[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 144 (Monday, October 12, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S12356]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       1999--THE YEAR OF AVIATION

  Mr. LOTT. Mr. President, despite the fact that the Senate passed S. 
2279, the Wendell H. Ford National Air Transportation System 
Improvement Act of 1998, it looks like next year will be the year for 
aviation. This is disappointing, since S. 2279 promised to bring much 
needed air service to underserved communities throughout the Nation--a 
promise that will be delayed.
  The first session of the 106th Congress should prove to be an 
important year for our Nation's air passengers. My top aviation policy 
priority remains to increase regional jet competition and flight 
service to smaller markets. Most Americans do not live in ``Hub'' 
cities and thus do not benefit from the range of choices and 
concentration of air service options. I look forward to working with my 
colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, and on the Commerce Committee 
to insure that rural and underserved communities receive adequate air 
transportation with improved flight service and more affordable airline 
tickets.
  Commerce Committee Chairman McCain has been a tremendous help. He 
understands the needs of underserved markets, and fully appreciates 
that adequate and affordable air service is a vital economic 
development issue for smaller cities. He too wants to improve the 
quality and quantity of flights originating from smaller airports. He 
gets it. I look forward to working with the chairman to build upon the 
principles set forth in the Ford Act.
  Senator Slade Gorton of Washington, chairman of the Subcomittee on 
Aviation, has provided pivotal guidance and has been instrumental in 
bringing focus to the many aspects of aviation. His inclusive and 
enthusiastic approach has engaged all who work with him.
  Additionally, Senator Bill Frist proved to be a great asset and a 
very effective advocate for the rural aviation community during this 
past session. His hard work brought small and underserved communities 
closer to receiving much needed public policy changes for flight 
service improvements. I look forward to looking with him in the next 
Congress to insure that small town America's aviation interests are 
met.
  Aviation policy always effects the management and administration of 
local airports. Mr. Dirk Vanderleest of the Jackson International 
Airport is one outstanding Mississippi airport director that counseled 
me on the needs of small and under served markets. His wisdom is 
cherished, and his efforts to push Mississippi's aviation priorities 
are appreciated.
  Mr. Gene Smith of the Golden Triangle Regional Airport in Columbus 
also counseled me on Mississippi's aviation needs. He served as a 
member of the National Civil Aviation Review Commission and 
distinguished himself as a supporter for regional jet air 
transportation. I hope the recommendations made by Mr. Smith and the 
other Commissioners are not overlooked in the next Congress. I look 
forward to his continued input in our Nation's future aviation policy 
discussions.
  Next year will be a watershed year for aviation policy. Quality air 
service for all Americans should be the focus of any aviation 
legislation. Quality air service is good for economic development, and 
it is good for Americans in the 21st Century.

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