[House Report 118-138]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]


                                                Union Calendar No. 109 

118th Congress   }                                       {      Report
                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
 1st Session     }                                       {     118-138
_______________________________________________________________________

                                     



     SECURING GROWTH AND ROBUST LEADERSHIP IN AMERICAN AVIATION ACT

                               ----------                              

                              R E P O R T

                                 of the

             COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE

                              to accompany

                               H.R. 3935










[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]








 July 11, 2023.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the 
              state of the Union and ordered to be printed  
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
                                                Union Calendar No. 109 

118th Congress   }                                       {      Report
                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
 1st Session     }                                       {     118-138
_______________________________________________________________________

                                     



     SECURING GROWTH AND ROBUST LEADERSHIP IN AMERICAN AVIATION ACT

                               __________

                              R E P O R T

                                 of the

             COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE

                              to accompany

                               H.R. 3935








[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]








 July 11, 2023.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the 
              state of the Union and ordered to be printed   
              
                             _________
                              
                 U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE
                 
52-807                   WASHINGTON : 2023     
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
118th Congress   }                                       {      Report
                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
 1st Session     }                                       {     118-138

======================================================================



 
     SECURING GROWTH AND ROBUST LEADERSHIP IN AMERICAN AVIATION ACT

                                _______
                                

 July 11, 2023.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the 
              State of the Union and ordered to be printed

                                _______
                                

   Mr. Graves of Missouri, from the Committee on Transportation and 
                Infrastructure, submitted the following

                              R E P O R T

                        [To accompany H.R. 3935]

    The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, to whom 
was referred the bill (H.R. 3935) to amend title 49, United 
States Code, to reauthorize and improve the Federal Aviation 
Administration and other civil aviation programs, and for other 
purposes, having considered the same, reports favorably thereon 
with an amendment and recommends that the bill as amended do 
pass.

                                CONTENTS

                                                                   Page
Purpose of Legislation...........................................   209
Background and Need for Legislation..............................   209
Hearings.........................................................   214
Legislative History and Consideration............................   216
Committee Votes..................................................   274
Committee Oversight Findings and Recommendations.................   278
New Budget Authority and Tax Expenditures........................   279
Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate........................   279
Performance Goals and Objectives.................................   279
Duplication of Federal Programs..................................   279
Congressional Earmarks, Limited Tax Benefits, and Limited Tariff 
  Benefits.......................................................   279
Federal Mandates Statement.......................................   280
Preemption Clarification.........................................   280
Advisory Committee Statement.....................................   280
Applicability to Legislative Branch..............................   280
Section-By-Section Analysis of The Legislation...................   280
    Title I: Authorizations and FAA Organizational Reform........   280
    Title II: General Aviation...................................   286
    Title III: Aerospace Workforce...............................   294
    Title IV: Airport Infrastructure.............................   299
    Title V: Aviation Safety.....................................   308
    Title VI: Aerospace Innovation...............................   319
    Title VII: Passenger Experience Improvements.................   329
    Title VIII: Miscellaneous....................................   336
    Title IX: National Transportation Safety Board Amendments Act 
      of 2023....................................................   342
    Title X: Freedom to Fly Act of 2023..........................   345
Changes in Existing Law Made by the Bill, as Reported............   346
Committee Correspondence.........................................   756

    The amendment is as follows:
  Strike all after the enacting clause and insert the 
following:

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

  (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Securing Growth and 
Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act''.
  (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as 
follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.

         TITLE I--AUTHORIZATIONS AND FAA ORGANIZATIONAL REFORM

                       Subtitle A--Authorizations

Sec. 101. Airport planning and development and noise compatibility 
planning and programs.
Sec. 102. Facilities and equipment.
Sec. 103. Operations.
Sec. 104. Extension of miscellaneous expiring authorities.

                 Subtitle B--FAA Organizational Reform

Sec. 121. FAA leadership.
Sec. 122. FAA management board.
Sec. 123. Prohibition on conflicting pecuniary interests.
Sec. 124. Authority of Secretary and Administrator.
Sec. 125. Review of FAA rulemaking processes.
Sec. 126. Office of Innovation.
Sec. 127. Frank A. LoBiondo National Aerospace Safety and Security 
Campus.
Sec. 128. Technical Center for Advanced Aerospace.
Sec. 129. Office of NextGen sunset.
Sec. 130. FAA Ombudsman.
Sec. 131. Project dashboards and feedback portal.
Sec. 132. Sense of Congress on FAA engagement during rulemaking 
activities.
Sec. 133. Civil Aeromedical Institute.
Sec. 134. Management advisory council.
Sec. 135. Aviation noise officer.
Sec. 136. Chief Operating Officer.
Sec. 137. Report on unfunded capital investment needs of air traffic 
control system.
Sec. 138. Chief Technology Officer.
Sec. 139. Definition of air traffic control system.
Sec. 140. Peer review of Office of Whistleblower Protection and 
Aviation Safety Investigations.
Sec. 141. Cybersecurity lead.
Sec. 142. Reducing FAA waste, inefficiency, and unnecessary 
responsibilities.

                       TITLE II--GENERAL AVIATION

         Subtitle A--Expanding Pilot Privileges and Protections

Sec. 201. Reexamination of pilots or certificate holders.
Sec. 202. GAO review of Pilot's Bill of Rights.
Sec. 203. Expansion of BasicMed.
Sec. 204. Data privacy.
Sec. 205. Prohibition on using ADS-B data to initiate an investigation.
Sec. 206. Prohibition on N-Number profiteering.
Sec. 207. Accountability for aircraft registration numbers.
Sec. 208. Timely resolution of investigations.
Sec. 209. Expansion of volunteer pilot organization definition.
Sec. 210. Charitable flight fuel reimbursement exemptions.
Sec. 211. GAO report on charitable flights.
Sec. 212. All makes and models authorization.
Sec. 213. Response to letter of investigation.

                  Subtitle B--General Aviation Safety

Sec. 221. ADS-B safety enhancement incentive program.
Sec. 222. GAO report on ADS-B technology.
Sec. 223. Protecting general aviation airports from FAA closure.
Sec. 224. Ensuring safe landings during off-airport operations.
Sec. 225. Airport diagram terminology.
Sec. 226. Alternative ADS-B technologies for use in certain small 
aircraft.
Sec. 227. Airshow safety team.
Sec. 228. Tower marking notice of proposed rulemaking.

                   Subtitle C--Improving FAA Services

Sec. 241. Aircraft registration validity during renewal.
Sec. 242. Temporary airman certificates.
Sec. 243. Flight instruction or testing.
Sec. 244. Letter of deviation authority.
Sec. 245. National coordination and oversight of designated pilot 
examiners.
Sec. 246. BasicMed for examiners administering tests or proficiency 
checks.
Sec. 247. Designee locator tool improvements.
Sec. 248. Deadline to eliminate aircraft registration backlog.
Sec. 249. Part 135 air carrier certificate backlog.
Sec. 250. Logging flight time accrued in certain public aircraft.
Sec. 251. Flight instructor certificates.
Sec. 252. Consistency of policy application in flight standards and 
aircraft certification.
Sec. 253. Application of policies, orders, and guidance.
Sec. 254. Expansion of the regulatory consistency communications board.
Sec. 255. Exemption of fees for air traffic services.
Sec. 256. Modernization of special airworthiness certification 
rulemaking deadline.
Sec. 257. Termination of designees.
Sec. 258. Part 135 check airmen reforms.

                      Subtitle D--Other Provisions

Sec. 261. Required consultation with National Parks Overflights 
Advisory Group.
Sec. 262. Supplemental oxygen regulatory reform.
Sec. 263. Exclusion of gyroplanes from fuel system requirements.
Sec. 264. Airshow venue information, awareness, training, and education 
program.
Sec. 265. Low altitude rotorcraft and powered-lift operations.
Sec. 266. BasicMed in North America.
Sec. 267. Eliminate aviation gasoline lead emissions.

                     TITLE III--AEROSPACE WORKFORCE

                  Subtitle A--Growing the Talent Pool

Sec. 301. Extension of aviation workforce development programs.
Sec. 302. Improving aviation workforce development programs.
Sec. 303. National Center for the Advancement of Aerospace.
Sec. 304. Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and Employment 
Readiness Program.
Sec. 305. Repeal of duplicative or obsolete workforce programs.
Sec. 306. Civil airmen statistics.
Sec. 307. Bessie Coleman Women in Aviation Advisory Committee.
Sec. 308. Establishing a comprehensive web-based aviation resource 
center.
Sec. 309. Direct hire authority from UAS Collegiate Training 
Initiative.

     Subtitle B--Improving Training and Rebuilding Talent Pipelines

Sec. 311. Joint aviation employment training working group.
Sec. 312. Airman knowledge testing working group.
Sec. 313. Airman Certification System Working Group and timely 
publication of standards.
Sec. 314. Air traffic control workforce staffing.
Sec. 315. Aviation safety workforce assessment.
Sec. 316. Military aviation maintenance.

            Subtitle C--Engaging and Retaining the Workforce

Sec. 321. Airman's medical bill of rights.
Sec. 322. Improved designee misconduct reporting process.
Sec. 323. Report on safe uniform options for certain aviation 
employees.
Sec. 324. Extension of Samya Rose Stumo national air grant fellowship 
program.
Sec. 325. Promotion of civil aeronautics and safety of air commerce.
Sec. 326. Educational and professional development.
Sec. 327. Human factors professionals.
Sec. 328. Aeromedical innovation and modernization working group.
Sec. 329. Frontline manager workload study.
Sec. 330. Age standards for pilots.

