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NATA is the National Air Transportation Association
Founded in 1940, NATA aggressively promotes safety and the success of aviation service businesses through its advocacy efforts before government, the media and the public as well as by providing valuable programs and forums to further its members’ prosperity. |
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Environmental Compliance Seminar - Windsor Locks, CT - May 11, 2009
Line Service Supervisor Training - Windsor Locks, CT - May 12, 2009
2009 NATA Day On The Hill - Dulles, VA - May 13, 2009
How To Build A More Successful FBO - Windsor Locks, CT - May 14, 2009
Air Charter Summit - Washington - Dulles - June 8, 2009
FBO Leadership Conference - Washington - Dulles - June 9, 2009 |
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Professional Line Service Training |
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PLST Online provides the most up-to-date training available for line service specialists – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Line service supervisors can conduct the new PLST Online training anytime and from anywhere there is access to the Web. continued |
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| Coyne Welcomes Nomination Of Babbitt As Next FAA Administrator |
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| NATA President James K. Coyne on Friday welcomed the nomination of Randy Babbitt as President Obama's selection for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator. Babbitt had been rumored for some time to be the likely pick to head the FAA but vetting delays that have plagued all Administration selections prolonged the announcement.
Babbitt, former president and chief executive officer of the Air Line Pilots Association, has more than 40 years of aviation experience. Last year, U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Mary Peters named Babbitt to the independent review team tasked with evaluating and crafting recommendations to improve the FAA's implementation of the aviation safety system and its culture of safety.
"I have known Randy Babbitt for more than 15 years, and I think he is an outstanding selection as our next FAA Administrator," stated Coyne. "Randy knows full-well how important modernizing our air traffic control system is, so I look forward to working with him to accomplish this critical priority."
Commenting on the importance for the new FAA Administrator to work immediately with Congress to approve a long-term FAA reauthorization bill, Coyne stated, "There is a lot of good intent on Capitol Hill to approve a long-term measure finally. I am hopeful that with Randy filling the Administrator slot momentum will carry us over the hump towards passage of a bill that modernizes our air traffic control system, rejects user fees, and invests in airport infrastructure." | |
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| Coyne Sends Letter To President Obama |
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| Earlier this month, NATA President James K. Coyne sent a letter to President Obama about the benefits of personal aviation. The letter was sent by Coyne to express his growing concerns with comments made by the President, other White House officials and Members of Congress. An excerpt from the Coyne letter follows:
Personal aviation is something very special - but the industry that makes this all possible is under attack and may soon face economic collapse. Tens of thousands of jobs have already been shed and the industry is in a tailspin. What threatens these world-class American businesses most of all, you ask? The statements and actions produced by the Administration and Congress since you were elected have been, I believe, unintentionally catastrophic.
To view Coyne's letter in its entirety, please click here. | |
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| Coyne Tells Members That Now Is Not The Time To "Hunker Down" |
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| In a special message last week, NATA President James K. Coyne urged association members not to "hunker down" during these difficult economic times, describing this approach as the "worst strategy."
An excerpt from Coyne's message follows:
There are many things to be afraid of these days, but nothing scares me more than the widespread use of the phrase "hunker down." Government officials, CFOs, and pundits offer these gutless words as a commonsense strategy for America during these difficult times. A terrible hurricane is passing over the land, they say, and no one knows when it will be safe to come out. Hunker down, take your bailout money, and be quietly grateful. Nonsense!
To read Coyne's message in its entirety, please click here. | |
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| The Employee Free Choice Act Introduced |
| NATA Releases Action Call in Opposition to Legislation |
| Democrats in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate introduced controversial labor legislation, the Employee Free Choice Act, in both chambers on March 10, 2009. H.R. 1409/S. 560, also referred to as "card check," would change how unions organize workers in the United States by eliminating a company's right to demand a secret ballot if a majority of employees sign authorization cards to form a union. It also requires binding arbitration to reach a first contract, if labor and management can't reach an agreement within 120 days, and increases penalties for businesses that violate labor laws.
