[Congressional Bills 114th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 4441 Introduced in House (IH)]

<DOC>






114th CONGRESS
  2d Session
                                H. R. 4441

To transfer operation of air traffic services currently provided by the 
Federal Aviation Administration to a separate not-for-profit corporate 
entity, to reauthorize and streamline programs of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration, and for other purposes.


_______________________________________________________________________


                    IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                            February 3, 2016

  Mr. Shuster (for himself and Mr. LoBiondo) introduced the following 
    bill; which was referred to the Committee on Transportation and 
                             Infrastructure

_______________________________________________________________________

                                 A BILL


 
To transfer operation of air traffic services currently provided by the 
Federal Aviation Administration to a separate not-for-profit corporate 
entity, to reauthorize and streamline programs of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration, and for other purposes.

    Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
United States of America in Congress assembled,

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

    (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Aviation 
Innovation, Reform, and Reauthorization Act of 2016''.
    (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as 
follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Effective date.
                        TITLE I--AUTHORIZATIONS

                  Subtitle A--Funding of FAA Programs

Sec. 101. Airport planning and development and noise compatibility 
                            planning and programs.
Sec. 102. Facilities and equipment.
Sec. 103. FAA operations.
Sec. 104. Adjustment to AIP program funding.
Sec. 105. Funding for aviation programs.
Sec. 106. Overflight fees.
                 Subtitle B--Passenger Facility Charges

Sec. 111. Passenger facility charge modernization.
Sec. 112. Pilot program for passenger facility charge authorizations at 
                            certain airports.
         Subtitle C--Airport Improvement Program Modifications

Sec. 121. Clarification of airport obligation to provide FAA airport 
                            space.
Sec. 122. Mothers' rooms at airports.
Sec. 123. Recycling plans for airports.
Sec. 124. Extension of competitive access reports.
Sec. 125. Grant assurances.
Sec. 126. Government share of project costs.
Sec. 127. Special rule.
Sec. 128. Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Palau.
Sec. 129. State block grant program expansion.
Sec. 130. Pilot program sunset.
Sec. 131. Extension of grant authority for compatible land use planning 
                            and projects by State and local 
                            governments.
Sec. 132. Midway Island Airport.
Sec. 133. Property conveyance releases.
Sec. 134. Minority and disadvantaged business participation.
Sec. 135. Contract tower program.
Sec. 136. Critical habitat on or near airport property.
Sec. 137. RNAV departure procedures.
Sec. 138. Review and notification of categorical exclusions granted for 
                            Next Generation flight procedures.
                       TITLE II--ATC CORPORATION

Sec. 201. Purposes.
              Subtitle A--Establishment of ATC Corporation

Sec. 211. ATC Corporation.
            Subtitle B--Amendments to Federal Aviation Laws

Sec. 221. Definitions.
Sec. 222. Sunset of FAA air traffic entities and officers.
Sec. 223. Role of Administrator.
Sec. 224. Emergency powers.
Sec. 225. Presidential transfers in time of war.
Sec. 226. Airway capital investment plan before date of transfer.
Sec. 227. Aviation facilities before date of transfer.
Sec. 228. Judicial review.
Sec. 229. Civil penalties.
                       Subtitle C--Other Matters

Sec. 241. Use of Federal technical facilities.
Sec. 242. Severability.
               TITLE III--FAA SAFETY CERTIFICATION REFORM

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

Sec. 301. Definitions.
Sec. 302. Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee.
               Subtitle B--Aircraft Certification Reform

Sec. 311. Aircraft certification performance objectives and metrics.
Sec. 312. Organization designation authorizations.
Sec. 313. ODA review.
Sec. 314. Type certification resolution process.
Sec. 315. Safety enhancing equipment and systems for small general 
                            aviation airplanes.
Sec. 316. Streamlining certification of small general aviation 
                            airplanes.
Sec. 317. Additional certification resources.
                  Subtitle C--Flight Standards Reform

Sec. 331. Flight standards performance objectives and metrics.
Sec. 332. FAA task force on flight standards reform.
Sec. 333. Centralized safety guidance database.
Sec. 334. Regional Consistency Communications Board.
                      Subtitle D--Safety Workforce

Sec. 341. Safety workforce training strategy.
Sec. 342. Workforce review.
                   Subtitle E--International Aviation

Sec. 351. Promotion of United States aerospace standards, products, and 
                            services abroad.
Sec. 352. Bilateral exchanges of safety oversight responsibilities.
Sec. 353. FAA leadership abroad.
Sec. 354. Registration, certification, and related fees.
                            TITLE IV--SAFETY

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

Sec. 401. Designated Agency Safety and Health Officer.
Sec. 402. Repair stations located outside United States.
Sec. 403. Enhanced training for flight attendants.
Sec. 404. FAA technical training.
Sec. 405. Safety critical staffing.
Sec. 406. Deadline for airline pilot records database.
Sec. 407. International efforts regarding tracking of civil aircraft.
Sec. 408. Aircraft data access and retrieval systems.
Sec. 409. Panel of automation experts.
Sec. 410. Risk-based cockpit safety.
Sec. 411. Cockpit automation management.
Sec. 412. Heads-up displays.
Sec. 413. HIMS program.
Sec. 414. Acceptance of voluntarily provided safety information.
Sec. 415. Marking of towers.
Sec. 416. Cabin evacuation.
Sec. 417. Medical certification of certain small aircraft pilots.
Sec. 418. ODA staffing and oversight.
                 Subtitle B--Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Sec. 431. Definitions.
Sec. 432. Codification of existing law; additional provisions.
Sec. 433. Unmanned aircraft test ranges.
Sec. 434. Unmanned aircraft systems senior leadership and staffing.
Sec. 435. Sense of Congress regarding unmanned aircraft safety.
Sec. 436. UAS privacy review.
Sec. 437. Public UAS operations by tribal governments.
Sec. 438. Facilitating unmanned aircraft authorization in support of 
                            firefighting operations.
Sec. 439. Low altitude unmanned aircraft system traffic management.
Sec. 440. UAS detection systems pilot program.
Sec. 441. Evaluation of aircraft registration for small unmanned 
                            aircraft.
                   TITLE V--AIR SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS

             Subtitle A--Passenger Air Service Improvements

Sec. 501. Families traveling together.
Sec. 502. Cell phone voice communication ban.
Sec. 503. Availability of consumer rights information.
Sec. 504. Consumer complaints hotline.
Sec. 505. Improved notification of insecticide use.
Sec. 506. Advisory committee for aviation consumer protection.
Sec. 507. Delayed checked baggage.
Sec. 508. Air travel accessibility.
                Subtitle B--Small Community Air Service

Sec. 531. Essential air service reform.
Sec. 532. Essential air service authorization.
Sec. 533. Extension of final order establishing mileage adjustment 
                            eligibility.
Sec. 534. Study on essential air service reform.
Sec. 535. Small community air service.
                        TITLE VI--MISCELLANEOUS

Sec. 601. Federal Aviation Administration strategic cybersecurity plan.
Sec. 602. Consolidation and realignment of FAA services and facilities.
Sec. 603. Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority.
Sec. 604. Aircraft noise exposure.
Sec. 605. FAA review and reform.
Sec. 606. Sense of Congress on one engine inoperative procedures.
Sec. 607. Aviation fuel.
Sec. 608. Technical corrections.
Sec. 609. Right to privacy when using air traffic control system.
Sec. 610. Air shows.
Sec. 611. Federal authority.
Sec. 612. Part 91 review, reform, and streamlining.
Sec. 613. Aircraft registration.
Sec. 614. Community involvement in FAA NextGen projects located in 
                            metroplexes.
Sec. 615. Air transportation of lithium cells and batteries.
Sec. 616. Remote tower pilot program for rural or small communities.

SEC. 2. EFFECTIVE DATE.

    Except as otherwise expressly provided, this Act and the amendments 
made by this Act shall take effect on the date of enactment of this 
Act.

                        TITLE I--AUTHORIZATIONS

                  Subtitle A--Funding of FAA Programs

SEC. 101. AIRPORT PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT AND NOISE COMPATIBILITY 
              PLANNING AND PROGRAMS.

    (a) Authorization.--Section 48103(a) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by striking ``section 47504(c)'' and all that follows 
through the period at the end and inserting the following: ``section 
47504(c)--
            ``(1) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2016;
            ``(2) $3,424,000,000 for fiscal year 2017;
            ``(3) $3,499,000,000 for fiscal year 2018;
            ``(4) $3,576,000,000 for fiscal year 2019;
            ``(5) $3,655,000,000 for fiscal year 2020;
            ``(6) $3,735,000,000 for fiscal year 2021; and
            ``(7) $3,817,000,000 for fiscal year 2022.''.
    (b) Obligation Authority.--Section 47104(c) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by 
striking ``After'' and all that follows before ``the Secretary'' and 
inserting ``After September 30, 2022,''.

SEC. 102. FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT.

    (a) Authorization of Appropriations From Airport and Airway Trust 
Fund.--Section 48101(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking paragraphs (1) through (5) and inserting the following:
            ``(1) $2,855,000,000 for fiscal year 2016.
            ``(2) $2,914,000,000 for fiscal year 2017.
            ``(3) $2,981,000,000 for fiscal year 2018.
            ``(4) $3,048,000,000 for fiscal year 2019.''.
    (b) Set Asides.--Section 48101(d) of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended by inserting ``, carried out using amounts appropriated 
under subsection (a),'' after ``air traffic control modernization 
project''.
    (c) Authorization of Appropriations From General Fund.--
            (1) In general.--Title 49, United States Code, is amended 
        by inserting after section 48101 the following:
``Sec. 48101a. Other facilities and equipment
    ``There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of 
Transportation to acquire, establish, and improve facilities and 
equipment (other than facilities and equipment relating to air traffic 
services)--
            ``(1) $193,000,000 for fiscal year 2020;
            ``(2) $197,000,000 for fiscal year 2021; and
            ``(3) $202,000,000 for fiscal year 2022.''.
            (2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 481 of 
        title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the 
        item relating to section 48101 the following:

``48101a. Other facilities and equipment.''.
            (3) Conforming amendments.--
                    (A) Submission of budget information and 
                legislative recommendations and comments.--Section 
                48109 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
                inserting ``, 48101a,'' before ``or 48102''.
                    (B) Reprogramming notification requirement.--
                Section 48113 of title 49, United States Code, is 
                amended by inserting ``48101a,'' before ``or 48103''.

SEC. 103. FAA OPERATIONS.

    (a) Authorization of Appropriations From General Fund.--Section 
106(k)(1) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in the paragraph heading by inserting ``from general 
        fund'' after ``maintenance''; and
            (2) by striking subparagraphs (A) through (E) and inserting 
        the following:
                    ``(A) $1,988,000,000 for fiscal year 2016;
                    ``(B) $2,055,000,000 for fiscal year 2017;
                    ``(C) $2,124,000,000 for fiscal year 2018;
                    ``(D) $2,196,000,000 for fiscal year 2019;
                    ``(E) $1,637,000,000 for fiscal year 2020;
                    ``(F) $1,675,000,000 for fiscal year 2021; and
                    ``(G) $1,713,000,000 for fiscal year 2022.''.
    (b) Authorization of Appropriations From Airport and Airway Trust 
Fund.--Section 106(k)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to 
read as follows:
            ``(2) Salaries, operations, and maintenance from airport 
        and airway trust fund.--There is authorized to be appropriated 
        to the Secretary out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund 
        established under section 9502 of the Internal Revenue Code of 
        1986 for salaries, operations, and maintenance of the 
        Administration--
                    ``(A) $7,922,000,000 for fiscal year 2016;
                    ``(B) $8,057,000,000 for fiscal year 2017;
                    ``(C) $8,215,000,000 for fiscal year 2018; and
                    ``(D) $8,374,000,000 for fiscal year 2019.''.
    (c) Authority To Transfer Funds.--Section 106(k)(3) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended--
            (1) by striking ``fiscal years 2012'' and all that follows 
        through ``2016'' and inserting ``fiscal years 2016 through 
        2019''; and
            (2) by striking ``paragraph (1)'' each place it appears and 
        inserting ``paragraphs (1) and (2)''.

SEC. 104. ADJUSTMENT TO AIP PROGRAM FUNDING.

    Effective October 1, 2016, section 48112 of title 49, United States 
Code, and the item relating to such section in the analysis for chapter 
481 of such title, are repealed.

SEC. 105. FUNDING FOR AVIATION PROGRAMS.

    Section 48114(a)(1)(A)(ii) of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by striking ``in fiscal year 2014 and each fiscal year 
thereafter'' and inserting ``in fiscal years 2014 through 2016''.

SEC. 106. OVERFLIGHT FEES.

    Section 45301 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(f) Termination of Fees.--The fees established under this section 
shall terminate on the date of transfer (as defined in section 
90101(a)).''.

                 Subtitle B--Passenger Facility Charges

SEC. 111. PASSENGER FACILITY CHARGE MODERNIZATION.

    Section 40117(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``or $3'' and inserting 
        ``$3, $4, or $4.50'';
            (2) by repealing paragraph (4);
            (3) in paragraph (6)--
                    (A) by striking ``specified in paragraphs (1) and 
                (4)'' and inserting ``specified in paragraph (1)''; and
                    (B) by striking ``imposed under paragraph (1) or 
                (4)'' and inserting ``imposed under paragraph (1)''; 
                and
            (4) in paragraph (7)(A)--
                    (A) by striking ``specified in paragraphs (1), (4), 
                and (6)'' and inserting ``specified in paragraphs (1) 
                and (6)''; and
                    (B) by striking ``imposed under paragraph (1) or 
                (4)'' and inserting ``imposed under paragraph (1)''.

SEC. 112. PILOT PROGRAM FOR PASSENGER FACILITY CHARGE AUTHORIZATIONS AT 
              CERTAIN AIRPORTS.

    Section 40117(l) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in the subsection heading by striking  ``Nonhub'' and 
        inserting ``Certain''; and
            (2) in paragraph (1) by striking ``nonhub'' and inserting 
        ``nonhub, small hub, and medium hub''.

         Subtitle C--Airport Improvement Program Modifications

SEC. 121. CLARIFICATION OF AIRPORT OBLIGATION TO PROVIDE FAA AIRPORT 
              SPACE.

    Section 44502 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(f) Airport Space.--
            ``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the 
        Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may not 
        require an airport owner, operator, or sponsor (as defined in 
        section 47102) to provide building construction, maintenance, 
        utilities, administrative support, or space on airport property 
        to the Federal Aviation Administration without adequate 
        compensation.
            ``(2) Exceptions.--Paragraph (1) does not apply in any case 
        in which an airport owner, operator, or sponsor--
                    ``(A) provides land or buildings without 
                compensation prior to the date of transfer (as defined 
                in section 90101(a)) to the Federal Aviation 
                Administration for facilities used to carry out 
                activities related to air traffic control or navigation 
                pursuant to a grant assurance; or
                    ``(B) provides goods or services to the Federal 
                Aviation Administration without compensation or at 
                below-market rates pursuant to a negotiated agreement 
                between the owner, operator, or sponsor and the 
                Administrator.''.

SEC. 122. MOTHERS' ROOMS AT AIRPORTS.

    (a) Lactation Area Defined.--Section 47102 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended--
            (1) by redesignating paragraphs (10) through (28) as 
        paragraphs (11) through (29), respectively; and
            (2) by inserting after paragraph (9) the following:
            ``(10) `lactation area' means a room or other location in a 
        commercial service airport that--
                    ``(A) provides a location for members of the public 
                to express breast milk that is shielded from view and 
                free from intrusion from the public;
                    ``(B) has a door that can be locked;
                    ``(C) includes a place to sit, a table or other 
                flat surface, and an electrical outlet;
                    ``(D) is readily accessible to and usable by 
                individuals with disabilities, including individuals 
                who use wheelchairs; and
                    ``(E) is not located in a restroom.''.
    (b) Project Grant Written Assurances for Large and Medium Hub 
Airports.--
            (1) In general.--Section 47107(a) of title 49, United 
        States Code, is amended--
                    (A) in paragraph (20) by striking ``and'' at the 
                end;
                    (B) in paragraph (21) by striking the period at the 
                end and inserting ``; and''; and
                    (C) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(22) with respect to a medium or large hub airport, the 
        airport owner or operator will maintain a lactation area in 
        each passenger terminal building of the airport in the sterile 
        area (as defined in section 1540.5 of title 49, Code of Federal 
        Regulations) of the building.''.
            (2) Applicability.--
                    (A) In general.--The amendment made by paragraph 
                (1) shall apply to a project grant application 
                submitted for a fiscal year beginning on or after the 
                date that is 2 years after the date of enactment of 
                this Act.
                    (B) Special rule.--The requirement in the amendment 
                made by paragraph (1) that a lactation area be located 
                in the sterile area of a passenger terminal building 
                shall not apply with respect to a project grant 
                application for a period of time, determined by the 
                Secretary of Transportation, if the Secretary 
                determines that construction or maintenance activities 
                make it impracticable or unsafe for the lactation area 
                to be located in the sterile area of the building.
    (c) Terminal Development Costs.--Section 47119(a) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
            ``(3) Lactation areas.--In addition to the projects 
        described in paragraph (1), the Secretary may approve a project 
        for terminal development for the construction or installation 
        of a lactation area at a commercial service airport.''.
    (d) Pre-Existing Facilities.--On application by an airport sponsor, 
the Secretary may determine that a lactation area in existence on the 
date of enactment of this Act complies with the requirement of section 
47107(a)(22) of title 49, United States Code, as added by this section, 
notwithstanding the absence of one of the facilities or characteristics 
referred to in the definition of the term ``lactation area'' in section 
47102 of such title, as added by this section.

SEC. 123. RECYCLING PLANS FOR AIRPORTS.

    Section 47106(a)(6) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
inserting ``that includes the project'' before ``, the master plan''.

SEC. 124. EXTENSION OF COMPETITIVE ACCESS REPORTS.

    Section 47107(r)(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``April 1, 2016'' and inserting ``October 1, 2022''.

SEC. 125. GRANT ASSURANCES.

    Section 47107 is amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``(t) Construction of Recreational Aircraft.--
            ``(1) In general.--The construction of a covered aircraft 
        shall be treated as an aeronautical activity for purposes of--
                    ``(A) determining an airport's compliance with a 
                grant assurance made under this section or any other 
                provision of law; and
                    ``(B) the receipt of Federal financial assistance 
                for airport development.
            ``(2) Covered aircraft defined.--In this subsection, the 
        term `covered aircraft' means an aircraft--
                    ``(A) used or intended to be used exclusively for 
                recreational purposes; and
                    ``(B) constructed or under construction by a 
                private individual at a general aviation airport.''.

SEC. 126. GOVERNMENT SHARE OF PROJECT COSTS.

    Section 47109(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``primary airport having 
        at least .25 percent of the total number of passenger boardings 
        each year at all commercial service airports;'' and inserting 
        ``medium or large hub airport;''; and
            (2) by striking paragraph (5) and inserting the following:
            ``(5) 95 percent for a project that--
                    ``(A) the Administrator determines is a successive 
                phase of a multi-phase construction project for which 
                the sponsor received a grant in fiscal year 2011; and
                    ``(B) for which the United States Government's 
                share of allowable project costs could otherwise be 90 
                percent under paragraph (2) or (3).''.

SEC. 127. SPECIAL RULE.

    Section 47114(d)(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
                    ``(C) During fiscal years 2016 through 2019--
                            ``(i) an airport that accrued apportionment 
                        funds under subparagraph (A) in fiscal year 
                        2014 that is listed as having an unclassified 
                        status under the most recent national plan of 
                        integrated airport systems shall continue to 
                        accrue apportionment funds under subparagraph 
                        (A) at the same amount the airport accrued 
                        apportionment funds in fiscal year 2014, 
                        subject to the conditions of this paragraph;
                            ``(ii) notwithstanding the period of 
                        availability as described in section 47117(b), 
                        an amount apportioned to an airport under 
                        clause (i) shall be available to the airport 
                        only during the fiscal year in which the amount 
                        is apportioned; and
                            ``(iii) notwithstanding the waiver 
                        permitted under section 47117(c)(2), an airport 
                        receiving apportionment funds under clause (i) 
                        may not waive its claim to any part of the 
                        apportioned funds in order to make the funds 
                        available for a grant for another public-use 
                        airport.
                    ``(D) An airport that re-establishes its classified 
                status shall be eligible to accrue apportionment funds 
                pursuant to subparagraph (A) so long as such airport 
                retains its classified status.''.

SEC. 128. MARSHALL ISLANDS, MICRONESIA, AND PALAU.

    Section 47115 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) by striking subsection (i);
            (2) by redesignating subsection (j) as subsection (i); and
            (3) in subsection (i) (as so redesignated) by striking 
        ``2012'' and all that follows through ``2016'' and inserting 
        ``2016 through 2022''.

SEC. 129. STATE BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM EXPANSION.

    Section 47128(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``not more than 9 qualified States for fiscal years 2000 and 
2001 and 10 qualified States for each fiscal year thereafter'' and 
inserting ``not more than 20 qualified States for each fiscal year''.

SEC. 130. PILOT PROGRAM SUNSET.

    (a) In General.--Section 47140 of title 49, United States Code, is 
repealed.
    (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 47140a of title 49, United 
States Code, is redesignated as section 47140.
    (c) Clerical Amendments.--The analysis for chapter 471 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended--
            (1) by striking the items relating to sections 47140 and 
        47140a; and
            (2) by inserting after the item relating to section 47139 
        the following:

``47140. Increasing the energy efficiency of airport power sources.''.

SEC. 131. EXTENSION OF GRANT AUTHORITY FOR COMPATIBLE LAND USE PLANNING 
              AND PROJECTS BY STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS.

    Section 47141(f) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``not be in effect after March 31, 2016'' and inserting 
``cease to be effective beginning October 1, 2022''.

SEC. 132. MIDWAY ISLAND AIRPORT.

    Section 186(d) of the Vision 100--Century of Aviation 
Reauthorization Act (117 Stat. 2518) is amended in the first sentence 
by striking ``fiscal years 2012 through 2015'' and all that follows 
through ``2016,'' and inserting ``fiscal years 2016 through 2022''.

SEC. 133. PROPERTY CONVEYANCE RELEASES.

    Section 817(a) of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 
U.S.C. 47125 note) is amended--
            (1) by striking ``or section 23'' and inserting ``, section 
        23''; and
            (2) by inserting ``, or section 47125 of title 49, United 
        States Code'' before the period at the end.

SEC. 134. MINORITY AND DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS PARTICIPATION.

    Congress finds the following:
            (1) While significant progress has occurred due to the 
        establishment of the airport disadvantaged business enterprise 
        program (49 U.S.C. 47107(e) and 47113), discrimination and 
        related barriers continue to pose significant obstacles for 
        minority- and women-owned businesses seeking to do business in 
        airport-related markets across the Nation. These continuing 
        barriers merit the continuation of the airport disadvantaged 
        business enterprise program.
            (2) Congress has received and reviewed testimony and 
        documentation of race and gender discrimination from numerous 
        sources, including congressional hearings and roundtables, 
        scientific reports, reports issued by public and private 
        agencies, news stories, reports of discrimination by 
        organizations and individuals, and discrimination lawsuits. 
        This testimony and documentation shows that race- and gender-
        neutral efforts alone are insufficient to address the problem.
            (3) This testimony and documentation demonstrates that 
        discrimination across the Nation poses a barrier to full and 
        fair participation in airport-related businesses of women 
        business owners and minority business owners in the racial 
        groups detailed in parts 23 and 26 of title 49, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, and has impacted firm development and many aspects 
        of airport-related business in the public and private markets.
            (4) This testimony and documentation provides a strong 
        basis that there is a compelling need for the continuation of 
        the airport disadvantaged business enterprise program and the 
        airport concessions disadvantaged business enterprise program 
        to address race and gender discrimination in airport-related 
        business.

SEC. 135. CONTRACT TOWER PROGRAM.

    (a) Air Traffic Control Contract Program.--
            (1) Special rule.--Section 47124(b)(1)(B) of title 49, 
        United States Code, is amended by striking ``exceeds the 
        benefit for a period of 18 months after such determination is 
        made'' and inserting the following: ``exceeds the benefit--
                            ``(i) for the 1-year period after such 
                        determination is made; or
                            ``(ii) if an appeal of such determination 
                        is requested, for the 1-year period described 
                        in subsection (d)(4)(C).''.
            (2) Funding of cost-share program.--Section 47124(b)(3)(E) 
        of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
                    ``(E) Funding.--Amounts appropriated pursuant to 
                section 106(k)(1) may be used to carry out this 
                paragraph.''.
            (3) Construction of air traffic control towers.--
                    (A) Grants.--Section 47124(b)(4)(A) of title 49, 
                United States Code, is amended in each of clauses 
                (i)(III) and (ii)(III) by inserting ``, including 
                remote air traffic control tower equipment certified by 
                the Federal Aviation Administration'' after ``1996''.
                    (B) Eligibility.--Section 47124(b)(4)(B) of title 
                49, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
                    ``(B) Eligibility.--
                            ``(i) Before date of transfer.--Before the 
                        date of transfer (as defined in section 
                        90101(a)), an airport sponsor shall be eligible 
                        for a grant under this paragraph only if--
                                    ``(I)(aa) the sponsor is a 
                                participant in the Federal Aviation 
                                Administration contract tower program 
                                established under subsection (a) and 
                                continued under paragraph (1) or the 
                                pilot program established under 
                                paragraph (3); or
                                    ``(bb) construction of a 
                                nonapproach control tower would qualify 
                                the sponsor to be eligible to 
                                participate in such program;
                                    ``(II) the sponsor certifies that 
                                it will pay not less than 10 percent of 
                                the cost of the activities for which 
                                the sponsor is receiving assistance 
                                under this paragraph;
                                    ``(III) the Secretary affirmatively 
                                accepts the proposed contract tower 
                                into a contract tower program under 
                                this section and certifies that the 
                                Secretary will seek future 
                                appropriations to pay the Federal 
                                Aviation Administration's cost of the 
                                contract to operate the tower to be 
                                constructed under this paragraph;
                                    ``(IV) the sponsor certifies that 
                                it will pay its share of the cost of 
                                the contract to operate the tower to be 
                                constructed under this paragraph; and
                                    ``(V) in the case of a tower to be 
                                constructed under this paragraph from 
                                amounts made available under section 
                                47114(d)(2) or 47114(d)(3)(B), the 
                                Secretary certifies that--
                                            ``(aa) the Federal Aviation 
                                        Administration has consulted 
                                        the State within the borders of 
                                        which the tower is to be 
                                        constructed and the State 
                                        supports the construction of 
                                        the tower as part of its State 
                                        airport capital plan; and
                                            ``(bb) the selection of the 
                                        tower for funding is based on 
                                        objective criteria.
                            ``(ii) On and after date of transfer.--On 
                        and after the date of transfer (as defined in 
                        section 90101(a)), an airport sponsor shall be 
                        eligible for a grant under this paragraph only 
                        if--
                                    ``(I) the Secretary determines that 
                                the tower to be constructed at the 
                                sponsor's airport using the amounts of 
                                the grant will be operated pursuant to 
                                an agreement entered into by the ATC 
                                Corporation and an entity pursuant to 
                                section 90302(c)(3);
                                    ``(II) the sponsor certifies that 
                                it will pay not less than 10 percent of 
                                the cost of the activities for which 
                                the sponsor is receiving assistance 
                                under this paragraph; and
                                    ``(III) in the case of a tower to 
                                be constructed under this paragraph 
                                from amounts made available under 
                                section 47114(d)(2) or 47114(d)(3)(B), 
                                the Secretary certifies that--
                                            ``(aa) the Federal Aviation 
                                        Administration has consulted 
                                        the State within the borders of 
                                        which the tower is to be 
                                        constructed and the State 
                                        supports the construction of 
                                        the tower as part of its State 
                                        airport capital plan; and
                                            ``(bb) the selection of the 
                                        tower for funding is based on 
                                        objective criteria.''.
                    (C) Limitation on federal share.--Section 
                47124(b)(4) of title 49, United States Code, is amended 
                by striking subparagraph (C).
    (b) Safety Audits.--Section 47124(c) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended--
            (1) by striking ``The Secretary'' and inserting the 
        following:
            ``(1) Before date of transfer.--Before the date of transfer 
        (as defined in section 90101(a)), the Secretary''; and
            (2) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(2) On and after date of transfer.--On and after the date 
        of transfer (as defined in section 90101(a)), oversight of air 
        traffic control towers that receive funding under this section 
        shall be carried out in accordance with performance-based 
        regulations and minimum safety standards prescribed under 
        section 90501.''.
    (c) Criteria To Evaluate Participants.--Section 47124 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``(d) Criteria To Evaluate Participants.--
            ``(1) Timing of evaluations.--
                    ``(A) Towers participating in cost-share program.--
                In the case of an air traffic control tower that is 
                operated under the program established under subsection 
                (b)(3), the Secretary shall annually calculate a 
                benefit-to-cost ratio with respect to the tower.
                    ``(B) Towers participating in contract tower 
                program.--In the case of an air traffic control tower 
                that is operated under the program established under 
                subsection (a) and continued under subsection (b)(1), 
                the Secretary shall not calculate a benefit-to-cost 
                ratio after the date of enactment of this subsection 
                with respect to the tower unless the Secretary 
                determines that the annual aircraft traffic at the 
                airport where the tower is located has decreased--
                            ``(i) by more than 25 percent from the 
                        previous year; or
                            ``(ii) by more than 60 percent cumulatively 
                        in the preceding 3-year period.
            ``(2) Costs to be considered.--In establishing a benefit-
        to-cost ratio under this section with respect to an air traffic 
        control tower, the Secretary shall consider only the following 
        costs:
                    ``(A) The Federal Aviation Administration's actual 
                cost of wages and benefits of personnel working at the 
                tower.
                    ``(B) The Federal Aviation Administration's actual 
                telecommunications costs directly associated with the 
                tower.
                    ``(C) The Federal Aviation Administration's costs 
                of purchasing and installing any air traffic control 
                equipment that would not have been purchased or 
                installed except for the operation of the tower.
                    ``(D) The Federal Aviation Administration's actual 
                travel costs associated with maintaining air traffic 
                control equipment that is owned by the Administration 
                and would not be maintained except for the operation of 
                the tower.
            ``(3) Other criteria to be considered.--In establishing a 
        benefit-to-cost ratio under this section with respect to an air 
        traffic control tower, the Secretary shall add a 10 percentage 
        point margin of error to the benefit-to-cost ratio 
        determination to acknowledge and account for the direct and 
        indirect economic and other benefits that are not included in 
        the criteria the Secretary used in calculating that ratio.
            ``(4) Review of cost-benefit determinations.--In issuing a 
        benefit-to-cost ratio determination under this section with 
        respect to an air traffic control tower located at an airport, 
        the Secretary shall implement the following procedures:
                    ``(A) The Secretary shall provide the airport (or 
                the State or local government having jurisdiction over 
                the airport) at least 90 days following the date of 
                receipt of the determination to submit to the Secretary 
                a request for an appeal of the determination, together 
                with updated or additional data in support of the 
                appeal.
                    ``(B) Upon receipt of a request for an appeal 
                submitted pursuant to subparagraph (A), the Secretary 
                shall--
                            ``(i) transmit to the Administrator any 
                        updated or additional data submitted in support 
                        of the appeal; and
                            ``(ii) provide the Administrator not more 
                        than 90 days to review the data and provide a 
                        response to the Secretary based on the review.
                    ``(C) After receiving a response from the 
                Administrator pursuant to subparagraph (B), the 
                Secretary shall--
                            ``(i) provide the airport, State, or local 
                        government that requested the appeal at least 
                        30 days to review the response; and
                            ``(ii) withhold from taking further action 
                        in connection with the appeal during that 30-
                        day period.
                    ``(D) If, after completion of the appeal procedures 
                with respect to the determination, the Secretary 
                requires the tower to transition into the program 
                established under subsection (b)(3), the Secretary 
                shall not require a cost-share payment from the 
                airport, State, or local government for 1 year 
                following the last day of the 30-day period described 
                in subparagraph (C).''.