                    TITLE IV--AIRPORT INFRASTRUCTURE

         Subtitle A--Airport Improvement Program Modifications

Sec. 401. AIP definitions.
Sec. 402. Revenue diversion penalty enhancement.
Sec. 403. Extension of competitive access report requirement.
Sec. 404. Renewal of certain leases.
Sec. 405. Community use of airport land.
Sec. 406. Price adjustment provisions.
Sec. 407. Allowable project costs and letters of intent.
Sec. 408. Small airport letters of intent.
Sec. 409. Prohibition on use of AIP funds to procure certain passenger 
boarding bridges.
Sec. 410. Fuel infrastructure.
Sec. 411. Apportionments.
Sec. 412. PFC turnback reduction.
Sec. 413. Transfer of AIP supplemental funds to formula program.
Sec. 414. Small airport fund.
Sec. 415. Revision of discretionary categories.
Sec. 416. Terminal development.
Sec. 417. State block grant program.
Sec. 418. Innovative financing techniques.
Sec. 419. Long-term management plans.
Sec. 420. Alternative project delivery.
Sec. 421. Nonmovement area surveillance surface display systems pilot 
program.
Sec. 422. Repeal of obsolete criminal provisions.
Sec. 423. Limitation on certain rolling stock procurements.
Sec. 424. Regulatory application.
Sec. 425. National priority system formulas.
Sec. 426. Minority and disadvantaged business participation.
Sec. 427. Airport access roads in remote locations.
Sec. 428. Limited regulation of nonfederally sponsored property.
Sec. 429. Motorcoach enplanement pilot program.
Sec. 430. Populous counties without airports.
Sec. 431. Continued availability of aviation gasoline.
Sec. 432. AIP handbook update.
Sec. 433. GAO audit of airport financial reporting program.
Sec. 434. GAO review of nonaeronautical revenue streams at airports.
Sec. 435. Maintaining safe fire and rescue staffing levels.
Sec. 436. GAO study of onsite airport generation.
Sec. 437. Transportation demand management at airports.
Sec. 438. Coastal airports assessment.
Sec. 439. Airport investment partnership program.
Sec. 440. GAO study on per-trip airport fees for TNC consumers.
Sec. 441. Special rule for reclassification of certain unclassified 
airports.
Sec. 442. Permanent solar powered taxiway edge lighting systems.
Sec. 443. Secondary runways.
Sec. 444. Increasing the energy efficiency of airports and meeting 
current and future electrical power demands.
Sec. 445. Electric aircraft infrastructure pilot program.
Sec. 446. Curb management practices.

                 Subtitle B--Passenger Facility Charges

Sec. 461. PFC application approvals.
Sec. 462. PFC authorization pilot program implementation.

     Subtitle C--Noise and Environmental Programs and Streamlining

Sec. 471. Streamlining consultation process.
Sec. 472. Repeal of burdensome emissions credit requirements.
Sec. 473. Expedited environmental review and One Federal Decision.
Sec. 474. Subchapter III definitions.
Sec. 475. Pilot program extension.
Sec. 476. Part 150 noise standards update.
Sec. 477. Reducing community aircraft noise exposure.
Sec. 478. Categorical exclusions.
Sec. 479. Critical habitat on or near airport property.
Sec. 480. Updating presumed to conform limits.
Sec. 481. Recommendations on reducing rotorcraft noise in District of 
Columbia.
Sec. 482. UFP study.
Sec. 483. Aviation and airport community engagement.
Sec. 484. Community Collaboration Program.
Sec. 485. Third party study on aviation noise metrics.
Sec. 486. Information sharing requirement.

                        TITLE V--AVIATION SAFETY

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

Sec. 501. Zero tolerance for near misses, runway incursions, and 
surface safety risks.
Sec. 502. Global aviation safety.
Sec. 503. Availability of personnel for inspections, site visits, and 
training.
Sec. 504. Helicopter air ambulance operations.
Sec. 505. Global aircraft maintenance safety improvements.
Sec. 506. ODA best practice sharing.
Sec. 507. Training of organization delegation authority unit members.
Sec. 508. Clarification on safety management system information 
disclosure.
Sec. 509. Extension of Aircraft Certification, Safety, and 
Accountability Act reporting requirements.
Sec. 510. Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative.
Sec. 511. Continued oversight of FAA compliance program.
Sec. 512. Scalability of safety management systems.
Sec. 513. Finalize safety management system rulemaking.
Sec. 514. Improvements to aviation safety information analysis and 
sharing.
Sec. 515. Improvement of certification processes.
Sec. 516. Instructions for continued airworthiness aviation rulemaking 
committee.
Sec. 517. Clarity for supplemental type certificate requirements.
Sec. 518. Use of advanced tools in certifying aerospace products.
Sec. 519. Transport airplane and propulsion certification 
modernization.
Sec. 520. Engine fire protection standards.
Sec. 521. Risk model for production facility inspections.
Sec. 522. Secondary cockpit barriers.
Sec. 523. Review of FAA use of aerospace safety data.
Sec. 524. Part 135 duty and rest.
Sec. 525. Cockpit voice and video recorders.
Sec. 526. Flight data recovery from overwater operations.
Sec. 527. Emergency medical equipment on passenger aircraft.
Sec. 528. Navigation aids study.
Sec. 529. Remote towers.
Sec. 530. Weather reporting systems study.
Sec. 531. GAO study on expansion of the FAA weather camera program.
Sec. 532. Study on aviation safety in era of wireless connectivity.
Sec. 533. Ramp worker safety call to action.
Sec. 534. Safety data analysis for aircraft without transponders.
Sec. 535. Crash-resistant fuel systems in rotorcraft.
Sec. 536. Reducing turbulence on part 121 aircraft operations.
Sec. 537. Study on radiation exposure.
Sec. 538. Deterring crewmember interference.
Sec. 539. Cabin temperature standards.
Sec. 540. Cabin air quality.
Sec. 541. Evacuation standards for transport category airplanes.
Sec. 542. Lithium-ion powered wheelchairs.
Sec. 543. National simulator program policies and guidance.
Sec. 544. GAO study on FAA National Simulator Program.
Sec. 545. GAO study on FAA alignment with best available technologies 
and standards.
Sec. 546. Advanced simulation training.
Sec. 547. Incremental safety improvement.

                   Subtitle B--Aviation Cybersecurity

Sec. 571. Findings.
Sec. 572. Aerospace product safety.
Sec. 573. Federal Aviation Administration regulations, policy, and 
guidance.
Sec. 574. Civil aviation cybersecurity rulemaking committee.

                     TITLE VI--AEROSPACE INNOVATION

                 Subtitle A--Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Sec. 601. Definitions.
Sec. 602. Unmanned aircraft system test ranges.
Sec. 603. Unmanned aircraft in the Arctic.
Sec. 604. Public safety use of tethered UAS.
Sec. 605. Special authority for unmanned aircraft systems.
Sec. 606. Recreational operations of drone systems.
Sec. 607. Airport safety and airspace hazard mitigation and 
enforcement.
Sec. 608. Applications for designation.
Sec. 609. Beyond visual line of sight rulemaking.
Sec. 610. UAS traffic management.
Sec. 611. Radar data pilot program.
Sec. 612. Electronic conspicuity study.
Sec. 613. Remote identification alternative means of compliance.
Sec. 614. Part 107 waiver improvements.
Sec. 615. Acceptable levels of risk and risk assessment methodology.
Sec. 616. Environmental review.
Sec. 617. Carriage of hazardous materials.
Sec. 618. Unmanned aircraft system use in wildfire response.
Sec. 619. Pilot program for UAS inspections of FAA infrastructure.
Sec. 620. Drone infrastructure inspection grant program.
Sec. 621. Drone education and workforce training grant program.
Sec. 622. Drone workforce training program study.
Sec. 623. UAS Integration Office.
Sec. 624. Termination of Advanced Aviation Advisory Committee.
Sec. 625. Unmanned and Autonomous Flight Advisory Committee.
Sec. 626. NextGen Advisory Committee membership expansion.
Sec. 627. Temporary flight restriction integrity.
Sec. 628. Interagency coordination.
Sec. 629. Review of regulations to enable unescorted UAS operations.
Sec. 630. UAS operations over high seas.
Sec. 631. Beyond BEYOND.
Sec. 632. UAS integration strategy.
Sec. 633. Authorization of appropriations for Know Before You Fly 
campaign.
Sec. 634. Public aircraft definition.

                   Subtitle B--Advanced Air Mobility

Sec. 651. Definition.
Sec. 652. Powered-lift aircraft rulemakings.
Sec. 653. Powered-lift aircraft entry into service.
Sec. 654. Sense of Congress on preparation for entry into service of 
powered-lift aircraft.
Sec. 655. Infrastructure supporting vertical flight.
Sec. 656. Charting of aviation infrastructure.
Sec. 657. Advanced air mobility working group.
Sec. 658. Advanced air mobility infrastructure pilot program extension.

                      Subtitle C--Other Provisions

Sec. 681. Report on national spaceports policy.
Sec. 682. Intermodal transportation infrastructure improvement pilot 
program.
Sec. 683. Airspace access for high-speed aircraft.
Sec. 684. ICAO activities on new technologies.
Sec. 685. AIP eligibility for certain spaceport infrastructure.
Sec. 686. Commercial space transportation statistics.
Sec. 687. Report on certain infrastructure needs.
Sec. 688. Airspace integration for space launch and reentry.

              TITLE VII--PASSENGER EXPERIENCE IMPROVEMENTS

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

Sec. 701. Advertisements and solicitations for passenger air 
transportation.
Sec. 702. Modernization of consumer complaint submissions.
Sec. 703. Codification of consumer protection provisions.
Sec. 704. Extension of aviation consumer protection advisory committee.
Sec. 705. Removal of outdated references to passengers with 
disabilities.
Sec. 706. Extension of aviation consumer advocate reporting 
requirement.
Sec. 707. Air Carrier Access Act advisory committee.
Sec. 708. Passenger experience advisory committee.
Sec. 709. Streamlining of offline ticket disclosures.
Sec. 710. Ticket agent refund obligations.
Sec. 711. Updating passenger information requirement regulations.
Sec. 712. Mobility aids on board improve lives and empower all.
Sec. 713. Prioritizing accountability and accessibility for aviation 
consumers.
Sec. 714. Aircraft accessibility.
Sec. 715. Accessibility of websites, software applications, and kiosks 
for individuals with disabilities.
Sec. 716. Review of methods to report flight delay and cancellation 
statistics.
Sec. 717. Reimbursement for incurred costs.
Sec. 718. Airline operational resiliency plans.
Sec. 719. Family seating.
Sec. 720. Seat dimensions.
Sec. 721. Improved training standards for assisting passengers who use 
wheelchairs.
Sec. 722. Training standards for stowage of wheelchairs and scooters.
Sec. 723. Investigation of complaints.
Sec. 724. Standards.

                        Subtitle B--Air Traffic

Sec. 741. Transfers of air traffic systems acquired with AIP.
Sec. 742. NextGen programs.
Sec. 743. Airspace access.
Sec. 744. Airspace transition completion.
Sec. 745. FAA contract towers.
Sec. 746. FAA contract tower workforce audit.
Sec. 747. Aviation infrastructure sustainment.
Sec. 748. Air traffic control tower safety.
Sec. 749. Air traffic services data reports.
Sec. 750. Consideration of small hub control towers.
Sec. 751. Air traffic control tower replacement process report.
Sec. 752. FAA contract tower pilot program.

