2014 by submitting a completed application.
NATA is working with EASA to ensure a smooth process for U.S.-based Part 135 air carriers. During the 2014 NATA Air Charter Summit (June 16-18), a presentation dealing specifically with the TCO application for on-demand operations is scheduled.
Operators are also encouraged to visit the EASA TCO information webpage. The webpage contains links to download the Acceptable Means of Compliance document, the application form, a list of FAQs, and the ability to sign up for automated emails from EASA when new information becomes available.
Fall Committee Meetings Take Place In Savannah, GA
The NATA 2014 Fall Committee Meetings start on Monday, September 15, 2014 with meetings and a networking reception and conclude on Tuesday, September 16, 2014 following a half-day of meetings at the Hilton Savannah DeSoto Hotel in Savannah, GA. Registration is available online or through a printable registration form. Please confirm your attendance for the meetings before Tuesday, August 26, 2014.
Participate in NATA's Flag Pin for Veterans Project
NATA is working with industry to raise donations for nationally recognized veterans organizations through the “NATA Flag Pins for Veterans Project.” NATA congratulates Signature Flight Support for their early support of the project and latest tallied donation totaling more than $6,000. NATA members are asked to participate by displaying American-made flag pins in their operations with signage suggesting a donation of at least $1.00 per pin. The funds for this project will be collected periodically through a fund established by NATA (NATA-Flag Pin Project). The project collection period is May 2014 and through October 2014 culminating in a check presentation to the veterans organizations. Click here for project details. Please contact Shannon Chambers at schambers@nata.aero to participate and help give back to our veterans.
FltPlan Offers Free Canadian Flight Supplement
In support of Nav Canada’s mission to improve safety and flight efficiency in Canada, FltPlan has expanded its services for flights to/from the U.S. and for intra-Canada flight planning by offering the Canadian flight supplement (CFS) and digital visual navigation charts (VNCs). Click here to read the full article.
Johnstone Named Managing Director of EMEA
BBA Aviation Flight Support announces the appointment of Mark Johnstone as Managing Director EMEA. BBA Aviation Flight Support's EMEA region is comprised of Signature Flight Support with 25 locations supporting business and general aviation and Aircraft Service International Group (ASIG) servicing commercial airlines at 18 airports. Click here to read more.
World Fuel’s BaseOps To Launch Flight Planning Portal
A new web-based portal to be launched in June will enable customers of BaseOps International to plan routes, file flight plans, access information such as Notams and aviation weather, and pre-arrange FBO services such as aircraft handling, fuel and crew needs, as well as concierge services, including hotels, rental cars and catering. BaseOps is a unit of World Fuel Services. Click to read further.
ACSF News
Save the date for next year’s Air Charter Safety Foundation Safety Symposium. The symposium is scheduled for March 10-11, 2015. Visit http://www.acsf.aero/ for Air Charter Safety Foundation News.
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