SEC. 136. CRITICAL HABITAT ON OR NEAR AIRPORT PROPERTY.

    (a) Federal Agency Requirements.--The Secretary of Transportation, 
to the maximum extent practicable, shall work with the heads of 
appropriate Federal agencies to ensure that designations of critical 
habitat, as that term is defined in section 3 of the Endangered Species 
Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1532), on or near airport property do not--
            (1) result in conflicting statutory, regulatory, or Federal 
        grant assurance requirements for airports or aircraft 
        operators;
            (2) interfere with the safe operation of aircraft; or
            (3) occur on airport-owned lands that have become 
        attractive habitat for a threatened or endangered species 
        because such lands--
                    (A) have been prepared for future development;
                    (B) have been designated as noise buffer land; or
                    (C) are held by the airport to prevent encroachment 
                of uses that are incompatible with airport operations.
    (b) State Requirements.--In a State where a State agency is 
authorized to designate land on or near airport property for the 
conservation of a threatened or endangered species in the State, the 
Secretary, to the maximum extent practicable, shall work with the State 
in the same manner as the Secretary works with the heads of Federal 
agencies under subsection (a).

SEC. 137. RNAV DEPARTURE PROCEDURES.

    When proposing a new area navigation departure procedure, or 
amending an existing procedure that would direct aircraft between the 
surface and 6,000 feet above ground level over noise sensitive areas, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall consider 
the feasibility of dispersal headings or other lateral track variations 
to address community noise concerns, if--
            (1) the affected airport operator, in consultation with the 
        affected community, submits a request to the Administrator for 
        such a consideration;
            (2) the airport operator's request would not, in the 
        judgment of the Administrator, conflict with the safe and 
        efficient operation of the national airspace system; and
            (3) the effect of a modified departure procedure would not 
        significantly increase noise over noise sensitive areas, as 
        determined by the Administrator.

SEC. 138. REVIEW AND NOTIFICATION OF CATEGORICAL EXCLUSIONS GRANTED FOR 
              NEXT GENERATION FLIGHT PROCEDURES.

    Section 213(c) of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 
U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended by adding at the end the following:
            ``(3) Notifications and consultations.--As part of the 
        process to apply a categorical exclusion under this subsection, 
        the Administrator shall--
                    ``(A) notify and consult with the operator of the 
                airport at which the procedure would be implemented 
                regarding appropriate community involvement practices; 
                and
                    ``(B) consider consultations or other engagement 
                with the community in which the airport is located to 
                inform the public of the new procedure.
            ``(4) Review of certain categorical exclusions.--
                    ``(A) In general.--The Administrator shall review a 
                decision of the Administrator made between February 14, 
                2012, and September 30, 2014, to grant a categorical 
                exclusion under this subsection with respect to a 
                procedure to be implemented at an OEP airport that was 
                a material change from procedures previously in effect 
                at the airport to determine if the implementation of 
                the procedure had a significant effect on the human 
                environment in the community in which the airport is 
                located.
                    ``(B) Content of review.--If, in conducting a 
                review under subparagraph (A) with respect to a 
                procedure implemented at an OEP airport, the 
                Administrator, in consultation with the operator of the 
                airport, determines that implementing the procedure had 
                a significant effect on the human environment in the 
                community in which the airport is located, the 
                Administrator shall--
                            ``(i) consult with the operator of the 
                        airport to identify measures to mitigate the 
                        effect of the procedure on the human 
                        environment; and
                            ``(ii) in conducting such consultations, 
                        consider the use of alternative flight paths 
                        that do not substantially degrade the 
                        efficiencies achieved by the implementation of 
                        the procedure being reviewed.
                    ``(C) Human environment defined.--In this 
                paragraph, the term `human environment' has the meaning 
                given that term in section 1508.14 of title 40, Code of 
                Federal Regulations (as in effect on the day before the 
                date of enactment of this paragraph).''.

                       TITLE II--ATC CORPORATION

SEC. 201. PURPOSES.

    It is declared to be the purpose of Congress in this title to 
transfer operation of air traffic services currently provided by the 
Federal Aviation Administration to a separate not-for-profit corporate 
entity to provide for the more efficient operation and improvement of 
air traffic services.

              Subtitle A--Establishment of ATC Corporation

SEC. 211. ATC CORPORATION.

    (a) In General.--Title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:

                     ``Subtitle XI--ATC Corporation

``Chapter                                                          Sec.
``901. General Provisions...................................      90101
``903. Establishment of Corporation; Transfer of Air Traffic      90301
                            Services.
``905. Oversight of Corporation.............................      90501
``907. Employee Management..................................      90701
``909. Other Matters........................................      90901

                   ``CHAPTER 901--GENERAL PROVISIONS

``Sec.
``90101. Definitions.
``Sec. 90101. Definitions
    ``(a) In General.--In this subtitle, the following definitions 
apply:
            ``(1) Administrator.--The term `Administrator' means the 
        Administrator of the FAA.
            ``(2) Air traffic services.--The term `air traffic 
        services' means services used for the monitoring, directing, 
        control, and guidance of aircraft or flows of aircraft and for 
        the safe conduct of flight, including communications, 
        navigation, and surveillance services and provision of 
        aeronautical information.
            ``(3) Air traffic services user.--The term `air traffic 
        services user' means any individual or entity using air traffic 
        services provided by the Corporation within United States 
        airspace or international airspace delegated to the United 
        States.
            ``(4) Board.--The term `Board' means the Board of Directors 
        of the Corporation.
            ``(5) CEO.--The term `CEO' means the Chief Executive 
        Officer of the Corporation.
            ``(6) Charge; fee.--The terms `charge' and `fee' mean any 
        rate, charge, fee, or other service charge for the use of air 
        traffic services.
            ``(7) Corporation.--The term `Corporation' means the ATC 
        Corporation established under this subtitle.
            ``(8) Date of transfer.--The term `date of transfer' means 
        the date on which the Corporation assumes operational control 
        of air traffic services from the FAA pursuant to this subtitle, 
        which shall be October 1, 2019.
            ``(9) Director.--The term `Director' means a Director of 
        the Board.
            ``(10) FAA.--The term `FAA' means the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
            ``(11) Interim ceo.--The term `Interim CEO' means the 
        Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation.
            ``(12) Mainline air carrier.--The term `mainline air 
        carrier' means an air carrier that operates under part 121 of 
        title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and has primary 
        responsibility for inventory control of the carrier's flights.
            ``(13) Nominating member.--The term `Nominating Member' 
        means a Nominating Member of the Corporation.
            ``(14) Secretary.--The term `Secretary' means the Secretary 
        of Transportation.
    ``(b) Applicability of Other Definitions.--Except with respect to 
the terms specifically defined in this subtitle, the definitions 
contained in section 40102(a) shall apply to the terms used in this 
subtitle.

 ``CHAPTER 903--ESTABLISHMENT OF CORPORATION; TRANSFER OF AIR TRAFFIC 
                                SERVICES

``Sec.
``90301. Establishment of Corporation.
``90302. Transfer of air traffic services.
``90303. Role of Secretary in transferring air traffic services to 
                            Corporation.
``90304. Status and applicable laws.
``90305. Nominating Membership.
``90306. Board of Directors.
``90307. Committees of Board; independent auditors.
``90308. Advisory Board.
``90309. Officers and their responsibilities.
``90310. Authority of Corporation.
``90311. Charges and fees for air traffic services.
``90312. Preemption of authority over air traffic services.
``90313. Actions by and against Corporation.
``90314. Air traffic services for Federal agencies.
``90315. Transfer of Federal personnel to Corporation.
``90316. Transfer of facilities to Corporation.
``90317. Approval of transferred air navigation facilities and other 
                            equipment.
``90318. Use of spectrum systems and data.
``Sec. 90301. Establishment of Corporation
    ``(a) Federal Charter.--There is established a federally chartered, 
not-for-profit corporation to be known as the `ATC Corporation', which 
shall be incorporated in a State of its choosing.
    ``(b) Corporation Name.--
            ``(1) In general.--The Corporation may conduct its business 
        and affairs, and otherwise hold itself out, as the `ATC 
        Corporation' in any jurisdiction.
            ``(2) Exclusive right.--The Corporation shall have the 
        exclusive right to use the name `ATC Corporation'.
``Sec. 90302. Transfer of air traffic services
    ``(a) In General.--The Secretary shall transfer operational control 
over air traffic services within United States airspace and 
international airspace delegated to the United States to the 
Corporation on the date of transfer in a systematic and orderly manner 
that ensures continuity of safe air traffic services.
    ``(b) Management and Operation of Air Traffic Services.--Subject to 
section 90501, the Corporation may establish and carry out plans for 
the management and operation of air traffic services within United 
States airspace and international airspace delegated to the United 
States.
    ``(c) Entities Authorized To Provide Air Traffic Services After 
Date of Transfer.--After the date of transfer, no entity, other than 
the Corporation, is authorized or permitted to provide air traffic 
services within United States airspace or international airspace 
delegated to the United States, except for--
            ``(1) the Department of Defense, as directed by the 
        President;
            ``(2) entities to which the United States has delegated 
        certain air traffic service responsibilities; and
            ``(3) entities with which the Corporation has contracted 
        for the provision of air traffic services.
``Sec. 90303. Role of Secretary in transferring air traffic services to 
              Corporation
    ``(a) In General.--As appropriate, and except as otherwise 
provided, the Secretary shall manage and execute the transfer of 
operational control over air traffic services pursuant to section 
90302(a) and any related transition processes and procedures.
    ``(b) Nondelegation.--Except as otherwise provided, the Secretary 
may not delegate any of the authority or requirements under this 
subtitle to the Administrator.
``Sec. 90304. Status and applicable laws
    ``(a) Non-Federal Entity.--The Corporation is not a department, 
agency, or instrumentality of the United States Government, and is not 
subject to title 31.
    ``(b) Liability.--The United States Government shall not be liable 
for the actions or inactions of the Corporation.
    ``(c) Not-For-Profit Corporation.--The Corporation shall maintain 
its status as a not-for-profit corporation exempt from taxation under 
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
    ``(d) No Federal Guarantee.--Any debt assumed by the Corporation 
shall not have an implied or explicit Federal guarantee.
``Sec. 90305. Nominating Membership
    ``(a) Nominating Membership.--The Nominating Membership of the 
Corporation shall be composed of the following Nominating Members:
            ``(1) A representative of the Federal Government, who shall 
        be the Secretary.
            ``(2) Individuals appointed as follows:
                    ``(A) An individual appointed by the principal 
                organization representing mainline air carriers.
                    ``(B) An individual appointed by the principal 
                organization representing noncommercial owners and 
                recreational operators of general aviation aircraft.
                    ``(C) An individual appointed by the principal 
                organization engaged in collective bargaining on behalf 
                of air traffic controllers employed by the Corporation.
                    ``(D) An individual appointed by the principal 
                organization representing the largest certified 
                collective bargaining representative of airline pilots.
    ``(b) Determination of Principal Organizations.--
            ``(1) Before date of transfer.--Before the date of 
        transfer, and not later than 30 days after the date of 
        enactment of this subtitle, the Secretary shall determine the 
        principal organizations referred to in subsection (a)(2).
            ``(2) After date of transfer.--On and after the date of 
        transfer, the Board shall determine the principal organizations 
        referred to in subsection (a)(2) in accordance with the bylaws 
        of the Corporation.
    ``(c) Terms.--Each Nominating Member appointed under subsection 
(a)(2) shall serve at the pleasure of the principal organization that 
appointed the Nominating Member.
    ``(d) Qualifications.--
            ``(1) In general.--Only a citizen of the United States may 
        be appointed as a Nominating Member.
            ``(2) Prohibitions.--An individual may not serve as a 
        Nominating Member under subsection (a)(2) if the individual 
        is--
                    ``(A) an officer or employee of the Corporation;
                    ``(B) a Member of Congress or an elected official 
                serving in a State, local, or tribal government; or
                    ``(C) an officer or employee of the Federal 
                Government or any State, local, or tribal government.
    ``(e) Principal Organization Engaged in Collective Bargaining on 
Behalf of Air Traffic Controllers Employed by Corporation.--For 
purposes of this section and section 90306, before the date of 
transfer, the term `principal organization engaged in collective 
bargaining on behalf of air traffic controllers employed by the 
Corporation' means the principal organization engaged in collective 
bargaining on behalf of air traffic controllers employed by the FAA.
``Sec. 90306. Board of Directors
    ``(a) Authority.--The powers of the Corporation shall be vested in 
a Board of Directors that governs the Corporation.
    ``(b) Composition of Board of Directors.--The Board shall be 
composed of the following Directors:
            ``(1) The CEO.
            ``(2) 2 Directors appointed by the Secretary.
            ``(3) 4 Directors nominated by the Nominating Member 
        appointed by the principal organization representing mainline 
        air carriers.
            ``(4) 2 Directors nominated by the Nominating Member 
        appointed by the principal organization representing 
        noncommercial owners and recreational operators of general 
        aviation aircraft.
            ``(5) 1 Director nominated by the Nominating Member 
        appointed by the principal organization engaged in collective 
        bargaining on behalf of air traffic controllers employed by the 
        Corporation.
            ``(6) 1 Director nominated by the Nominating Member 
        appointed by the principal organization representing the 
        largest certified collective bargaining representative of 
        airline pilots.
    ``(c) Nominations and Appointments.--
            ``(1) Approval of initial nominations.--Before the date on 
        which all of the Directors have been approved for the first 
        time or the date of transfer, whichever occurs first, 
        nominations made under subsection (b) shall be subject to the 
        approval of the Directors appointed by the Secretary under 
        subsection (b)(2).
            ``(2) Approval of subsequent nominations.--Except as 
        provided by paragraph (3)(B), on and after the date on which 
        all of the Directors have been approved for the first time or 
        the date of transfer, whichever occurs first, all nominations 
        made under subsection (b) shall be subject to the approval of 
        the Board.
            ``(3) Directors appointed by secretary.--
                    ``(A) Deadline for initial appointments.--The 
                Secretary shall appoint the initial Directors under 
                subsection (b)(2) not later than 30 days after the date 
                of enactment of this subtitle.
                    ``(B) Approval not required.--None of the Directors 
                appointed by the Secretary under subsection (b)(2) 
                shall be subject to approval by the Board.
    ``(d) Fiduciary Duties.--The fiduciary duties of all Directors 
shall be to the Corporation.
    ``(e) Qualifications.--
            ``(1) In general.--Only a citizen of the United States may 
        be appointed or nominated as a Director.
            ``(2) Prohibitions.--An individual may not serve as a 
        Director if the individual is--
                    ``(A) an officer, agent, or employee of the 
                Corporation (other than the CEO);
                    ``(B) a Member of Congress or an elected official 
                serving in a State, local, or tribal government;
                    ``(C) an officer or employee of the Federal 
                Government or any State, local, or tribal government;
                    ``(D) a director, officer, trustee, agent, or 
                employee of--
                            ``(i) a bargaining agent that represents 
                        employees of the Corporation; or
                            ``(ii) an entity that has a material 
                        interest as a supplier, client, or user of the 
                        Corporation's services unless the Board 
                        unanimously determines, with the concurrence in 
                        writing of a majority of the Nominating 
                        Members, that such material interest would not 
                        be likely to adversely affect in a material way 
                        the individual's ability to discharge the 
                        individual's obligations as a Director; or
                    ``(E) a director, officer, agent, or employee of 
                one of the principal organizations determined under 
                section 90305(b).
    ``(f) Chairperson.--The Chairperson of the Board shall--
            ``(1) be selected from among the Directors (other than the 
        CEO) by a majority vote of the Directors; and
            ``(2) subject to subsection (g), serve until replaced by a 
        majority vote of the Directors.
    ``(g) Terms.--
            ``(1) Initial terms.--The term of each Director appointed, 
        or nominated and approved, before the date of transfer (other 
        than the CEO) shall expire on the last day before the date of 
        transfer.
            ``(2) Subsequent terms.--The term of each Director 
        appointed, or nominated and approved, on or after the date of 
        transfer (other than the CEO) shall be 3 years, except as 
        provided by paragraph (3).
            ``(3) Staggering.--The Board shall stagger the duration of 
        the terms of the initial Directors appointed, or nominated and 
        approved, on or after the date of transfer to promote the 
        stability of the Board.
    ``(h) Vacancies.--
            ``(1) Manner of nominations and appointments.--A vacancy on 
        the Board shall be filled in the manner in which the original 
        appointment or nomination and approval was made.
            ``(2) Service until successor takes office.--A Director may 
        serve after the expiration of the Director's term until a 
        successor has taken office.
    ``(i) Quorum.--
            ``(1) In general.--A quorum of the Board, consisting of a 
        majority of the Directors, shall be required to conduct any 
        business of the Board.
            ``(2) Approval of board actions.--Except as otherwise 
        provided, the threshold for approving Board actions shall be as 
        set forth in the bylaws.
    ``(j) Removal of Directors.--A Director may be removed in 
accordance with the bylaws of the Corporation.
    ``(k) Meetings.--
            ``(1) In general.--The Board shall meet at the call of the 
        Chairperson (or as otherwise provided in the bylaws) and, at a 
        minimum, on a quarterly basis.
            ``(2) Responsibilities.--The Board shall be responsible for 
        actions of the Corporation, including the following matters:
                    ``(A) Adoption of an annual budget.
                    ``(B) Approval of a strategic plan and updates 
                thereto.
                    ``(C) Authorization for issuance of indebtedness.
                    ``(D) Assessment, modification, and collection of 
                charges and fees to air traffic services users.
                    ``(E) Hiring of the Interim CEO and CEO.
                    ``(F) Adoption and amendment of the bylaws of the 
                Corporation.
    ``(l) Annual Financial Report.--Not later than 1 year after the 
date of transfer, and annually thereafter, the Corporation shall 
publish a report on the activities of the Corporation during the prior 
year. The annual report shall also contain financial and operational 
performance information regarding the Corporation and shall be made 
publicly available. The Corporation shall ensure that any propriety 
information that may be contained in the annual report is not made 
public.
``Sec. 90307. Committees of Board; independent auditors
    ``(a) Committees of Board.--The Board shall establish and maintain 
a Safety Committee and such other committees as the Board determines 
are necessary or appropriate to carry out the responsibilities of the 
Board effectively. Such committees shall be composed solely of 
Directors.
    ``(b) Independent Auditors.--The Board shall retain independent 
auditors to conduct annual audits of the Corporation's financial 
statements and internal controls.
``Sec. 90308. Advisory Board
    ``(a) Establishment.--There shall be an Advisory Board of the 
Corporation.
    ``(b) Duties.--The Advisory Board--
            ``(1) shall conduct such activities as the Board determines 
        appropriate; and
            ``(2) may, on its own initiative, study, report, and make 
        recommendations to the Board on matters relating to the 
        Corporation's provision of air traffic services and associated 
        safety considerations.
    ``(c) Membership.--
            ``(1) Number.--The Advisory Board shall consist of not more 
        than 15 individuals representing interested entities.
            ``(2) Representatives.--The members of the Advisory Board 
        shall include, at a minimum, representatives of the following:
                    ``(A) Commercial service airports.
                    ``(B) Owners, operators, and users of general 
                aviation aircraft used exclusively in furtherance of 
                business enterprises.
                    ``(C) Aerospace manufacturers.
                    ``(D) Operators of commercial unmanned aircraft 
                systems.
                    ``(E) Appropriate labor organizations.
                    ``(F) The Department of Defense.
                    ``(G) Small communities.
    ``(d) Structure; Terms.--The membership and structure of the 
Advisory Board, including the duration that individuals may serve on 
the Advisory Board, shall be determined by the Board in accordance with 
the bylaws of the Corporation.
``Sec. 90309. Officers and their responsibilities
    ``(a) Chief Executive Officer.--
            ``(1) Hiring.--
                    ``(A) In general.--The Corporation shall have a 
                Chief Executive Officer, who shall be hired by the 
                Board to manage the Corporation.
                    ``(B) Qualifications.--The CEO shall be an 
                individual who is a citizen of the United States and 
                who, by reason of professional background and 
                experience, is especially qualified to manage the 
                Corporation.
            ``(2) Duties.--The CEO shall--
                    ``(A) be responsible for the management and 
                direction of the Corporation, including its officers 
                and employees, and for the exercise of all powers and 
                responsibilities of the Corporation;
                    ``(B) establish Corporation offices and define the 
                responsibilities and duties of the offices, with full 
                authority to organize the Corporation as required; and
                    ``(C) designate an officer of the Corporation who 
                is vested with the authority to act in the capacity of 
                the CEO if the CEO is absent or incapacitated.
            ``(3) Scope of authority.--
                    ``(A) In general.--The CEO shall be subject to the 
                policy guidance of the Board, report to the Board, and 
                serve at the pleasure of the Board.
                    ``(B) Authority of board.--The Board may modify or 
                revoke actions of the CEO pursuant to procedures set 
                forth in the bylaws of the Corporation.
            ``(4) Other officers and employees.--
                    ``(A) In general.--The CEO shall appoint such other 
                officers and employees of the Corporation as the CEO 
                determines appropriate.
                    ``(B) Delegation of functions.--The CEO may 
                delegate to the other officers and employees of the 
                Corporation any of the functions of the Corporation.
    ``(b) Interim CEO.--
            ``(1) Hiring.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the 
        Secretary's initial determination of the principal 
        organizations under section 90305(b)(1), the Board shall hire 
        an Interim Chief Executive Officer who meets the qualifications 
        specified in subsection (a)(1)(B).
            ``(2) Authority and term.--
                    ``(A) Authority.--The Interim CEO shall--
                            ``(i) exercise the same authority as the 
                        CEO, including serving on the Board;
                            ``(ii) carry out the same duties as the 
                        CEO; and
                            ``(iii) be subject to the same prohibitions 
                        and limitations as the CEO.
                    ``(B) Term.--The Interim CEO shall serve until the 
                Board hires a CEO.
            ``(3) Statutory construction.--Nothing in this subsection 
        may be construed to restrict the ability of the Board to hire 
        the individual serving as the Interim CEO to be the CEO.
``Sec. 90310. Authority of Corporation
    ``(a) General Authority.--Except as otherwise provided in this 
subtitle, the Corporation--
            ``(1) shall have perpetual succession in its corporate name 
        unless dissolved by law;
            ``(2) may adopt and use a corporate seal;
            ``(3) may own, lease, use, improve, and dispose of such 
        property as the Corporation considers necessary to carry out 
        the purposes of the Corporation;
            ``(4) may contract with other parties;
            ``(5) may sue or be sued;
            ``(6) may be held liable under civil and criminal law;
            ``(7) may indemnify the Directors, including the Interim 
        CEO or CEO, and other officers, agents, and employees of the 
        Corporation; and
            ``(8) shall have such other corporate powers as are 
        necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this 
        subtitle and of the Corporation.
    ``(b) Prohibition.--The Corporation may not issue or sell equity 
shares in the Corporation.
``Sec. 90311. Charges and fees for air traffic services
    ``(a) Assessment and Collection of Charges and Fees.--Beginning on 
the date of transfer, and subject to section 90502, the Corporation may 
assess and collect charges and fees from any air traffic services user 
for air traffic services provided by the Corporation in United States 
airspace or international airspace delegated to the United States.
    ``(b) Publication and Board Approval of Proposals.--
            ``(1) Publication.--The Corporation shall publish any 
        proposed charge or fee under subsection (a) and any changes 
        thereto.
            ``(2) Board approval.--The Board shall--
                    ``(A) approve any proposed charge or fee under 
                subsection (a) and any changes thereto; and
                    ``(B) carry out the approval in a form and manner 
                accessible to the public and aircraft operators using 
                United States airspace or international airspace 
                delegated to the United States.
    ``(c) Charging Principles and Methodology.--The Corporation shall 
comply with the following charging principles when proposing a charge 
or fee under subsection (a):
            ``(1) Charges and fees shall be consistent with the 
        International Civil Aviation Organization's Policies on Charges 
        for Air Navigation Services, Ninth Edition, 2012.
            ``(2) Charges and fees for certain categories of users may 
        be charged on a flat-fee basis so long as the charge or fee is 
        otherwise consistent with the charging principles described in 
        paragraph (1).
            ``(3) Charges and fees may not be imposed for operations of 
        aircraft owned or operated by the Armed Forces or described in 
        section 40125(c).
            ``(4) Charges and fees may not be imposed for air traffic 
        services provided with respect to--
                    ``(A) aircraft operations of piston engine 
                aircraft; or
                    ``(B) noncommercial aircraft operations of turbine 
                engine aircraft.
            ``(5) Charges and fees may not be imposed for operations of 
        air taxis in remote locations.
            ``(6) Charges and fees may not violate any international 
        obligation of the United States.
    ``(d) Access to Airspace.--Neither the amount of charges and fees 
paid nor the applicability of subsection (c)(4) shall be determinant of 
access to airspace.
    ``(e) Payment of Charges and Fees.--
            ``(1) In general.--An operator using air traffic services 
        in United States airspace or international airspace delegated 
        to the United States shall pay a charge or fee assessed by the 
        Corporation under subsection (a) for services rendered and any 
        interest and penalties assessed under paragraph (2).
            ``(2) Late payment or nonpayment.--The Corporation may 
        assess and collect interest and penalties for late payment or 
        nonpayment of a charge or fee assessed by the Corporation under 
        subsection (a).
            ``(3) Private right of action.--The Corporation may file 
        suit in any district court of the United States having 
        jurisdiction over the parties, without respect to the amount in 
        controversy and without regard to the citizenship of the 
        parties, to enforce this subsection not later than 2 years 
        after the date on which a claim accrues. A claim accrues, under 
        this paragraph, upon the rendering of the relevant air traffic 
        services by the Corporation.
    ``(f) Publication of Fee Schedule.--The Corporation shall publish a 
schedule of charges and fees to be assessed under subsection (a) and 
interest and penalties to be assessed under subsection (e)(2), 
including any changes thereto--
            ``(1) at least 90 days before initiating the collection of 
        the charges, fees, interest, or penalties pursuant to the 
        schedule or change thereto; and
            ``(2) in a form and manner accessible to aircraft operators 
        using United States airspace or international airspace 
        delegated to the United States.
    ``(g) Initial Schedule.--
            ``(1) Publication of initial schedule.--The Corporation 
        shall publish the initial schedule under subsection (f)--
                    ``(A) at least 180 days before the date of 
                transfer; and
                    ``(B) in a form and manner accessible to aircraft 
                operators using United States airspace or international 
                airspace delegated to the United States.
            ``(2) Dispute resolution requirements for initial 
        schedule.--The requirements of section 90502 shall apply if a 
        written complaint is filed with the Secretary for a 
        determination of reasonableness with respect to the initial 
        schedule.
    ``(h) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
            ``(1) Aircraft operation.--The term `aircraft operation' 
        means the movement of an aircraft beginning with the take-off 
        of the aircraft and ending with the landing of the aircraft.
            ``(2) Gas turbine engine.--The term `gas turbine engine' 
        means a turboprop, turbofan, or turbojet aircraft engine.
            ``(3) Noncommercial aircraft operation.--The term 
        `noncommercial aircraft operation' means an aircraft operation 
        that does not involve the transportation of passengers, cargo, 
        or mail for remuneration or hire.
            ``(4) Operations of air taxis.--The term `operations of air 
        taxis' means the commuter or on-demand operations of a person 
        who holds or is required to hold an air carrier certificate or 
        operating certificate under part 119 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, or helicopter air ambulance operations as 
        defined in section 135.601(b)(1) of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations.
            ``(5) Piston engine aircraft.--The term `piston engine 
        aircraft' means an aircraft that has 1 or more piston-powered 
        engines connected to 1 or more propellers, which provide thrust 
        to move the aircraft on the ground and through the air.
            ``(6) Remote location.--The term `remote location' means a 
        location in the United States where alternatives to 
        transportation by air taxi are unavailable or infeasible, as 
        determined by the Secretary.
            ``(7) Turbine engine aircraft.--The term `turbine engine 
        aircraft' means any aircraft that utilizes a gas turbine engine 
        as a means of propulsion.
``Sec. 90312. Preemption of authority over air traffic services
    ``(a) State Defined.--In this section, the term `State' means a 
State, the District of Columbia, and a territory or possession of the 
United States.
    ``(b) Preemption.--A State, political subdivision of a State, or 
political authority of at least 2 States may not enact or enforce a 
law, regulation, or other provision having the force and effect of law 
related to air traffic services.
    ``(c) Airport Owner or Operator.--Subsection (b) may not be 
construed to limit a State, political subdivision of a State, or 
political authority of at least 2 States that owns or operates a 
landing area from carrying out its proprietary powers and rights over 
the landing area.
``Sec. 90313. Actions by and against Corporation
    ``(a) Jurisdiction for Legal Actions Generally.--
            ``(1) Jurisdiction of united states district courts.--The 
        United States district courts shall have original jurisdiction 
        over all actions brought by or against the Corporation, except 
        as otherwise provided in this subtitle.
            ``(2) Removal of actions in state courts.--Any action 
        brought in a State court to which the Corporation is a party 
        shall be removed to the appropriate United States district 
        court under the provisions of chapter 89 of title 28.
    ``(b) Testimony of Corporation Employees.--
            ``(1) In general.--Except with the consent of the chief 
        legal officer of the Corporation, employees of the Corporation 
        may not provide expert opinion or expert testimony in civil 
        litigation related to the Corporation.
            ``(2) Exceptions.--The Corporation may prescribe the 
        circumstances, if any, under which employees of the Corporation 
        may provide expert opinion or expert testimony in civil 
        litigation related to the Corporation.
``Sec. 90314. Air traffic services for Federal agencies
    ``Before the date of transfer, the Secretary shall establish 
processes, requirements, procedures, and regulations and take any other 
measure necessary, consistent with the purposes of this subtitle, to 
ensure that all United States Government activities supported by the 
FAA's operation of air traffic services as of the date of transfer 
receive support from the Corporation after the date of transfer and on 
an ongoing basis.
``Sec. 90315. Transfer of Federal personnel to Corporation
    ``(a) Transfer of FAA Employees to Corporation.--
            ``(1) Process.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
        enactment of this subtitle, the Secretary, after meeting and 
        conferring with the CEO and representatives of the labor 
        organizations recognized under section 7111 of title 5 as 
        exclusive representatives of FAA employees, shall commence a 
        process to determine, consistent with the purposes of this 
        subtitle, which activities and employees, or categories of 
        employees, of the FAA shall be transferred to the Corporation 
        on or before the date of transfer.
            ``(2) Determination; transfer.--The Secretary shall--
                    ``(A) not later than 180 days prior to the date of 
                transfer, complete the determination of which 
                activities, employees, or categories of employees shall 
                be transferred to the Corporation under paragraph (1);
                    ``(B) upon completing the determination, notify the 
                CEO, the labor organizations recognized under section 
                7111 of title 5 as exclusive representatives of FAA 
                employees, and all affected employees of such 
                determination; and
                    ``(C) on or before the date of transfer, transfer 
                such activities, employees, or categories of employees.
    ``(b) Subsequent Transfer of Employees.--
            ``(1) In general.--
                    ``(A) Transfers from faa to corporation.--During 
                the 180-day period beginning on the date of transfer, 
                the Secretary, after meeting and conferring with the 
                CEO and representatives of the certified labor 
                organizations recognized under section 90705 and labor 
                organizations recognized under section 7111 of title 5 
                as exclusive representatives of FAA employees, may 
                transfer an employee from the FAA to the Corporation if 
                the Secretary, after meeting and conferring with the 
                CEO and the representatives, finds that the 
                determination with respect to the employee under 
                subsection (a) was inconsistent with the purposes of 
                this subtitle.
                    ``(B) Transfers from corporation to faa.--During 
                the 180-day period beginning on the date of transfer, 
                the Secretary, after meeting and conferring with the 
                CEO and representatives of the certified labor 
                organizations recognized under section 90705 and labor 
                organizations recognized under section 7111 of title 5 
                as exclusive representatives of FAA employees, may 
                transfer an employee from the Corporation to the FAA if 
                the Secretary, after the consultation with the CEO and 
                the representatives, finds that the determination with 
                respect to the employee under subsection (a) was 
                inconsistent with the purposes of this subtitle.
            ``(2) Reemployment of federal employees.--An employee 
        transferred from the Corporation to the FAA under this 
        subsection shall be entitled to the same rights and benefits, 
        and reemployment, in the same manner as if covered by section 
        3582 of title 5 notwithstanding section 8347(o), 8713, or 8914 
        of such title.
            ``(3) Election of benefits for employees subject to delayed 
        transfer to corporation.--In the case of an employee of the FAA 
        transferred to the Corporation under this subsection, such 
        employee shall be afforded the opportunity to make the election 
        provided under section 90702(b) with respect to benefits.
    ``(c) Corporation Employee Benefits.--At least 180 days before the 
date of transfer, the Corporation shall establish a compensation and 
benefits program for--
            ``(1) employees hired by the Corporation after the date of 
        transfer; and
            ``(2) employees that make the election under section 
        90702(b)(1)(A)(ii).
    ``(d) Protections for Employees Not Transferred to Corporation.--
For those employees of the FAA directly involved in the operation of 
air traffic services who are not transferred to the Corporation 
pursuant to subsection (a) or who transferred back to the FAA pursuant 
to subsection (b), the Secretary shall provide to such employees 
compensation and benefits consistent with the applicable collective-
bargaining agreement that are not less than the level of compensation 
and benefits provided to such FAA employees prior to the date of 
transfer unless mutually agreed to by the FAA and representatives of 
the certified labor organization.
    ``(e) Suitability, Clearances, and Medical Qualifications.--All 
federally issued or federally required credentials, certificates, 
clearances, medical qualifications, access rights, substance testing 
results, and any other Federal permissions or approvals held by any 
employee of the FAA in the operation of air traffic services that are 
valid and effective on the day prior to the date of transfer shall 
remain valid and effective after the date of transfer--
            ``(1) unless revoked for cause; or
            ``(2) until equivalent or substantially equivalent 
        credentials, certificates, clearances, medical qualifications, 
        access rights, substance testing results, and any other Federal 
        permissions or approvals have been issued to the employee on or 
        after the date of transfer.
    ``(f) Transition Agreements.--
            ``(1) Bipartite agreement.--
                    ``(A) Meetings.--At least 180 days before the date 
                of transfer, the Corporation shall meet with the labor 
                organizations recognized under section 7111 of title 5 
                as exclusive representatives of FAA employees to 
                resolve employment-related transition matters that 
                affect employees represented by those labor 
                organizations and that are not otherwise covered under 
                this section.
                    ``(B) Duty to bargain in good faith.--The 
                Corporation and the labor organizations described in 
                subparagraph (A) (in this subsection referred to as the 
                `parties') shall be subject to the duty to bargain in 
                good faith under chapter 907 in any meetings pursuant 
                to this paragraph.
                    ``(C) Dispute resolution procedures.--If the 
                parties fail to reach an agreement over the initial or 
                subsequent employment-related transition issues not 
                otherwise covered under this section, the matters shall 
                be subject to the dispute resolution procedures 
                established under subsections (a), (b), and (e) of 
                section 90707.
            ``(2) Tripartite agreement.--
                    ``(A) Meetings.--At least 1 year before the date of 
                transfer, the Corporation and the FAA shall meet with 
                the labor organizations recognized under section 7111 
                of title 5 as exclusive representatives of FAA 
                employees to resolve transition matters related to the 
                separation of air traffic services from the FAA 
                pursuant to this subtitle that affect employees 
                represented by those labor organizations and that are 
                not otherwise covered under this section.
                    ``(B) Duty to bargain in good faith.--To the extent 
                applicable, the Corporation and the labor organizations 
                described in subparagraph (A) shall be subject to the 
                duty to bargain in good faith under chapter 907 in any 
                meetings pursuant to this paragraph.
                    ``(C) Dispute resolution procedures.--If the 
                Corporation and the certified labor organizations 
                described in subparagraph (A) fail to reach an 
                agreement over the initial or subsequent transition 
                issues related to the separation of air traffic 
                services from the FAA, not otherwise covered under this 
                section, the matters shall be subject to the dispute 
                resolution procedures established under subsections 
                (a), (b), and (e) of section 90707.
``Sec. 90316. Transfer of facilities to Corporation
    ``(a) Inventory of FAA Property and Facilities.--At least 1 year 
before the date of transfer, the Secretary, in consultation with the 
CEO, shall identify the licenses, patents, software rights, and real 
and personal property, including air navigation facilities (as defined 
in section 40102(a)) of the United States under FAA jurisdiction, that 
are necessary and appropriate for the Corporation to carry out the air 
traffic services transferred to the Corporation under this subtitle.
    ``(b) Transfer of Federal Property.--
            ``(1) Conveyance of property to corporation.--On the date 
        of transfer, the Secretary shall convey, without charge, all 
        right, title, and interest of the United States in, and the 
        use, possession, and control of, properties identified under 
        subsection (a).
            ``(2) Sale of property by corporation after date of 
        transfer.--If the Corporation sells any of the property 
        conveyed to the Corporation under paragraph (1), the 
        Corporation shall use the proceeds received from the sale of 
        such property for the acquisition or improvement of air 
        navigation facilities or other capital assets.
            ``(3) Reversionary interest.--Any conveyance of real 
        property under this section located at an FAA technical 
        facility shall be subject to the condition that all right, 
        title, and interest in the real property shall revert to the 
        United States and be placed under the administrative control of 
        the Secretary if--
                    ``(A) the Corporation determines the real property 
                is no longer necessary to carry out the air traffic 
                services transferred to the Corporation under this 
                subtitle; and
                    ``(B) the Secretary determines the reversion is 
                necessary to protect the interests of the United 
                States.
    ``(c) Consolidation and Realignment of Transferred Services and 
Facilities.--
            ``(1) In general.--At least 180 days before the date of 
        transfer, and subject to section 90707, the Corporation, in 
        consultation with representatives of labor organizations 
        representing operations and maintenance employees of the air 
        traffic control system, shall establish a process for the 
        realignment and consolidation of services and facilities to be 
        transferred to the Corporation from the FAA.
            ``(2) Moratorium.--Except as otherwise provided, there 
        shall be a moratorium on any effort by the Administrator or the 
        Corporation to consolidate or realign air traffic services or 
        facilities until the process required by paragraph (1) is 
        established.
``Sec. 90317. Approval of transferred air navigation facilities and 
              other equipment
    ``On the date of transfer, the Corporation is authorized to operate 
all air navigation facilities and other equipment conveyed pursuant to 
section 90316 without additional approval or certification by the 
Secretary.
``Sec. 90318. Use of spectrum systems and data
    ``Beginning on the date of transfer, the Secretary shall provide 
the Corporation with such access to the spectrum systems used by the 
FAA before the date of transfer to provide air traffic services, and 
any successor spectrum systems, and to the data from such systems, as 
is necessary to enable the Corporation to provide air traffic services 
under this subtitle.