                Subtitle C--Small Community Air Service

Sec. 771. Essential air service reforms.
Sec. 772. Essential air service authorization.
Sec. 773. Small community air service development program reform and 
authorization.
Sec. 774. GAO study on increased costs of essential air service.

                       TITLE VIII--MISCELLANEOUS

Sec. 801. Digitalization of FAA processes.
Sec. 802. FAA telework.
Sec. 803. Review of office space.
Sec. 804. Aircraft weight reduction task force.
Sec. 805. Audit of technical writing resources and capabilities.
Sec. 806. FAA participation in industry standards organizations.
Sec. 807. Sense of Congress on use of voluntary consensus standards.
Sec. 808. Required designation.
Sec. 809. Sensitive security information.
Sec. 810. Preserving open skies while ensuring fair skies.
Sec. 811. Commercial preference.
Sec. 812. Consideration of third-party services.
Sec. 813. Certificates of authorization or waiver.
Sec. 814. Wing-in-ground-effect craft.
Sec. 815. Quasquicentennial of aviation.
Sec. 816. Federal contract tower wage determinations and positions.
Sec. 817. Internal process improvements review.
Sec. 818. Acceptance of digital driver's license and identification 
cards.
Sec. 819. Buckeye 940 release of deed restrictions.
Sec. 820. Federal Aviation Administration information technology system 
integrity.
Sec. 821. Briefing on radio communications coverage around mountainous 
terrain.
Sec. 822. Study on congested airspace.
Sec. 823. Administrative services franchise fund.
Sec. 824. Use of biographical assessments.
Sec. 825. Whistleblower protection enforcement.
Sec. 826. Final rulemaking on certain manufacturing standards.
Sec. 827. Remote dispatch.
Sec. 828. Employee assault prevention and response plans amendment.
Sec. 829. Crew member self-defense training.
Sec. 830. Formal sexual assault and harassment policies on air carriers 
and foreign air carriers.
Sec. 831. Interference with security screening personnel.
Sec. 832. Mechanisms to reduce helicopter noise.
Sec. 833. Technical corrections.
Sec. 834. Transportation of organs.
Sec. 835. Report on application approval timing.
Sec. 836. Study on air cargo operations.
Sec. 837. Next generation radio altimeters.
Sec. 838. Sense of Congress regarding safety and security of aviation 
infrastructure.
Sec. 839. Restricted category aircraft maintenance and operations.
Sec. 840. Report on telework.
Sec. 841. Crewmember pumping guidance.
Sec. 842. Aircraft interchange agreement limitations.
Sec. 843. Federal Aviation Administration Academy and facility 
expansion plan.

 TITLE IX--NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD AMENDMENTS ACT OF 2023

Sec. 901. Short title.
Sec. 902. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 903. Clarification of treatment of territories.
Sec. 904. Additional workforce training.
Sec. 905. Acquiring mission-essential knowledge and skills.
Sec. 906. Overtime annual report termination.
Sec. 907. Strategic workforce plan.
Sec. 908. Travel budgets.
Sec. 909. Retention of records.
Sec. 910. Nondisclosure of interview recordings.
Sec. 911. Closed unacceptable recommendations.
Sec. 912. Establishment of Office of Oversight, Accountability, and 
Quality Assurance.
Sec. 913. Miscellaneous investigative authorities.
Sec. 914. Public availability of accident reports.
Sec. 915. Ensuring accountability for timeliness of reports.
Sec. 916. Ensuring access to data.
Sec. 917. Public availability of safety recommendations.
Sec. 918. Improving delivery of family assistance.
Sec. 919. Updating civil penalty authority.
Sec. 920. Electronic availability of public docket records.
Sec. 921. Drug-free workplace.
Sec. 922. Accessibility in workplace.
Sec. 923. Most Wanted List.
Sec. 924. Technical corrections.

                  TITLE X--FREEDOM TO FLY ACT OF 2023

Sec. 1001. Short title.
Sec. 1002. Prohibition on implementation of vaccination mandate.
Sec. 1003. Prohibition on vaccination requirements for FAA contractors.
Sec. 1004. Prohibition on vaccine mandate for FAA employees.
Sec. 1005. Prohibition on vaccine mandate for passengers of air 
carriers.
Sec. 1006. Prohibition on implementation of a mask mandate.
Sec. 1007. Prohibition on mask mandates for FAA contractors.
Sec. 1008. Prohibition on mask mandate for FAA employees.
Sec. 1009. Prohibition on mask mandate for passengers of air carriers.
Sec. 1010. Definitions.

         TITLE I--AUTHORIZATIONS AND FAA ORGANIZATIONAL REFORM

                       Subtitle A--Authorizations

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--
          (1) in paragraph (5) by striking ``and'' at the end;
          (2) in paragraph (6) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting a semicolon; and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(7) $4,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
          ``(8) $4,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
          ``(9) $4,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
          ``(10) $4,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
          ``(11) $4,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.
  (b) Obligation Authority.--Section 47104(c) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by 
striking ``2023'' and inserting ``2028''.

SEC. 102. FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT.

  Section 48101(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking paragraphs (1) through (5);
          (2) by redesignating paragraph (6) as paragraph (1); and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(2) $3,375,000,000 for fiscal year 2024.
          ``(3) $3,425,000,000 for fiscal year 2025.
          ``(4) $3,475,000,000 for fiscal year 2026.
          ``(5) $3,475,000,000 for fiscal year 2027.
          ``(6) $3,475,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.

SEC. 103. OPERATIONS.

  (a) In General.--Section 106(k)(1) of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended--
          (1) by striking subparagraphs (A) through (E);
          (2) in subparagraph (F) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting a semicolon;
          (3) by redesignating subparagraph (F) as subparagraph (A); 
        and
          (4) by adding at the end the following:
                  ``(B) $12,730,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
                  ``(C) $13,035,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
                  ``(D) $13,334,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
                  ``(E) $13,640,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
                  ``(F) $13,954,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.
  (b) Authorized Expenditures.--Section 106(k)(2)(D) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking clauses (i) through (v);
          (2) by redesignating clause (vi) as clause (i); and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
                          ``(ii) $46,815,000 for fiscal year 2024.
                          ``(iii) $52,985,000 for fiscal year 2025.
                          ``(iv) $59,044,000 for fiscal year 2026.
                          ``(v) $65,225,000 for fiscal year 2027.
                          ``(vi) $71,529,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.
  (c) Authority to Transfer Funds.--Section 106(k)(3) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking ``Notwithstanding'' and inserting the 
        following:
                  ``(A) In general.--Notwithstanding'';
          (2) by striking ``in each of fiscal years 2018 through 
        2023,''; and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
                  ``(B) Prioritization.--In reducing non-safety-related 
                activities of the Administration under subparagraph 
                (A), the Secretary shall prioritize such reductions 
                from amounts other than amounts authorized under this 
                subsection, section 48101, or section 48103.
                  ``(C) Sunset.--This paragraph shall cease to be 
                effective after September 30, 2028.''.

SEC. 104. EXTENSION OF MISCELLANEOUS EXPIRING AUTHORITIES.

  (a) Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Palau.--Section 47115(i) of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``fiscal years 
2018 through 2023'' and inserting ``fiscal years 2023 through 2028''.
  (b) Weather Reporting Programs.--Section 48105 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
          ``(5) $45,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2024 through 2026.
          ``(6) $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 and 2028.''.
  (c) Midway Island Airport.--Section 186(d) of the Vision 100--Century 
of Aviation Reauthorization Act (Public Law 108-176) is amended by 
striking ``for fiscal years 2018 through 2023'' and inserting ``for 
fiscal years 2023 through 2028''.
  (d) Extension of the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory 
Committee.--Section 202(h) of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 
(Public Law 115-254) is amended by striking ``shall terminate'' and all 
that follows through the period at the end and inserting ``shall 
terminate on October 1, 2028.''.

                 Subtitle B--FAA Organizational Reform

SEC. 121. FAA LEADERSHIP.