The bill passed the House in 2007 but stalled in the Senate. Instead of an election run by the National Labor Relations Board, workers would be able to fill out cards saying whether they support or oppose a union. Big labor unions like the American Federation of Labor-Congress of Industrial Unions (AFL-CIO), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and the Change to Win Coalition spent millions of dollars during the 2009 election, and are pushing Congress to approve this legislation. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and other pro-business groups are working in opposition to the legislation.
U.S. Senator Arlen Specter (R-PA) announced last week that he will oppose invoking cloture on the card check bill, a decision that denies Democrats and labor unions a 60th vote to overcome a Republican filibuster. Specter feels the better way to expand labor's clout in collective bargaining is through amendments to the National Labor Relations Act rather than through eliminating the secret ballot and mandating arbitration. Specter voted for cloture when the Senate considered the bill in 2007, but he stated that the economic crisis prompted his decision on this bill.
Companies such as Starbucks, Whole Foods and Costco announced last week they were forming the Committee for a Level Playing Field and, with the backing of Democratic operative Lanny Davis, would set out to publicize six principles for labor-law reform that provided an alternative to card check legislation.
To view NATA's Talking Points in Opposition to the legislation, please click here.
To participate in NATA's Action Call by writing to your Members of Congress in opposition to this legislation, please click here. | |
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| GA Industry Encouraged To Register Today For May 13th Day On The Hill |
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| NATA recently announced its 13th annual Day on the Hill event to be held on May 13, 2009. Each year, the association coordinates more than 200 visits for NATA member representatives to meet with their Members of Congress and staff to address a number of critical issues confronting America's aviation businesses.
"This year's Day on the Hill comes at a pivotal point in the general aviation industry's storied history with the American economy in a recession and the public's perception that the use of corporate aircraft is a luxury," stated NATA President James K. Coyne. "All members of the general aviation industry are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this outstanding opportunity to meet with their Members of Congress and staff so they know directly how important this industry is to their district, state and the American economy."
General aviation industry members are welcome to participate in the 2009 NATA Day on the Hill and may view this year's agenda and register online by clicking here.
To view NATA's 2009 Legislative Priorities, please click here.
"NATA looks forward to representatives from the general aviation community blanketing Capitol Hill to address the major issues confronting our industry," Coyne said. "More than ever, we encourage all members of the general aviation community to participate in this event to educate Members of Congress and their staff on the value of our industry." | |
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| Coyne Continues Valuable Visits With Lawmakers |
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| NATA President James K. Coyne and the association's legislative staff have embarked on an aggressive schedule to meet with approximately 200 Members of Congress and their staff before the Memorial Day holiday. While dozens of successful meetings have already taken place, the calendar for the coming months is full with upcoming meetings to brief lawmakers on the issues facing our members and the state of the aviation industry during this troubling economic time. To keep you better informed, NATA has established a new webpage devoted specifically to these meetings. Meetings that have been held or are currently scheduled are published, along with photographs of NATA staff with Members of Congress. Please check in often to see if and when we've met with your congressional delegation.
To visit the Capitol Hill Visits webpage, please click here.
To view NATA's 2009 Legislative Agenda, please click here. | |
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| Operation Playbook Re-Launched / TSA Provides Talking Points & FAQs |
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| The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently re-launched Operation Playbook. Operation Playbook, originally launched in late 2008 at commercial airports throughout the U.S., was an initiative wherein local TSA officials would include random security measures in their procedures, such as physical screening and searches of passengers and baggage. However, some local TSA officials incorporated these security measures at FBOs without any advance notice. TSA Headquarters staff stated that the intent for utilizing "Playbook" security measures was to enable local TSA and FBO officials to coordinate a time where both entities can prepare and execute enhanced security measures. Incidents at Nashville and other locations unfolded otherwise.
TSA HQ has now issued a new white paper addressing questions about Operation Playbook. Members are encouraged to review this white paper in preparation for potential Operation Playbook security measures at their airport. Please note that these security procedures are for commercial airports only.