                ``CHAPTER 905--OVERSIGHT OF CORPORATION

``Sec.
``90501. Safety oversight and regulation of Corporation.
``90502. Resolution of disputes concerning air traffic services charges 
                            and fees.
``90503. Air navigation facilities established after date of transfer.
``90504. International agreements and activities.
``90505. Availability of safety information.
``90506. Reporting of safety violations to FAA.
``90507. Insurance requirements.
``Sec. 90501. Safety oversight and regulation of Corporation
    ``(a) Performance-Based Regulations and Minimum Safety Standards.--
Before the date of transfer, the Secretary shall--
            ``(1) prescribe performance-based regulations and minimum 
        safety standards for the operation of air traffic services by 
        the Corporation; and
            ``(2) adopt, after consultation with the Corporation and 
        the FAA's certified bargaining representatives, policies and 
        other administrative materials of the FAA in effect before the 
        date of transfer for providing air traffic services.
    ``(b) Safety Management System.--
            ``(1) In general.--The regulations and standards shall 
        include a safety management system for air traffic services 
        provided by the Corporation.
            ``(2) Foundation.--The safety management system shall be 
        based on the safety management system used by the Air Traffic 
        Organization of the FAA before the date of transfer.
            ``(3) Use by corporation.--Beginning on the date of 
        transfer, the Corporation shall use the safety management 
        system, including any changes thereto, when assessing and 
        managing risks in all procedures, processes, and practices 
        necessary to provide air traffic services.
    ``(c) Proposals To Modify Air Traffic Management Procedures, 
Assignments, and Classifications of Airspace.--
            ``(1) Submission of proposals to secretary.--The 
        Corporation or another interested party may submit to the 
        Secretary a proposal to modify--
                    ``(A) air traffic management procedures, 
                assignments, classifications of airspace, or other 
                actions affecting airspace access that are developed 
                pursuant to the safety management system; and
                    ``(B) FAA policies and other administrative 
                materials adopted under subsection (a)(2).
            ``(2) Review and approval of proposals.--The regulations 
        and standards prescribed under subsection (a)(1) shall include 
        a process for expedited review and approval of a proposal 
        received under paragraph (1).
            ``(3) Standard for approval.--The Secretary shall approve a 
        proposal received under paragraph (1) if the Secretary 
        determines that the proposal complies with the regulations and 
        standards prescribed under subsection (a)(1) and is otherwise 
        consistent with the public interest.
            ``(4) Approvals, disapprovals, and modifications.--
                    ``(A) In general.--During the 45-day period 
                beginning on the date of receipt of a proposal under 
                paragraph (1), the Secretary shall approve, disapprove, 
                or modify the proposal.
                    ``(B) Written explanation.--If the Secretary 
                disapproves or modifies the proposal, the Secretary 
                shall provide a written explanation of the Secretary's 
                decision, including--
                            ``(i) any instances of inconsistency with 
                        the regulations and standards prescribed under 
                        subsection (a)(1); and
                            ``(ii) any other information that formed 
                        the basis for the Secretary's decision.
            ``(5) Failure to act.--If the Secretary fails to act on a 
        proposal received under paragraph (1) during the 45-day period 
        described in paragraph (4)(A), the Corporation or other party 
        making the proposal shall be entitled to a writ of mandamus in 
        a Federal district court with venue.
    ``(d) Judicial Review.--
            ``(1) In general.--Any decision made by the Secretary to 
        approve, disapprove, or modify a proposal received under 
        subsection (c)(1) shall be subject to judicial review pursuant 
        to subsections (a), (b), (d), and (e) of section 46110.
            ``(2) Standard of review.--
                    ``(A) Disapprovals; modifications.--In the case of 
                a petition filed under section 46110(a) to review a 
                decision of the Secretary that disapproves or modifies 
                a proposal received from the Corporation under 
                subsection (c)(1), the court shall, without deference 
                to the Secretary's determination, review de novo the 
                record to determine if the Secretary's determination is 
                consistent with the regulations and standards 
                prescribed under subsection (a)(1).
                    ``(B) Approvals.--In the case of a petition filed 
                under section 46110(a) to review a decision of the 
                Secretary that approves a proposal received from the 
                Corporation under subsection (c)(1), the court may 
                overturn the approval only upon a finding of clear 
                error or an abuse of discretion.
    ``(e) Compilation.--
            ``(1) Establishment.--The Corporation shall establish and 
        maintain a compilation of the policies and other materials 
        referred to in subsection (a)(2).
            ``(2) Updates.--The Corporation shall update the 
        compilation each time a proposal described in subsection 
        (c)(1)(B) is approved.
            ``(3) Publication.--The Corporation shall make the 
        compilation available to the public.
    ``(f) Special Rules for Proposals Affecting Certain Airspace.--The 
regulations and standards prescribed under subsection (a)(1) shall 
include procedures (including advance submission of necessary 
supporting data, analysis, and documentation) for the Secretary to 
evaluate, at least 180 days before its submission under subsection 
(c)(1), a proposal for an airspace change that would affect airspace 
that is--
            ``(1) within an area designated as a `Metroplex' by the FAA 
        as of June 8, 2015;
            ``(2) within an area subject to a major, large-scale 
        airspace redesign project; or
            ``(3) adjacent to or containing special use airspace.
    ``(g) Special Rules for Proposals Relating to Operation of Contract 
Towers.--
            ``(1) In general.--The regulations and standards prescribed 
        under subsection (a)(1) shall include procedures for the 
        Secretary to evaluate, under subsection (c), a proposal for an 
        airspace change that results from the proposed closure of a 
        tower that is operating under a contract with the Corporation 
        and that, prior to the date of transfer, was operated under a 
        contract with the Secretary pursuant to section 47124.
            ``(2) Procedures.--The procedures required pursuant to 
        paragraph (1) shall include--
                    ``(A) the advance submission of necessary 
                supporting data, analysis, and documentation related 
                to--
                            ``(i) the safety risk management assessment 
                        of the proposed contract tower closure;
                            ``(ii) an assessment of the impact of the 
                        proposed closure on the operation of the 
                        national airspace system;
                            ``(iii) an assessment of the impact of the 
                        proposed closure on air service to affected 
                        communities; and
                            ``(iv) any other safety or operational 
                        information the Secretary determines to be 
                        necessary to understand the safety impact of 
                        the proposed closure; and
                    ``(B) a process to receive input from the public, 
                impacted air traffic services users, local communities, 
                and the airport operator of the airport where the 
                contract tower proposed to be closed is located.
    ``(h) Exempted Airspace Actions.--The requirements of this section 
shall not apply to--
            ``(1) temporary airspace actions directed by the 
        Administrator or Secretary;
            ``(2) airspace actions necessitated by an exercise of 
        authority under section 40106; or
            ``(3) certain emergency circumstances, as defined by the 
        Secretary in regulation.
    ``(i) Delegation.--Notwithstanding section 90303(b), and except for 
the process and procedures required by subsection (g), the Secretary 
may delegate safety oversight functions to the Administrator.
``Sec. 90502. Resolution of disputes concerning air traffic services 
              charges and fees
    ``(a) Authority To Request Secretary's Determination.--
            ``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall issue a 
        determination as to whether a charge or fee assessed by the 
        Corporation for the use of air traffic services in United 
        States airspace or international airspace delegated to the 
        United States is reasonable if a written complaint for such 
        determination is filed with the Secretary by an affected air 
        traffic services user not later than 60 days after the air 
        traffic services user receives written notice of the 
        establishment or increase of such charge or fee.
            ``(2) Secretary's determination.--In determining under 
        paragraph (1) whether a charge or fee is reasonable, the 
        Secretary may only determine whether the charge or fee is 
        reasonable pursuant to subsection (c).
            ``(3) Treatment of interest and penalties.--In this 
        section, the terms `charge' and `fee' include any interest and 
        penalties relating thereto.
    ``(b) Procedural Regulations.--At least 270 days before the date of 
transfer, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register final 
regulations, policy statements, or guidelines establishing the 
procedures for acting upon written complaints filed under subsection 
(a)(1) and requests of the Corporation pursuant to subsection (e)(3).
    ``(c) Determination of Reasonableness.--In determining under 
subsection (a)(1) whether a charge or fee is reasonable, the Secretary 
shall determine only if the charge or fee is--
            ``(1) consistent with the charging principles described in 
        section 90311(c); and
            ``(2) otherwise consistent with the public interest.
    ``(d) Decisions by Secretary.--The final regulations, policy 
statements, or guidelines required in subsection (b) shall provide for 
the following:
            ``(1) Not later than 90 days after an air traffic services 
        user files with the Secretary a written complaint relating to 
        an air traffic service charge or fee, the Secretary shall issue 
        a final order determining whether the charge or fee is 
        reasonable.
            ``(2) Not later than 30 days after such complaint is filed 
        with the Secretary, the Secretary shall dismiss the complaint 
        if no significant dispute exists or shall assign the matter to 
        an administrative law judge. Thereafter, the matter shall be 
        handled in accordance with part 302 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, or as modified by the Secretary, to ensure 
        an orderly disposition of the matter within the 90-day period 
        and any specifically applicable provisions of this section.
            ``(3) The administrative law judge shall issue a 
        recommended decision within 45 days after the complaint is 
        assigned or within such shorter period as the Secretary may 
        specify.
            ``(4) If the Secretary, upon the expiration of 90 days 
        after the filing of the complaint, has not issued a final 
        order, the decision of the administrative law judge shall be 
        deemed to be the final order of the Secretary.
            ``(5) Any party to the dispute may seek review of a final 
        order of the Secretary under this subsection in the Circuit 
        Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit or the 
        court of appeals in the circuit with venue.
            ``(6) Any findings of fact in a final order of the 
        Secretary under this subsection, if supported by substantial 
        evidence, shall be conclusive if challenged in a court pursuant 
        to this subsection. No objection to such a final order shall be 
        considered by the court unless objection was urged before an 
        administrative law judge or the Secretary at a proceeding under 
        this subsection or, if not so urged, unless there were 
        reasonable grounds for failure to do so.
    ``(e) Payment Under Protest; Guarantee of Air Traffic Services User 
Access.--
            ``(1) Payment under protest.--
                    ``(A) In general.--Any charge or fee increase or 
                newly established charge or fee that is the subject of 
                a complaint that is not dismissed by the Secretary 
                shall be paid by the complainant air traffic services 
                user to the Corporation under protest.
                    ``(B) Referral or credit.--Any amounts paid under 
                this subsection by a complainant air traffic services 
                user to the Corporation under protest shall be subject 
                to refund or credit to the air traffic services user in 
                accordance with directions in the final order of the 
                Secretary within 30 days of such order.
                    ``(C) Timely repayment.--In order to ensure the 
                timely repayment, with interest, of amounts in dispute 
                determined not to be reasonable by the Secretary, the 
                Corporation shall obtain a letter of credit, or surety 
                bond, or other suitable credit facility, equal to the 
                amount in dispute that is due during the 90-day period 
                established by this section, plus interest, unless the 
                Corporation and the air traffic services user agree 
                otherwise.
                    ``(D) Deadline.--The letter of credit, or surety 
                bond, or other suitable credit facility shall be 
                provided to the Secretary not later than 20 days after 
                the filing of the complaint and shall remain in effect 
                for 30 days after the earlier of 90 days or the 
                issuance of a timely final order by the Secretary 
                determining whether such charge or fee is reasonable.
            ``(2) Guarantee of air traffic services user access.--
        Contingent upon an air traffic services user's compliance with 
        the requirements of paragraph (1) and pending the issuance of a 
        final order by the Secretary determining the reasonableness of 
        a charge or fee that is the subject of a complaint filed under 
        subsection (a)(1), the Corporation may not withhold air traffic 
        services as a means of enforcing the charge or fee.
            ``(3) Noncompliance.--Prior to the issuance of a final 
        order by the Secretary determining the reasonableness of a 
        charge or fee that is the subject of a complaint filed under 
        subsection (a)(1), if an air traffic services user does not 
        comply with the requirements of paragraph (1) of this 
        subsection, the Corporation shall withhold air traffic services 
        from the user if the Corporation requests and receives approval 
        from the Secretary to withhold air traffic services.
``Sec. 90503. Air navigation facilities established after date of 
              transfer
    ``(a) Safety Management System for Air Navigation Facilities.--
Notwithstanding section 44702 or 44708, or any other provision of law, 
the Secretary shall establish procedures under which the Corporation or 
any other interested person may submit to the Secretary for approval a 
safety management system for use by the Corporation or person in 
designing, manufacturing, testing, or operating an air navigation 
facility, as defined in section 40102(a), established after the date of 
transfer.
    ``(b) Establishment of Procedures.--The procedures established 
under subsection (a) shall--
            ``(1) be established before the date of transfer;
            ``(2) include a process for the Secretary to periodically 
        review, in an expedited manner, a safety management system 
        approved under subsection (a) and its implementation; and
            ``(3) allow for enforcement of the terms and conditions of 
        the safety management system by the Secretary pursuant to 
        section 46301(a)(1)(A).
    ``(c) Compliance Required.--In carrying out activities related to 
the design, manufacture, testing, or operation of air navigation 
facilities, the Corporation or any other interested person shall act in 
accordance with the applicable safety management system approved 
pursuant to this section.
``Sec. 90504. International agreements and activities
    ``(a) Consistency With International Obligations and Laws of Other 
Countries.--The Corporation shall provide air traffic services under 
this subtitle in a manner that is consistent with any obligation 
assumed by the United States in a treaty, convention, or agreement that 
may be in force between the United States and a foreign country or 
foreign countries or between the United States and an international 
organization, and shall take into consideration any applicable laws and 
requirements of foreign countries.
    ``(b) Prohibition.--The Corporation may not negotiate on behalf of 
or otherwise represent the United States before any foreign government 
or international organization.
``Sec. 90505. Availability of safety information
    ``(a) Safety Information.--The Corporation shall make available to 
air traffic services users and the public--
            ``(1) the same type of safety information made available by 
        the FAA before the date of transfer;
            ``(2) any additional safety information needed by air 
        traffic services users to operate safely; and
            ``(3) any updates or revisions to the safety information 
        referred to in paragraphs (1) and (2).
    ``(b) Meteorological Services; Aeronautical Charts.--The 
Corporation may provide for the dissemination of available aviation-
related meteorological information and aeronautical charts to air 
traffic services users.
``Sec. 90506. Reporting of safety violations to FAA
    ``(a) In General.--In a manner, form, and process prescribed by the 
Administrator, the Corporation shall report to the Administrator 
complaints or instances of--
            ``(1) noncompliance with or deviations from air traffic 
        control clearances or instructions;
            ``(2) noncompliant operations in controlled airspace or 
        special use airspace; and
            ``(3) any other observed activities endangering persons or 
        property in the air or on the ground.
    ``(b) Assistance in Enforcement Actions.--The Corporation shall 
provide necessary assistance in any enforcement action taken by the 
Administrator resulting from a report of the Corporation or another 
person or entity.
    ``(c) Statutory Construction.--This section may not be construed to 
limit the authority of the Administrator to undertake enforcement 
actions upon the Administrator's initiative.
``Sec. 90507. Insurance requirements
    ``The Corporation shall maintain adequate liability insurance 
policies and coverages, as determined by the Secretary, including 
complete indemnification of employees of the Corporation for acts 
within the scope of employment.