  Section 106 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a) by striking ``The Federal'' and 
        inserting ``In General.--The Federal''; and
          (2) by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following:
  ``(b) Administration Leadership.--
          ``(1) Administrator.--
                  ``(A) In general.--The head of the Administration is 
                the Administrator, who shall be appointed by the 
                President, by and with the advice and consent of the 
                Senate.
                  ``(B) Qualifications.--The Administrator shall--
                          ``(i) be a citizen of the United States;
                          ``(ii) not be an active duty or retired 
                        member of an Armed Force; and
                          ``(iii) have experience in organizational 
                        management and a field directly related to 
                        aviation.
                  ``(C) Fitness.--In appointing an individual as 
                Administrator, the President shall consider the fitness 
                of such individual to carry out efficiently the duties 
                and powers of the office.
                  ``(D) Term of office.--The Term of office for any 
                individual appointed as Administrator shall be 5 years.
                  ``(E) Reporting chain.--Except as provided in 
                subsection (f) or in other provisions of law, the 
                Administrator reports directly to the Secretary of 
                Transportation.
          ``(2) Deputy administrator for programs and management.--
                  ``(A) In general.--The Administration has a Deputy 
                Administrator for Programs and Management, who shall be 
                a political appointee of the President.
                  ``(B) Qualifications.--The Deputy Administrator for 
                Programs and Management shall--
                          ``(i) be a citizen of the United States; and
                          ``(ii) have experience in management and a 
                        field directly related to aviation.
                  ``(C) Fitness.--In appointing an individual as Deputy 
                Administrator for Programs and Management, the 
                President shall consider the fitness of the individual 
                to carry out efficiently the duties and powers of the 
                office, including the duty to act for the Administrator 
                under the circumstances described in subparagraph (F).
                  ``(D) Reporting chain.--The Deputy Administrator for 
                Programs and Management reports directly to the 
                Administrator.
                  ``(E) Duties.--The Deputy Administrator for Programs 
                and Management shall--
                          ``(i) manage the Assistant Administrators and 
                        Chief Counsel established under subsection (d), 
                        except the Assistant Administrator for 
                        Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement; and
                          ``(ii) carry out duties and powers prescribed 
                        by the Administrator.
                  ``(F) Succession plan.--The Deputy Administrator for 
                Programs and Management acts for the Administrator when 
                the Administrator is absent or unable to serve, or when 
                the office of the Administrator is vacant.
                  ``(G) Compensation.--
                          ``(i) Annual rate of basic pay.--The annual 
                        rate of basic pay of the Deputy Administrator 
                        for Programs and Management shall be set by the 
                        Secretary but shall not exceed the annual rate 
                        of basic pay payable to the Administrator.
                          ``(ii) Exception.--A retired regular officer 
                        of an Armed Force serving as the Deputy 
                        Administrator for Programs and Management is 
                        entitled to hold a rank and grade not lower 
                        than that held when appointed as the Deputy 
                        Administrator for Programs and Management and 
                        may elect to receive--
                                  ``(I) the pay provided for the Deputy 
                                Administrator for Programs and 
                                Management under clause (i); or
                                  ``(II) the pay and allowances or the 
                                retired pay of the military grade held.
                          ``(iii) Reimbursement of expenses.--If the 
                        Deputy Administrator for Programs and 
                        Management elects to receive compensation 
                        described in clause (ii)(II), the 
                        Administration shall reimburse the appropriate 
                        military department from funds available for 
                        the expenses of the Administration.
          ``(3) Deputy administrator for safety and operations.--
                  ``(A) In general.--The Administration has a Deputy 
                Administrator for Safety and Operations, who--
                          ``(i) shall be appointed by the 
                        Administrator; and
                          ``(ii) shall not be a political appointee.
                  ``(B) Qualifications.--The Deputy Administrator for 
                Safety and Operations shall--
                          ``(i) be a citizen of the United States; and
                          ``(ii) have experience in organizational 
                        management and a field directly related to 
                        aviation.
                  ``(C) Fitness.--In appointing an individual as Deputy 
                Administrator for Safety and Operations, the 
                Administrator shall consider the fitness of the 
                individual to carry out efficiently the duties and 
                powers of the office, including the duty to act for the 
                Administrator under the circumstances described in 
                subparagraph (F).
                  ``(D) Reporting chain.--The Deputy Administrator for 
                Safety and Operations reports to the Administrator.
                  ``(E) Duties.--The Deputy Administrator for Safety 
                and Operations shall--
                          ``(i) manage the Associate Administrators and 
                        Chief Operating Officer established under 
                        subsection (c) and the Assistant Administrator 
                        for Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement 
                        established under subsection (d);
                          ``(ii) develop and maintain a long-term 
                        strategic plan of the Administration; and
                          ``(iii) carry out other duties and powers 
                        prescribed by the Administrator.
                  ``(F) Succession plan.--The Deputy Administrator for 
                Safety and Operations acts for the Administrator when 
                the Administrator and the Deputy Administrator for 
                Programs and Management are absent or unable to serve, 
                or when the office of the Administrator and the Office 
                of the Deputy Administrator for Programs and Management 
                are vacant.
                  ``(G) Compensation.--The annual rate of basic pay of 
                the Deputy Administrator for Safety and Operations 
                shall be set by the Administrator but shall not exceed 
                the annual rate of basic pay payable to the 
                Administrator.
          ``(4) Leadership of the administration defined.--In this 
        section, the term `leadership of the Administration' means--
                  ``(A) the Administrator under paragraph (1);
                  ``(B) the Deputy Administrator for Programs and 
                Management under paragraph (2); and
                  ``(C) the Deputy Administrator for Safety and 
                Operations under paragraph (3).''.

SEC. 122. FAA MANAGEMENT BOARD.

  (a) FAA Management Board.--Section 106 of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by striking subsections (c) and (d) and inserting the 
following:
  ``(c) Associate Administrators.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Administration has Associate 
        Administrators, as determined necessary by the Administrator, 
        including--
                  ``(A) appointed by the Administrator, an Associate 
                Administrator for Aviation Safety, an Associate 
                Administrator for Commercial Space Transportation, an 
                Associate Administrator for Security and Hazardous 
                Materials Safety, a Chief Operating Officer of the Air 
                Traffic Control System; and
                  ``(B) appointed by the President, an Associate 
                Administrator for Airports.
          ``(2) Qualifications.--Associate Administrators shall be 
        citizens of the United States.
          ``(3) Duties.--The Associate Administrators shall carry out 
        duties and powers of their office described in this section and 
        those prescribed by the Administrator.
  ``(d) Chief Counsel; Assistant Administrators.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Administration has Assistant 
        Administrators and a Chief Counsel.
                  ``(A) Chief counsel.--The Chief Counsel shall be 
                appointed by the President and shall--
                          ``(i) advise the Administrator on legal 
                        matters relating to the responsibilities, 
                        functions, and management of the 
                        Administration;
                          ``(ii) at the request of the Administrator, 
                        provide guidance, counsel, and advice 
                        regarding, but shall not have final decision-
                        making authority with regards to, the 
                        activities of the Administrator, including--
                                  ``(I) rulemaking activities;
                                  ``(II) policy and guidance document 
                                production;
                                  ``(III) exemption and waiver 
                                decisions; and
                                  ``(IV) certification and approval 
                                determinations;
                          ``(iii) represent the Administration before 
                        the National Transportation Safety Board, 
                        Department of Transportation law judges, the 
                        Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, 
                        Federal courts of the United States, and other 
                        bodies and courts, as appropriate;
                          ``(iv) pursue enforcement actions on behalf 
                        of the Administrator; and
                          ``(v) perform other functions as determined 
                        by the Administrator.
                  ``(B) Assistant administrator for rulemaking and 
                regulatory improvement.--The Assistant Administrator 
                for Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement shall be 
                appointed by the Administrator and shall--
                          ``(i) be responsible for developing and 
                        managing the execution of a regulatory agenda 
                        for the Administration that meets statutory and 
                        Administration deadlines, including by--
                                  ``(I) prioritizing rulemaking 
                                projects that are necessary to improve 
                                safety;
                                  ``(II) establishing the regulatory 
                                agenda of the Administration; and
                                  ``(III) coordinating with offices of 
                                the Administration, the Department, and 
                                other Federal entities as appropriate 
                                to improve timely feedback generation 
                                and approvals when required by law;
                          ``(ii) not delegate overall responsibility 
                        for meeting internal timelines and final 
                        completion of the regulatory activities of the 
                        Administration outside the Office of the 
                        Assistant Administrator for Rulemaking and 
                        Regulatory Improvement;
                          ``(iii) on an ongoing basis--
                                  ``(I) review the Administration's 
                                regulations in effect to improve 
                                safety;
                                  ``(II) reduce undue regulatory 
                                burden;
                                  ``(III) replace prescriptive 
                                regulations with performance-based 
                                regulations, as appropriate;
                                  ``(IV) prevent duplicative 
                                regulations; and
                                  ``(V) increase regulatory clarity and 
                                transparency whenever possible;
                          ``(iv) make recommendations for the 
                        Administrator's review under subsection 
                        (f)(3)(C)(ii);
                          ``(v) receive, coordinate, and respond to 
                        petitions for rulemaking and for exemption as 
                        provided for in subpart A of part 11 of title 
                        14, Code of Federal Regulations, and provide an 
                        initial response to a petitioner not later than 
                        30 days after the receipt of such a petition--
                                  ``(I) acknowledging receipt of such 
                                petition;
                                  ``(II) confirming completeness of 
                                such petition;
                                  ``(III) providing an initial 
                                indication of the complexity of the 
                                request and how such complexity may 
                                impact the timeline for adjudication; 
                                and
                                  ``(IV) requesting any additional 
                                information, as appropriate, that would 
                                assist in the consideration of the 
                                petition;
                          ``(vi) track the issuance of exemptions and 
                        waivers by the Administration to sections of 
                        title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and 
                        establish a methodology by which to determine 
                        if it would be more efficient and in the 
                        public's interest to amend a rule to reduce the 
                        future need of waivers and exemptions; and
                          ``(vii) promulgate regulatory updates as 
                        determined more efficient or in the public's 
                        best interest under clause (vi).
                  ``(C) Appointment.--Additional Assistant 
                Administrators, as determined necessary by the 
                Administrator, may be appointed by the Administrator.
          ``(2) Qualifications.--The Assistant Administrators shall be 
        a citizen of the United States.
          ``(3) Duties.--The Assistant Administrators shall carry out 
        duties and powers of their office described in this section and 
        those prescribed by the Administrator.
          ``(4) Management board of the administration.--In this 
        section, the term `Management Board of the Administration' 
        means--
                  ``(A) the Associate Administrators and Chief 
                Operating Officer established under subsection (c); and
                  ``(B) the Assistant Administrators and Chief Counsel 
                established under subsection (d).''.
  (b) Repeal.--Section 711 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 
U.S.C. 106 note) and the item relating to such section in the table of 
contents in section 1(b) of such Act are repealed.
  (c) Systemically Addressing Need for Exemptions and Waivers.--Not 
later than 30 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Assistant Administrator for Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement shall 
brief the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate on the methodology developed pursuant to 
section 106(d)(B)(vi) of title 49, United States Code (as added by this 
section).

SEC. 123. PROHIBITION ON CONFLICTING PECUNIARY INTERESTS.

  Section 106(e) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as 
follows:
  ``(e) Prohibition on Conflicting Pecuniary Interests.--
          ``(1) In general.--The leadership of the Administration and 
        the Management Board of the Administration may not have a 
        pecuniary interest in, or hold a financial interest in, an 
        aeronautical enterprise, or engage in another business, 
        vocation, or employment.
          ``(2) Teaching.--Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the Deputy 
        Administrators and the Management Board of the Administration 
        may not receive compensation for teaching without prior 
        approval of the Administrator.
          ``(3) Financial interest defined.--In this subsection, the 
        term `financial interest'--
                  ``(A) means--
                          ``(i) any current or contingent ownership, 
                        equity, or security interest;
                          ``(ii) any indebtedness or compensated 
                        employment relationship; or
                          ``(iii) any right to purchase or acquire any 
                        such interest, including a stock option; and
                  ``(B) does not include securities held in an index 
                fund.''.

SEC. 124. AUTHORITY OF SECRETARY AND ADMINISTRATOR.