NATA members who believe that TSA officials are not working in good faith while implementing Operational Playbook security measures should contact NATA Vice President of Government and Industry Affairs Eric R. Byer immediately at ebyer@nata.aero. Byer may also be reached directly at (703) 575-2043. | |
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| Association Sends Napolitano Letter On Chicago TFRs |
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| Earlier this month, NATA President James K. Coyne sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano expressing his deep concern with the temporary flight restrictions (TFR) for the Chicago, Illinois area when President Obama visited the city from February 13 -16, 2009. In his letter, Coyne addressed the significant economic impact these TFRs had on general aviation businesses during the February 13-16, 2009 time period. An excerpt from the letter follows:
"While NATA and its members recognize the importance of protecting the President of the United States, I wanted to alert you to how this TFR impacted the region economically. The TFR during that weekend left dozens of aviation businesses including fixed base operators (FBOs), Part 135 on-demand air charter operations, maintenance facilities and flight schools with a significant loss in revenue. For instance, one of our member FBOs at Chicago Midway Airport lost $50,000-$60,000 in fuel sales revenue. In addition, a local flight school lost $18,000 in revenue due to the inability to train student pilots as a result of the TFR. Should President Obama visit the Chicago area every 5-6 weeks, as some in the press have indicated is likely, similar TFRs will take place another 30-35 times throughout his first term as President, resulting in hundreds of thousands of dollars in operating losses for general aviation businesses in and around Chicago.
The letter concluded with the request that Napolitano consider developing procedures that would allow operators to keep flying and general aviation businesses to operate normally during future presidential TFRs.
To view the complete letter, please click here. | |
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| Nominate An Industry Colleague Today For One Of NATA's Industry Excellence Awards |
| Nominations Due By April 1st |
| NATA recently announced a call for nominations to acknowledge the individuals, offices, and organizations demonstrating excellence in their field and the highest level of customer service to the general aviation community.
Each year, NATA presents seven awards to the exceptional individuals and companies that have helped to improve the general aviation community. The recipients of five of these awards are chosen based upon NATA member-submitted nominations.
These awards cover five categories:
The Airport Executive Partnership Award recognizes an airport manager for outstanding efforts to nurture the relationships between aviation businesses and airport operators.
The Aviation Journalism Award identifies a journalist, writer, or publication that excels in consumer education or editorial support that is beneficial to the general aviation industry.
The Excellence In Pilot Training Award recognizes an individual or organization that has made outstanding contributions in safety, professionalism, leadership, and excellence in the field of pilot training.
The FAA Customer Service Excellence Award recognizes an FAA facility or facility staff member who represents the highest degree of customer service and elevates the quality of interaction between the FAA and aircraft maintenance and repair facilities, Part 135 certificate holders, airport service organizations, and flight schools.
The ATP/NATA General Aviation Service Technician Award acknowledges the exceptional performance of a licensed airframe and power plant mechanic or radio repairman who has practiced his or her craft for a period of 20 or more years.
Last year's winners were:
- Airport Executive Partnership Award - Ray Bishop, airport director, Jackson Hole Airport
- Aviation Journalism Award - Matt Thurber, senior editor, Aviation International News
- Excellence In Pilot Training Award - Susan Parson, special assistant, General Aviation and Commercial Division, FAA
- FAA Customer Service Excellence Award - Portland, Maine Flight Standards District
- ATP/NATA General Aviation Service Technician Award - Greg Coile, avionics technician, Business Jet Access
All nominations for these five awards must be received by NATA no later than April 1, 2009. The complete nomination package is available by clicking here. Members may also obtain a nomination package by calling the NATA headquarters at 800-808-6282 or by e-mailing Celeste Clark.
The awards will be distributed during the 2009 NATA Air Charter Summit to be held in the Washington, DC area this June. | |
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| Open For Business |
| Register for 2009 Air Charter Summit and FBO Leadership Conference Today |
| Today, "open for business" doesn't just mean open doors. It also means open minds, open ears and open arms. Businesses are inspired to explore new and creative ideas and solutions. They are listening to what is going on in their business environment and embracing change for the better.