                   ``CHAPTER 907--EMPLOYEE MANAGEMENT

``Sec.
``90701. Definitions.
``90702. Employee management and benefits election.
``90703. Labor and employment policy.
``90704. Bargaining units.
``90705. Recognition of labor organizations.
``90706. Collective-bargaining agreements.
``90707. Collective-bargaining dispute resolution.
``90708. Potential and pending grievances, arbitrations, and 
                            settlements.
``90709. Legal action.
``Sec. 90701. Definitions
    ``In this chapter, the following definitions apply:
            ``(1) Agency.--The term `Agency' means, as the context 
        requires, the Department of Transportation or the FAA.
            ``(2) Air traffic controller.--
                    ``(A) In general.--The term `air traffic 
                controller' means an employee of the Corporation who, 
                in an air traffic control facility or flight service 
                station facility--
                            ``(i) is actively engaged--
                                    ``(I) in the separation and control 
                                of air traffic; or
                                    ``(II) in providing preflight, 
                                inflight, or airport advisory service 
                                to aircraft operators; or
                            ``(ii) is the immediate supervisor of any 
                        employee described in clause (i).
                    ``(B) Limitation.--Notwithstanding subparagraph 
                (A), the definition of `air traffic controller' for 
                purposes of section 8336(e) of chapter 83 of title 5 
                and section 8412(e) of chapter 84 of such title shall 
                mean only employees actively engaged in the separation 
                of air traffic and the immediate supervisors of such 
                employees, as set forth in section 8331(30) of such 
                title, and section 8401(35) of such title.
            ``(3) Authority.--The term `Authority' means the Federal 
        Labor Relations Authority, as described in section 7104(a) of 
        title 5.
            ``(4) Service.--The term `Service' means the Federal 
        Mediation and Conciliation Service established by section 202 
        of the Labor Management Relations Act, 1947 (29 U.S.C. 172).
``Sec. 90702. Employee management and benefits election
    ``(a) Authority of CEO.--
            ``(1) In general.--Except as otherwise provided by law, the 
        CEO shall classify and fix the compensation and benefits of 
        employees in the Corporation.
            ``(2) Negotiations.--In developing, making changes to, and 
        implementing wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of 
        employment, including when establishing the compensation and 
        benefits program under section 90315(c), the Corporation shall 
        negotiate with exclusive representatives recognized under 
        section 90705.
            ``(3) Before date of transfer.--For purposes of paragraph 
        (2), before the date of transfer, the term `exclusive 
        representatives recognized under section 90705' shall refer to 
        labor organizations recognized under section 7111 of title 5 as 
        exclusive representatives of FAA employees.
    ``(b) Former Federal Employees.--
            ``(1) Federal retirement benefits.--
                    ``(A) Election of retirement benefits.--At least 90 
                days before the date of transfer, an employee 
                transferring to the Corporation who will be subject to 
                either the Civil Service Retirement System under 
                chapter 83 of title 5 (in this section referred to as 
                `CSRS') or the Federal Employees Retirement System 
                under chapter 84 of title 5 (in this section referred 
                to as `FERS') on the day immediately preceding the date 
                of transfer shall elect either to--
                            ``(i) retain the employee's coverage under 
                        either CSRS or FERS, as applicable, in lieu of 
                        coverage by the Corporation's employee benefits 
                        system established under section 90315(c); or
                            ``(ii) receive a deferred annuity, lump-sum 
                        benefit, or any other benefit available to the 
                        employee under CSRS or FERS, in the same manner 
                        that would have been available to the employee 
                        if the employee had voluntarily separated from 
                        Federal employment on the day before the date 
                        of transfer.
                    ``(B) Thrift savings plan accounts.--An employee 
                who makes the election under subparagraph (A)(ii) shall 
                have the option to transfer the balance in the 
                employee's Thrift Savings Plan account to the plan 
                under the Corporation's retirement system, consistent 
                with applicable law and the terms of the Corporation's 
                plan.
                    ``(C) Periodic election.--The Corporation shall 
                provide for periodic election seasons during which an 
                employee who transferred to the Corporation on the date 
                of transfer may become eligible for retirement benefits 
                under the Corporation's employee benefits system 
                established under section 90315(c) by making an 
                election under subparagraph (A)(ii).
                    ``(D) Continuity of annuitant benefits.--
                Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any 
                individual who is receiving an annuity under chapter 83 
                or chapter 84 of title 5 may continue to receive such 
                annuity while employed by the Corporation.
                    ``(E) High-3 determination.--With respect to any 
                employee who retains CSRS or FERS coverage pursuant to 
                subparagraph (A), such employee's basic pay while with 
                the Corporation shall be included in any determination 
                of such employee's average pay under section 8331(4) or 
                8401(3), as the case may be, of title 5 when 
                calculating the annuity (if any) of such employee. For 
                purposes of this section, an employee's basic pay shall 
                be defined as such employee's total annual salary or 
                wages from the Corporation, including any location-
                based adjustment.
            ``(2) Payments to civil service retirement and disability 
        fund.--For employees of the Corporation who elect to retain 
        their coverage under either CSRS or FERS pursuant to paragraph 
        (1), the Corporation shall only be required to pay to the Civil 
        Service Retirement and Disability Fund--
                    ``(A) such employee deductions and agency 
                contributions as are required by sections 8334, 8422, 
                and 8423 of title 5; and
                    ``(B) such additional amounts, not to exceed 2 
                percent of the amounts under subparagraph (A), as are 
                determined necessary by the Office of Personnel 
                Management to pay the cost of administering retirement 
                benefits for employees who retire from the Corporation 
                after the date of transfer under either CSRS or FERS, 
                for their survivors, and for survivors of employees of 
                the Corporation who die after the date of transfer 
                (which amounts shall be available to the Office of 
                Personnel Management as provided in section 
                8348(a)(1)(B) of title 5).
            ``(3) Thrift savings fund.--The Corporation shall pay to 
        the Thrift Savings Fund such employee and agency contributions 
        as are required by section 8432 of title 5 for employees who 
        elect to retain their coverage under FERS pursuant to paragraph 
        (1).
            ``(4) Health benefits plan election.--Any employee of the 
        Corporation who was subject to the Federal Employees Health 
        Benefits Program under chapter 89 of title 5 (in this section 
        referred to as `FEHBP') on the day immediately preceding the 
        date of transfer shall have the option to receive health 
        benefits from a health benefit plan established by the 
        Corporation under section 90315(c) or to continue coverage 
        under FEHBP without interruption.
            ``(5) Payments to employees health benefits fund.--For 
        employees of the Corporation who elect to retain their coverage 
        under FEHBP pursuant to paragraph (4), the Corporation shall 
        pay to the Employees Health Benefits Fund--
                    ``(A) such employee deductions and agency 
                contributions as are required by subsections (a) 
                through (f) of section 8906 of title 5; and
                    ``(B) such amounts as are determined necessary by 
                the Office of Personnel Management under paragraph (6) 
                to reimburse the Office of Personnel Management for 
                contributions under section 8906(g)(1) of title 5.
            ``(6) Reimbursement amounts.--The amounts required to be 
        paid by the Corporation under paragraph (5)(B) shall be equal 
        to the amount of Government contributions for retired employees 
        who retire from the Corporation after the date of transfer 
        under either CSRS or FERS, for survivors of such retired 
        employees, and for survivors of employees of the Corporation 
        who die after the date of transfer, with said amounts prorated 
        to reflect only that portion of the total service of such 
        employees and retired persons that was performed for the 
        Corporation after the date of transfer.
            ``(7) Additional benefits.--Subject to the provisions of 
        this chapter, any employee of the Corporation who was subject 
        to the provisions of subchapter I of chapter 85 (concerning 
        unemployment compensation) and chapters 87 (concerning life 
        insurance), 89A (concerning enhanced dental benefits), and 89B 
        (concerning enhanced vision benefits) of title 5 shall have the 
        option to continue coverage under such provisions without 
        interruption in lieu of applicable coverage by the 
        Corporation's employee benefits system established under 
        section 90315(c). The Corporation shall withhold from pay, and 
        shall make contributions, under the provisions of title 5 
        referred to in this subsection at the same rates applicable to 
        agencies of the Federal Government for such employees.
            ``(8) Workers compensation.--Officers and employees of the 
        Corporation shall be covered by, and shall be considered 
        employees for purposes of, subchapter I of chapter 81 of title 
        5 (concerning compensation for work injuries). The Corporation 
        shall make contributions to the Employees' Compensation Fund 
        under the provisions of section 8147 of title 5 at the same 
        rates applicable to agencies of the Federal Government.
            ``(9) Non-foreign area.--To the extent consistent with law, 
        the Non-Foreign Area Retirement Equity Assurance Act of 2009 
        shall apply to officers and employees of the Corporation 
        transferred under section 90315.
            ``(10) Transfer of leave.--Sick and annual leave, credit 
        hours, and compensatory time of officers and employees of the 
        Corporation, whether accrued before or after the date of 
        transfer, shall be obligations of the Corporation under the 
        provisions of this chapter.
            ``(11) Whistleblower protection.--Neither the Corporation, 
        nor any officer or employee of the Corporation, may take any 
        action described in subsection (b)(8), (b)(9), or (b)(13), or 
        the final paragraph of subsection (b), of section 2302 of title 
        5 (relating to whistleblower protection).
``Sec. 90703. Labor and employment policy
    ``(a) Application of Chapter 71 of Title 5.--To the extent not 
inconsistent with this chapter, labor-management relations shall be 
subject to the provisions of chapter 71 of title 5, provided that the 
obligation of the Corporation and an exclusive bargaining 
representative recognized under section 90705 to bargain collectively 
in good faith over conditions of employment shall mean to bargain over 
the same wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment as 
are negotiable under section 8(d) of the Act of July 5, 1935, as 
amended (29 U.S.C. 158(d)), and without application of section 
7103(a)(14) of title 5 and section 7117 of title 5, which shall not 
apply.
    ``(b) Applicability.--To the limited extent necessary for the 
implementation of this chapter, the Corporation shall have the rights 
and obligations of an agency under chapter 71 of title 5.
    ``(c) Application of Fair Labor Standards Act.--The provisions of 
the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 201 et seq.) shall 
apply to the Corporation and to its officers and employees.
    ``(d) Reporting and Disclosure.--The provisions of the Labor-
Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C. 401 et seq.) 
shall be applicable to labor organizations that have or are seeking to 
attain recognition under section 90705, and to such organizations' 
officers, agents, shop stewards, other representatives, and members.
    ``(e) Right To Collectively Bargain.--Each employee of the 
Corporation shall have the right, freely and without fear of penalty or 
reprisal, to form, join, and assist a labor organization or to refrain 
from any such activity, and each employee shall be protected in the 
exercise of this right. Such right shall include the right to engage in 
collective bargaining with respect to the same wages, hours, and other 
terms and conditions of employment as are negotiable under section 8(d) 
of the Act of July 5, 1935, as amended (29 U.S.C. 158(d)).
``Sec. 90704. Bargaining units
    ``(a) In General.--Pursuant to section 7112 of title 5 and subject 
to the requirements of this chapter, the Authority shall decide in each 
case the unit appropriate for collective bargaining with the 
Corporation.
    ``(b) Previously Certified Units.--Notwithstanding subsection (a), 
the Authority may not adopt, certify, or decide upon bargaining units 
that include employees in bargaining units previously certified by the 
Authority that are smaller in geographic scope than such previously 
certified bargaining units, unless the Authority finds by compelling 
evidence that such previously certified units would not, absent 
modification, remain units appropriate for collective bargaining with 
the Corporation.
    ``(c) Other Units.--Notwithstanding subsection (a) or (b), the 
Authority shall not recognize or certify any bargaining unit different 
than the bargaining units previously certified by the Authority prior 
to the date described in section 90705(g).
``Sec. 90705. Recognition of labor organizations
    ``(a) Application of Chapter 71 of Title 5.--To the extent not 
inconsistent with this chapter, section 7111 of title 5 shall apply to 
the recognition and certification of labor organizations for the 
employees of the Corporation and the Corporation shall accord exclusive 
recognition to and bargain collectively with a labor organization when 
the organization has been selected by a majority of the employees in an 
appropriate unit as their representative.
    ``(b) Recognition of Exclusive Representative.--Notwithstanding 
subsection (a), each labor organization that, immediately before the 
date of transfer, was recognized as the exclusive representative for a 
bargaining unit of employees of the Agency shall be deemed to be 
recognized on the date of transfer or thereafter as the exclusive 
representative for those employees of the Corporation in the same or 
similar bargaining unit unless another representative for a bargaining 
unit of employees is certified pursuant to section 7111 of title 5 and 
this section.
    ``(c) Expiration of Term.--Every collective-bargaining agreement or 
arbitration award that applies to an employee of the Agency and that is 
in force immediately before the date of transfer continues in force 
until its term expires. To the extent that the Corporation assumes the 
functions and responsibilities that, prior to the date of transfer, 
were conducted by the Agency, agreements and supplements (including any 
arbitration award, as applicable) covering employees of the Agency that 
are in effect on the date of transfer shall continue to be recognized 
by and binding on the Corporation, the bargaining representative, and 
all covered employees until altered or amended pursuant to law. Any 
agreement, supplement, or arbitration award continued by this section 
is deemed to be an agreement, supplement, or arbitration award binding 
on the Corporation, the bargaining representative, and all covered 
employees for purposes of this chapter and title 5.
    ``(d) Limitation on Application.--Notwithstanding section 90703, 
sections 7106 and 7113 of title 5 shall not apply to this chapter.
    ``(e) Continuation of Bargaining.--If an exclusive representative 
and the Agency are engaged in bargaining (whether concerning a 
collective-bargaining agreement, issues related to the transfer of 
functions and responsibilities from the Agency to the Corporation, or 
otherwise) prior to the date of transfer, such bargaining shall 
continue between the exclusive representative and the Corporation, and 
the Corporation shall be bound by any commitments made during 
bargaining by the Agency.
    ``(f) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
construed to prohibit the waiving of hearings by stipulation for the 
purpose of a consent election in conformity with regulations and rules 
of decision of the Authority.
    ``(g) Limitation.--Notwithstanding any other provision of this 
chapter or any provision of title 5, no bargaining unit or part of a 
bargaining unit consisting of employees of the Corporation represented 
by a labor organization pursuant to subsection (b) may be reviewed, 
rescinded, amended, altered, or varied, other than--
            ``(1) to include in the unit any employees who are not 
        represented by a labor organization, or
            ``(2) to merge bargaining units that are represented by the 
        same labor organization,
before the first day of the last 3 months of the first collective 
agreement entered into after the date of transfer that applies to those 
employees and that has resulted from collective bargaining between such 
labor organization and the Corporation.
    ``(h) Deduction.--
            ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding section 90703, section 
        7115 of title 5 shall not apply to this chapter.
            ``(2) Dues.--When a labor organization holds exclusive 
        recognition, the Corporation shall deduct the regular and 
        periodic dues, initiation fees, and assessments (not including 
        fines and penalties) of the organization from the pay of all 
        members of the organization in the unit of recognition if the 
        Corporation (or, before the date of transfer, the Agency) has 
        received from each employee, on whose account such deductions 
        are made, a written assignment which shall be irrevocable for a 
        period of not more than 1 year.
            ``(3) Continuation.--Any agreement described in subsection 
        (c) that provides for deduction by the Agency of the regular 
        and periodic dues, initiation fees, and assessments (not 
        including fines and penalties) of the labor organization from 
        the pay of its members shall continue in full force and effect 
        and the obligation for such deductions shall be assumed by the 
        Corporation. No such deduction may be made from the pay of any 
        employee except on the employee's written assignment, which 
        shall be irrevocable for a period of not more than 1 year.
``Sec. 90706. Collective-bargaining agreements
    ``(a) In General.--Except as provided under section 90705(c), 
collective-bargaining agreements between the Corporation and bargaining 
representatives shall be effective for not less than 2 years.
    ``(b) Procedures.--Collective-bargaining agreements between the 
Corporation and bargaining representatives recognized under section 
90705 may include any procedures for resolution by the parties of 
grievances and adverse actions arising under the agreement, including 
procedures culminating in binding third-party arbitration, or the 
parties may adopt any such procedures by mutual agreement in the event 
of a dispute.
    ``(c) Limitation on Application.--Notwithstanding section 90703, 
section 7121(c) of title 5 shall not apply to this chapter.
    ``(d) Dispute Resolution Procedures.--The Corporation and 
bargaining representatives recognized under section 90705 may by mutual 
agreement adopt procedures for the resolution of disputes or impasses 
arising in the negotiation of a collective-bargaining agreement.
``Sec. 90707. Collective-bargaining dispute resolution
    ``(a) Resolution of Disputes.--
            ``(1) In general.--If, prior to 90 days after the 
        expiration of the term collective-bargaining agreement or 90 
        days after the parties begin mid-term negotiations, the 
        Corporation and the exclusive bargaining representative of the 
        employees of the Corporation (in this section referred to 
        collectively as the `parties') do not reach an agreement under 
        sections 7114(a)(1), 7114(a)(4), and 7114(b) of title 5 (as 
        such sections apply to the Corporation under this chapter), or 
        90706(d) of this chapter, the Corporation and the bargaining 
        representative shall use the mediation services of the Service 
        to attempt to reach such agreement in accordance with part 1425 
        of title 29, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the 
        date of enactment of this subtitle).
            ``(2) Mediation period.--The mediation period under 
        paragraph (1) may not exceed 60 days unless extended by written 
        agreement of the parties.
    ``(b) Binding Arbitration for Term Bargaining.--
            ``(1) Three member private arbitration board.--If the 
        mediation services of the Service under subsection (a)(1) do 
        not lead to the resolution of issues in controversy arising 
        from the negotiation of a term collective-bargaining agreement, 
        the parties shall submit their issues in controversy to a 
        private arbitration board consisting of 3 members.
            ``(2) Appointment of arbitration board.--
                    ``(A) Preparation of list of arbitrators.--The 
                Director of the Service shall provide for the 
                appointment of the 3 members of an arbitration board 
                by--
                            ``(i) preparing a list of not fewer than 15 
                        names of arbitrators of nationwide reputation 
                        and professional stature with at least 20 years 
                        of experience in labor-management arbitration 
                        and considerable experience in interest 
                        arbitration in major industries; and
                            ``(ii) providing the list to the parties.
                    ``(B) Selection of arbitrators by parties.--Not 
                later than 10 days after receiving a list of names 
                under subparagraph (A), the parties shall each select 
                one arbitrator. The arbitrators selected by the parties 
                do not need to be arbitrators whose names appear on the 
                list.
                    ``(C) Selection of third arbitrator.--Not later 
                than 7 days after the date on which the 2 arbitrators 
                are selected by the parties under subparagraph (B), the 
                2 arbitrators, acting jointly, shall select a third 
                person from the list prepared under subparagraph (A).
                    ``(D) Failure to act.--If either of the parties 
                fails to select a person or if the 2 arbitrators are 
                unable to agree on the third person in 7 days, the 
                parties shall make the selection by alternately 
                striking names on the list prepared under subparagraph 
                (A), beginning with the party chosen on a random basis, 
                until one arbitrator remains.
            ``(3) Framing issues in controversy.--If the parties do not 
        agree on the framing of the issues to be submitted for 
        arbitration, the arbitration board shall frame the issues.
            ``(4) Hearings.--The arbitration board shall give the 
        parties a full and fair hearing, including an opportunity to 
        present evidence and witnesses in support of their claims and 
        an opportunity to present their case in person, by counsel, or 
        by other representative as they may elect.
            ``(5) Decisions.--The arbitration board shall render its 
        written decision not later than 90 days after the date of its 
        appointment. Decisions of the arbitration board shall be 
        conclusive and binding upon the parties.
            ``(6) Evidence.--The arbitration board shall consider and 
        afford the proper weight to all of the evidence presented by 
        the parties.
            ``(7) Costs.--The parties shall share costs of the 
        arbitration equally.
    ``(c) Ratification of Agreements.--Upon reaching a voluntary 
agreement or at the conclusion of the binding arbitration under 
subsection (b), the final agreement, except for those matters decided 
by a private arbitration board, shall be--
            ``(1) subject to ratification by the exclusive bargaining 
        representative of the employees, if so requested by the 
        bargaining representative; and
            ``(2) subject to approval by the head of the Corporation in 
        accordance with section 7114(c) of title 5.
    ``(d) Mid-Term Bargaining.--
            ``(1) Preparation of list of arbitrators.--If the mediation 
        services of the Service under subsection (a) do not lead to the 
        resolution of issues in controversy arising from the 
        negotiation of a mid-term collective-bargaining agreement, the 
        Director shall provide the parties a list of not fewer than 10 
        names of arbitrators of nationwide reputation and professional 
        stature with at least 20 years of experience in labor-
        management arbitration and considerable experience in interest 
        arbitration in major industries.
            ``(2) Selection of arbitrator.--The parties shall 
        alternately strike names on the list, beginning with the party 
        chosen on a random basis, until one arbitrator remains.
            ``(3) Decision.--The arbitrator shall hold a hearing, and 
        not later than 90 days after date of the appointment of the 
        arbitrator, issue a written decision resolving the issues in 
        controversy. The decision shall be conclusive and binding upon 
        the parties.
    ``(e) Enforcement.--To enforce this section, either party may bring 
suit in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, 
which shall hear and resolve the enforcement action on an expedited 
basis.
    ``(f) Application.--Notwithstanding section 90703(a), section 7119 
of title 5 shall not apply to this chapter.
``Sec. 90708. Potential and pending grievances, arbitrations, and 
              settlements
    ``(a) In General.--The Corporation is deemed to be the employer 
referred to in any agreement or supplement referred to in section 
90705(c) for the purpose of any arbitration proceeding or arbitration 
award. Any agreement concerning any employee that resolves a potential 
or filed grievance that is binding on the Agency shall, to the extent 
that the employee becomes an employee of the Corporation, become 
binding on the Corporation.
    ``(b) Existing Binding Agreements.--Any agreement or supplement 
referred to in section 90705(c) is binding on--
            ``(1) the Corporation as if it were the employer referred 
        to in such agreement or supplement;
            ``(2) the bargaining representative that is a party to the 
        agreement or supplement; and
            ``(3) the employees of the Corporation in the bargaining 
        unit with respect to whom that bargaining representative has 
        been certified.
    ``(c) Jurisdiction.--Subject to section 90703, the Authority shall 
retain jurisdiction over all matters arising before the date of 
transfer in relation to the interpretation and application of any 
agreement or supplement referred to in section 90705(c), whether or not 
such agreement or supplement has expired.
    ``(d) Existing Grievances or Arbitrations.--Grievances or 
arbitrations that were filed or commenced before the date of transfer 
with respect to any agreement or supplement referred to in section 
90705(c) shall be continued as though the Corporation were the employer 
referred to in the agreement or supplement.
    ``(e) Proceedings After Date of Transfer.--Where events giving rise 
to a grievance under any agreement or supplement referred to in section 
90705(c) occurred before the date of transfer but the proceedings had 
not commenced before that date, the proceedings may be commenced on or 
after the date of transfer in accordance with such agreement or 
supplement as though the Corporation were the employer referred to in 
such agreement or supplement.
    ``(f) Actions Deemed To Be by Corporation.--For the purposes of 
subsections (c), (d), and (e), anything done, or not done, by the 
Agency is deemed to have been done, or to have not been done, as the 
case may be, by the Corporation.
    ``(g) Exceptions to Arbitral Awards.--
            ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding section 90703, section 
        7122 of title 5 shall not apply to this chapter.
            ``(2) Actions to vacate.--Either party to grievance 
        arbitration under this chapter may file an action pursuant to 
        section 90709(a) to enforce the arbitration process or to 
        vacate or enforce an arbitration award. An arbitration award 
        may only be vacated on the grounds, and pursuant to the 
        standards, that would be applicable to an action to vacate an 
        arbitration award brought in the Federal courts under section 
        301 of the Labor Management Relations Act, 1947 (29 U.S.C. 
        185).
``Sec. 90709. Legal action
    ``(a) In General.--Consistent with the requirements of section 
90313, actions to enforce the arbitration process or vacate or enforce 
an arbitral award under section 90708(g)(2) between the Corporation and 
a labor organization representing Corporation employees, or between any 
such labor organizations, may be brought in any district court of the 
United States having jurisdiction of the parties, without respect to 
the amount in controversy.
    ``(b) Authorized Acts.--A labor organization recognized under 
section 90705 and the Corporation shall be bound by the authorized acts 
of their agents. Any labor organization may sue or be sued as an entity 
and on behalf of the employees whom it represents in the courts of the 
United States. Any money judgment against a labor organization in a 
district court of the United States shall be enforceable only against 
the organization as an entity and against its assets, and shall not be 
enforceable against any individual member or his assets.
    ``(c) Jurisdiction.--Under this subtitle, for the purposes of 
actions and proceedings by or against labor organizations in the 
district courts of the United States, district courts shall be deemed 
to have jurisdiction of a labor organization--
            ``(1) in the district in which such organization maintains 
        its principal offices; or
            ``(2) in any district in which its duly authorized officers 
        or agents are engaged in representing or acting for employee 
        members.
    ``(d) Summons or Subpoena.--The service of summons, subpoena, or 
other legal process of any court of the United States upon an officer 
or agent of a labor organization, in his capacity as such, shall 
constitute service upon the labor organization.

                      ``CHAPTER 909--OTHER MATTERS

``Sec.
``90901. Termination of Government functions.
``90902. Savings provisions.
``90903. Inspector General reports to Congress on transition.
``Sec. 90901. Termination of Government functions
    ``Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, whenever any 
function vested by law in the Secretary, Administrator, Department of 
Transportation, or FAA has been transferred to the Corporation pursuant 
to this subtitle, it shall no longer be a function of the Government.
``Sec. 90902. Savings provisions
    ``(a) Completed Administrative Actions.--
            ``(1) In general.--Completed administrative actions of the 
        Department of Transportation or the FAA shall not be affected 
        by the enactment of this subtitle, but shall continue in effect 
        according to their terms until amended, modified, superseded, 
        terminated, set aside, or revoked in accordance with law.
            ``(2) Completed administrative action defined.--In 
        paragraph (1), the term `completed administrative action' 
        includes orders, determinations, rules, regulations, personnel 
        actions, permits, agreements, grants, contracts, certificates, 
        licenses, registrations, and privileges.
    ``(b) Continued Effectiveness of Pending Actions.--
            ``(1) Pending actions and proceedings.--The provisions of 
        this subtitle shall not affect any proceedings of the 
        Department of Transportation or the FAA pending on the date of 
        transfer, including--
                    ``(A) notices of proposed rulemaking related to 
                activities of the FAA not transferred to the 
                Corporation;
                    ``(B) an application for a license, a permit, a 
                certificate, or financial assistance pending on the 
                date of transfer before the Department of 
                Transportation or the FAA, or any officer thereof, with 
                respect to activities not transferred by this subtitle; 
                or
                    ``(C) an application for a license, a permit, a 
                certificate, or financial assistance pending on the 
                date of transfer before the Department of 
                Transportation or the FAA, or any officer thereof, with 
                respect to activities transferred by this subtitle.
            ``(2) Effect of orders.--Orders issued in any proceedings 
        referred to in paragraph (1) shall continue in effect until 
        modified, terminated, superseded, or revoked in accordance with 
        law. Nothing in this subsection prohibits the discontinuance or 
        modification of any such proceeding under the same terms and 
        conditions and to the same extent that such proceeding could 
        have been discontinued or modified if this subtitle had not 
        been enacted.
    ``(c) Continued Effectiveness of Administrative and Judicial 
Actions.--No causes of action or actions by or against the Department 
of Transportation or the FAA arising from acts or omissions occurring 
before the date of transfer shall abate by reason of the enactment of 
this subtitle.
    ``(d) Substitution or Addition of Parties to Judicial Actions.--
Except as provided by subsection (e)(2), if, on the date of transfer, 
the Department of Transportation or the FAA, or any officer thereof in 
the officer's capacity, is a party to an action and, under this 
subtitle, the performance of that activity of the Department, FAA, or 
officer is transferred to the Corporation, such action shall be 
continued with the CEO substituted or added as a party.
    ``(e) Air Traffic Service Liabilities and Obligations.--
            ``(1) Assumption of obligations.--Except as provided in 
        paragraph (2), the Corporation shall assume--
                    ``(A) all obligations (tangible and incorporeal, 
                present, and executory) associated with the air traffic 
                services transferred under this subtitle on the date of 
                transfer, including leases, permits, licenses, 
                contracts, agreements, accounts receivable, and 
                accounts payable; and
                    ``(B) all claims and liabilities associated with 
                the air traffic services transferred under this 
                subtitle pending on the date of transfer.
            ``(2) Claims and actions that remain liabilities of united 
        states.--
                    ``(A) Claims and actions arising in tort.--All 
                claims and actions arising in tort pending on the date 
                of transfer and arising out of the alleged acts or 
                omissions of employees of the FAA who transfer to the 
                Corporation shall remain liabilities of the United 
                States.
                    ``(B) Contingent liabilities.--All contingent 
                liabilities existing on the date of transfer shall 
                remain with the United States, including (without 
                limitation) environmental and intellectual property 
                infringement claims.
                    ``(C) Other claims and liabilities.--All other 
                claims and liabilities arising out of the alleged acts 
                or omissions of the United States before the date of 
                transfer (including those arising under an agreement 
                referred to in section 90705(c)) whose remedy is 
                financial or monetary in nature shall remain 
                liabilities of the United States.
                    ``(D) Access of federal representatives to 
                employees and records.--The Secretary shall ensure 
                that, before the date of transfer, the Corporation has 
                agreed to allow representatives of the Secretary and 
                the Attorney General such access as they may require to 
                employees and records of the Corporation for all 
                purposes relating to the handling of such claims under 
                this paragraph.
``Sec. 90903. Inspector General reports to Congress on transition
    ``(a) In General.--Before the date of transfer, the Inspector 
General of the Department of Transportation shall submit regular 
reports to Congress on the progress of the preparation of the 
Department of Transportation and of the Corporation for the transfer of 
operational control of air traffic services under this subtitle.
    ``(b) Timing.--The reports described in subsection (a) shall be 
submitted, at a minimum, on a quarterly basis until the date of 
transfer.
    ``(c) Sunset.--This section shall expire on the date of transfer.
    ``(d) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
construed to limit the authority of the Inspector General of the 
Department of Transportation to conduct oversight of the Department of 
Transportation's interactions with the Corporation after the date of 
transfer.''.
    (b) Analysis for Title 49.--The analysis for title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``XI. ATC Corporation.......................................   90101''.

            Subtitle B--Amendments to Federal Aviation Laws

SEC. 221. DEFINITIONS.

    Section 40102(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
            ``(48) `ATC Corporation' means the ATC Corporation 
        established by subtitle XI.''.

SEC. 222. SUNSET OF FAA AIR TRAFFIC ENTITIES AND OFFICERS.

    (a) Air Traffic Services Committee.--Section 106(p) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (7) by adding at the end the following:
                    ``(I) Sunset.--The Committee shall terminate and 
                this paragraph shall cease to be effective beginning on 
                the date of transfer (as defined in section 
                90101(a)).''; and
            (2) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(9) Sunset of air traffic advisory role.--Beginning on 
        the date of transfer (as defined in section 90101(a)), the 
        Council shall not develop or submit comments, recommended 
        modifications, or dissenting views directly regarding the ATC 
        Corporation or air traffic services.''.
    (b) Aircraft Noise Ombudsman.--Section 106(q)(2)(C) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by inserting ``before the date of 
transfer (as defined in section 90101(a)),'' before ``be consulted''.
    (c) Chief Operating Officer.--Section 106(r) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
            ``(6) Sunset.--The position of Chief Operating Officer 
        shall terminate and this subsection shall cease to be effective 
        beginning on the date of transfer (as defined in section 
        90101(a)).''.
    (d) Chief NextGen Officer.--Section 106(s) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
            ``(8) Sunset.--The position of Chief NextGen Officer shall 
        terminate and this subsection shall cease to be effective 
        beginning on the date of transfer (as defined in section 
        90101(a)).''.

SEC. 223. ROLE OF ADMINISTRATOR.

    Section 40103(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``The Administrator'' and 
        inserting ``Before the date of transfer (as defined in section 
        90101(a)), the Administrator'';
            (2) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following:
    ``(2) The Administrator shall--
            ``(A) before the date of transfer (as defined in section 
        90101(a)), prescribe air traffic regulations on the flight of 
        aircraft (including regulations on safe altitudes) for--
                    ``(i) navigating, protecting, and identifying 
                aircraft;
                    ``(ii) protecting individuals and property on the 
                ground;
                    ``(iii) using the navigable airspace efficiently; 
                and
                    ``(iv) preventing collision between aircraft, 
                between aircraft and land or water vehicles, and 
                between aircraft and airborne objects; and
            ``(B) on and after the date of transfer (as defined in 
        section 90101(a)), prescribe safety regulations on the flight 
        of aircraft (including regulations on safe altitudes) for--
                    ``(i) navigating, protecting, and identifying 
                aircraft;
                    ``(ii) protecting individuals and property on the 
                ground; and
                    ``(iii) preventing collision between aircraft, 
                between aircraft and land or water vehicles, and 
                between aircraft and airborne objects.''; and
            (3) in paragraph (3) by striking ``Administrator'' each 
        place it appears and inserting ``Secretary''.

SEC. 224. EMERGENCY POWERS.

    Section 40106(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by striking ``air 
        traffic'';
            (2) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``and the ATC 
        Corporation'' after ``Administration''; and
            (3) in paragraph (2) by inserting ``and the ATC 
        Corporation'' after ``Administrator''.

SEC. 225. PRESIDENTIAL TRANSFERS IN TIME OF WAR.

    Section 40107(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to 
read as follows:
    ``(b) During War.--If war occurs, the President by Executive order 
may temporarily transfer to the Secretary of Defense a duty, power, 
activity, or facility of the Administrator or the ATC Corporation. In 
making the transfer, the President may temporarily transfer records, 
property, officers, and employees of the Administration or the ATC 
Corporation to the Department of Defense.''.

SEC. 226. AIRWAY CAPITAL INVESTMENT PLAN BEFORE DATE OF TRANSFER.

    Section 44501(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in the first sentence by striking ``The Administrator'' 
        and inserting ``Before the date of transfer (as defined in 
        section 90101(a)), the Administrator'';
            (2) in paragraph (4)(B) by striking ``and'' at the end;
            (3) in paragraph (5) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting ``; and''; and
            (4) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(6) for fiscal years 2016 through 2019, a process under 
        which the Administrator shall continue to comply with the 
        requirements of this section before the date of transfer (as 
        defined in section 90101(a)).''.

SEC. 227. AVIATION FACILITIES BEFORE DATE OF TRANSFER.

    (a) General Authority.--Section 44502(a) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``The Administrator of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration may'' and inserting ``Before 
        the date of transfer (as defined in section 90101(a)), the 
        Secretary of Transportation may'';
            (2) in paragraph (2) by striking ``The cost'' and inserting 
        ``Before the date of transfer (as defined in section 90101(a)), 
        the cost'';
            (3) in paragraph (3) by striking ``The Secretary'' and 
        inserting ``Before the date of transfer (as defined in section 
        90101(a)), the Secretary'';
            (4) by striking paragraph (4);
            (5) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (4); and
            (6) in paragraph (4) (as so redesignated) by striking ``The 
        Administrator'' and inserting ``Before the date of transfer (as 
        defined in section 90101(a)), the Secretary of 
        Transportation''.
    (b) Certification of Necessity.--Section 44502(b) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended--
            (1) by striking ``Except'' and inserting ``Before the date 
        of transfer (as defined in section 90101(a)), except''; and
            (2) by striking ``the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration'' and inserting ``the Secretary of 
        Transportation''.
    (c) Ensuring Conformity With Plans and Policies.--Section 44502(c) 
of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1)--
                    (A) by striking ``by the Administrator of the 
                Federal Aviation Administration under section 
                40103(b)(1) of this title'';
                    (B) by striking ``Administrator of the Federal 
                Aviation Administration'' the second, third, and fourth 
                places it appears and inserting ``Secretary of 
                Transportation''; and
                    (C) by striking ``Congress'' and inserting 
                ``Congress, the ATC Corporation,''; and
            (2) in paragraph (2)--
                    (A) by striking ``Administrator of the Federal 
                Aviation Administration'' and inserting ``Secretary of 
                Transportation''; and
                    (B) by striking ``that the Administrator'' and 
                inserting ``that the Secretary''.
    (d) Transfers of Instrument Landing Systems.--Section 44502(e) of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``An airport may 
transfer'' and inserting ``Before the date of transfer (as defined in 
section 90101(a)), an airport may transfer''.

SEC. 228. JUDICIAL REVIEW.

    Section 46110(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``or subsection (l) or (s) of section 114'' and inserting 
``subsection (l) or (s) of section 114, or section 90501''.

SEC. 229. CIVIL PENALTIES.

    Section 46301(a)(1)(A) of title 49, United States Code, is amended 
by striking ``or section 47133'' and inserting ``, section 47133, or 
section 90503(c)''.

                       Subtitle C--Other Matters

SEC. 241. USE OF FEDERAL TECHNICAL FACILITIES.

    (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall make Administration technical facilities available 
to the ATC Corporation for air traffic control research and development 
projects.
    (b) Cooperative Agreement.--
            (1) In general.--To ensure the safe transition of air 
        traffic services, not later than 180 days prior to the date of 
        transfer (as defined in section 90101(a) of title 49, United 
        States Code, as added by this Act), the Administrator shall 
        enter into an agreement with the ATC Corporation, for a period 
        of not less than 5 years, concerning services that could be 
        provided at the Federal Aviation Administration technical 
        center, including the integrated air traffic control 
        laboratories.
            (2) Services defined.--In this subsection, the term 
        ``services'' includes--
                    (A) activities associated with the approval of a 
                safety management system under chapter 905 of title 49, 
                United States Code, as added by this Act; and
                    (B) any other activity the Secretary considers 
                necessary to promote safety in air traffic services, 
                including verification of the safety functions of new 
                air traffic control technologies.
    (c) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this title, or the 
amendments made by this title, may be construed to limit the safety 
regulatory authority of the Department of Transportation, including the 
research and development functions of the Department.
    (d) Safety.--Before the date of transfer (as defined by section 
90101(a) of title 49, United States Code, as added by this Act) all 
operational testing and integration of air traffic control systems 
conducted by the Administration shall continue.

SEC. 242. SEVERABILITY.

    If a provision of this title (including any amendment made by this 
title) or its application to any person or circumstance is held 
invalid, neither the remainder of this title nor the application of the 
provision to other persons or circumstances shall be affected.

               TITLE III--FAA SAFETY CERTIFICATION REFORM

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

SEC. 301. DEFINITIONS.