  (a) In General.--Section 106(f) of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) in paragraph (1)--
                  (A) by striking ``paragraph (2)'' and inserting 
                ``paragraphs (2) and (3)'';
                  (B) by striking ``Neither'' and inserting ``In 
                exercising duties, powers, and authorities that are 
                assigned to the Secretary or the Administrator under 
                this title, neither''; and
                  (C) by striking ``a committee, board, or organization 
                established by executive order.'' and inserting the 
                following: ``a committee, board, council, or 
                organization that is--
                  ``(A) established by executive order; or
                  ``(B) not explicitly directed by legislation to 
                review the exercise of such duties, powers, and 
                authorities by the Secretary or the Administrator.'';
          (2) in paragraph (2)--
                  (A) in subparagraph (A)(ii) by striking ``the 
                acquisition'' and all that follows through the 
                semicolon and inserting ``the acquisition, 
                establishment, improvement, operation, maintenance, 
                security (including cybersecurity), and disposal of 
                property, facilities, services, and equipment of the 
                Administration, including all elements of the air 
                traffic control system owned by the Administration;'';
                  (B) in subparagraph (A)(iii) by striking ``paragraph 
                (3)'' and inserting ``paragraph (4)'';
                  (C) in subparagraph (B) by inserting ``civil 
                aviation, any matter for which the Administrator is the 
                final authority under subparagraph (A), any duty 
                carried out by the Administrator pursuant to paragraph 
                (3), or the provisions of this title, or'' after ``with 
                respect to''; and
                  (D) in subparagraph (D)--
                          (i) by inserting ``(formally or informally)'' 
                        after ``required''; and
                          (ii) by inserting ``or any other Federal 
                        agency'' after ``Department of 
                        Transportation'';
          (3) in paragraph (3)--
                  (A) in subparagraph (A)--
                          (i) by striking ``In the performance'' and 
                        inserting ``(i) Issuance of regulations.--In 
                        the performance'';
                          (ii) by striking ``The Administrator shall 
                        act'' and inserting ``(ii) Petitions for 
                        rulemaking.--The Administrator shall act'';
                          (iii) by striking ``The Administrator shall 
                        issue'' and inserting ``(iii) Rulemaking 
                        timeline.--The Administrator shall issue''; and
                          (iv) by striking ``On February 1'' and 
                        inserting ``(iv) Reporting requirement.--On 
                        February 1''; and
                  (B) by striking subparagraphs (B) and (C) and 
                inserting the following:
                  ``(B) Approval of secretary of transportation.--
                          ``(i) In general.--The Administrator may not 
                        issue, unless the Secretary of Transportation 
                        approves the issuance of the regulation in 
                        advance, a proposed regulation or final 
                        regulation that--
                                  ``(I) is likely to result in the 
                                expenditure by State, local, and Tribal 
                                governments in the aggregate, or by the 
                                private sector, of $250,000,000 or more 
                                (adjusted annually for inflation 
                                beginning with the year following the 
                                date of enactment of the Securing 
                                Growth and Robust Leadership in 
                                American Aviation Act) in any year; or
                                  ``(II) is significant.
                          ``(ii) Significant defined.--For purposes of 
                        this paragraph, a regulation is significant if 
                        the Administrator, in consultation with the 
                        Secretary (as appropriate), determines that the 
                        regulation--
                                  ``(I) will have an annual effect on 
                                the economy of $250,000,000 or more 
                                (adjusted annually for inflation 
                                beginning with the year following the 
                                date of enactment of the Securing 
                                Growth and Robust Leadership in 
                                American Aviation Act);
                                  ``(II) raises novel or serious legal 
                                or policy issues that will 
                                substantially and materially affect 
                                other transportation modes; or
                                  ``(III) adversely affect, in a 
                                substantial and material way, the 
                                economy, a sector of the economy, 
                                productivity, competition, jobs, the 
                                environment, public health or safety, 
                                or a State, local, or Tribal government 
                                or communities.
                          ``(iii) Emergency regulation.--In an 
                        emergency, the Administrator may issue a final 
                        regulation described in clause (i) without 
                        prior approval of the Secretary. If the 
                        Secretary objects to such regulation in writing 
                        within 5 days (excluding Saturday, Sundays, and 
                        legal public holidays) of the issuance, the 
                        Administrator shall immediately rescind such 
                        regulation.
                          ``(iv) Other regulations.--The Secretary may 
                        not require that the Administrator submit a 
                        proposed or final regulation to the Secretary 
                        for approval, nor may the Administrator submit 
                        a proposed or final regulation to the Secretary 
                        for approval, if the regulation--
                                  ``(I) does not require the 
                                Secretary's approval under clause (i) 
                                (excluding a regulation issued pursuant 
                                to clause (iii)); or
                                  ``(II) is a routine or frequent 
                                action or a procedural action.
                          ``(v) Timeline.--The Administrator shall 
                        submit a copy of any proposed or final 
                        regulation requiring approval by the Secretary 
                        under clause (i) to the Secretary, who shall 
                        either approve the regulation or return the 
                        regulation to the Administrator with comments 
                        within 30 days after receiving the regulation. 
                        If the Secretary fails to approve or return the 
                        regulation with comments to the Administrator 
                        within 30 days, the regulation shall be deemed 
                        to have been approved by the Secretary.
                  ``(C) Periodic review.--
                          ``(i) In general.--In addition to the review 
                        requirements established under section 5.13(d) 
                        of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, the 
                        Administrator shall review any significant 
                        regulation issued 3 years after the effective 
                        date of the regulation.
                          ``(ii) Discretional review.--The 
                        Administrator may review any regulation that 
                        has been in effect for more than 3 years.
                          ``(iii) Substance of review.--In performing a 
                        review under clause (i) or (ii), the 
                        Administrator shall determine if--
                                  ``(I) the cost assumptions were 
                                accurate;
                                  ``(II) the intended benefit of the 
                                regulation is being realized;
                                  ``(III) the need remains to continue 
                                such regulation as in effect; and
                                  ``(IV) the Administrator recommends 
                                updates to such regulation based on the 
                                review criteria specified in section 
                                5.13(d) of title 49, Code of Federal 
                                Regulations.
                          ``(iv) Review management.--Any periodic 
                        review of a regulation under this subparagraph 
                        shall be managed by the Assistant Administrator 
                        for Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement, who 
                        may task an advisory committee or the 
                        Management Advisory Council established under 
                        subsection (p) to assist in performing the 
                        review.'';
          (4) by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs (4) 
        and (5), respectively; and
          (5) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
          ``(3) Duties and powers of the administrator.--
                  ``(A) In general.--The Administrator shall carry 
                out--
                          ``(i) the duties and powers of the Secretary 
                        under this subsection related to aviation 
                        safety (except those related to transportation, 
                        packaging, marking, or description of hazardous 
                        material) and stated in--
                                  ``(I) subsections (c) and (d) of 
                                section 1132;
                                  ``(II) sections 40101(c), 40103(b), 
                                40106(a), 40108, 40109(b), 40113(a), 
                                40113(c), 40113(d), 40113(e), 40114(a), 
                                and 40117;
                                  ``(III) chapter 443;
                                  ``(IV) chapter 445, except sections 
                                44502(a)(3), 44503, and 44509;
                                  ``(V) chapter 447, except sections 
                                44721(b), and 44723;
                                  ``(VI) chapter 448;
                                  ``(VII) chapter 451;
                                  ``(VIII) chapter 453;
                                  ``(IX) section 46104;
                                  ``(X) subsections (d) and (h)(2) of 
                                section 46301, section 46303(c), 
                                sections 46304 through 46308, section 
                                46310, section 46311, and sections 
                                46313 through 46320;
                                  ``(XI) chapter 465;
                                  ``(XII) chapter 471;
                                  ``(XIII) chapter 475; and
                                  ``(XIV) chapter 509 of title 51; and
                          ``(ii) such additional duties and powers as 
                        may be prescribed by the Secretary.
                  ``(B) Applicability.--Section 40101(d) applies to the 
                duties and powers specified in subparagraph (A).
                  ``(C) Transfer.--Any of the duties and powers 
                specified in subparagraph (A) may only be transferred 
                to another part of the Department if specifically 
                provided by law or in a reorganization plan submitted 
                under chapter 9 of title 5.
                  ``(D) Administrative finality.--A decision of the 
                Administrator in carrying out the duties or powers 
                specified in subparagraph (A) is administratively 
                final.''.
  (b) Conforming Amendment.--Subsection (h) of section 106 of title 49, 
United States Code, is repealed.
  (c) Preservation of Existing Authority.--Nothing in this section or 
the amendments made by this section shall be construed to restrict any 
authority vested in the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration by statute or by delegation that was in effect on the 
day before the date of the enactment of this Act.

SEC. 125. REVIEW OF FAA RULEMAKING PROCESSES.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 30 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall enter into appropriate arrangements with the National Academy of 
Public Administration to evaluate and make recommendations to improve 
the Administration's rulemaking processes.
  (b) Content of Review.--In completing the evaluation under subsection 
(a), the National Academy of Public Administration shall--
          (1) review Administration and Department of Transportation 
        policies and procedures for drafting, coordinating, reviewing, 
        editing, and approving rulemaking documents;
          (2) review part 11 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        and section 106 of title 49, United States Code--
                  (A) as such section was in effect the day before the 
                date of enactment of this Act; and
                  (B) as amended by this Act; and
          (3) include in the review--
                  (A) advanced notices of proposed rulemakings;
                  (B) notices of proposed rulemakings;
                  (C) supplemental proposed rulemakings;
                  (D) interim final rules; and
                  (E) final rules, including direct final rules.
  (c) Method of Review.--As part of the evaluation under this section, 
the National Academy of Public Administration shall analyze the 
scoping, drafting, analysis, and approval processes, including 
examining incidents in which a rule was referred back to a program 
office for revision, and the timeline associated with each review and 
step for--
          (1) at least 7 rules completed by the Administration since 
        2012, including--
                  (A) at least 2 rules that leveraged the work of an 
                aviation rulemaking committee;
                  (B) at least 2 rules considered significant as 
                defined in section 106(f)(3)(B)(ii) (as amended by this 
                Act); and
                  (C) at least 1 rule promulgated through rules 
                considered routine and frequent in the Department's 
                Regulatory Agenda; and
          (2) at least 2 rulemaking processes where a notice of 
        proposed rulemaking has not been followed by a final rule for 
        more than 3 years.
  (d) Report.--The National Academy of Public Administration shall 
provide to the Administrator, Secretary of Transportation, 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 
evaluation required under subsection (a). The contents of the report 
shall--
          (1) identify procedural or resource constraints;
          (2) identify inefficiencies in the process, including any 
        causes of delays;
          (3) provide recommendations for expediting rulemakings, 
        including--
                  (A) ways to improve the efficiency of the scoping 
                process for rulemaking;
                  (B) the use of new routine and frequent rulemakings 
                to allow for the expediting of activities that may be 
                routinely needed or updated;
                  (C) the use of rules of applicability to provide for 
                the expediting of activities that may be routinely 
                needed or updated;
                  (D) the use of frameworks or shell rules to improve 
                the efficiency of drafting;
                  (E) the use of aviation rulemaking committees; and
                  (F) internal process improvements; and
          (4) not review the policy merits of the reviewed rulemakings, 
        except to the extent that there are conclusions that can be 
        drawn from the processes used to develop such rules.
  (e) Access to Documents.--The Administration and Department shall 
provide the National Academy of Public Administration access, as 
appropriate, to--
          (1) the electronic management software the Administration 
        uses to track internal processing of draft documents;
          (2) appropriately redacted communications between offices and 
        personnel that were used to coordinate work outside of the 
        electronic software; and
          (3) such other documents and records, including predecisional 
        documents and records, that will assist the National Academy of 
        Public Administration in completing the evaluation required 
        under subsection (a).