NATA's 2009 Air Charter Summit and 2009 FBO Leadership Conference provide two opportunities to hear about the regulatory landscape straight from government officials, get the latest intelligence tactics and strategies from nationally recognized experts, be inspired, find new solutions to current business challenges, and enjoy good company and entertainment.
Summit to Address Regulatory and Business Issues Unique to the Part 135 Community
Chief pilots, directors and company executives of Part 135 operations are invited to receive an exclusive Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulatory briefing by the agency's highest-ranking officials. The Summit's agenda also includes sessions on certificate revocation, your rights in responding to enforcement actions, balancing your budget without compromising safety and compliance, the latest developments on the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) Large Aircraft Security Program, a panel on the future of general aviation manufacturing, and rebutting the public and media blitz against business aviation.
Conference Program Designed to Provide the Tools to Help Improve the Performance and Profitability of Your FBO
Managers and senior-level executives of fixed base operations and vendors are invited to attend top-notch sessions, including a panel on the future of aviation manufacturing, rebutting the public and media blitz on business aviation, marketing to the Ritz Carlton standard and clientele, a TSA aviation security update, an FAA airports office update addressing environmental concerns/AIP Funding and economic stimulus package, and a closing session on National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 409: Standard on Aircraft Hangars.
Back to Back This Year
These events will be held back to back this year at the Westfields Marriott in Dulles, Virginia, to allow aviation business leaders to connect with their colleagues, customers and business associates. The Air Charter Summit (June 8-10) was designed exclusively for Part 135 operators and the FBO Leadership Conference (June 9-11) for executives and managers of fixed base operations, but those who have an interest in both will want to stay from June 8-11 to achieve maximum productivity.
Visit www.nata.aero/acs or www.nata.aero/fbolc for more details and to register for one or both events. | |
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| NATA Sponsoring AAAE GA Issues Conference April 26-28, 2009, In Addison, TX |
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| NATA is once again sponsoring the AAAE GA Issues Conference that will take place from April 26-28, 2009, in Addison, TX. The GA Issues Conference will cover a range of notable issues affecting general aviation today and the challenges facing the industry in the future. The sessions will provide an opportunity to exchange ideas and discuss and debate a variety of issues vital to general aviation. The conference will provide a unique networking forum with prominent figures in the GA community, U.S. government, and industry.
To learn more about the GA Issues Conference, including how to register, please click here. | |
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| FBO Spotlight: Odyssey Aviation, New Orleans |
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On the heels of construction project completions at Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT) and Charleston International Airport (CHS), Odyssey Aviation has finally paved the way to build its brand new, world class jet center at New Orleans Lakefront Airport (NEW). Odyssey has certainly come a long way since Hurricane Katrina! On January 1, 2009, they rebranded their former Million Air operations, and this month they will break ground on their permanent new location at the main entrance to Lakefront that will replace the facilities damaged by Katrina. Within the year, they will move from their current, temporary facility.
To view the entire FBO Spotlight on Odyssey Aviation, please click here.
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Airport Spotlight: Sebring Regional Airport - Sebring, Florida
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| The original Sebring Regional Airport was the product of an effort to boost the area's economy. In 1940, community leaders lobbied the federal government to bring military activity to the area. Hendricks Field, as the Army Air Corps facility was named in 1942, was a training base for B-17 "Flying Fortress" bomber crews during World War II. After the war, the military air base was closed and civilian operations took over, with the city of Sebring eventually taking ownership of the airport. In 1967, a state legislative mandate established the Sebring Airport Authority and the authority assumed ownership at that time.
During its operation as a base for military activity, the airport had four runways. Currently, the improved runway traffic has more mobility due to streamlining the airport's runways to two. On-site restaurants and a hotel provide added convenience to accommodate the airport's visitors.
To view the entire Airport Spotlight on Sebring Regional Airport, please click here. | |
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