    In this title, the following definitions apply:
            (1) FAA.--The term ``FAA'' means the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
            (2) Safety oversight and certification advisory 
        committee.--The term ``Safety Oversight and Certification 
        Advisory Committee'' means the Safety Oversight and 
        Certification Advisory Committee established under section 302.
            (3) Systems safety approach.--The term ``systems safety 
        approach'' means the application of specialized technical and 
        managerial skills to the systematic, forward-looking 
        identification and control of hazards throughout the lifecycle 
        of a project, program, or activity.

SEC. 302. SAFETY OVERSIGHT AND CERTIFICATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish a Safety 
Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee (in this section 
referred to as the ``Advisory Committee'').
    (b) Duties.--The Advisory Committee shall provide advice to the 
Secretary on policy-level issues facing the aviation community that are 
related to FAA safety certification and oversight programs and 
activities, including, at a minimum, the following:
            (1) Aircraft and flight standards certification processes, 
        including efforts to streamline those processes.
            (2) Implementation and oversight of safety management 
        systems.
            (3) Risk-based oversight efforts.
            (4) Utilization of delegation and designation authorities.
            (5) Regulatory interpretation standardization efforts.
            (6) Training programs.
            (7) Expediting the rulemaking process and giving priority 
        to rules related to safety.
    (c) Functions.--The Advisory Committee shall carry out the 
following functions (as the functions relate to FAA safety 
certification and oversight programs and activities):
            (1) Foster industry collaboration in an open and 
        transparent manner.
            (2) Consult with, and ensure participation by--
                    (A) the private sector, including representatives 
                of--
                            (i) general aviation;
                            (ii) commercial aviation;
                            (iii) aviation labor;
                            (iv) aviation, aerospace, and avionics 
                        manufacturing;
                            (v) unmanned aircraft systems operators and 
                        manufacturers; and
                            (vi) the commercial space transportation 
                        industry;
                    (B) members of the public; and
                    (C) other interested parties.
            (3) Establish consensus national goals, strategic 
        objectives, and priorities for the most efficient, streamlined, 
        and cost-effective certification and oversight processes in 
        order to maintain the safety of the aviation system and, at the 
        same time, allow the FAA to meet future needs and ensure that 
        aviation stakeholders remain competitive in the global 
        marketplace.
            (4) Provide policy guidance for the FAA's certification and 
        safety oversight efforts.
            (5) Provide ongoing policy reviews of the FAA's 
        certification and safety oversight efforts.
            (6) Make appropriate legislative, regulatory, and guidance 
        recommendations for the air transportation system and the 
        aviation safety regulatory environment.
            (7) Establish performance objectives for the FAA and 
        industry.
            (8) Establish performance metrics and goals for the FAA and 
        the regulated aviation industry to be tracked and reviewed as 
        streamlining and certification reform and regulation 
        standardization efforts progress.
            (9) Provide a venue for tracking progress toward national 
        goals and sustaining joint commitments.
            (10) Develop recruiting, hiring, training, and continuing 
        education objectives for FAA aviation safety engineers and 
        aviation safety inspectors.
            (11) Provide advice and recommendations to the FAA on how 
        to prioritize safety rulemaking projects.
            (12) Improve the development of FAA regulations by 
        providing information, advice, and recommendations related to 
        aviation issues.
            (13) Facilitate the validation of United States products 
        abroad.
    (d) Membership.--
            (1) In general.--The Advisory Committee shall be composed 
        of the following members:
                    (A) The Administrator of the FAA (or the 
                Administrator's designee).
                    (B) Individuals appointed by the Secretary to 
                represent the following interests:
                            (i) Aircraft manufacturers.
                            (ii) Avionics manufacturers.
                            (iii) Labor organizations, including 
                        collective bargaining representatives of FAA 
                        aviation safety inspectors and aviation safety 
                        engineers.
                            (iv) General aviation operators.
                            (v) Air carriers.
                            (vi) Business aviation operators.
                            (vii) Unmanned aircraft systems 
                        manufacturers and operators.
                            (viii) Aviation safety management 
                        expertise.
            (2) Nonvoting members.--
                    (A) In general.--In addition to the members 
                appointed under paragraph (1), the Advisory Committee 
                shall be composed of nonvoting members appointed by the 
                Secretary from among individuals representing FAA 
                safety oversight program offices.
                    (B) Duties.--The nonvoting members shall--
                            (i) take part in deliberations of the 
                        Advisory Committee; and
                            (ii) provide input with respect to any 
                        final reports or recommendations of the 
                        Advisory Committee.
                    (C) Limitation.--The nonvoting members may not 
                represent any stakeholder interest other than FAA 
                safety oversight program offices.
            (3) Terms.--Each member and nonvoting member of the 
        Advisory Committee appointed by the Secretary shall be 
        appointed for a term of 2 years.
            (4) Committee characteristics.--The Advisory Committee 
        shall have the following characteristics:
                    (A) An executive-level membership, with members who 
                can represent and enter into commitments for their 
                organizations.
                    (B) The ability to obtain necessary information 
                from experts in the aviation and aerospace communities.
                    (C) A membership size that enables the Committee to 
                have substantive discussions and reach consensus on 
                issues in a timely manner.
                    (D) Appropriate expertise, including expertise in 
                certification and risked-based safety oversight 
                processes, operations, policy, technology, labor 
                relations, training, and finance.
            (5) Limitation on statutory construction.--Public Law 104-
        65 (2 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.) may not be construed to prohibit or 
        otherwise limit the appointment of any individual as a member 
        of the Advisory Committee.
    (e) Chairperson.--
            (1) In general.--The Chairperson of the Advisory Committee 
        shall be appointed by the Secretary from among those members of 
        the Advisory Committee that are executive-level members of the 
        aviation industry.
            (2) Term.--Each member appointed under paragraph (1) shall 
        serve a term of 1 year as Chairperson.
    (f) Meetings.--
            (1) Frequency.--The Advisory Committee shall meet at least 
        twice each year at the call of the Chairperson.
            (2) Public attendance.--The meetings of the Advisory 
        Committee shall be open to the public.
    (g) Special Committees.--
            (1) Establishment.--The Advisory Committee may establish 
        special committees composed of private sector representatives, 
        members of the public, labor representatives, and other 
        interested parties in complying with consultation and 
        participation requirements under this section.
            (2) Rulemaking advice.--A special committee established by 
        the Advisory Committee may--
                    (A) provide rulemaking advice and recommendations 
                to the Administrator with respect to aviation-related 
                issues;
                    (B) afford the FAA additional opportunities to 
                obtain firsthand information and insight from those 
                parties that are most affected by existing and proposed 
                regulations; and
                    (C) expedite the development, revision, or 
                elimination of rules without circumventing public 
                rulemaking processes and procedures.
            (3) Applicable law.--Public Law 92-463 shall not apply to a 
        special committee established by the Advisory Committee.
    (h) Sunset.--The Advisory Committee shall terminate on the last day 
of the 6-year period beginning on the date of the initial appointment 
of the members of the Advisory Committee.
    (i) Termination of Air Traffic Procedures Advisory Committee.--The 
Air Traffic Procedures Advisory Committee established by the FAA shall 
terminate on the date of the initial appointment of the members of the 
Advisory Committee.

               Subtitle B--Aircraft Certification Reform

SEC. 311. AIRCRAFT CERTIFICATION PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES AND METRICS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the date on which 
the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee is 
established under section 302, the Administrator of the FAA shall 
establish performance objectives and apply and track metrics for the 
FAA and the aviation industry relating to aircraft certification in 
accordance with this section.
    (b) Collaboration.--The Administrator shall carry out this section 
in collaboration with the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory 
Committee.
    (c) Performance Objectives.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall establish performance objectives for the FAA and 
the aviation industry to ensure that, with respect to aircraft 
certification, progress is made toward, at a minimum--
            (1) eliminating certification delays and improving cycle 
        times;
            (2) increasing accountability for both FAA and industry 
        entities;
            (3) achieving full utilization of FAA delegation and 
        designation authorities;
            (4) fully implementing risk management principles and a 
        systems safety approach;
            (5) reducing duplication of effort;
            (6) increasing transparency;
            (7) establishing and providing training, including 
        recurrent training, in auditing and a systems safety approach 
        to certification oversight;
            (8) improving the process for approving or accepting the 
        certification actions of bilateral partners;
            (9) maintaining and improving safety; and
            (10) maintaining the leadership of the United States in 
        international aviation and aerospace.
    (d) Performance Metrics.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall apply and track performance metrics for the FAA and 
the regulated aviation industry established by the Safety Oversight and 
Certification Advisory Committee.
    (e) Data Generation.--
            (1) Baselines.--Not later than 1 year after the date on 
        which the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee 
        establishes initial performance metrics for the FAA and the 
        regulated aviation industry under section 302, the 
        Administrator shall generate initial data with respect to each 
        of the metrics applied and tracked under this section.
            (2) Measuring progress toward goals.--The Administrator 
        shall use the metrics applied and tracked under this section to 
        generate data on an ongoing basis and to measure progress 
        toward the achievement of national goals established by the 
        Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee.
    (f) Publication.--The Administrator shall make data generated using 
the metrics applied and tracked under this section available to the 
public in a searchable, sortable, and downloadable format through the 
Internet Web site of the FAA and other appropriate methods and shall 
ensure that the data is made available in a manner that--
            (1) does not provide identifying information regarding an 
        individual or entity; and
            (2) protects proprietary information.

SEC. 312. ORGANIZATION DESIGNATION AUTHORIZATIONS.

    (a) In General.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 44736. Organization designation authorizations
    ``(a) Delegations of Functions.--
            ``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (3), 
        when overseeing an ODA holder, the Administrator of the FAA 
        shall--
                    ``(A) require, based on an application submitted by 
                the ODA holder and approved by the Administrator (or 
                the Administrator's designee), a procedures manual that 
                addresses all procedures and limitations regarding the 
                functions to be performed by the ODA holder in 
                accordance with regulations issued by the 
                Administrator;
                    ``(B) delegate fully to the ODA holder each of the 
                functions to be performed as specified in the 
                procedures manual, unless the Administrator determines, 
                after the date of the delegation and as a result of an 
                inspection or other investigation, that the public 
                interest and safety of air commerce requires a 
                limitation with respect to 1 or more of the functions; 
                and
                    ``(C) conduct regular oversight activities by 
                inspecting the ODA holder and taking action based on 
                validated inspection findings.
            ``(2) Duties of oda holders.--An ODA holder shall--
                    ``(A) perform each function delegated to the ODA 
                holder in accordance with the approved procedures 
                manual for the delegation;
                    ``(B) make the procedures manual available to each 
                member of the appropriate ODA unit; and
                    ``(C) cooperate fully with oversight activities 
                conducted by the Administrator in connection with the 
                delegation.
            ``(3) Existing oda holders.--When overseeing an ODA holder 
        operating under an approved procedures manual as of the date of 
        enactment of this section, the Administrator shall--
                    ``(A) at the request of the ODA holder and in a 
                timely manner, approve revisions to the ODA holder's 
                procedures manual;
                    ``(B) delegate fully to the ODA holder each of the 
                functions to be performed as specified in the 
                procedures manual, unless the Administrator determines, 
                after the date of the delegation and as a result of an 
                inspection or other investigation, that the public 
                interest and safety of air commerce requires a 
                limitation with respect to one or more of the 
                functions; and
                    ``(C) conduct regular oversight activities by 
                inspecting the ODA holder and taking action based on 
                validated inspection findings.
    ``(b) ODA Office.--
            ``(1) Establishment.--Not later than 90 days after the date 
        of enactment of this section, the Administrator of the FAA 
        shall identify, within the FAA Office of Aviation Safety, a 
        centralized policy office to be known as the Organization 
        Designation Authorization Office or the ODA Office.
            ``(2) Purpose.--The purpose of the ODA Office shall be to 
        oversee and ensure the consistency of the FAA's audit functions 
        under the ODA program across the FAA.
            ``(3) Functions.--The ODA Office shall--
                    ``(A) improve performance and ensure full 
                utilization of the authorities delegated under the ODA 
                program;
                    ``(B) create a more consistent approach to audit 
                priorities, procedures, and training under the ODA 
                program;
                    ``(C) review, in a timely fashion, a random sample 
                of limitations on delegated authorities under the ODA 
                program to determine if the limitations are 
                appropriate; and
                    ``(D) ensure national consistency in the 
                interpretation and application of the requirements of 
                the ODA program and in the performance of the ODA 
                program.
    ``(c) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
            ``(1) FAA.--The term `FAA' means the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
            ``(2) ODA holder.--The term `ODA holder' means an 
        organization--
                    ``(A) to which the FAA grants an ODA; and
                    ``(B) that is responsible for administering 1 or 
                more ODA units.
            ``(3) ODA unit.--The term ``ODA unit'' means a group of 2 
        or more individuals within an ODA holder that performs 
        authorized functions under an ODA.
            ``(4) Organization.--The term ``organization'' means a 
        firm, partnership, corporation, company, association, joint-
        stock association, or governmental entity.
            ``(5) Organization designation authorization; oda.--The 
        term `Organization Designation Authorization' or `ODA' means an 
        authorization by the FAA under section 44702(d) for an 
        organization comprised of 1 or more ODA units to perform 
        approved functions on behalf of the FAA.''.
    (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for such chapter is amended 
by adding at the end the following:

``44736. Organization designation authorizations.''.

SEC. 313. ODA REVIEW.

    (a) Establishment of Expert Review Panel.--
            (1) Expert panel.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the FAA shall 
        convene a multidisciplinary expert review panel (in this 
        section referred to as the ``Panel'').
            (2) Composition of panel.--
                    (A) Appointment of members.--The Panel shall be 
                composed of not more than 20 members appointed by the 
                Administrator.
                    (B) Qualifications.--The members appointed to the 
                Panel shall--
                            (i) each have a minimum of 5 years of 
                        experience in processes and procedures under 
                        the ODA program; and
                            (ii) represent, at a minimum, ODA holders, 
                        aviation manufacturers, safety experts, and FAA 
                        labor organizations, including labor 
                        representatives of FAA aviation safety 
                        inspectors and aviation safety engineers.
    (b) Survey.--The Panel shall conduct a survey of ODA holders and 
ODA program applicants to document and assess FAA certification and 
oversight activities, including use of the ODA program and the 
timeliness and efficiency of the certification process.
    (c) Assessment and Recommendations.--The Panel shall assess and 
make recommendations concerning--
            (1) the FAA's processes and procedures under the ODA 
        program and whether the processes and procedures function as 
        intended;
            (2) the best practices of and lessons learned by ODA 
        holders and individuals who provide oversight of ODA holders;
            (3) performance incentive policies related to the ODA 
        program for FAA personnel;
            (4) training activities related to the ODA program for FAA 
        personnel and ODA holders;
            (5) the impact, if any, that oversight of the ODA program 
        has on FAA resources and the FAA's ability to process 
        applications for certifications outside of the ODA program; and
            (6) the results of the survey conducted under subsection 
        (b).
    (d) Report.--Not later than 6 months after the date the Panel is 
convened under subsection (a), the Panel shall submit to the 
Administrator, the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory 
Committee, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on the findings and 
recommendations of the Panel.
    (e) Definitions.--The definitions contained in section 44736 of 
title 49, United States Code, as added by this Act, apply to this 
section.
    (f) Applicable Law.--Public Law 92-463 shall not apply to the 
Panel.
    (g) Sunset.--The Panel shall terminate on the date of submission of 
the report under subsection (d), or on the date that is 1 year after 
the Panel is convened under subsection (a), whichever occurs first.

SEC. 314. TYPE CERTIFICATION RESOLUTION PROCESS.

    (a) In General.--Section 44704(a) of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended by adding at the end the following:
            ``(6) Type certification resolution process.--
                    ``(A) In general.--Not later than 15 months after 
                the date of enactment of this paragraph, the 
                Administrator shall establish an effective, timely, and 
                milestone-based issue resolution process for type 
                certification activities under this subsection.
                    ``(B) Process requirements.--The resolution process 
                shall provide for--
                            ``(i) resolution of technical issues at 
                        pre-established stages of the certification 
                        process, as agreed to by the Administrator and 
                        the type certificate applicant;
                            ``(ii) automatic elevation to appropriate 
                        management personnel of the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration and the type certificate 
                        applicant of any major certification process 
                        milestone that is not completed or resolved 
                        within a specific period of time agreed to by 
                        the Administrator and the type certificate 
                        applicant; and
                            ``(iii) resolution of a major certification 
                        process milestone elevated pursuant to clause 
                        (ii) within a specific period of time agreed to 
                        by the Administrator and the type certificate 
                        applicant.
                    ``(C) Major certification process milestone 
                defined.--In this paragraph, the term `major 
                certification process milestone' means a milestone 
                related to a type certification basis, type 
                certification plan, type inspection authorization, 
                issue paper, or other major type certification activity 
                agreed to by the Administrator and the type certificate 
                applicant.''.
    (b) Technical Amendment.--Section 44704 of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended in the section heading by striking ``airworthiness 
certificates,,'' and inserting ``airworthiness certificates,''.

SEC. 315. SAFETY ENHANCING EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS FOR SMALL GENERAL 
              AVIATION AIRPLANES.

    (a) Policy.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the FAA shall establish and begin 
implementation of a risk-based policy that streamlines the installation 
of safety enhancing equipment and systems for small general aviation 
airplanes in a manner that reduces regulatory delays and significantly 
improves safety.
    (b) Inclusion of Certain Equipment and Systems.--The safety 
enhancing equipment and systems for small general aviation airplanes 
referred to in subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the 
replacement or retrofit of primary flight displays, auto pilots, engine 
monitors, and navigation equipment.
    (c) Collaboration.--In carrying out this section, the Administrator 
shall collaborate with general aviation operators, general aviation 
manufacturers, and appropriate FAA labor groups, including 
representatives of FAA aviation safety inspectors and aviation safety 
engineers certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code.
    (d) Small General Aviation Airplane Defined.--In this section, the 
term ``small general aviation airplane'' means an airplane--
            (1) that is certified to the standards of part 23 of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations;
            (2) has a seating capacity of fewer than 9 passengers; and
            (3) is not used in scheduled passenger-carrying operations 
        under part 121 or 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 316. STREAMLINING CERTIFICATION OF SMALL GENERAL AVIATION 
              AIRPLANES.

    (a) Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.--Not later than May 1, 2016, the 
Administrator of the FAA shall issue a notice of proposed rulemaking to 
comply with section 3 of the Small Airplane Revitalization Act of 2013 
(49 U.S.C. 44704 note).
    (b) Government Review.--The Government's review process shall be 
streamlined to meet the deadline in subsection (a).

SEC. 317. ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATION RESOURCES.

    (a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and 
subject to the requirements of subsection (b), the Administrator of the 
FAA may enter into a reimbursable agreement with an applicant or 
certificate-holder for the reasonable travel and per diem expenses of 
the FAA associated with official travel to expedite the acceptance or 
validation by a foreign authority of an FAA certificate or design 
approval.
    (b) Conditions.--The Administrator may enter into an agreement 
under subsection (a) only if--
            (1) the travel covered under the agreement is deemed 
        necessary, by both the Administrator and the applicant or 
        certificate-holder, to expedite the acceptance or validation of 
        the relevant certificate or approval;
            (2) the travel is conducted at the request of the applicant 
        or certificate-holder;
            (3) travel plans and expenses are approved by the applicant 
        or certificate-holder prior to travel; and
            (4) the agreement requires payment in advance of FAA 
        services and is consistent with the processes under section 
        106(l)(6) of title 49, United States Code.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on--
            (1) the number of occasions on which the Administrator 
        entered into reimbursable agreements under this section;
            (2) the number of occasions on which the Administrator 
        declined a request by an applicant or certificate-holder to 
        enter into a reimbursable agreement under this section;
            (3) the amount of reimbursements collected in accordance 
        with agreements under this section; and
            (4) the extent to which reimbursable agreements under this 
        section assisted in reducing the amount of time necessary for 
        foreign authorities' validations of FAA certificates and design 
        approvals.
    (d) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) Applicant.--The term ``applicant'' means a person that 
        has applied to a foreign authority for the acceptance or 
        validation of an FAA certificate or design approval.
            (2) Certificate-holder.--The term ``certificate-holder'' 
        means a person that holds a certificate issued by the 
        Administrator under part 21 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations.

                  Subtitle C--Flight Standards Reform

SEC. 331. FLIGHT STANDARDS PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES AND METRICS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the date on which 
the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee is 
established under section 302, the Administrator of the FAA shall 
establish performance objectives and apply and track metrics for the 
FAA and the aviation industry relating to flight standards activities 
in accordance with this section.
    (b) Collaboration.--The Administrator shall carry out this section 
in collaboration with the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory 
Committee.
    (c) Performance Objectives.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall establish performance objectives for the FAA and 
the aviation industry to ensure that, with respect to flight standards 
activities, progress is made toward, at a minimum--
            (1) eliminating delays with respect to such activities;
            (2) increasing accountability for both FAA and industry 
        entities;
            (3) achieving full utilization of FAA delegation and 
        designation authorities;
            (4) fully implementing risk management principles and a 
        systems safety approach;
            (5) reducing duplication of effort;
            (6) eliminating inconsistent regulatory interpretations and 
        inconsistent enforcement activities;
            (7) streamlining the hiring process for--
                    (A) qualified systems safety engineers to support 
                FAA efforts to implement a systems safety approach; and
                    (B) qualified systems engineers to guide the 
                engineering of complex systems within the FAA;
            (8) improving and providing greater opportunities for 
        training, including recurrent training, in auditing and a 
        systems safety approach to oversight;
            (9) developing and allowing utilization of a single master 
        source for guidance;
            (10) providing and utilizing a streamlined appeal process 
        for the resolution of regulatory interpretation questions;
            (11) maintaining and improving safety; and
            (12) increasing transparency.
    (d) Metrics.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator 
shall apply and track performance metrics for the FAA and the regulated 
aviation industry established by the Safety Oversight and Certification 
Advisory Committee.
    (e) Data Generation.--
            (1) Baselines.--Not later than 1 year after the date on 
        which the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee 
        establishes initial performance metrics for the FAA and the 
        regulated aviation industry under section 302, the 
        Administrator shall generate initial data with respect to each 
        of the metrics applied and tracked under this section.
            (2) Measuring progress toward goals.--The Administrator 
        shall use the metrics applied and tracked under this section to 
        generate data on an ongoing basis and to measure progress 
        toward the achievement of national goals established by the 
        Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee.
    (f) Publication.--The Administrator shall make data generated using 
the metrics applied and tracked under this section available to the 
public in a searchable, sortable, and downloadable format through the 
Internet Web site of the FAA and other appropriate methods and shall 
ensure that the data is made available in a manner that--
            (1) does not provide identifying information regarding an 
        individual or entity; and
            (2) protects proprietary information.

SEC. 332. FAA TASK FORCE ON FLIGHT STANDARDS REFORM.

    (a) Establishment.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the FAA shall establish the 
FAA Task Force on Flight Standards Reform (in this section referred to 
as the ``Task Force'').
    (b) Membership.--
            (1) Appointment.--The membership of the Task Force shall be 
        appointed by the Administrator.
            (2) Number.--The Task Force shall be composed of not more 
        than 20 members.
            (3) Representation requirements.--The membership of the 
        Task Force shall include representatives, with knowledge of 
        flight standards regulatory processes and requirements, of--
                    (A) air carriers;
                    (B) general aviation;
                    (C) business aviation;
                    (D) repair stations;
                    (E) unmanned aircraft systems operators;
                    (F) flight schools;
                    (G) labor unions, including those representing FAA 
                aviation safety inspectors; and
                    (H) aviation safety experts.
    (c) Duties.--The duties of the Task Force shall include, at a 
minimum, identifying best practices and providing recommendations, for 
current and anticipated budgetary environments, with respect to--
            (1) simplifying and streamlining flight standards 
        regulatory processes;
            (2) reorganizing Flight Standards Services to establish an 
        entity organized by function rather than geographic region, if 
        appropriate;
            (3) FAA aviation safety inspector training opportunities;
            (4) FAA aviation safety inspector standards and 
        performance; and
            (5) achieving, across the FAA, consistent--
                    (A) regulatory interpretations; and
                    (B) application of oversight activities.
    (d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Task Force shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report detailing--
            (1) the best practices identified and recommendations 
        provided by the Task Force under subsection (c); and
            (2) any recommendations of the Task Force for additional 
        regulatory action or cost-effective legislative action.
    (e) Applicable Law.--Public Law 92-463 shall not apply to the Task 
Force.
    (f) Termination.--The Task Force shall terminate on the earlier 
of--
            (1) the date on which the Task Force submits the report 
        required under subsection (d); or
            (2) the date that is 18 months after the date on which the 
        Task Force is established under subsection (a).

SEC. 333. CENTRALIZED SAFETY GUIDANCE DATABASE.

    (a) Establishment.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the FAA shall establish a 
centralized safety guidance database that will--
            (1) encompass all of the regulatory guidance documents of 
        the FAA Office of Aviation Safety;
            (2) contain, for each such guidance document, a link to the 
        Code of Federal Regulations provision to which the document 
        relates; and
            (3) be publicly available in a manner that--
                    (A) does not provide identifying information 
                regarding an individual or entity; and
                    (B) protects proprietary information.
    (b) Data Entry Timing.--
            (1) Existing documents.--Not later than 14 months after the 
        date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall begin 
        entering into the database established under subsection (a) all 
        of the regulatory guidance documents of the Office of Aviation 
        Safety that are in effect and were issued before the date on 
        which the Administrator begins such entry process.
            (2) New documents and changes.--On and after the date on 
        which the Administrator begins the document entry process under 
        paragraph (1), the Administrator shall ensure that all new 
        regulatory guidance documents of the Office of Aviation Safety 
        and any changes to existing documents are included in the 
        database established under subsection (a).
    (c) Consultation Requirement.--In establishing the database under 
subsection (a), the Administrator shall consult and collaborate with 
appropriate stakeholders, including labor organizations (including 
those representing aviation workers and FAA aviation safety inspectors) 
and industry stakeholders.
    (d) Regulatory Guidance Documents Defined.--In this section, the 
term ``regulatory guidance documents'' means all forms of written 
information issued by the FAA that an individual or entity may use to 
interpret or apply FAA regulations and requirements, including 
information an individual or entity may use to determine acceptable 
means of compliance with such regulations and requirements.

SEC. 334. REGIONAL CONSISTENCY COMMUNICATIONS BOARD.

    (a) Establishment.--Not later than 6 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the FAA shall establish a 
Regional Consistency Communications Board (in this section referred to 
as the ``Board'').
    (b) Consultation Requirement.--In establishing the Board, the 
Administrator shall consult and collaborate with appropriate 
stakeholders, including FAA labor organizations (including labor 
organizations representing FAA aviation safety inspectors) and industry 
stakeholders.
    (c) Membership.--The Board shall be composed of FAA 
representatives, appointed by the Administrator, from--
            (1) the Flight Standards Service;
            (2) the Aircraft Certification Service; and
            (3) the Office of the Chief Counsel.
    (d) Functions.--The Board shall carry out the following functions:
            (1) Establish, at a minimum, processes by which--
                    (A) FAA personnel and regulated entities may submit 
                anonymous regulatory interpretation questions without 
                fear of retaliation; and
                    (B) FAA personnel may submit written questions, and 
                receive written responses, as to whether a previous 
                approval or regulatory interpretation issued by FAA 
                personnel in another office or region is correct or 
                incorrect.
            (2) Meet on a regular basis to discuss and resolve 
        questions submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) and the 
        appropriate application of regulations and policy with respect 
        to each question.
            (3) Provide to an individual or entity that submitted a 
        question pursuant to paragraph (1) a timely response to the 
        question.
            (4) Establish a process to make resolutions of common 
        regulatory interpretation questions publically available to FAA 
        personnel and regulated entities without providing any 
        identifying data of the individuals or entities that submitted 
        the questions and in a manner that protects any proprietary 
        information.
            (5) Ensure the incorporation of resolutions of questions 
        submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) into regulatory guidance 
        documents.
    (e) Performance Metrics, Timelines, and Goals.--Not later than 6 
months after the date on which the Safety Oversight and Certification 
Advisory Committee establishes performance metrics for the FAA and the 
regulated aviation industry under section 302, the Administrator, in 
collaboration with the Advisory Committee, shall--
            (1) establish performance metrics, timelines, and goals to 
        measure the progress of the Board in resolving regulatory 
        interpretation questions submitted pursuant to subsection 
        (d)(1); and
            (2) implement a process for tracking the progress of the 
        Board in meeting the requirements established under paragraph 
        (1).

                      Subtitle D--Safety Workforce

SEC. 341. SAFETY WORKFORCE TRAINING STRATEGY.

    (a) Safety Workforce Training Strategy.--Not later than 60 days 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the FAA 
shall establish a safety workforce training strategy that--
            (1) allows employees participating in organization 
        management teams or conducting ODA program audits to complete, 
        in a timely fashion, appropriate training, including recurrent 
        training, in auditing and a systems safety approach to 
        oversight;
            (2) seeks knowledge-sharing opportunities between the FAA 
        and the aviation industry regarding new equipment and systems, 
        best practices, and other areas of interest;
            (3) functions within the current and anticipated budgetary 
        environments; and
            (4) includes milestones and metrics for meeting the 
        requirements of paragraphs (1), (2), and (3).
    (b) Report.--Not later than 9 months after the date of 
establishment of the strategy required under subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the 
implementation of the strategy and progress in meeting any milestones 
and metrics included in the strategy.
    (c) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) ODA holder; oda program.--The terms ``ODA holder'' and 
        ``ODA program'' have the meanings given those terms in section 
        44736 of title 49, United States Code, as added by this Act.
            (2) Organization management team.--The term ``organization 
        management team'' means a team consisting of FAA aviation 
        safety engineers, flight test pilots, and aviation safety 
        inspectors overseeing an ODA holder and its certification 
        activity.

SEC. 342. WORKFORCE REVIEW.

    (a) Workforce Review.--Not later than 3 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States 
shall conduct a review to assess the workforce and training needs of 
the FAA Office of Aviation Safety in the anticipated budgetary 
environment.
    (b) Contents.--The review required under subsection (a) shall 
include--
            (1) a review of current aviation safety inspector and 
        aviation safety engineer hiring, training, and recurrent 
        training requirements;
            (2) an analysis of the skills and qualifications required 
        of aviation safety inspectors and aviation safety engineers for 
        successful performance in the current and future projected 
        aviation safety regulatory environment, including the need for 
        a systems engineering discipline within the FAA to guide the 
        engineering of complex systems, with an emphasis on auditing 
        designated authorities;
            (3) a review of current performance incentive policies of 
        the FAA, as applied to the Office of Aviation Safety, including 
        awards for performance;
            (4) an analysis of ways the FAA can work with industry and 
        labor, including labor groups representing FAA aviation safety 
        inspectors and aviation safety engineers, to establish 
        knowledge-sharing opportunities between the FAA and the 
        aviation industry regarding new equipment and systems, best 
        practices, and other areas of interest; and
            (5) recommendations on the most effective qualifications, 
        training programs (including e-learning training), and 
        performance incentive approaches to address the needs of the 
        future projected aviation safety regulatory system in the 
        anticipated budgetary environment.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 9 months after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the review required under subsection (a).

                   Subtitle E--International Aviation

SEC. 351. PROMOTION OF UNITED STATES AEROSPACE STANDARDS, PRODUCTS, AND 
              SERVICES ABROAD.

