June 15, 2009
Superintendent
Grand Teton National Park
PO Drawer 170
Moose, WY 83012
Re: National Park Service Draft Environmental Impact Statement
Dear Sir or Madam:
The National Air Transportation Association (NATA), the voice of aviation business, is the public policy group representing the interests of aviation businesses before Congress, federal agencies and state governments. NATA’s 2,000 member companies own, operate and service aircraft. These companies provide for the needs of the traveling public by offering services and products to aircraft operators and others such as fuel sales, aircraft maintenance, parts sales, storage, rental, airline servicing, flight training, Part 135 on-demand air charter, fractional aircraft program management and scheduled commuter operations in smaller aircraft. NATA members are a vital link in the aviation industry providing services to the general public, airlines, general aviation and the military.
NATA appreciates the opportunity to comment on the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) prepared by the National Park Service (NPS) and pertaining to the extension of the Jackson Hole Airport Use Agreement. NATA fully supports the conclusion reached by the NPS that extending the Jackson Hole Airport Use Agreement is the preferred course of action.
As recognized by the NPS, Jackson Hole Airport serves as a vital link in the National Airspace System. Jackson Hole Airport currently serves as a major economic driver for the park and surrounding region, providing jobs and revenue for local communities. Not extending the use agreement could cripple the local economy and possibly lead to numerous unintended environmental consequences as the region adjusts to a major transportation restructuring.
The current use agreement also has sufficient controls, which would also be extended, to regulate airport environmental concerns such as noise, public health and safety and wildlife protection. Jackson Hole Airport has demonstrated its ability, as found in the EIS, to provide quality transportation and economic benefits without damaging the ecology of Grand Teton National Park or the surrounding region.
NATA, on behalf of its membership and the community surrounding Jackson Hole Airport, urges the NPS to accept the draft EIS as written and to extend the use agreement so Jackson Hole Airport may continue to provide quality air transportation and positive economic benefits to the local community and region for many years to come.
Sincerely,
Eric R. Byer
Vice President, Government and Industry Affairs