SEC. 126. OFFICE OF INNOVATION.

  Section 106 of title 49, United States Code, is further amended by 
striking subsection (g) and inserting the following:
  ``(g) Office of Innovation.--
          ``(1) In general.--There is established within the Federal 
        Aviation Administration an Office of Innovation (in this 
        subsection referred to as the `Office') comprised of employees 
        of the Administration who shall--
                  ``(A) have a diverse set of expertise;
                  ``(B) assist the leadership of the Administration and 
                the Management Board of the Administration with--
                          ``(i) scoping complex regulatory issues and 
                        drafting documents on topics that span multiple 
                        offices or lines of business of the 
                        Administration;
                          ``(ii) evaluating internal processes; and
                          ``(iii) positioning the Administration to 
                        support aerospace innovation; and
                  ``(C) receive taskings from the leadership of the 
                Administration and the Management Board of the 
                Administration, as determined necessary by such 
                individuals, and work collaboratively with relevant 
                program offices of the Administration, as necessary, to 
                respond to such taskings.
          ``(2) Appointment of members.--
                  ``(A) Appointments.--The Administrator shall appoint 
                a maximum of 15 employees to serve a 2-year term as a 
                member of the Office of Innovation with at least 1 
                employee appointed from each of the following:
                          ``(i) Office of Aviation Safety.
                          ``(ii) The Air Traffic Organization.
                          ``(iii) Office of Airports.
                          ``(iv) Office of Security and Hazardous 
                        Materials Safety.
                          ``(v) Office of Commercial Space 
                        Transportation.
                          ``(vi) Office of the Chief Counsel.
                          ``(vii) Office of Policy, International 
                        Affairs, and Environment.
                  ``(B) Consultation.--The Office may consult, as 
                necessary, with other personnel of the Administration.
          ``(3) Selection of members.--An employee appointed under 
        paragraph (2)--
                  ``(A) may be appointed from nominations made by 
                Associate Administrators, Assistant Administrators, and 
                the Chief Counsel of the Administration;
                  ``(B) shall not be a senior executive of the 
                Administration;
                  ``(C) shall have been an employee of the 
                Administration for at least 2 years; and
                  ``(D) shall have expertise in the authorities and 
                duties of the respective office of the employee.
          ``(4) Innovation office lead.--The Administrator shall 
        appoint a lead of the Office who shall report to the leadership 
        of the Administration and who--
                  ``(A) may have a set term, as determined by the 
                Administrator;
                  ``(B) shall manage the personnel and activities of 
                such Office; and
                  ``(C) may be a detailed employee of any office of the 
                Administration, notwithstanding the numerical limits 
                placed on appointments in paragraph (2)(A).
          ``(5) Status.--An appointment of an employee to the Office 
        established under this subsection shall not impact the status 
        or position of such employee in the respective office of such 
        employee and such employee shall be considered a detailed 
        employee to the Office of Innovation.
          ``(6) Resources.--The Administrator shall provide resources 
        and staff, as necessary, to the Office to support the 
        activities of the Office described in paragraph (1), not to 
        exceed more than 6 full-time equivalent positions, including 
        any necessary project managers.''.

SEC. 127. FRANK A. LOBIONDO NATIONAL AEROSPACE SAFETY AND SECURITY 
                    CAMPUS.

  (a) In General.--The campus and grounds of the Federal Aviation 
Administration Technical Center located at the Atlantic City 
International Airport in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, shall be 
known and designated as the ``Frank A. LoBiondo National Aerospace 
Safety and Security Campus''.
  (b) Reference.--Any reference in a law, map, regulation, document, 
paper, or other record of the United States to the campus and grounds 
at the Federal Aviation Administration Technical Center referred to in 
subsection (a) shall be deemed to be a reference to the ``Frank A. 
LoBiondo National Aerospace Safety and Security Campus''.

SEC. 128. TECHNICAL CENTER FOR ADVANCED AEROSPACE.

  (a) In General.--Section 106 of title 49, United States Code, is 
further amended by inserting after subsection (g) (as added by section 
126) the following:
  ``(h) Technical Center for Advanced Aerospace.--
          ``(1) In general.--There is established within the 
        Administration a technology center located at the Frank A. 
        LoBiondo National Aerospace Safety and Security Campus to 
        support the advancement of aerospace safety and innovation 
        which shall be known as the `William J. Hughes Technical Center 
        for Advanced Aerospace' (in this subsection referred to as the 
        `Technical Center') that shall be used by the Administrator 
        and, as permitted by the Administrator, other governmental 
        entities, academia, and the aerospace industry.
          ``(2) Management.--The activities of the Technical Center 
        shall be managed by a Director.
          ``(3) Activities.--The activities of the Technical Center 
        shall include--
                  ``(A) developing and stimulating technology 
                partnerships with and between industry, academia, and 
                other government agencies and supporting such 
                partnerships by--
                          ``(i) liaising between external persons and 
                        offices of the Administration interested in 
                        such work;
                          ``(ii) providing technical expertise and 
                        input, as appropriate; and
                          ``(iii) providing access to the properties, 
                        facilities, and systems of the Technical Center 
                        through appropriate agreements;
                  ``(B) managing technology demonstration grants 
                awarded by the Administrator;
                  ``(C) identifying software, systems, services, and 
                technologies that could improve aviation safety and the 
                operations and management of the air traffic control 
                system and working with relevant offices of the 
                Administration to consider the use and integration of 
                such software, systems, services, and technologies, as 
                appropriate;
                  ``(D) supporting the work of any collocated 
                facilities and tenants of such facilities, and to the 
                extent feasible, enter into agreements as necessary to 
                utilize the facilities, systems, and technologies of 
                such collocated facilities and tenants;
                  ``(E) managing the facilities of the Technical Center 
                and the Frank A. LoBiondo National Aerospace Safety and 
                Security Campus; and
                  ``(F) carrying out any other duties as determined 
                appropriate by the Administrator.''.
  (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 44507 of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking ``(a) Civil Aeromedical Institute'' and all 
        that follows through ``The Civil Aeromedical Institute 
        established'' and inserting ``The Civil Aeromedical Institute 
        established''; and
          (2) by striking subsection (b).

SEC. 129. OFFICE OF NEXTGEN SUNSET.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 30 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall terminate the Office of NextGen.
  (b) Closure Process.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall transfer duties, authorities, activities, 
personnel, and assets managed by the Office of NextGen to other 
officials of the Administration, as appropriate, including--
          (1) transferring such duties, authorities, activities, 
        personnel, and assets to--
                  (A) the Director of the William J. Hughes Technical 
                Center for Advanced Aerospace established under 
                subsection 106(h) of title 49, United States Code;
                  (B) the Assistant Administrator for Finance and 
                Management;
                  (C) the Chief Operating Officer of the Air Traffic 
                Control System; and
                  (D) other officials of the Administration, as 
                determined by the Administrator; and
          (2) transferring management of the NextGen Advisory Committee 
        to the Chief Operating Officer of the Air Traffic Control 
        System.

SEC. 130. FAA OMBUDSMAN.

  Section 106 of title 49, United States Code, is further amended by 
striking subsection (i) and inserting the following:
  ``(i)  FAA Ombudsman.--
          ``(1) Establishment.--There is established within the Federal 
        Aviation Administration an Ombudsman who shall coordinate or 
        facilitate the adjudication of covered submissions.
          ``(2) Ombudsman.--
                  ``(A) In general.--The Ombudsman shall be appointed 
                by the Administrator and report to the Assistant 
                Administrator for Government and Industry Affairs.
                  ``(B) Term.--The Ombudsman shall be appointed for a 
                term of 5 years.
          ``(3) Duties.--The duties of the Ombudsman shall be as 
        follows:
                  ``(A) Work with the relevant offices within the 
                Administration to--
                          ``(i) with respect to a covered submission, 
                        resolve, provide a status update, or provide 
                        clarity on the status of such submissions;
                          ``(ii) bring to the attention of the relevant 
                        office of the Administration concerns, as 
                        necessary, regarding Administration processes 
                        or considerations discovered while coordinating 
                        an activity related to a covered submission 
                        under this subsection; and
                          ``(iii) address any gaps and communication 
                        lapses in Administration coordination 
                        processes.
                  ``(B) Determine if, based on a coordinated activity 
                carried out under this subsection, reconsideration with 
                respect to covered submissions or administrative 
                actions are necessary and report to the Administrator 
                or the relevant office within the Administration with 
                recommendations relating to such reconsideration.
                  ``(C) Determine if trends materialize that could 
                warrant process, procedural, or resource changes and 
                report recommendations regarding such changes to the 
                Administrator and relevant offices within the 
                Administration.
                  ``(D) Ensure that reporting, processing, or dispute 
                resolution mechanisms within the Administration are 
                transparent and accessible to the public, and 
                facilitate the use of such reporting, processing, or 
                dispute resolution mechanisms, when appropriate.
                  ``(E) Perform other duties as prescribed by the 
                Assistant Administrator.
          ``(4) Discretion on coordination and review.--
                  ``(A) In general.--The Ombudsman shall determine 
                whether to coordinate a review of a covered submission 
                in order to provide a response, coordinate the 
                reconsideration of an administrative action, or take no 
                additional action. In making a determination under this 
                subparagraph, the Ombudsman shall consider--
                          ``(i) whether there are reporting, 
                        processing, or dispute resolution mechanisms 
                        that have not been exhausted or that may be 
                        more appropriate for dealing with, 
                        investigating, and responding to such covered 
                        submission;
                          ``(ii) whether the subject or outcome of a 
                        covered submission is alleged to be--
                                  ``(I) contrary to law or regulation;
                                  ``(II) arbitrary and capricious; or
                                  ``(III) performed in an unreasonably 
                                inefficient or untimely manner; and
                          ``(iii) such other factors as the Ombudsman 
                        considers appropriate.
                  ``(B) Exception.--With regard to a covered submission 
                concerning an activity relating to an alleged violation 
                of an order, a regulation, or any other provision of 
                Federal law by the Administration or whistleblower 
                retaliation, the Ombudsman shall refer such covered 
                submission to the appropriate Federal entity to 
                adjudicate or investigate the subject of such 
                submission.
                  ``(C) Cooperation.--The Administrator shall ensure 
                that the officers and employees of the Administration 
                fully cooperate with the activities of the Ombudsman 
                and provide such information, documents, or materials 
                as may be requested by the Ombudsman.
          ``(5) Response requirement.--The Ombudsman shall ensure that 
        the Administration provides an initial response to or status 
        update on covered submissions within 10 business days of the 
        Ombudsman receiving such submission.
          ``(6) Definitions.--In this subsection:
                  ``(A) Administrative action.--The term 
                `administrative action' means--
                          ``(i) an action taken by the Administrator of 
                        the Federal Aviation Administration to issue, 
                        deny, modify, or revoke a certificate, 
                        registration, approval, waiver, license, 
                        exemption, determination, interpretation, or 
                        any other authorizing action; or
                          ``(ii) the lack of any action (or activity 
                        related to an action) described in clause (i) 
                        necessary to be taken by the Administrator.
                  ``(B) Covered submission.--The term `covered 
                submission' means an inquiry or objection relating to--
                          ``(i) an aircraft, aircraft engine, 
                        propeller, or appliance certification;
                          ``(ii) a pilot certificate, including 
                        scheduling an associated appointment with 
                        Administration personnel or designees;
                          ``(iii) a medical certificate;
                          ``(iv) an operator certificate;
                          ``(v) a commercial space transportation 
                        license;
                          ``(vi) an aircraft registration;
                          ``(vii) an operational approval, waiver, or 
                        exemption;
                          ``(viii) a legal interpretation;
                          ``(ix) an outstanding determination;
                          ``(x) an application of agency guidance; and
                          ``(xi) any certificate not otherwise 
                        described in this subparagraph that is issued 
                        pursuant to chapter 447.''.