    Section 40104 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(d) Promotion of United States Aerospace Standards, Products, and 
Services Abroad.--The Administrator shall take appropriate actions to--
            ``(1) promote United States aerospace safety standards 
        abroad;
            ``(2) facilitate and vigorously defend approvals of United 
        States aerospace products and services abroad;
            ``(3) with respect to bilateral partners, utilize bilateral 
        safety agreements and other mechanisms to improve validation of 
        United States type certificated aeronautical products and 
        appliances and enhance mutual acceptance in order to eliminate 
        redundancies and unnecessary costs; and
            ``(4) with respect to foreign safety authorities, 
        streamline validation and coordination processes.''.

SEC. 352. BILATERAL EXCHANGES OF SAFETY OVERSIGHT RESPONSIBILITIES.

    Section 44701(e) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
            ``(5) Foreign airworthiness directives.--
                    ``(A) Acceptance.--The Administrator shall accept 
                an airworthiness directive issued by an aeronautical 
                safety authority of a foreign country, and leverage 
                that authority's regulatory process, if--
                            ``(i) the country is the state of design 
                        for the product that is the subject of the 
                        airworthiness directive;
                            ``(ii) the United States has a bilateral 
                        safety agreement relating to aircraft 
                        certification with the country;
                            ``(iii) as part of the bilateral safety 
                        agreement with the country, the Administrator 
                        has determined that such aeronautical safety 
                        authority has a certification system relating 
                        to safety that produces a level of safety 
                        equivalent to the level produced by the system 
                        of the Federal Aviation Administration; and
                            ``(iv) the aeronautical safety authority of 
                        the country utilizes an open and transparent 
                        notice and comment process in the issuance of 
                        airworthiness directives.
                    ``(B) Alternative approval process.--
                Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the Administrator may 
                issue a Federal Aviation Administration airworthiness 
                directive instead of accepting an airworthiness 
                directive otherwise eligible for acceptance under such 
                subparagraph, if the Administrator determines that such 
                issuance is necessary for safety or operational reasons 
                due to the complexity or unique features of the 
                airworthiness directive or the United States aviation 
                system.
                    ``(C) Alternative means of compliance.--The 
                Administrator may--
                            ``(i) accept an alternative means of 
                        compliance, with respect to an airworthiness 
                        directive accepted under subparagraph (A), that 
                        was approved by the aeronautical safety 
                        authority of the foreign country that issued 
                        the airworthiness directive; or
                            ``(ii) notwithstanding subparagraph (A), 
                        and at the request of any person affected by an 
                        airworthiness directive accepted under such 
                        subparagraph, approve an alternative means of 
                        compliance with respect to the airworthiness 
                        directive.''.

SEC. 353. FAA LEADERSHIP ABROAD.

    (a) In General.--To promote United States aerospace safety 
standards, reduce redundant regulatory activity, and facilitate 
acceptance of FAA design and production approvals abroad, the 
Administrator of the FAA shall--
            (1) attain greater expertise in issues related to dispute 
        resolution, intellectual property, and export control laws to 
        better support FAA certification and other aerospace regulatory 
        activities abroad;
            (2) work with United States companies to more accurately 
        track the amount of time it takes foreign authorities, 
        including bilateral partners, to validate United States type 
        certificated aeronautical products;
            (3) provide assistance to United States companies who have 
        experienced significantly long foreign validation wait times;
            (4) work with foreign authorities, including bilateral 
        partners, to collect and analyze data to determine the 
        timeliness of the acceptance and validation of FAA design and 
        production approvals by foreign authorities and the acceptance 
        and validation of foreign-certified products by the FAA;
            (5) establish appropriate benchmarks and metrics to measure 
        the success of bilateral aviation safety agreements and to 
        reduce the validation time for United States type certificated 
        aeronautical products abroad; and
            (6) work with foreign authorities, including bilateral 
        partners, to improve the timeliness of the acceptance and 
        validation of FAA design and production approvals by foreign 
        authorities and the acceptance and validation of foreign-
        certified products by the FAA.
    (b) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the FAA shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report that--
            (1) describes the FAA's strategic plan for international 
        engagement;
            (2) describes the structure and responsibilities of all FAA 
        offices that have international responsibilities, including the 
        Aircraft Certification Office, and all the activities conducted 
        by those offices related to certification and production;
            (3) describes current and forecasted staffing and travel 
        needs for the FAA's international engagement activities, 
        including the needs of the Aircraft Certification Office in the 
        current and forecasted budgetary environment;
            (4) provides recommendations, if appropriate, to improve 
        the existing structure and personnel and travel policies 
        supporting the FAA's international engagement activities, 
        including the activities of the Aviation Certification Office, 
        to better support the growth of United States aerospace 
        exports; and
            (5) identifies regulatory initiatives or cost-effective 
        legislative initiatives needed to improve and enhance the 
        timely acceptance of United States aerospace products abroad.
    (c) International Travel.--The Administrator of the FAA, or the 
Administrator's designee, may authorize international travel for any 
FAA employee, without the approval of any other person or entity, if 
the Administrator determines that the travel is necessary--
            (1) to promote United States aerospace safety standards; or
            (2) to support expedited acceptance of FAA design and 
        production approvals.

SEC. 354. REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION, AND RELATED FEES.

    Section 45305 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in subsection (a) by striking ``Subject to subsection 
        (b)'' and inserting ``Subject to subsection (c)'';
            (2) by redesignating subsections (b) and (c) as subsections 
        (c) and (d), respectively; and
            (3) by inserting after subsection (a) the following:
    ``(b) Certification Services.--Subject to subsection (c), and 
notwithstanding section 45301(a), the Administrator may establish and 
collect a fee from a foreign government or entity for services related 
to certification, regardless of where the services are provided, if the 
fee--
            ``(1) is established and collected in a manner consistent 
        with aviation safety agreements; and
            ``(2) does not exceed the estimated costs of the 
        services.''.

                            TITLE IV--SAFETY

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

SEC. 401. DESIGNATED AGENCY SAFETY AND HEALTH OFFICER.

    Section 106 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(u) Designated Agency Safety and Health Officer.--
            ``(1) In general.--There shall be a Designated Agency 
        Safety and Health Officer appointed by the Administrator, not 
        later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this 
        subsection, who shall exclusively fulfill the duties prescribed 
        in this subsection.
            ``(2) Duties.--The Designated Agency Safety and Health 
        Officer shall have responsibility and accountability for--
                    ``(A) auditing occupational safety and health 
                issues across the Administration;
                    ``(B) overseeing Administration-wide compliance 
                with relevant Federal occupational safety and health 
                statutes and regulations, national industry and 
                consensus standards, and Administration policies; and
                    ``(C) encouraging a culture of occupational safety 
                and health to complement the Administration's existing 
                safety culture.
            ``(3) Reporting structure.--The Designated Agency Safety 
        and Health Officer shall occupy a full-time, senior executive 
        position and shall report directly to the Assistant 
        Administrator for Human Resource Management.
            ``(4) Qualifications and removal.--
                    ``(A) Qualifications.--The Designated Agency Safety 
                and Health Officer shall have demonstrated ability and 
                experience in the establishment and administration of 
                comprehensive occupational safety and health programs 
                and knowledge of relevant Federal occupational safety 
                and health statutes and regulations, national industry 
                and consensus standards, and Administration policies.
                    ``(B) Removal.--The Designated Agency Safety and 
                Health Officer shall serve at the pleasure of the 
                Administrator.''.

SEC. 402. REPAIR STATIONS LOCATED OUTSIDE UNITED STATES.

    (a) Risk-Based Oversight.--Section 44733 of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended--
            (1) by redesignating subsection (f) as subsection (g);
            (2) by inserting after subsection (e) the following:
    ``(f) Risk-Based Oversight.--
            ``(1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
        enactment of the Aviation Innovation, Reform, and 
        Reauthorization Act of 2016, the Administrator shall take 
        measures to ensure that the safety assessment system 
        established under subsection (a)--
                    ``(A) places particular consideration on 
                inspections of part 145 repair stations located outside 
                the United States that conduct scheduled heavy 
                maintenance work on part 121 air carrier aircraft; and
                    ``(B) accounts for the frequency and seriousness of 
                any corrective actions that part 121 air carriers must 
                implement to aircraft following such work at such 
                repair stations.
            ``(2) International agreements.--The Administrator shall 
        take the measures required under paragraph (1)--
                    ``(A) in accordance with the United States 
                obligations under applicable international agreements; 
                and
                    ``(B) in a manner consistent with the applicable 
                laws of the country in which a repair station is 
                located.
            ``(3) Access to data.--The Administrator may access and 
        review such information or data in the possession of a part 121 
        air carrier as the Administrator may require in carrying out 
        paragraph (1)(B).''; and
            (3) in subsection (g) (as so redesignated)--
                    (A) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as 
                paragraphs (2) and (3), respectively; and
                    (B) by inserting before paragraph (2) (as so 
                redesignated) the following:
            ``(1) Heavy maintenance work.--The term `heavy maintenance 
        work' means a C-check, a D-check, or equivalent maintenance 
        operation with respect to the airframe of a transport-category 
        aircraft.''.
    (b) Alcohol and Controlled Substances Testing.--The Administrator 
of the Federal Aviation Administration shall ensure that--
            (1) not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of 
        this Act, a notice of proposed rulemaking required pursuant to 
        section 44733(d)(2) is published in the Federal Register; and
            (2) not later than 1 year after the date on which the 
        notice of proposed rulemaking is published in the Federal 
        Register, the rulemaking is finalized.
    (c) Background Investigations.--Not later than 180 days after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall ensure that each 
employee of a repair station certificated under part 145 of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations, who performs a safety-sensitive function 
on an air carrier aircraft has undergone a pre-employment background 
investigation sufficient to determine whether the individual presents a 
threat to aviation safety, in a manner that is--
            (1) determined acceptable by the Administrator;
            (2) consistent with the applicable laws of the country in 
        which the repair station is located; and
            (3) consistent with the United States obligations under 
        international agreements.

SEC. 403. ENHANCED TRAINING FOR FLIGHT ATTENDANTS.

    Section 44734(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (2) by striking ``and'' at the end;
            (2) in paragraph (3) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting ``; and''; and
            (3) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(4) recognizing and responding to potential human 
        trafficking victims.''.

SEC. 404. FAA TECHNICAL TRAINING.

    (a) E-Learning Training Pilot Program.--Not later than 90 days 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration, in collaboration with the exclusive 
bargaining representatives of covered FAA personnel, shall establish an 
e-learning training pilot program in accordance with the requirements 
of this section.
    (b) Curriculum.--The pilot program shall--
            (1) include a recurrent training curriculum for covered FAA 
        personnel to ensure that the personnel receive instruction on 
        the latest aviation technologies, processes, and procedures;
            (2) focus on providing specialized technical training for 
        covered FAA personnel, as determined necessary by the 
        Administrator;
            (3) include training courses on applicable regulations of 
        the Federal Aviation Administration; and
            (4) consider the efficacy of instructor-led online 
        training.
    (c) Pilot Program Termination.--The pilot program shall terminate 1 
year after the date of establishment of the pilot program.
    (d) E-Learning Training Program.--Upon termination of the pilot 
program, the Administrator shall establish an e-learning training 
program that incorporates lessons learned for covered FAA personnel as 
a result of the pilot program.
    (e) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) Covered faa personnel.--The term ``covered FAA 
        personnel'' means airway transportation systems specialists and 
        aviation safety inspectors of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
            (2) E-learning training.--The term ``e-learning training'' 
        means learning utilizing electronic technologies to access 
        educational curriculum outside of a traditional classroom.

SEC. 405. SAFETY CRITICAL STAFFING.

    (a) Audit by DOT Inspector General.--Not later than 1 year after 
the date of enactment of this Act, the Inspector General of the 
Department of Transportation shall conduct and complete an audit of the 
staffing model used by the Federal Aviation Administration to determine 
the number of aviation safety inspectors that are needed to fulfill the 
mission of the Federal Aviation Administration and adequately ensure 
aviation safety.
    (b) Contents.--The audit shall include, at a minimum--
            (1) a review of the staffing model and an analysis of how 
        consistently the staffing model is applied throughout the 
        Federal Aviation Administration's aviation safety line of 
        business;
            (2) a review of the assumptions and methods used in 
        devising and implementing the staffing model to assess the 
        adequacy of the staffing model to predict the number of 
        aviation safety inspectors needed to properly fulfill the 
        mission of the Federal Aviation Administration and meet the 
        future growth of the aviation industry; and
            (3) a determination on whether the current staffing model 
        takes into account the Federal Aviation Administration's 
        authority to fully utilize designees.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 30 days after the date of completion of 
the audit, the Inspector General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the audit.

SEC. 406. DEADLINE FOR AIRLINE PILOT RECORDS DATABASE.

    Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall make 
available to air carriers the records maintained in the pilot records 
database required under section 44703(i) of title 49, United States 
Code.

SEC. 407. INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS REGARDING TRACKING OF CIVIL AIRCRAFT.

    The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
exercise leadership on creating a global approach to improving aircraft 
tracking by working with--
            (1) foreign counterparts of the Administrator in the 
        International Civil Aviation Organization and its subsidiary 
        organizations;
            (2) other international organizations and fora; and
            (3) the private sector.

SEC. 408. AIRCRAFT DATA ACCESS AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS.

    (a) Assessment.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall initiate an assessment of aircraft data access and retrieval 
systems for part 121 air carrier aircraft that are used in extended 
overwater operations to--
            (1) determine if the systems provide improved access and 
        retrieval of aircraft data and cockpit voice recordings in the 
        event of an aircraft accident; and
            (2) assess the cost effectiveness of each system assessed.
    (b) Systems To Be Examined.--The systems to be examined under this 
section shall include, at a minimum--
            (1) automatic deployable flight recorders;
            (2) emergency locator transmitters; and
            (3) satellite-based solutions.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of initiation of 
the assessment, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the assessment.
    (d) Part 121 Air Carrier Defined.--In this section, the term ``part 
121 air carrier'' means an air carrier that holds a certificate issued 
under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 409. PANEL OF AUTOMATION EXPERTS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall convene a panel of experts to evaluate methods for training 
flight crews to understand the functionality of automated systems in an 
aircraft cockpit for flightpath management.
    (b) Membership.--The members of the panel shall--
            (1) include representatives from labor, industry 
        stakeholders, and subject matter experts; and
            (2) have expertise in human factors, training, or flight 
        operations.
    (c) Duties.--The panel shall--
            (1) identify which of the training methods evaluated by the 
        panel are the most effective;
            (2) make recommendations for the implementation of those 
        methods, taking into consideration the current and anticipated 
        budgetary environment;
            (3) evaluate appropriate requirements and make 
        recommendations for low-speed alerts for aircraft operating 
        under parts 121 and 129 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations; and
            (4) evaluate the feasibility of context-dependent, low-
        energy alerting systems for aircraft operating under parts 121 
        and 129 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    (d) Report.--The panel shall submit to the Administrator, the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the evaluation 
conducted under this section.
    (e) Sunset.--The panel shall terminate on the date of submission of 
the report under subsection (d).

SEC. 410. RISK-BASED COCKPIT SAFETY.

    (a) Assessment.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall complete an assessment that--
            (1) identifies risks posed to cockpits on commercial 
        passenger aircraft and evaluates current standards and 
        requirements in place regarding cockpit safety;
            (2) determines the level of risk, if any, posed to 
        commercial aviation if a flight deck door is opened while a 
        commercial passenger aircraft is in flight;
            (3) identifies methods, including (if appropriate) 
        secondary cockpit barriers, to mitigate risks to cockpits on 
        commercial passenger aircraft, if any risks are identified 
        under paragraphs (1) and (2); and
            (4) recommends safety and airworthiness standards, as 
        appropriate, for any mitigation method identified under 
        paragraph (3).
    (b) Report.--Not later than 60 days after the date of completing 
the assessment, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the 
assessment, including any findings and recommendations.

SEC. 411. COCKPIT AUTOMATION MANAGEMENT.

    Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall--
            (1) develop a process to verify that air carrier training 
        programs incorporate measures to train pilots on--
                    (A) monitoring automation systems; and
                    (B) controlling the flightpath of aircraft without 
                autopilot or autoflight systems engaged;
            (2) develop metrics or measurable tasks that air carriers 
        can use to evaluate pilot monitoring proficiency;
            (3) issue guidance to aviation safety inspectors 
        responsible for oversight of the operations of air carriers on 
        tracking and assessing pilots' proficiency in manual flight; 
        and
            (4) issue guidance to air carriers and inspectors regarding 
        standards for compliance with the requirements for enhanced 
        pilot training contained in the final rule published in the 
        Federal Register on November 12, 2013 (78 Fed. Reg. 67800).

SEC. 412. HEADS-UP DISPLAYS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 6 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall initiate a review of heads-up display systems (in 
this section referred to as ``HUD systems'').
    (b) Contents.--The review shall--
            (1) evaluate the impacts of single- and dual-installed HUD 
        systems on the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations 
        within the national airspace system; and
            (2) review a sufficient quantity of commercial aviation 
        accidents or incidents in order to evaluate if HUD systems 
        would have produced a better outcome in that accident or 
        incident.
    (c) Consultation.--In conducting the review, the Administrator 
shall consult with aviation manufacturers, representatives of pilot 
groups, aviation safety organizations, and any government agencies the 
Administrator considers appropriate.
    (d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report containing the results of the review, the actions the 
Administrator plans to take with respect to the systems reviewed, and 
the associated timeline for such actions.

SEC. 413. HIMS PROGRAM.

    Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct 
a human intervention motivation study (HIMS) program for flight 
crewmembers employed by commercial air carriers operating in United 
States airspace.

SEC. 414. ACCEPTANCE OF VOLUNTARILY PROVIDED SAFETY INFORMATION.

    (a) In General.--There shall be a presumption that an individual's 
voluntary disclosure of an operational or maintenance issue related to 
aviation safety under an aviation safety action program meets the 
criteria for acceptance as a valid disclosure under such program.
    (b) Disclaimer Required.--Any dissemination of a disclosure that 
was submitted and accepted under an aviation safety action program 
pursuant to the presumption under subsection (a), but that has not 
undergone review by an event review committee, shall be accompanied by 
a disclaimer stating that the disclosure--
            (1) has not been reviewed by an event review committee 
        tasked with reviewing such disclosures; and
            (2) may subsequently be determined to be ineligible for 
        inclusion in the aviation safety action program.
    (c) Rejection of Disclosure.--A disclosure described under 
subsection (a) shall be rejected from an aviation safety action program 
if, after a review of the disclosure, an event review committee tasked 
with reviewing such disclosures determines that the disclosure fails to 
meet the criteria for acceptance under such program.
    (d) Aviation Safety Action Program Defined.--In this section, the 
term ``aviation safety action program'' means a program established in 
accordance with Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular 120-
66B, issued November 15, 2002 (including any similar successor advisory 
circular), to allow an individual to voluntarily disclose operational 
or maintenance issues related to aviation safety.

SEC. 415. MARKING OF TOWERS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall issue regulations for the marking of covered towers.
    (b) Markings Required.--The regulations issued under subsection (a) 
shall ensure that covered towers are marked in a manner that is 
uniform, makes the covered towers easily visible, and is consistent 
with applicable guidance of the Administration.
    (c) Application.--The regulations issued under subsection (a) shall 
ensure that--
            (1) all covered towers constructed on or after the date on 
        which such regulations take effect are marked in accordance 
        with subsection (b); and
            (2) a covered tower constructed before the date on which 
        such regulations take effect is marked in accordance with 
        subsection (b) not later than 1 year after such effective date.
    (d) Covered Tower Defined.--
            (1) In general.--In this section, the term ``covered 
        tower'' means a structure that--
                    (A) is self-standing or supported by guy wires and 
                ground anchors;
                    (B) is 6 feet or less in diameter at the base;
                    (C) at the highest point of the structure, is at 
                least 50 feet above ground level;
                    (D) at the highest point of the structure, is not 
                more than 200 feet above ground level;
                    (E) has accessory facilities on which an antenna, 
                sensor, camera, meteorological instrument, or other 
                equipment is mounted; and
                    (F) is located--
                            (i) outside the boundaries of an 
                        incorporated city or town; or
                            (ii) on land that is--
                                    (I) underdeveloped; or
                                    (II) used for agriculture purposes.
            (2) Exclusions.--The term ``covered tower'' does not 
        include any structure that--
                    (A) is adjacent to a house, barn, electric utility 
                substation, or any other building;
                    (B) is in the curtilage of a farmstead;
                    (C) supports electric utility transmission or 
                distribution lines;
                    (D) is a wind-powered electrical generator with a 
                rotor blade radius that exceeds 6 feet; or
                    (E) is a street light erected or maintained by a 
                Federal, State, or local transportation entity.
    (e) Covered Tower Database.--The Administrator shall--
            (1) develop a publicly available database that contains the 
        location and height of covered towers;
            (2) keep the database current to the extent practicable; 
        and
            (3) ensure that proprietary information in the database is 
        protected.

SEC. 416. CABIN EVACUATION.

    (a) Review.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall review--
            (1) evacuation certification of transport-category aircraft 
        used in air transportation, with regard to--
                    (A) emergency conditions, including impacts into 
                water;
                    (B) crew procedures used for evacuations under 
                actual emergency conditions; and
                    (C) any relevant changes to passenger demographics 
                and legal requirements (including the Americans with 
                Disabilities Act of 1990) that affect emergency 
                evacuations; and
            (2) recent accidents and incidents where passengers 
        evacuated such aircraft.
    (b) Consultation; Review of Data.--In conducting the review, the 
Administrator shall--
            (1) consult with the National Transportation Safety Board, 
        transport-category aircraft manufacturers, air carriers, and 
        other relevant experts and Federal agencies, including groups 
        representing passengers, airline crewmembers, maintenance 
        employees, and emergency responders; and
            (2) review relevant data with respect to evacuation 
        certification of transport-category aircraft.
    (c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee 
on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives 
and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
Senate a report on the results of the review and related 
recommendations, if any, including any recommendations for revisions to 
the assumptions and methods used for assessing evacuation certification 
of transport-category aircraft.

SEC. 417. MEDICAL CERTIFICATION OF CERTAIN SMALL AIRCRAFT PILOTS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall issue or revise medical certificate regulations to 
ensure that an individual may operate as pilot in command of a covered 
aircraft without regard to any medical certificate or proof of health 
requirement otherwise applicable under Federal law if--
            (1) the individual possesses a valid driver's license 
        issued by a State, the District of Columbia, or a territory or 
        possession of the United States and complies with any medical 
        requirement associated with that license;
            (2) the individual is transporting not more than 5 
        passengers;
            (3) the individual is operating under visual flight rules 
        or instrument flight rules;
            (4) the relevant flight, including each portion thereof, is 
        not carried out--
                    (A) for compensation or hire, including that no 
                passenger or property on the flight is being carried 
                for compensation;
                    (B) at an altitude that is more than 14,000 feet 
                above mean sea level;
                    (C) outside the United States, unless authorized by 
                the country in which the flight is conducted; or
                    (D) at an indicated air speed exceeding 250 knots; 
                and
            (5) the individual has completed a medical education course 
        in accordance with subsection (b).
    (b) Medical Education Course.--
            (1) In general.--To meet the requirement of subsection 
        (a)(5), an individual shall complete (and demonstrate proof of 
        completion of) a medical education course during the 2-year 
        period ending on the date on which the individual operates as 
        pilot in command of a covered aircraft.
            (2) Requirements.--The medical education course shall--
                    (A) be established and periodically updated by the 
                Administrator in coordination with representatives of 
                relevant not-for-profit general aviation stakeholder 
                groups;
                    (B) be available on the Internet free of charge;
                    (C) educate pilots on conducting medical self-
                assessments;
                    (D) advise pilots on identifying warning signs of 
                potential serious medical conditions;
                    (E) identify risk mitigation strategies for medical 
                conditions;
                    (F) increase awareness of the impacts of 
                potentially impairing over-the-counter and prescription 
                drug medications;
                    (G) encourage regular medical exams and 
                consultations with primary care physicians;
                    (H) inform pilots of the regulations pertaining to 
                the prohibition on operations during medical 
                deficiency; and
                    (I) include a signature page, that shall be 
                transmitted to the Administrator, for the individual to 
                certify that the individual has completed all necessary 
                educational medical coursework.
            (3) Exceptions.--The requirement of subsection (a)(5) shall 
        not apply to an individual who exercises sport pilot privileges 
        or acts as the pilot in command of a glider or balloon.
    (c) Covered Aircraft Defined.--In this section, the term ``covered 
aircraft'' means an aircraft that--
            (1) is not authorized under Federal law to carry more than 
        6 occupants; and
            (2) has a maximum certificated takeoff weight of not more 
        than 6,000 pounds.
    (d) Report.--Not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall submit to Congress a report that 
describes the effect of the regulations issued or revised under 
subsection (a) and includes statistics with respect to changes in small 
aircraft activity and safety incidents.
    (e) Prohibition on Enforcement Actions.--On and after the date that 
is 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 
may not take an enforcement action for not holding a valid third-class 
medical certificate against a pilot of a covered aircraft for a flight 
if the pilot and the flight meet the requirements under paragraphs (1) 
through (4) of subsection (a) unless the Administrator has published 
final regulations in the Federal Register under subsection (a).

SEC. 418. ODA STAFFING AND OVERSIGHT.

    (a) Report to Congress.--Not later than May 31, 2017, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall report to 
the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate on the Administration's progress with 
respect to--
            (1) determining what additional model inputs and labor 
        distribution codes are needed to identify ODA oversight 
        staffing needs;
            (2) developing and implementing system-based evaluation 
        criteria and risk-based tools to aid ODA team members in 
        targeting their oversight activities; and
            (3) developing agreements and processes for sharing 
        resources to ensure adequate oversight of ODA personnel 
        performing certification and inspection work at supplier and 
        company facilities.
    (b) ODA Defined.--In this section, the term ``ODA'' has the meaning 
given that term in section 44736 of title 49, United States Code, as 
added by this Act.

                 Subtitle B--Unmanned Aircraft Systems

SEC. 431. DEFINITIONS.

    Except as otherwise provided, the definitions contained in section 
45501 of title 49, United States Code (as added by this Act), shall 
apply to this subtitle.

SEC. 432. CODIFICATION OF EXISTING LAW; ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS.

    (a) In General.--Subtitle VII of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by inserting after chapter 453 the following:

                ``CHAPTER 455--UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

``Sec.
``45501. Definitions.
``45502. Integration of civil unmanned aircraft systems into national 
                            airspace system.
``45503. Risk-based permitting of unmanned aircraft systems.
``45504. Public unmanned aircraft systems.
``45505. Special rules for certain unmanned aircraft systems.
``45506. Operation of small unmanned aircraft.
``45507. Special rules for model aircraft.
``45508. Safety information for operation of covered unmanned aircraft.
``Sec. 45501. Definitions
    ``In this chapter, the following definitions apply:
            ``(1) Aerial data collection.--The term `aerial data 
        collection' means the gathering of data by a device aboard an 
        unmanned aircraft during flight, including imagery, sensing, 
        and measurement by such device.
            ``(2) Arctic.--The term `Arctic' means the United States 
        zone of the Chukchi Sea, Beaufort Sea, and Bering Sea north of 
        the Aleutian chain.
            ``(3) Certificate of waiver; certificate of 
        authorization.--The terms `certificate of waiver' and 
        `certificate of authorization' mean a Federal Aviation 
        Administration grant of approval for a specific flight 
        operation.
            ``(4) Model aircraft.--the term `model aircraft' means an 
        unmanned aircraft that is--
                    ``(A) capable of sustained flight in the 
                atmosphere;
                    ``(B) flown within visual line of sight of the 
                person operating the aircraft; and
                    ``(C) flown for hobby or recreational purposes.
            ``(5) Permanent areas.--The term `permanent areas' means 
        areas on land or water that provide for launch, recovery, and 
        operation of small unmanned aircraft.
            ``(6) Public unmanned aircraft system.--The term `public 
        unmanned aircraft system' means an unmanned aircraft system 
        that meets the qualifications and conditions required for 
        operation of a public aircraft (as defined in section 
        40102(a)).
            ``(7) Sense-and-avoid capability.--The term `sense-and-
        avoid capability' means the capability of an unmanned aircraft 
        to remain a safe distance from and to avoid collisions with 
        other airborne aircraft.
            ``(8) Small unmanned aircraft.--The term `small unmanned 
        aircraft' means an unmanned aircraft weighing less than 55 
        pounds, including everything that is on board the aircraft.
            ``(9) Unmanned aircraft.--The term `unmanned aircraft' 
        means an aircraft that is operated without the possibility of 
        direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft.
            ``(10) Unmanned aircraft system.--The term `unmanned 
        aircraft system' means an unmanned aircraft and associated 
        elements (including communication links and the components that 
        control the unmanned aircraft) that are required for the pilot 
        in command to operate safely and efficiently in the national 
        airspace system.
``Sec. 45502. Integration of civil unmanned aircraft systems into 
              national airspace system
    ``(a) Required Planning for Integration.--
            ``(1) Comprehensive plan.--Not later than November 10, 
        2012, the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with 
        representatives of the aviation industry, Federal agencies that 
        employ unmanned aircraft systems technology in the national 
        airspace system, and the unmanned aircraft systems industry, 
        shall develop a comprehensive plan to safely accelerate the 
        integration of civil unmanned aircraft systems into the 
        national airspace system.
            ``(2) Contents of plan.--The plan required under paragraph 
        (1) shall contain, at a minimum, recommendations or projections 
        on--
                    ``(A) the rulemaking to be conducted under 
                subsection (b), with specific recommendations on how 
                the rulemaking will--
                            ``(i) define the acceptable standards for 
                        operation and certification of civil unmanned 
                        aircraft systems;
                            ``(ii) ensure that any civil unmanned 
                        aircraft system includes a sense-and-avoid 
                        capability; and
                            ``(iii) establish standards and 
                        requirements for the operator and pilot of a 
                        civil unmanned aircraft system, including 
                        standards and requirements for registration and 
                        licensing;
                    ``(B) the best methods to enhance the technologies 
                and subsystems necessary to achieve the safe and 
                routine operation of civil unmanned aircraft systems in 
                the national airspace system;
                    ``(C) a phased-in approach to the integration of 
                civil unmanned aircraft systems into the national 
                airspace system;
                    ``(D) a timeline for the phased-in approach 
                described under subparagraph (C);
                    ``(E) creation of a safe airspace designation for 
                cooperative manned and unmanned flight operations in 
                the national airspace system;
                    ``(F) establishment of a process to develop 
                certification, flight standards, and air traffic 
                requirements for civil unmanned aircraft systems at 
                test ranges where such systems are subject to testing;
                    ``(G) the best methods to ensure the safe operation 
                of civil unmanned aircraft systems and public unmanned 
                aircraft systems simultaneously in the national 
                airspace system; and
                    ``(H) incorporation of the plan into the annual 
                NextGen Implementation Plan document (or any successor 
                document) of the Federal Aviation Administration.
            ``(3) Deadline.--The plan required under paragraph (1) 
        shall provide for the safe integration of civil unmanned 
        aircraft systems into the national airspace system as soon as 
        practicable, but not later than September 30, 2015.
            ``(4) Report to congress.--Not later than February 14, 
        2013, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a copy of the plan 
        required under paragraph (1).
            ``(5) Roadmap.--Not later than February 14, 2013, the 
        Secretary shall approve and make available in print and on the 
        Administration's Internet Web site a 5-year roadmap for the 
        introduction of civil unmanned aircraft systems into the 
        national airspace system, as coordinated by the Unmanned 
        Aircraft Program Office of the Administration. The Secretary 
        shall update the roadmap annually.
    ``(b) Rulemaking.--Not later than 18 months after the date on which 
the plan required under subsection (a)(1) is submitted to Congress 
under subsection (a)(4), the Secretary shall publish in the Federal 
Register--
            ``(1) a final rule on small unmanned aircraft systems that 
        will allow for civil operation of such systems in the national 
        airspace system, to the extent the systems do not meet the 
        requirements for expedited operational authorization under 
        section 45506;
            ``(2) a notice of proposed rulemaking to implement the 
        recommendations of the plan required under subsection (a)(1), 
        with the final rule to be published not later than 16 months 
        after the date of publication of the notice; and
            ``(3) an update to the Administration's most recent policy 
        statement on unmanned aircraft systems, contained in Docket No. 
        FAA-2006-25714.
    ``(c) Expanding Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Arctic.--
            ``(1) In general.--Not later than August 12, 2012, the 
        Secretary shall develop a plan and initiate a process to work 
        with relevant Federal agencies and national and international 
        communities to designate permanent areas in the Arctic where 
        small unmanned aircraft may operate 24 hours per day for 
        research and commercial purposes. The plan for operations in 
        these permanent areas shall include the development of 
        processes to facilitate the safe operation of unmanned aircraft 
        beyond line of sight. Such areas shall enable over-water 
        flights from the surface to at least 2,000 feet in altitude, 
        with ingress and egress routes from selected coastal launch 
        sites.
            ``(2) Agreements.--To implement the plan under paragraph 
        (1), the Secretary may enter into an agreement with relevant 
        national and international communities.
            ``(3) Aircraft approval.--Not later than 1 year after the 
        entry into force of an agreement necessary to effectuate the 
        purposes of this subsection, the Secretary shall work with 
        relevant national and international communities to establish 
        and implement a process, or may apply an applicable process 
        already established, for approving the use of unmanned aircraft 
        in the designated permanent areas in the Arctic without regard 
        to whether an unmanned aircraft is used as a public aircraft, a 
        civil aircraft, or a model aircraft.
``Sec. 45503. Risk-based permitting of unmanned aircraft systems
    ``(a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall establish procedures for issuing permits under 
this section with respect to certain unmanned aircraft systems and 
operations thereof.
    ``(b) Permitting Standards.--Upon the submission of an application 
in accordance with subsection (d), the Administrator shall issue a 
permit with respect to the proposed operation of an unmanned aircraft 
system if the Administrator determines that--
            ``(1) the unmanned aircraft system and the proposed 
        operation achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to--
                    ``(A) other unmanned aircraft systems and 
                operations permitted under regulation, exemption, or 
                other authority granted by the Administrator; or
                    ``(B) any other aircraft operation approved by the 
                Administrator with similar risk characteristics or 
                profiles; and
            ``(2) the applicant for the permit has adequate liability 
        insurance based on the criteria specified in subsection (c).
    ``(c) Safety Criteria for Consideration.--In determining whether a 
proposed operation meets the standards described in subsection (b), the 
Administrator shall consider the following safety criteria:
            ``(1) The kinetic energy of the unmanned aircraft system.
            ``(2) The location of the proposed operation, including the 
        proximity to--
                    ``(A) structures;
                    ``(B) congested areas;
                    ``(C) special-use airspace; and
                    ``(D) persons on the ground.
            ``(3) The nature of the operation, including any proposed 
        risk mitigation.
            ``(4) Any known hazard of the proposed operation and the 
        severity and likelihood of such hazard.
            ``(5) Any known failure modes of the unmanned aircraft 
        system, failure mode effects and criticality, and any 
        mitigating features or capabilities.
            ``(6) The operational history of relevant technologies, if 
        available.
            ``(7) Any history of civil penalties or certificate actions 
        by the Administrator against the applicant seeking the permit.
            ``(8) Any other safety criteria the Administrator considers 
        appropriate.
    ``(d) Application.--An application under this section shall include 
evidence that the unmanned aircraft system and the proposed operation 
thereof meet the standards described in subsection (b) based on the 
criteria described in subsection (c).
    ``(e) Scope of Permit.--A permit issued under this section shall--
            ``(1) be valid for 5 years;
            ``(2) constitute approval of both the airworthiness of the 
        unmanned aircraft system and the proposed operation of such 
        system;
            ``(3) be renewable for additional 5-year periods; and
            ``(4) contain any terms necessary to ensure aviation 
        safety.
    ``(f) Notice.--Not later than 120 days after the Administrator 
receives a complete application under subsection (d), the Administrator 
shall provide the applicant written notice of a decision to approve, 
disapprove, or request a modification of the application.
    ``(g) Permitting Process.--The Administrator shall issue a permit 
under this section without regard to subsections (b) through (d) of 
section 553 of title 5 and chapter 35 of title 44 if the Administrator 
determines that the operation permitted will not occur near a congested 
area.
    ``(h) Exemption From Certain Requirements.--To the extent 
consistent with aviation safety, the Administrator may exempt 
applicants under this section from paragraphs (1) through (3) of 
section 44711(a).
    ``(i) Withdrawal.--The Administrator may, at any time, modify or 
withdraw a permit issued under this section.
    ``(j) Applicability.--This section shall not apply to small 
unmanned aircraft systems and operations addressed by the proposed rule 
on small unmanned aircraft systems issued pursuant to section 
45502(b)(1) or any final rule based on such proposed rule.
    ``(k) Expedited Review.--The Administrator shall review and act 
upon applications under this section on an expedited basis for unmanned 
aircraft systems and operations thereof to be used primarily in, or 
primarily in direct support of, emergency preparedness, response, or 
disaster recovery.
``Sec. 45504. Public unmanned aircraft systems
    ``(a) Guidance.--Not later than November 10, 2012, the Secretary of 
Transportation shall issue guidance regarding the operation of public 
unmanned aircraft systems to--
            ``(1) expedite the issuance of a certificate of 
        authorization process;
            ``(2) provide for a collaborative process with public 
        agencies to allow for an incremental expansion of access to the 
        national airspace system as technology matures and the 
        necessary safety analysis and data become available, and until 
        standards are completed and technology issues are resolved;
            ``(3) facilitate the capability of public agencies to 
        develop and use test ranges, subject to operating restrictions 
        required by the Federal Aviation Administration, to test and 
        operate unmanned aircraft systems; and
            ``(4) provide guidance on a public entity's responsibility 
        when operating an unmanned aircraft without a civil 
        airworthiness certificate issued by the Administration.
    ``(b) Standards for Operation and Certification.--Not later than 
December 31, 2015, the Administrator shall develop and implement 
operational and certification requirements for the operation of public 
unmanned aircraft systems in the national airspace system.
    ``(c) Agreements With Government Agencies.--
            ``(1) In general.--Not later than May 14, 2012, the 
        Secretary shall enter into agreements with appropriate 
        government agencies to simplify the process for issuing 
        certificates of waiver or authorization with respect to 
        applications seeking authorization to operate public unmanned 
        aircraft systems in the national airspace system.
            ``(2) Contents.--The agreements shall--
                    ``(A) with respect to an application described in 
                paragraph (1)--
                            ``(i) provide for an expedited review of 
                        the application;
                            ``(ii) require a decision by the 
                        Administrator on approval or disapproval within 
                        60 business days of the date of submission of 
                        the application; and
                            ``(iii) allow for an expedited appeal if 
                        the application is disapproved;
                    ``(B) allow for a one-time approval of similar 
                operations carried out during a fixed period of time; 
                and
                    ``(C) allow a government public safety agency to 
                operate unmanned aircraft weighing 4.4 pounds or less, 
                if operated--
                            ``(i) within the line of sight of the 
                        operator;
                            ``(ii) less than 400 feet above the ground;
                            ``(iii) during daylight conditions;
                            ``(iv) within Class G airspace; and
                            ``(v) outside of 5 statute miles from any 
                        airport, heliport, seaplane base, spaceport, or 
                        other location with aviation activities.
``Sec. 45505. Special rules for certain unmanned aircraft systems
    ``(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other requirement of this 
subtitle, and not later than August 12, 2012, the Secretary of 
Transportation shall determine if certain unmanned aircraft systems may 
operate safely in the national airspace system before completion of the 
plan and rulemaking required by section 45502 or the guidance required 
under section 45504.
    ``(b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.--In making the 
determination under subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a 
minimum--
            ``(1) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as 
        a result of their size, weight, speed, operational capability, 
        proximity to airports and populated areas, and operation within 
        visual line of sight do not create a hazard to users of the 
        national airspace system or the public or pose a threat to 
        national security; and
            ``(2) whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of 
        authorization, or airworthiness certification under section 
        44704 is required for the operation of unmanned aircraft 
        systems identified under paragraph (1).
    ``(c) Requirements for Safe Operation.--If the Secretary determines 
under this section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate 
safely in the national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish 
requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in the 
national airspace system.
``Sec. 45506. Operation of small unmanned aircraft
    ``(a) Exemption and Certificate of Waiver or Authorization for 
Certain Operations.--Not later than 270 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall establish a procedure for granting an exemption 
and issuing a certificate of waiver or authorization for the operation 
of a small unmanned aircraft system in United States airspace for the 
purposes described in section 45501(1).
    ``(b) Operation of Exemption and Certificate of Waiver or 
Authorization.--
            ``(1) Exemption.--An exemption granted under this section 
        shall--
                    ``(A) exempt the operator of a small unmanned 
                aircraft from the provisions of title 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations, that are exempted in Exemption No. 
                11687, issued on May 26, 2015, Regulatory Docket Number 
                FAA-2015-0117, or in a subsequent exemption; and
                    ``(B) contain conditions and limitations described 
                in paragraphs 3 through 31 of such Exemption No. 11687, 
                or conditions and limitations of a subsequent 
                exemption.
            ``(2) Certificate of waiver or authorization.--A 
        certificate of waiver or authorization issued under this 
        section shall allow the operation of small unmanned aircraft 
        according to--
                    ``(A) the standard provisions and air traffic 
                control special provisions of the certificate of waiver 
                or authorization FAA Form 7711-1 (7-74); or
                    ``(B) the standard and special provisions of a 
                subsequent certificate of waiver or authorization.
    ``(c) Notice to Administrator.--Before operating a small unmanned 
aircraft pursuant to a certificate of waiver or authorization granted 
under this section, the operator shall provide written notice to the 
Administrator, in a form and manner specified by the Administrator, 
that contains such information and assurances as the Administrator 
determines necessary in the interest of aviation safety and the 
efficiency of the national airspace system, including a certification 
that the operator has read, understands, and will comply with all 
terms, conditions, and limitations of the certificate of waiver or 
authorization.
    ``(d) Waiver of Airworthiness Certificate.--Notwithstanding section 
44711(a)(1), the holder of a certificate of waiver or authorization 
granted under this section may operate a small unmanned aircraft under 
the terms, conditions, and limitations of such certificate without an 
airworthiness certificate.
    ``(e) Procedure.--The granting of an exemption or the issuance of a 
certificate of waiver or authorization, or any other action authorized 
by this section, shall be made without regard to--
            ``(1) section 553 of title 5; or
            ``(2) chapter 35 of title 44.
    ``(f) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
construed to--
            ``(1) affect the issuance of a rule by or any other 
        activity of the Secretary of Transportation or the 
        Administrator under any other provision of law; or
            ``(2) invalidate an exemption or certificate of waiver or 
        authorization issued by the Administrator before the date of 
        enactment of this section.
    ``(g) Effective Periods.--An exemption or certificate of waiver or 
authorization issued under this section, or an amendment of such 
exemption or certificate, shall cease to be valid on the effective date 
of a final rule on small unmanned aircraft systems issued under section 
45502(b)(1).
    ``(h) Applicability.--
            ``(1) Default.--The requirements of this section shall 
        apply beginning on the date that is 270 days after the date of 
        enactment of this Act unless the Administrator issues, before 
        such date, a final rule based on the notice of proposed 
        rulemaking issued on February 23, 2015, entitled `Operation and 
        Certification of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems' (80 Fed. Reg. 
        9543).
            ``(2) Expiration.--The requirements of this section shall 
        not be effective beginning on the date on which the 
        Administrator issues a final rule based on the notice of 
        proposed rulemaking issued on February 23, 2015, entitled 
        `Operation and Certification of Small Unmanned Aircraft 
        Systems' (80 Fed. Reg. 9543).
``Sec. 45507. Special rules for model aircraft
    ``(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law 
relating to the incorporation of unmanned aircraft systems into Federal 
Aviation Administration plans and policies, including this subtitle, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may not 
promulgate any rule or regulation regarding a model aircraft, or an 
aircraft being developed as a model aircraft, if--
            ``(1) the aircraft is flown strictly for hobby or 
        recreational use;
            ``(2) the aircraft is operated in accordance with a 
        community-based set of safety guidelines and within the 
        programming of a community-based organization;
            ``(3) the aircraft is limited to not more than 55 pounds 
        unless otherwise certified through a design, construction, 
        inspection, flight test, and operational safety program 
        administered by a community-based organization;
            ``(4) the aircraft is operated in a manner that does not 
        interfere with and gives way to any manned aircraft; and
            ``(5) when flown within 5 miles of an airport, the operator 
        of the aircraft provides the airport operator and the airport 
        air traffic control tower (when an air traffic facility is 
        located at the airport) with prior notice of the operation 
        (model aircraft operators flying from a permanent location 
        within 5 miles of an airport should establish a mutually agreed 
        upon operating procedure with the airport operator and the 
        airport air traffic control tower (when an air traffic facility 
        is located at the airport)).
    ``(b) Commercial Operation for Instructional or Educational 
Purposes.--A flight of an unmanned aircraft shall be treated as a 
flight of a model aircraft for purposes of subsection (a) (regardless 
of any compensation, reimbursement, or other consideration exchanged or 
incidental economic benefit gained in the course of planning, 
operating, or supervising the flight), if the flight is--
            ``(1) conducted for instructional or educational purposes; 
        and
            ``(2) operated or supervised by an eligible not-for-profit 
        organization.
    ``(c) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
construed to limit the authority of the Administrator to pursue 
enforcement action against persons operating model aircraft who 
endanger the safety of the national airspace system.
    ``(d) Eligible Not-For-Profit Organization Defined.--In this 
section, the term `eligible not-for-profit organization' means an 
entity that--
            ``(1) is described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal 
        Revenue Code of 1986;
            ``(2) is exempt from tax under section 501(a) of the 
        Internal Revenue Code of 1986;
            ``(3) the mission of which is demonstrably the furtherance 
        of model aviation;
            ``(4) provides a comprehensive set of safety guidelines for 
        all aspects of model aviation addressing the assembly and 
        operation of model aircraft and that emphasize safe 
        aeromodeling operations within the national airspace system and 
        the protection and safety of individuals and property on the 
        ground;
            ``(5) provides programming and support for any local 
        charter organizations, affiliates, or clubs; and
            ``(6) provides assistance and support in the development 
        and operation of locally designated model aircraft flying 
        sites.
``Sec. 45508. Safety information for operation of covered unmanned 
              aircraft
    ``Beginning not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of 
this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall make available to the public, through electronic or other 
suitable means, information developed jointly by the Federal Aviation 
Administration and appropriate non-governmental organizations relating 
to the safe operation of unmanned aircraft in United States airspace 
that includes--
            ``(1) notice of the existence of airspace boundaries, 
        designated navigational routes, and navigable airspace;
            ``(2) the requirements for entry into and operation within 
        class A, B, C, D, and E airspace, as defined in subparts A 
        through E of part 71 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations 
        (or any successor provisions);
            ``(3) notice of the existence and a description of Federal 
        aviation regulations applicable to the flight of unmanned 
        aircraft, including regulations prohibiting careless and 
        reckless operation and operation of unairworthy aircraft in 
        part 91 of such title (or any successor provisions);
            ``(4) notice of sources of aeronautical information and 
        applicable regulations, including publicly available resources 
        for determining the locations of airports, designated 
        navigational routes, and controlled airspace;
            ``(5) notice of criminal and civil penalties that may 
        result from unlawful operation of unmanned aircraft; and
            ``(6) examples of the hazards associated with the operation 
        of an unmanned aircraft--
                    ``(A) in a careless or reckless manner;
                    ``(B) in an unairworthy condition; and
                    ``(C) in proximity to other aircraft.''.
    (b) Conforming Amendments.--
            (1) Repeals.--
                    (A) In general.--Sections 332(a), 332(b), 332(d), 
                333, 334, and 336 of the FAA Modernization and Reform 
                Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) are repealed.
                    (B) Clerical amendment.--The items relating to 
                sections 333, 334, and 336 of the FAA Modernization and 
                Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) in the table 
                of contents contained in section 1(b) of that Act are 
                repealed.
            (2) Penalties.--Section 46301 of title 49, United States 
        Code, is amended--
                    (A) in subsection (a)--
                            (i) in paragraph (1)(A) by inserting 
                        ``chapter 455,'' after ``chapter 451,''; and
                            (ii) in paragraph (5)(A)(i) by striking 
                        ``or chapter 451,'' and inserting ``chapter 
                        451, chapter 455,'';
                    (B) in subsection (d)(2) by inserting ``chapter 
                455,'' after ``chapter 451,''; and
                    (C) in subsection (f)(1)(A)(i) by striking ``or 
                chapter 451'' and inserting ``chapter 451, or chapter 
                455''.
            (3) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for subtitle VII of 
        title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the 
        item relating to chapter 453 the following:

``455. Unmanned aircraft systems............................   45501''.

SEC. 433. UNMANNED AIRCRAFT TEST RANGES.

    (a) Extension of Program.--Section 332(c)(1) of the FAA 
Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended 
by striking ``5 years after the date of enactment of this Act'' and 
inserting ``5 years after the date of enactment of the Aviation 
Innovation, Reform, and Reauthorization Act of 2016''.
    (b) Sense-and-Avoid Technologies at Test Ranges.--
            (1) In general.--To the extent consistent with aviation 
        safety, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration shall permit and encourage flights of unmanned 
        aircraft systems equipped with sense-and-avoid technologies at 
        the 6 test ranges designated under section 332(c) of the FAA 
        Modernization and Reform Act of 2012.
            (2) Waivers.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator may waive the requirements of section 44711 of 
        title 49, United States Code, including related regulations, to 
        the extent consistent with aviation safety.
    (c) Provisional Civil Operation of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems 
at Test Ranges.--
            (1) In general.--In carrying out the program established 
        under section 332(c) of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 
        2012, and subject to the requirements of paragraph (2), the 
        Secretary shall allow civil operation of small unmanned 
        aircraft systems at the 6 test ranges designated pursuant to 
        that section.
            (2) Requirements.--The Secretary shall provide that--
                    (A) operations of small unmanned aircraft systems 
                occur exclusively within airspace designated in an 
                applicable certificate of authorization or waiver; and
                    (B) notwithstanding section 44711 of title 49, 
                United States Code, operations are conducted, to the 
                extent practicable, pursuant to the proposed rule on 
                small unmanned aircraft systems issued pursuant to 
                section 45502(b)(1) of such title, or any final rule 
                issued based on that proposed rule, except that a 
                passing grade on the aeronautical knowledge test 
                required for a sport pilot certificate described in 
                part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, or 
                more advanced aeronautical knowledge test under such 
                part, shall be treated as satisfying the aeronautical 
                knowledge testing requirement contained in such 
                proposed rule.
            (3) Sunset.--This subsection shall cease to be effective on 
        the date that is the earlier of--
                    (A) 5 years after the date of enactment of this 
                Act; and
                    (B) the date of publication of a final rule based 
                on the proposed rule described under paragraph (2)(B).
    (d) Definition of Test Range.--In this section, the term ``test 
range'' means a defined geographic area where research and development 
are conducted.

SEC. 434. UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS SENIOR LEADERSHIP AND STAFFING.

    (a) Intra-Agency Leadership.--
            (1) Unmanned aircraft systems integration office.--There is 
        in the Federal Aviation Administration an Unmanned Aircraft 
        Systems Integration Office (in this section referred to as the 
        ``Office'').
            (2) Chief unmanned aircraft systems integration officer.--
                    (A) Designation.--Not later than 30 days after the 
                date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the 
                Federal Aviation Administration shall designate an 
                individual to serve as the head of the Office, to be 
                known as the Chief Unmanned Aircraft Systems 
                Integration Officer.
                    (B) Duties; reporting.--The Chief Unmanned Aircraft 
                Systems Integration Officer shall--
                            (i) report directly to the Associate 
                        Administrator for Aviation Safety (or a 
                        successor position);
                            (ii) have the duties and functions of the 
                        position of the Director of the UAS Integration 
                        Office, as of the date of enactment of this 
                        section; and
                            (iii) optimize intra-agency efforts to 
                        establish a sound technical and safety 
                        methodology for the integration of unmanned 
                        aircraft systems into the national airspace 
                        system.
    (b) Interagency Leadership.--
            (1) Director of uas external affairs.--Not later than 30 
        days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 
        shall designate an individual to serve as the head of 
        interagency efforts on unmanned aircraft systems integration 
        for the Administration, to be known as the Director of UAS 
        External Affairs.
            (2) Duties; reporting.--The individual designated under 
        paragraph (1) shall--
                    (A) report directly to the Deputy Administrator;
                    (B) have the duties and functions of the position 
                of Senior Advisor on UAS Integration, as of the date of 
                enactment of this section; and
                    (C) focus on external outreach, education, and 
                interagency initiatives consistent with the 
                Administration's management of unmanned aircraft 
                systems integration efforts.
    (c) Staffing.--The Administrator shall designate a sufficient 
number of safety inspectors to focus on the safety oversight of 
unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace system, taking 
into consideration the current and anticipated--
            (1) budgetary environment; and
            (2) volume of unmanned aircraft system operations.

SEC. 435. SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SAFETY.

    It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the unauthorized operation of unmanned aircraft near 
        airports presents a serious hazard to aviation safety;
            (2) with increasing regularity, pilots are reporting near 
        misses with unmanned aircraft at low altitudes during critical 
        phases of flight, either on final approach or shortly after 
        takeoff;
            (3) a collision between an unmanned aircraft and a 
        conventional aircraft in flight could jeopardize the safety of 
        persons aboard aircraft and on the ground;
            (4) Federal aviation regulations, including sections 91.126 
        through 91.131 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        prohibit unauthorized operation of an aircraft in controlled 
        airspace near an airport;
            (5) Federal aviation regulations, including section 91.13 
        of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, prohibit the 
        operation of an aircraft in a careless or reckless manner so as 
        to endanger the life or property of another;
            (6) the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration should pursue all available civil and 
        administrative remedies available to the Administrator, 
        including referrals to other government agencies for criminal 
        investigations, with respect to persons who operate unmanned 
        aircraft in an unauthorized manner;
            (7) the Administrator should place particular priority on 
        continuing measures, including partnerships with 
        nongovernmental organizations, to educate the public about the 
        dangers to the public safety of operating unmanned aircraft 
        near airports without the appropriate approvals or 
        authorizations; and
            (8) manufacturers and retail sellers of small unmanned 
        aircraft systems should take steps to educate consumers about 
        the safe and lawful operation of such systems.

SEC. 436. UAS PRIVACY REVIEW.

    (a) Review.--The Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with 
the heads of appropriate Federal agencies, appropriate State and local 
officials, and subject-matter experts and in consideration of relevant 
efforts led by the National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration, shall carry out a review to identify any potential 
reduction of privacy specifically caused by integration of unmanned 
aircraft systems into the national airspace system.
    (b) Consultation.--In carrying out the review, the Secretary shall 
consult with the National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration of the Department of Commerce on its ongoing efforts 
responsive to the presidential memorandum titled ``Promoting Economic 
Competitiveness While Safeguarding Privacy, Civil Rights, and Civil 
Liberties in Domestic Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems'' and dated 
February 15, 2015.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the 
results of the review required under subsection (a).

SEC. 437. PUBLIC UAS OPERATIONS BY TRIBAL GOVERNMENTS.

    (a) Public UAS Operations by Tribal Governments.--Section 
40102(a)(41) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at 
the end the following:
                    ``(F) An unmanned aircraft that is owned and 
                operated by, or exclusively leased for at least 90 
                continuous days by, an Indian tribal government, as 
                defined in section 102 of the Robert T. Stafford 
                Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 
                5122), except as provided in section 40125(b).''.
    (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 40125(b) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking ``or (D)'' and inserting ``(D), or 
(F)''.

SEC. 438. FACILITATING UNMANNED AIRCRAFT AUTHORIZATION IN SUPPORT OF 
              FIREFIGHTING OPERATIONS.

    The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
enter into agreements with the Secretary of the Interior and the 
Secretary of Agriculture as necessary to continue the expeditious 
authorization of safe unmanned aircraft system operations in support of 
firefighting operations consistent with the requirements of section 
45504(c) of title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 439. LOW ALTITUDE UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT.

    (a) Establishment of Advisory Committee.--Not later than 90 days 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall establish an advisory committee 
comprised of government representatives and appropriate industry 
representatives to--
            (1) assess the necessity, feasibility, and benefits of 
        establishing unmanned aircraft traffic management systems for 
        airspace between the surface and 400 feet above ground level;
            (2) develop recommendations for government oversight of 
        such systems; and
            (3) address any other issues the advisory panel considers 
        necessary and appropriate.
    (b) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the establishment of the 
advisory committee under subsection (a), the Administrator shall submit 
to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on the findings of the advisory 
committee.
    (c) Sunset.--The advisory committee shall terminate upon 
transmission of the report pursuant to subsection (b).

SEC. 440. UAS DETECTION SYSTEMS PILOT PROGRAM.

    (a) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish 
a pilot program to deploy and evaluate the effectiveness of unmanned 
aircraft detection systems in maintaining the safety of air commerce 
and navigable airspace in light of aviation safety hazards posed by 
unauthorized operations of unmanned aircraft in proximity to airports.
    (b) Participating Airports.--The Secretary shall select not fewer 
than 3 airports in the United States with scheduled commercial air 
service that the Secretary determines to be suitable locations for 
participation in the pilot program.
    (c) Detection Capabilities.--In carrying out the pilot program 
under subsection (a), the Secretary may utilize unmanned aircraft 
detection systems to--
            (1) detect, locate, and track unmanned aircraft;
            (2) detect, locate, and track operators of unmanned 
        aircraft; and
            (3) mitigate unauthorized operations of unmanned aircraft 
        in any airspace in which they may pose an aviation safety risk.
    (d) Limitation.--The Secretary shall ensure that the unmanned 
aircraft detection systems used in carrying out the pilot program do 
not interfere with or harm airport operations, essential navigation 
systems, wireless communications, or the general public.
    (e) Report.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than 18 months after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the 
        pilot program established under subsection (a).
            (2) Contents.--The report submitted under paragraph (1) 
        shall include the following:
                    (A) The number of unauthorized unmanned aircraft 
                operations detected at each participating airport, 
                together with a description of such operations.
                    (B) The number of instances in which unauthorized 
                unmanned aircraft were mitigated pursuant to subsection 
                (c)(3), together with a description of such instances.
                    (C) The number of enforcement cases brought by the 
                Federal Aviation Administration for unauthorized 
                operation of unmanned aircraft detected through the 
                pilot program, together with a description of such 
                cases.
                    (D) The number of any technical failures in the 
                pilot program, together with a description of such 
                failures.
                    (E) Recommendations for safety and operational 
                standards for unmanned aircraft detection systems.
                    (F) The feasibility of deployment of the systems at 
                other airports.
            (3) Format.--To the extent practicable, the report prepared 
        under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in an unclassified 
        format. If necessary, the report may include a classified 
        annex.
    (f) Unmanned Aircraft Detection System Defined.--In this section, 
the term ``unmanned aircraft detection system'' means a system that can 
carry out the activities described in subsection (c).
    (g) Sunset.--The pilot program established under subsection (a) 
shall cease to be effective on the earlier of--
            (1) the date that is 18 months after the date of enactment 
        of this Act; and
            (2) the date of the submission of the report under 
        subsection (e).
    (h) Authority.--After the pilot program ceases to be effective, the 
Secretary may use unmanned aircraft detection systems to detect and 
mitigate the unauthorized operation of unmanned aircraft that pose a 
risk to aviation safety.

SEC. 441. EVALUATION OF AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION FOR SMALL UNMANNED 
              AIRCRAFT.

    (a) Metrics.--Beginning not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall develop and track metrics to assess compliance 
with and effectiveness of the registration of small unmanned aircraft 
systems by the Federal Aviation Administration pursuant to the interim 
final rule issued on December 16, 2015, entitled ``Registration and 
Marking Requirements for Small Unmanned Aircraft'' (80 Fed. Reg. 78593) 
and any subsequent final rule, including metrics with respect to--
            (1) the levels of compliance with the interim final rule 
        and any subsequent final rule;
            (2) the number of enforcement actions taken by the 
        Administration for violations of or noncompliance with the 
        interim final rule and any subsequent final rule, together with 
        a description of the actions; and
            (3) the effect of the interim final rule and any subsequent 
        final rule on compliance with any fees associated with the use 
        of small unmanned aircraft systems.
    (b) Evaluation.--The Inspector General of the Department of 
Transportation shall evaluate--
            (1) the Administration's progress in developing and 
        tracking the metrics set forth in subsection (a); and
            (2) the reliability, effectiveness, and efficiency of the 
        Administration's registration program for small unmanned 
        aircraft.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation 
shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation of the Senate a report containing--
            (1) the results of the evaluation required under subsection 
        (b); and
            (2) recommendations to the Administrator and Congress for 
        improvements to the registration process for small unmanned 
        aircraft.

                   TITLE V--AIR SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS

             Subtitle A--Passenger Air Service Improvements

SEC. 501. FAMILIES TRAVELING TOGETHER.

    Section 41712 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(d) Families Traveling Together.--
            ``(1) In general.--It shall be an unfair or deceptive 
        practice under subsection (a) for any ticket agent, air 
        carrier, foreign air carrier, or other person offering to sell 
        tickets for air transportation to fail to disclose, whether 
        verbally in oral communication or in writing in written or 
        electronic communication, prior to an individual's purchase of 
        more than 1 ticket for a covered flight, the notification in 
        paragraph (2), if such purchase includes a ticket for a child.
            ``(2) Notification.--The notification required under 
        paragraph (1) shall include the following statement: `It is not 
        possible to assign 2 or more seats together on at least 1 of 
        the flights you have selected. Please be advised that you may 
        not be able to sit next to other members of your travel party, 
        even if you are traveling with a child.'.
            ``(3) Definitions.--In this subsection, the following 
        definitions apply:
                    ``(A) Child.--The term `child' means an individual 
                who is less than 13 years of age on the date a covered 
                flight is scheduled to occur.
                    ``(B) Covered flight.--The term `covered flight' 
                means a flight of an air carrier or foreign air carrier 
                in air transportation as to which--
                            ``(i) a purchaser of a ticket may specify 
                        an advance seat assignment, with or without the 
                        assessment of a charge or fee; and
                            ``(ii) 2 or more laterally adjacent seats 
                        are not available on the flight for advance 
                        assignment.''.