SEC. 131. PROJECT DASHBOARDS AND FEEDBACK PORTAL.

  (a) In General.--The Ombudsman of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall, in reviewing Administration processes, receiving, reviewing, and 
responding to covered submissions, and through general due diligence, 
determine whether a publicly facing dashboard that provides applicants 
with the status of an application before the agency would be--
          (1) beneficial to applicants;
          (2) an efficient use of resources to build, maintain, and 
        update; or
          (3) duplicative with other efforts within the Administration 
        to streamline and digitize paperwork and certification 
        processes to provide an applicant with a greater awareness of 
        the status of an application before the Administration.
  (b) Recommendation.--Not later than 30 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Ombudsman shall provide a recommendation to 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration regarding the 
need or benefits of a dashboard or other means by which to track an 
application status.
  (c) Briefing.--Not later than 45 days after receiving recommendations 
under subsection (b), the Administrator shall brief the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate 
on--
          (1) any recommendation received from the Ombudsman; and
          (2) any activities the Administrator is taking in response to 
        such recommendation.
  (d) FAA Feedback Portal.--
          (1) In general.--The Ombudsman shall, through interacting 
        with the public and general due diligence, determine whether a 
        publicly facing portal on the website through which the public 
        may provide feedback to the Administrator about experiences 
        they have working with personnel of the Administration would be 
        beneficial.
          (2) Requirements.--The Ombudsman shall ensure any portal 
        established under this subsection asks questions that seek to 
        gauge any shortcomings the Administration has in fulfilling its 
        mission or areas where the Administration is succeeding in 
        meetings its mission.
  (e) Covered Submission.--In this section, the term ``covered 
submission'' has the meaning given the term in subsection 106(i) of 
title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 132. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON FAA ENGAGEMENT DURING RULEMAKING 
                    ACTIVITIES.

  It is the sense of Congress that--
          (1) the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
        should engage with aviation stakeholder groups and the public 
        during pre-drafting stages of rulemaking activities and use, to 
        the greatest extent practicable, properly docketed ex-parte 
        discussions during rulemaking activities in order to--
                  (A) inform the work of the Administrator;
                  (B) assist the Administrator in developing the scope 
                of a rule; and
                  (C) reduce the timeline for issuance of proposed and 
                final rules; and
          (2) when it would reduce the time required for the 
        Administrator to adjudicate public comments, the Administrator 
        should publicly provide information describing the rationale 
        behind a regulatory decision included in proposed regulations 
        in order to better allow for the public to provide clear and 
        informed comments on such regulations.

SEC. 133. CIVIL AEROMEDICAL INSTITUTE.

  Section 106(j) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``There is'' and inserting ``Civil Aeromedical Institute.--
There is''.

SEC. 134. MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL.

  Section 106 of title 49, United States Code, is further amended--
          (1) by transferring paragraph (8) of subsection (p) as 
        paragraph (7) of subsection (r); and
          (2) by striking subsection (p) and inserting the following:
  ``(p) Management Advisory Council.--
          ``(1) Establishment.--The Administrator shall establish an 
        advisory council which shall be known as the Federal Aerospace 
        Management Advisory Council (in this subsection referred to as 
        the `Council').
          ``(2) Membership.--The Council shall consist of 13 members, 
        who shall consist of--
                  ``(A) a designee of the Secretary of Transportation;
                  ``(B) a designee of the Secretary of Defense;
                  ``(C) 5 members representing aerospace and technology 
                interests, appointed by the Administrator;
                  ``(D) 5 members representing aerospace and technology 
                interests, appointed by the Secretary of 
                Transportation; and
                  ``(E) 1 member, appointed by the Secretary of 
                Transportation, who is the head of a union representing 
                air traffic control system employees.
          ``(3) Qualifications.--No officer or employee of the United 
        States Government may be appointed to the Council under 
        subparagraph (C) or (D) of paragraph (2).
          ``(4) Functions.--
                  ``(A) In general.--
                          ``(i) Advise; counsel.--The Council shall 
                        provide advice and counsel to the Administrator 
                        on issues which affect or are affected by the 
                        activities of the Administrator.
                          ``(ii) Resource.--The Council shall function 
                        as an oversight resource for management, 
                        policy, spending, and regulatory matters under 
                        the jurisdiction of the Administrator.
                          ``(iii) Submissions to administration.--With 
                        respect to Administration management, policy, 
                        spending, funding, data management and 
                        analysis, safety initiatives, international 
                        agreements, activities of the International 
                        Civil Aviation Organization, and regulatory 
                        matters affecting the aerospace industry and 
                        the national airspace system, the Council may--
                                  ``(I) regardless of whether solicited 
                                by the Administrator, submit comments, 
                                recommended modifications, proposals, 
                                and supporting or dissenting views to 
                                the Administrator; and
                                  ``(II) request the Administrator 
                                include in any submission to Congress, 
                                the Secretary, or the general public, 
                                and in any submission for publication 
                                in the Federal Register, a description 
                                of the comments, recommended 
                                modifications, and dissenting or 
                                supporting views received from the 
                                Council under subclause (I).
                          ``(iv) Reasoning.--Together with a Council 
                        submission that is published or described under 
                        clause (iii)(II), the Administrator shall 
                        provide the reasons for any differences between 
                        the views of the Council and the views or 
                        actions of the Administrator.
                          ``(v) Cost-benefit analysis.--The Council 
                        shall review the rulemaking cost-benefit 
                        analysis process and develop recommendations to 
                        improve the analysis and ensure that the public 
                        interest is fully protected.
                          ``(vi) Process review.--The Council shall 
                        review the process through which the 
                        Administration determines to use advisory 
                        circulars, service bulletins, and other 
                        externally facing guidance and regulatory 
                        material.
                  ``(B) Meetings.--The Council shall meet on a regular 
                and periodic basis or at the call of the chair or of 
                the Administrator.
                  ``(C) Access to documents and staff.--The 
                Administration may give the Council appropriate access 
                to relevant documents and personnel of the 
                Administration, and the Administrator shall make 
                available, consistent with the authority to withhold 
                commercial and other proprietary information under 
                section 552 of title 5 (commonly known as the `Freedom 
                of Information Act'), cost data associated with the 
                acquisition and operation of air traffic service 
                systems.
                  ``(D) Disclosure of commercial or proprietary data.--
                Any member of the Council who receives commercial or 
                other proprietary data as provided for in this 
                paragraph from the Administrator shall be subject to 
                the provisions of section 1905 of title 18, pertaining 
                to unauthorized disclosure of such information.
          ``(5) Application of chapter 10 of title 5.--Chapter 10 of 
        title 5 does not apply to--
                  ``(A) the Council;
                  ``(B) such aviation rulemaking committees as the 
                Administrator shall designate; or
                  ``(C) such aerospace rulemaking committees as the 
                Secretary shall designate.
          ``(6) Administrative matters.--
                  ``(A) Terms.--Members of the Council appointed under 
                paragraph (2)(C) shall be appointed for a term of 3 
                years.
                  ``(B) Term for air traffic control representative.--
                The member appointed under paragraph (2)(D) shall be 
                appointed for a term of 3 years, except that the term 
                of such individual shall end whenever the individual no 
                longer meets the requirements of paragraph (2)(D).
                  ``(C) Vacancy.--Any vacancy on the Council shall be 
                filled in the same manner as the original appointment, 
                except that any member appointed to fill a vacancy 
                occurring before the expiration of the term for which 
                the member's predecessor was appointed shall be 
                appointed for the remainder of that term.
                  ``(D) Continuation in office.--A member of the 
                Council whose term expires shall continue to serve 
                until the date on which the member's successor takes 
                office.
                  ``(E) Removal.--Any member of the Council appointed 
                under paragraph (2) may be removed for cause by 
                whomever makes the appointment.
                  [``(F) Chair; vice chair.--The Council shall elect a 
                chair and a vice chair from among the members appointed 
                under subparagraphs (C) and (D) of paragraph (2), each 
                of whom shall serve for a term of 1 year. The vice 
                chair shall perform the duties of the chair in the 
                absence of the chair.]
                  ``(G) Travel and per diem.--Each member of the 
                Council shall be paid actual travel expenses, and per 
                diem in lieu of subsistence expenses when away from the 
                usual place of residence of the member, in accordance 
                with section 5703 of title 5.
                  ``(H) Detail of personnel from the administration.--
                The Administrator shall make available to the Council 
                such staff, information, and administrative services 
                and assistance as may reasonably be required to enable 
                the Council to carry out its responsibilities under 
                this subsection.''.

SEC. 135. AVIATION NOISE OFFICER.