SEC. 502. CELL PHONE VOICE COMMUNICATION BAN.

    (a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 417 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 41725. Prohibition on certain cell phone voice communications
    ``(a) Prohibition.--The Secretary of Transportation shall issue 
regulations--
            ``(1) to prohibit an individual on an aircraft from 
        engaging in voice communications using a mobile communications 
        device during a flight of that aircraft in scheduled passenger 
        interstate or intrastate air transportation; and
            ``(2) that exempt from the prohibition described in 
        paragraph (1) any--
                    ``(A) member of the flight crew on duty on an 
                aircraft;
                    ``(B) flight attendant on duty on an aircraft; and
                    ``(C) Federal law enforcement officer acting in an 
                official capacity.
    ``(b) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
            ``(1) Flight.--The term `flight' means, with respect to an 
        aircraft, the period beginning when the aircraft takes off and 
        ending when the aircraft lands.
            ``(2) Mobile communications device.--
                    ``(A) In general.--The term `mobile communications 
                device' means any portable wireless telecommunications 
                equipment utilized for the transmission or reception of 
                voice data.
                    ``(B) Limitation.--The term `mobile communications 
                device' does not include a phone installed on an 
                aircraft.''.
    (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 417 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to 
section 41724 the following:

``41725. Prohibition on certain cell phone voice communications.''.

SEC. 503. AVAILABILITY OF CONSUMER RIGHTS INFORMATION.

    Section 42302(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (2) by striking ``and'' at the end;
            (2) in paragraph (3) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting ``; and''; and
            (3) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(4) the air carrier's customer service plan.''.

SEC. 504. CONSUMER COMPLAINTS HOTLINE.

    Section 42302 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(d) Use of New Technologies.--The Secretary shall periodically 
evaluate the benefits of using mobile phone applications or other 
widely used technologies to provide new means for air passengers to 
communicate complaints in addition to the telephone number established 
under subsection (a) and shall provide such new means as the Secretary 
determines appropriate.''.

SEC. 505. IMPROVED NOTIFICATION OF INSECTICIDE USE.

    Section 42303(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to 
read as follows:
    ``(b) Required Disclosures.--An air carrier, foreign air carrier, 
or ticket agent selling, in the United States, a ticket for a flight in 
foreign air transportation to a country listed on the Internet Web site 
established under subsection (a) shall--
            ``(1) disclose, on its own Internet Web site or through 
        other means, that the destination country may require the air 
        carrier or foreign air carrier to treat an aircraft passenger 
        cabin with insecticides prior to the flight or to apply an 
        aerosol insecticide in an aircraft cabin used for such a flight 
        when the cabin is occupied with passengers; and
            ``(2) refer the purchaser of the ticket to the Internet Web 
        site established under subsection (a) for additional 
        information.''.

SEC. 506. ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR AVIATION CONSUMER PROTECTION.

    Section 411 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 
U.S.C. 42301 prec. note) is amended--
            (1) in subsection (g) by striking ``first 2 calendar 
        years'' and inserting ``first 6 calendar years''; and
            (2) in subsection (h) by striking ``March 31, 2016'' and 
        inserting ``September 30, 2022''.

SEC. 507. DELAYED CHECKED BAGGAGE.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall initiate a rulemaking 
proceeding to require that air carriers refund any baggage fees charged 
to a passenger for checked baggage on a flight in scheduled passenger 
interstate or intrastate air transportation if the checked baggage of 
that passenger is not delivered within the 24-hour period beginning at 
the time of the arrival of the flight of the passenger at the 
destination at which the passenger was to retrieve the checked baggage.
    (b) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) Checked baggage.--
                    (A) In general.--The term ``checked baggage'' means 
                property tendered by or on behalf of a person and 
                accepted for transport by an air carrier providing 
                passenger service, which is inaccessible to passengers 
                during flight.
                    (B) Exclusion.--The term ``checked baggage'' does 
                not include accompanied commercial courier 
                consignments.
            (2) Baggage fee.--The term ``baggage fee'' means fees 
        charged to a passenger by an air carrier solely for the 
        conveyance of checked baggage.

SEC. 508. AIR TRAVEL ACCESSIBILITY.

    Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Secretary of Transportation shall issue the supplemental notice of 
proposed rulemaking referenced in the Secretary's Report on Significant 
Rulemakings, dated June 15, 2015, and assigned Regulation 
Identification Number 2105-AE12.

                Subtitle B--Small Community Air Service

SEC. 531. ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE REFORM.

    Section 41732 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(c) Waiver.--Notwithstanding section 41733(e), at the request of 
an eligible place, the Secretary may waive, in whole or in part, 
subsections (a) and (b) of this section and subsections (a) through (c) 
of section 41734 for the eligible place if the Secretary determines 
that the waiver is--
            ``(1) in the public interest; or
            ``(2) a cost-effective improvement to the quality of air 
        service for the eligible place.''.

SEC. 532. ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE AUTHORIZATION.

    Section 41742(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``Out of the amounts'' and 
        inserting ``For each of fiscal years 2016 through 2019, out of 
        the amounts'';
            (2) in paragraph (2) by striking ``$150,000,000 for fiscal 
        year 2011'' and all that follows before ``to carry out'' and 
        inserting ``$175,000,000 for fiscal year 2016, $178,000,000 for 
        fiscal year 2017, $181,000,000 for fiscal year 2018, and 
        $185,000,000 for fiscal year 2019''; and
            (3) by inserting after paragraph (3) the following:
            ``(4) Authorizations for fiscal years 2020 through 2022.--
        There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out the 
        essential air service program under this subchapter--
                    ``(A) $300,000,000 for fiscal year 2020;
                    ``(B) $308,000,000 for fiscal year 2021; and
                    ``(C) $315,000,000 for fiscal year 2022.''.

SEC. 533. EXTENSION OF FINAL ORDER ESTABLISHING MILEAGE ADJUSTMENT 
              ELIGIBILITY.

    Section 409(d) of the Vision 100--Century of Aviation 
Reauthorization Act (49 U.S.C. 41731 note) is amended by striking 
``March 31, 2016'' and inserting ``September 30, 2022''.

SEC. 534. STUDY ON ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE REFORM.

    (a) Study.--
            (1) In general.--The Comptroller General of the United 
        States shall conduct a study on the effects of section 6 of the 
        Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2011, Part IV (Public Law 
        112-27), section 421 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 
        2012 (Public Law 112-95), and other relevant Federal laws 
        enacted after 2010, including the amendments made by those 
        laws, on the Essential Air Service program.
            (2) Scope.--In conducting the study under paragraph (1), 
        the Comptroller General shall analyze, at a minimum--
                    (A) the impact of each relevant Federal law, 
                including the amendments made by each law, on the 
                Essential Air Service program;
                    (B) what actions communities and air carriers have 
                taken to reduce ticket prices or increase enplanements 
                as a result of each law;
                    (C) the issuance of waivers by the Secretary under 
                section 41731(e) of title 49, United States Code;
                    (D) whether budgetary savings resulted from each 
                law; and
                    (E) options for further reform of the Essential Air 
                Service program.
    (b) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the study conducted under subsection (a).

SEC. 535. SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE.

    (a) Eligibility.--Section 41743(c) of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended--
            (1) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
            ``(1) Size.--On the date of submission of the relevant 
        application under subsection (b), the airport serving the 
        community or consortium--
                    ``(A) is not larger than a small hub airport, as 
                determined using the Department of Transportation's 
                most recently published classification; and
                    ``(B) has--
                            ``(i) insufficient air carrier service; or
                            ``(ii) unreasonably high air fares.''; and
            (2) in paragraph (5)--
                    (A) by redesignating subparagraphs (E) and (F) as 
                subparagraphs (F) and (G), respectively; and
                    (B) by inserting after subparagraph (D) the 
                following:
                    ``(E) the assistance will be used to help restore 
                scheduled passenger air service that has been 
                terminated;''.
    (b) Authorization of Appropriations.--Section 41743(e)(2) of title 
49, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
            ``(2) Authorization of appropriations.--There is authorized 
        to be appropriated to the Secretary $5,000,000 for each of 
        fiscal years 2016 through 2022 to carry out this section. Such 
        sums shall remain available until expended.''.

                        TITLE VI--MISCELLANEOUS

SEC. 601. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION STRATEGIC CYBERSECURITY PLAN.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall prepare and submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report containing a strategic cybersecurity plan for the Federal 
Aviation Administration.
    (b) Contents of Plan.--The strategic cybersecurity plan shall--
            (1) use a total systems approach that takes into account 
        the interactions of different components of the national 
        airspace system;
            (2) identify short- and long-term objectives and actions 
        that can be taken to reduce the vulnerability of the national 
        airspace system to cyberattacks;
            (3) address the cybersecurity risks associated with the 
        modernization of the national airspace system and the 
        automation of aircraft, equipment, and technology; and
            (4) support the Federal Aviation Administration in 
        establishing cybersecurity standards to assist the ATC 
        Corporation in its responsibilities associated with managing 
        air traffic services in a secure manner after the date of 
        transfer, as defined in section 90101(a) of title 49, as added 
        by this Act.

SEC. 602. CONSOLIDATION AND REALIGNMENT OF FAA SERVICES AND FACILITIES.

    (a) In General.--Section 804(a) of the FAA Modernization and Reform 
Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44501 note) is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (2) by striking ``The purpose of the 
        report shall be--'' and all that follows through ``(B) to 
        reduce'' and inserting ``The purpose of the report shall be to 
        reduce''; and
            (2) by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following:
            ``(4) Input.--The report shall be prepared by the 
        Administrator (or the Administrator's designee) with the 
        participation of--
                    ``(A) representatives of labor organizations 
                representing air traffic control system employees of 
                the FAA; and
                    ``(B) industry stakeholders.''.
    (b) FAA Air Traffic Control Facility Consolidation and Realignment 
Projects.--Notwithstanding section 90316(c) of title 49, United States 
Code, as added by this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall 
continue to carry out any consolidation or realignment project 
commenced under section 804 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 
2012.

SEC. 603. METROPOLITAN WASHINGTON AIRPORTS AUTHORITY.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
            (1) the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (in this 
        section referred to as ``MWAA''), which operates Ronald Reagan 
        Washington National Airport and Dulles International Airport by 
        lease with the Department of Transportation, has routinely 
        performed poorly on audits conducted by the Inspector General 
        of the Department of Transportation;
            (2) the responsible stewardship of taxpayer-owned assets by 
        MWAA is of great concern to Congress;
            (3) a March 20, 2015, audit conducted by the Inspector 
        General titled ``MWAA's Office of Audit Does Not Have an 
        Adequate Quality Assurance and Improvement Program'' (Report 
        No. ZA-2015-035) found that MWAA's quality assurance and 
        improvement program did not conform with the standards of the 
        Institute of Internal Auditors; and
            (4) the Inspector General's audit made 7 recommendations to 
        strengthen MWAA governance, its Office of Audit, and its 
        quality assurance and improvement program.
    (b) Implementing Audit Recommendations.--
            (1) Study.--The Inspector General of the Department of 
        Transportation shall conduct a study on MWAA's progress in 
        implementing the recommendations of the audit referred to in 
        subsection (a).
            (2) Report.--The Inspector General shall submit to the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate a report on the study, including 
        the Inspector General's findings, conclusions, and 
        recommendations for strengthening and improving MWAA's Office 
        of Audit.

SEC. 604. AIRCRAFT NOISE EXPOSURE.

    (a) Review.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall conduct a review of the relationship between 
aircraft noise exposure and its effects on communities around airports.
    (b) Report.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than 3 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to 
        Congress a report containing the results of the review.
            (2) Preliminary recommendations.--The report shall contain 
        such preliminary recommendations as the Administrator 
        determines appropriate for revising the land use compatibility 
        guidelines in part 150 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, based on the results of the review and in 
        coordination with other agencies.

SEC. 605. FAA REVIEW AND REFORM.

    (a) Agency Report.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a detailed analysis 
of any actions taken to address the findings and recommendations 
included in the report required under section 812(d) of the FAA 
Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 106 note), including--
            (1) consolidating, phasing-out, or eliminating duplicative 
        positions, programs, roles, or offices;
            (2) eliminating or streamlining wasteful practices;
            (3) eliminating or phasing-out redundant, obsolete, or 
        unnecessary functions;
            (4) reforming and streamlining inefficient processes so 
        that the activities of the Administration are completed in an 
        expedited and efficient manner; and
            (5) reforming or eliminating ineffectual or outdated 
        policies.
    (b) Additional Review.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
transfer, as defined in section 90101(a) of title 49, United States 
Code, as added by this Act, the Administrator shall undertake and 
complete a thorough review of each program, office, and organization 
within the Administration to identify--
            (1) duplicative positions, programs, roles, or offices;
            (2) wasteful practices;
            (3) redundant, obsolete, or unnecessary functions;
            (4) inefficient processes; and
            (5) ineffectual or outdated policies.
    (c) Actions To Streamline and Reform FAA.--Not later than 60 days 
after the date of completion of the review under subsection (b), the 
Administrator shall undertake such actions as may be necessary to 
address the findings of the Administrator under such subsection.
    (d) Report to Congress.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
completion of the review under subsection (b), the Administrator shall 
submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on the actions taken by the 
Administrator pursuant to subsection (c), including any recommendations 
for legislative or administrative actions.

SEC. 606. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON ONE ENGINE INOPERATIVE PROCEDURES.

    It is the sense of Congress that the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration should--
            (1) carefully consider all comments that are submitted on 
        the proposed policy regarding the impact of one engine 
        inoperative procedures in obstruction evaluation aeronautical 
        studies; and
            (2) work with relevant stakeholders to preserve safety and 
        efficiency while balancing the important needs of communities, 
        airports, and airport users.

SEC. 607. AVIATION FUEL.

    (a) Use of Unleaded Aviation Gasoline.--The Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall allow the use of an unleaded 
aviation gasoline in an aircraft as a replacement for a leaded gasoline 
if the Administrator--
            (1) determines that an unleaded aviation gasoline qualifies 
        as a replacement for an approved leaded gasoline;
            (2) identifies the aircraft and engines that are eligible 
        to use the qualified replacement unleaded gasoline; and
            (3) adopts a process (other than the traditional means of 
        certification) to allow eligible aircraft and engines to 
        operate using qualified replacement unleaded gasoline in a 
        manner that ensures safety.
    (b) Timing.--The Administrator shall adopt the process described in 
subsection (a)(3) not later than 180 days after the later of--
            (1) the date of completion of the Piston Aviation Fuels 
        Initiative of the Administration; or
            (2) the date of publication of an American Society for 
        Testing and Materials Production Specification for an unleaded 
        aviation gasoline.

SEC. 608. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.

    (a) Passenger Facility Charges.--Section 40117(a)(5) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking ``charge or charge'' and 
inserting ``charge''.
    (b) Adjustments to Compensation for Significantly Increased 
Costs.--Section 426 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 is 
amended--
            (1) in subsection (a) (49 U.S.C. 41737 note) by striking 
        ``Secretary'' and inserting ``Secretary of Transportation''; 
        and
            (2) in subsection (c) (49 U.S.C. 41731 note) by striking 
        ``the Secretary may waive'' and inserting ``the Secretary of 
        Transportation may waive''.
    (c) Aircraft Departure Queue Management Pilot Program.--Section 
507(a) of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44505 
note) is amended by striking ``section 48101(a)'' and inserting 
``section 48101(a) of title 49, United States Code,''.

SEC. 609. RIGHT TO PRIVACY WHEN USING AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM.

    Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Federal Aviation 
Administration or the ATC Corporation, as appropriate, shall, upon 
request of a private aircraft owner or operator, block the registration 
number of the aircraft of the owner or operator from any public 
dissemination or display, except in data made available to a Government 
agency, for the noncommercial flights of the owner or operator.

SEC. 610. AIR SHOWS.

    On an annual basis, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall work with representatives of Administration-
approved air shows, the general aviation community, and stadiums and 
other large outdoor events and venues to identify and resolve, to the 
maximum extent practicable, scheduling conflicts between 
Administration-approved air shows and large outdoor events and venues 
where--
            (1) flight restrictions will be imposed pursuant to section 
        521 of title V of division F of Public Law 108-199 (118 Stat. 
        343); or
            (2) any other restriction will be imposed pursuant to 
        Federal Aviation Administration Flight Data Center Notice to 
        Airmen 4/3621 (or any successor notice to airmen).

SEC. 611. FEDERAL AUTHORITY.

    (a) In General.--Section 14501(c) of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``paragraphs (2) and (3)'' 
        and inserting ``paragraphs (3) and (4)'';
            (2) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (5) as 
        paragraphs (3) through (6) respectively;
            (3) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
            ``(2) Additional limitations.--
                    ``(A) A State, political subdivision of a State, or 
                political authority of 2 or more States may not enact 
                or enforce a law, regulation, or other provision having 
                the force and effect of law prohibiting employees whose 
                hours of service are subject to regulation by the 
                Secretary under section 31502 from working to the full 
                extent permitted or at such times as permitted under 
                such section, or imposing any additional obligations on 
                motor carriers if such employees work to the full 
                extent or at such times as permitted under such 
                section, including any related activities regulated 
                under part 395 of title 49, Code of Federal 
                Regulations.
                    ``(B) A State, political subdivision of a State, or 
                political authority of 2 or more States may not enact 
                or enforce a law, regulation, or other provision having 
                the force and effect of law that requires a motor 
                carrier that compensates employees on a piece-rate 
                basis to pay those employees separate or additional 
                compensation, provided that the motor carrier pays the 
                employee a total sum that when divided by the total 
                number of hours worked during the corresponding work 
                period is equal to or greater than the applicable 
                hourly minimum wage of the State, political subdivision 
                of the State, or political authority of 2 or more 
                States.
                    ``(C) Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed 
                to limit the provisions of paragraph (1).'';
            (4) in paragraph (3) (as redesignated) by striking 
        ``Paragraph (1)--'' and inserting ``Paragraphs (1) and (2)--''; 
        and
            (5) in paragraph (4)(A) (as redesignated) by striking 
        ``Paragraph (1)'' and inserting ``Paragraphs (1) and (2)''.
    (b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall have 
the force and effect as if enacted on the date of enactment of the 
Federal Aviation Administration Authorization Act of 1994 (Public Law 
103-305).

SEC. 612. PART 91 REVIEW, REFORM, AND STREAMLINING.

    (a) Establishment of Task Force.--Not later than 90 days after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall establish a task force comprised of 
representatives of the general aviation industry who regularly perform 
part 91 operations, labor unions (including those representing FAA 
aviation safety inspectors and FAA aviation safety engineers), 
manufacturers, and the Government to--
            (1) conduct an assessment of the FAA oversight and 
        authorization processes and requirements for aircraft under 
        part 91; and
            (2) make recommendations to streamline the applicable 
        authorization and approval processes, improve safety, and 
        reduce regulatory cost burdens and delays for the FAA and 
        aircraft owners and operators who operate pursuant to part 91.
    (b) Contents.--In conducting the assessment and making 
recommendations under subsection (a), the task force shall consider--
            (1) process reforms and improvements to allow the FAA to 
        review and approve applications in a fair and timely fashion;
            (2) the appropriateness of requiring an authorization for 
        each experimental aircraft rather than using a broader all 
        makes and models approach;
            (3) ways to improve the timely response to letters of 
        authorization applications for aircraft owners and operators 
        who operate pursuant to part 91, including setting deadlines 
        and granting temporary or automatic authorizations if deadlines 
        are missed by the FAA;
            (4) methods for enhancing the effective use of delegation 
        systems;
            (5) methods for training the FAA's field office employees 
        in risk-based and safety management system oversight; and
            (6) such other matters related to streamlining part 91 
        authorization and approval processes as the task force 
        considers appropriate.
    (c) Report to Congress.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the 
        task force's assessment.
            (2) Contents.--The report shall include an explanation of 
        how the Administrator will--
                    (A) implement the recommendations of the task 
                force;
                    (B) measure progress in implementing the 
                recommendations; and
                    (C) measure the effectiveness of the implemented 
                recommendations.
    (d) Implementation of Recommendations.--Not later than 18 months 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall 
implement the recommendations made under this section.
    (e) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) FAA.--The term ``FAA'' means the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
            (2) Part 91.--The term ``part 91'' means part 91 of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    (f) Applicable Law.--Public Law 92-463 shall not apply to the task 
force.
    (g) Sunset.--The task force shall terminate on the day the 
Administrator submits the report required under subsection (c).

SEC. 613. AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION.

    Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall initiate 
a rulemaking to increase the duration of aircraft registrations for 
noncommercial general aviation aircraft to 10 years.

SEC. 614. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IN FAA NEXTGEN PROJECTS LOCATED IN 
              METROPLEXES.

    (a) Community Involvement Policy.--Not later than 180 days after 
the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall complete a review of the Federal Aviation 
Administration's community involvement practices for Next Generation 
Air Transportation System (NextGen) projects located in metroplexes 
identified by the Administration. The review shall include, at a 
minimum, a determination of how and when to engage airports and 
communities in performance based navigation proposals.
    (b) Report.--Not later than 60 days after completion of the review, 
the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on--
            (1) how the Administration will improve community 
        involvement practices for NextGen projects located in 
        metroplexes;
            (2) how and when the Administration will engage airports 
        and communities in performance based navigation proposals; and
            (3) lessons learned from NextGen projects and pilot 
        programs and how those lessons learned are being integrated 
        into community involvement practices for future NextGen 
        projects located in metroplexes.

SEC. 615. AIR TRANSPORTATION OF LITHIUM CELLS AND BATTERIES.

    (a) Cooperative Efforts To Ensure Compliance With Safety 
Regulations.--
            (1) In general.--The Secretary of Transportation, in 
        coordination with appropriate Federal agencies, shall carry out 
        cooperative efforts to ensure that shippers who offer lithium 
        ion and lithium metal batteries for air transport to or from 
        the United States comply with U.S. Hazardous Materials 
        Regulations and ICAO Technical Instructions.
            (2) Cooperative efforts.--The cooperative efforts the 
        Secretary shall carry out pursuant to paragraph (1) include the 
        following:
                    (A) Encouraging training programs at locations 
                outside the United States from which substantial cargo 
                shipments of lithium ion or lithium metal batteries 
                originate for manufacturers, freight forwarders, and 
                other shippers and potential shippers of lithium ion 
                and lithium metal batteries.
                    (B) Working with Federal and international 
                transportation agencies to ensure enforcement of U.S. 
                Hazardous Materials Regulations and ICAO Technical 
                Instructions with respect to shippers who offer 
                noncompliant shipments of lithium ion and lithium metal 
                batteries.
                    (C) Providing information in brochures and on the 
                Internet in appropriate foreign languages and dialects 
                that describes the actions required to comply with U.S. 
                Hazardous Materials Regulations and ICAO Technical 
                Instructions.
                    (D) Developing joint efforts with the international 
                aviation community to promote a better understanding of 
                the requirements of and methods of compliance with U.S. 
                Hazardous Materials Regulations and ICAO Technical 
                Instructions.
            (3) Reporting.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for 2 years, the 
        Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
        Senate a report on the cooperative efforts carried out, or 
        planned to be carried out, under paragraph (1).
            (4) Definitions.--In this subsection, the following 
        definitions apply:
                    (A) ICAO technical instructions.--The term ``ICAO 
                Technical Instructions'' has the meaning given that 
                term in section 828(c) of the FAA Modernization and 
                Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44701 note).
                    (B) U.S. hazardous materials regulations.--The term 
                ``U.S. Hazardous Materials Regulations'' means the 
                regulations in parts 100 through 177 of title 49, Code 
                of Federal Regulations (including amendments adopted 
                after the date of enactment of this Act).
    (b) Lithium Ion Battery Air Safety Advisory Committee.--
            (1) Establishment.--Not later than 60 days after the date 
        of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish, in 
        accordance with the requirements of the Federal Advisory 
        Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.), a lithium ion battery air safety 
        advisory committee (in this subsection referred to as the 
        ``Committee'').
            (2) Duties.--The Committee shall--
                    (A) facilitate communication between manufacturers 
                of lithium ion cells and batteries, manufacturers of 
                products incorporating both large and small lithium ion 
                batteries, air carriers, and the Federal Government 
                regarding the safe air transportation of lithium ion 
                cells and batteries and the effectiveness and economic 
                and social impacts of the regulation of such 
                transportation;
                    (B) provide the Secretary, the Federal Aviation 
                Administration, and the Pipeline and Hazardous 
                Materials Safety Administration with timely information 
                about the development of lithium ion battery technology 
                and transportation safety practices and methodologies;
                    (C) provide a forum for the Secretary to provide 
                information on and to discuss the activities of the 
                Department of Transportation relating to lithium ion 
                battery transportation safety, the policies underlying 
                the activities, and positions to be advocated in 
                international forums;
                    (D) provide a forum for the Secretary to provide 
                information and receive advice on--
                            (i) activities carried out throughout the 
                        world to communicate and enforce relevant 
                        United States regulations and the ICAO 
                        Technical Instructions (as defined in 
                        subsection (a)(4)); and
                            (ii) the effectiveness of the activities; 
                        and
                    (E) provide advice and recommendations to the 
                Secretary with respect to lithium ion battery 
                transportation safety.
            (3) Membership.--The Committee shall be composed of the 
        following members:
                    (A) Individuals appointed by the Secretary to 
                represent--
                            (i) large volume manufacturers of lithium 
                        ion cells and batteries;
                            (ii) domestic manufacturers of lithium ion 
                        batteries or battery packs;
                            (iii) manufacturers of consumer products 
                        powered by lithium ion batteries;
                            (iv) manufacturers of vehicles powered by 
                        lithium ion batteries;
                            (v) marketers of products powered by 
                        lithium ion batteries;
                            (vi) cargo air service providers based in 
                        the United States;
                            (vii) passenger air service providers based 
                        in the United States;
                            (viii) employees of air service providers 
                        described in clauses (vi) and (vii); and
                            (ix) employees of the Department of 
                        Transportation.
                    (B) Representatives of such other Government 
                departments and agencies as the Secretary determines 
                appropriate.
                    (C) Any other individuals the Secretary determines 
                are appropriate to comply with Federal law.
            (4) Report.--
                    (A) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the 
                establishment of the Committee, the Committee shall 
                submit to the Secretary, the Committee on 
                Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
                Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, 
                Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report 
                that--
                            (i) describes and evaluates the steps being 
                        taken in the private sector and by 
                        international regulatory authorities to 
                        implement and enforce requirements relating to 
                        the safe transportation of bulk shipments of 
                        lithium ion cells and batteries; and
                            (ii) identifies any areas of enforcement or 
                        regulatory requirements for which there is 
                        consensus that greater attention is needed.
                    (B) Independent statements.--Each member of the 
                Committee shall be provided an opportunity to submit an 
                independent statement of views with the report 
                submitted pursuant to subparagraph (A).
            (5) Termination.--The Committee shall terminate on the date 
        that is 6 years after the date on which the Committee is 
        established.
            (6) Termination of future of aviation advisory committee.--
        The Future of Aviation Advisory Committee shall terminate on 
        the date on which the lithium ion battery air safety advisory 
        committee is established.
    (c) Carriage of Lithium Ion Batteries as Cargo on Passenger 
Aircraft.--
            (1) Rulemaking proceeding.--The Secretary of Transportation 
        shall conduct a rulemaking proceeding to implement the 
        amendments to the ICAO Technical Instructions related to the 
        carriage of lithium ion batteries as cargo on passenger 
        aircraft.
            (2) Harmonization with icao technical instructions.--The 
        Secretary (including any designee of the Secretary) may not 
        issue or enforce any regulation or other requirement regarding 
        the transportation by aircraft of lithium ion cells or 
        batteries, whether transported separately or packed with or 
        contained in equipment, if the requirement is more stringent 
        than the requirements of the ICAO Technical Instructions (as 
        defined in subsection (a)(4)).
    (d) Packaging Improvements.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with 
interested stakeholders, shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate an 
evaluation of current practices for the packaging of lithium ion 
batteries and cells, including recommendations, if any, to improve the 
packaging of such batteries and cells in a safe, efficient, and cost-
effective manner.

SEC. 616. REMOTE TOWER PILOT PROGRAM FOR RURAL OR SMALL COMMUNITIES.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish 
a pilot program under which, upon approval of an application submitted 
by an operator of a public-use airport, the Secretary shall install and 
operate at the airport a remote air traffic control tower in order to 
assess the operational benefits of remote air traffic control towers.
    (b) Applications.--The operator of an airport seeking to 
participate in the pilot program shall submit to the Secretary for 
approval an application that is in such form and contains such 
information as the Secretary may require.
    (c) Selection Criteria.--
            (1) Selection of airports.--From among the applications 
        submitted under subsection (b), the Secretary, after 
        consultation with representatives of labor organizations 
        representing operators and employees of the air traffic control 
        system, shall select for participation in the pilot program 7 
        airports as follows:
                    (A) 1 nonhub, primary airport.
                    (B) 3 nonprimary airports without existing air 
                traffic control towers.
                    (C) 2 airports with air traffic control towers 
                participating in a program established under section 
                47124 of title 49, United States Code.
                    (D) 1 airport selected at the discretion of the 
                Secretary.
            (2) Priority selection.--In selecting from among the 
        applications submitted under subsection (b), the Secretary 
        shall give priority to applicants that can best demonstrate the 
        capabilities and potential of remote air traffic control 
        towers.
            (3) Authority to reallocate airport selection.--If the 
        Secretary receives an insufficient number of applications, the 
        Secretary may reallocate the distribution of airport sites 
        described in paragraph (1).
            (4) Multiple remote facilities.--If practicable and 
        necessary, the 2 remote air traffic control towers installed at 
        reliever airports pursuant to paragraph (1)(B) may co-locate 
        remote facilities to assess the benefits and efficiencies of 
        consolidating such facilities.
    (d) Asset Classification.--A remote air traffic control tower, 
including ancillary equipment, installed with Government funds pursuant 
to this section shall be considered to be an air navigation facility.
    (e) Safety Risk Management Panel.--
            (1) Safety risk management panel meeting.--Prior to the 
        operational use of a remote air traffic control tower, the 
        Secretary shall convene a safety risk management panel for the 
        tower to address any safety issues with respect to the tower.
            (2) Safety risk management panel best practices.--The 
        safety risk management panels shall be created and utilized in 
        a manner similar to that of safety risk management panels 
        previously established for remote air traffic control towers, 
        taking into account best practices that have been developed.
    (f) Definitions.--
            (1) In general.--In this section, the following definitions 
        apply:
                    (A) Air navigation facility.--The term ``air 
                navigation facility'' has the meaning given that term 
                in section 40102(a) of title 49, United States Code.
                    (B) Remote air traffic control tower.--The term 
                ``remote air traffic control tower'' means a remotely 
                operated air navigation facility, including all 
                necessary system components, that provides the 
                functions and capabilities of an air traffic control 
                tower.
            (2) Applicability of other definitions.--The terms ``nonhub 
        airport'', ``primary airport'', ``public-use airport'', and 
        ``reliever airport'' have the meanings given such terms in 
        section 47102 of title 49, United States Code.
    (g) Sunset.--The pilot program shall terminate on the day before 
the date of transfer, as defined in section 90101(a) of title 49, 
United States Code, as added by this Act.
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