  (a) In General.--Section 106 of title 49, United States Code, is 
further amended by striking subsection (q) and inserting the following:
  ``(q) Aviation Noise Officer.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Administration has an Aviation Noise 
        Officer, who shall be appointed by the Administrator.
          ``(2) Regional officers.--The Aviation Noise Officer shall 
        designate, within each region of the Administration, a Regional 
        Aviation Noise Officer.
          ``(3) Duties.--The Aviation Noise Officer, in coordination 
        with the Regional Aviation Noise Officers, shall--
                  ``(A) serve as a liaison with the public, including 
                community groups, on issues regarding aircraft noise;
                  ``(B) make recommendations to the Administrator to 
                address concerns raised by the public in decision 
                making processes; and
                  ``(C) be consulted when the Administration proposes 
                changes in aircraft routes so as to minimize any 
                increases in aircraft noise over populated areas.
          ``(4) Number of full-time equivalent employees.--The 
        appointment of an Aviation Noise Officer under this subsection 
        shall not result in an increase in the number of full-time 
        equivalent employees in the Administration.''.
  (b) Conforming Amendments.--Section 180 of the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 106 note) and the items relating to such section 
in the table of contents contained in section 1(b) of that Act, are 
repealed.

SEC. 136. CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER.

  Section 106(r) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (1)--
                  (A) by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting the 
                following:
                  ``(A) Appointment.--There shall be a Chief Operating 
                Officer for the air traffic control system that is 
                appointed by the Administrator and subject to the 
                authority of the Administrator.''; and
                  (B) in subparagraph (E) by striking ``shall be 
                appointed for the remainder of that term'' and 
                inserting ``may be appointed for either the remainder 
                of the term or for a full term'';
          (2) in paragraph (2) by striking ``, with the approval of the 
        Air Traffic Services Committee'';
          (3) in paragraph (3)--
                  (A) by striking ``, in consultation with the Air 
                Traffic Services Committee,''; and
                  (B) by striking ``annual basis.'' and inserting-- 
                ``annual basis and shall include responsibility for--
          ``(A) the state of good repair of the air traffic control 
        system;
          ``(B) the continuous improvement of the safety and efficiency 
        of the air traffic control system; and
          ``(C) identifying services and solutions to increase the 
        safety and efficiency of airspace use and to support the safe 
        integration of all airspace users.'';
          (4) in paragraph (4) by striking ``such information as may be 
        prescribed by the Secretary'' and inserting ``the annual 
        performance agreement required under paragraph (3), an 
        assessment of the performance of the Chief Operating Officer in 
        relation to the performance goals in the previous year's 
        performance agreement, and such other information as may be 
        prescribed by the Administrator''; and
          (5) in paragraph (5)--
                  (A) by striking ``Chief Operating Officer, or any 
                other authority within the Administration 
                responsibilities, including'' and inserting ``Chief 
                Operating Officer any authority of the Administrator 
                and shall delegate, at a minimum'';
                  (B) in subparagraph (A)--
                          (i) in clause (iii) by striking ``and'' at 
                        the end;
                          (ii) in clause (iv) by striking the period at 
                        the end and inserting ``; and''; and
                          (iii) by adding at the end the following:
                          ``(v) plans to integrate new entrant 
                        operations into the national airspace system 
                        and associated action items.''; and
                  (C) in subparagraph (C)(ii) by striking ``and the 
                Committee''.

SEC. 137. REPORT ON UNFUNDED CAPITAL INVESTMENT NEEDS OF AIR TRAFFIC 
                    CONTROL SYSTEM.

  Section 106(r) of title 49, United States Code, is further amended by 
adding at the end the following:
          ``(6) Unfunded capital investment needs report.--
                  ``(A) In general.--Not later than 10 days after the 
                date on which the budget of the President for a fiscal 
                year is submitted to Congress pursuant to section 1150 
                of title 31, the Chief Operating Officer shall submit 
                directly to the Administrator, 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 on any unfunded capital investment needs of the 
                air traffic control system.
                  ``(B) Contents of report.--The report required under 
                subparagraph (A) shall include, for each unfunded 
                capital investment need, the following:
                          ``(i) A summary description of such unfunded 
                        capital investment need.
                          ``(ii) Objective to be achieved if such 
                        unfunded capital investment need is funded in 
                        whole or in part.
                          ``(iii) The additional amount of funds 
                        recommended in connection with such objective.
                          ``(iv) The Budget Line Item Program and 
                        Budget Line Item number associated with such 
                        unfunded capital investment need, as 
                        applicable.
                          ``(v) Any statutory requirement associated 
                        with such unfunded capital investment need, as 
                        applicable.
                  ``(C) Prioritization of requirements.--The report 
                required under subparagraph (A) shall present unfunded 
                capital investment needs in overall urgency of 
                priority.
                  ``(D) Definition of unfunded capital investment 
                need.--In this paragraph the term `unfunded capital 
                investment need' means a program that--
                          ``(i) is not funded in the budget of the 
                        President for the fiscal year as submitted to 
                        Congress pursuant to section 1105 of title 31;
                          ``(ii) is for infrastructure or a system 
                        related to necessary modernization or 
                        sustainment of the air traffic control system;
                          ``(iii) is listed for any year in the most 
                        recent National Airspace System Capital 
                        Investment Plan of the Administration; and
                          ``(iv) would have been recommended for 
                        funding through the budget referred to in 
                        subparagraph (A) by the Chief Operating Officer 
                        if--
                                  ``(I) additional resources had been 
                                available for the budget to fund the 
                                program, activity, or mission 
                                requirement; or
                                  ``(II) the program, activity, or 
                                mission requirement has emerged since 
                                the budget was formulated.''.

SEC. 138. CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER.

  Section 106(s) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (1)--
                  (A) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``There shall 
                be'' and all that follows through the period at the end 
                and inserting ``The Chief Technology Officer shall be 
                appointed by the Chief Operating Officer of the air 
                traffic control system with the consent of the 
                Administrator.'';
                  (B) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``management'' 
                and inserting ``management, systems management,'';
                  (C) by striking subparagraph (D);
                  (D) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) through (C) as 
                subparagraphs (B) through (D), respectively; and
                  (E) by inserting before subparagraph (B), as so 
                redesignated, the following:
                  ``(A) Establishment.--There shall be a Chief 
                Technology Officer for the air traffic control system 
                that shall report directly to the Chief Operating 
                Officer of the air traffic control system.'';
          (2) in paragraph (2)--
                  (A) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``program''; and
                  (B) in subparagraph (F) by striking ``aircraft 
                operators'' and inserting ``the Administration, 
                aircraft operators, or other private providers of 
                information and services related to air traffic 
                management''; and
          (3) in paragraph (3)--
                  (A) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``The Chief 
                Technology Officer shall be subject to the 
                postemployment provisions of section 207 of title 18 as 
                if the position of Chief Technology Officer were 
                described in section 207(c)(2)(A)(i) of that title.'';
                  (B) by redesignating subparagraph (B) as subparagraph 
                (C); and
                  (C) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the 
                following:
                  ``(B) Post-employment.--The Chief Technology Officer 
                shall be subject to the postemployment provisions of 
                section 207 of title 18 as if the position of Chief 
                Technology Officer were described in section 
                207(c)(2)(A)(i) of such title.''.

SEC. 139. DEFINITION OF AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM.

  Section 40102(a)(47) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subparagraph (C) by striking ``and'' at the end;
          (2) in subparagraph (D) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting ``; and''; and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
                  ``(E) systems, software, and hardware operated, 
                owned, and maintained by third parties that support or 
                directly provide air navigation information and air 
                traffic management services with Administration 
                approval.''.

SEC. 140. PEER REVIEW OF OFFICE OF WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION AND 
                    AVIATION SAFETY INVESTIGATIONS.

  Section 106(t) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking paragraph (7);
          (2) by inserting after paragraph (6) the following:
          ``(7) Department of transportation office of the inspector 
        general peer review.--
                  ``(A) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the 
                date of enactment of the Securing Growth and Robust 
                Leadership in American Aviation Act, and every 5 years 
                thereafter, the inspector general of the Department of 
                Transportation shall perform a peer review of the 
                Office of Whistleblower Protection and Aviation Safety 
                Investigations.
                  ``(B) Peer review scope.--In completing the peer 
                reviews required under this paragraph, the inspector 
                general shall use the most recent peer review guides 
                published by the Council of the Inspectors General on 
                Integrity and Efficiency Audit Committee and 
                Investigations Committee.
                  ``(C) Reports to congress.--Not later than 90 days 
                after the completion of a peer review required under 
                this paragraph, 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 
                description of any actions taken or to be taken to 
                address the results of the peer review.''; and
          (3) in paragraph (8)(B) by striking the comma.

SEC. 141. CYBERSECURITY LEAD.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall designate an executive of the Administration to 
serve as the lead for the cybersecurity of Administration systems and 
hardware (hereinafter referred to as the ``Cybersecurity Lead'').
  (b) Duties.--The Cybersecurity Lead shall carry out duties and powers 
prescribed by the Administrator, including the management of activities 
required under subtitle B of title VI of the Securing Growth and Robust 
Leadership in American Aviation Act.
  (c) Briefing.--Not later than 1 and 3 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Cybersecurity Lead shall provide a briefing 
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 implementation of subtitle B of 
title VI of the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American 
Aviation Act.

SEC. 142. REDUCING FAA WASTE, INEFFICIENCY, AND UNNECESSARY 
                    RESPONSIBILITIES.

  (a) Annual Report on Aviation Activities.--Section 308 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking subsection (b);
          (2) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b); and
          (3) by redesignating subsection (e) as subsection (c).
  (b) Annual Report on the Purchase of Foreign Manufactured Articles.--
Section 40110(d) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking paragraph (5).
  (c) Annual Report on Assistance to Foreign Aviation Authorities.--
Section 40113(e) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking paragraph (4); and
          (2) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (4).
  (d) AIP Annual Report.--Section 47131 of title 49, United States 
Code, and the item relating to such section in the analysis for chapter 
471 of such title, are repealed.
  (e) Transfer of Airport Land Use Compliance Report to NPIAS.--Section 
47103 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (e); and
          (2) by inserting after subsection (c) the following:
  ``(d) Non-compliant Airports.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall include in the plan a 
        detailed statement listing airports the Secretary has reason to 
        believe are not in compliance with grant assurances or other 
        requirements with respect to airport lands and shall include--
                  ``(A) the circumstances of noncompliance;
                  ``(B) the timeline for corrective action with respect 
                to such noncompliance; and
                  ``(C) any corrective action the Secretary intends to 
                require to bring the airport sponsor into compliance.
          ``(2) Listing.--The Secretary is not required to conduct an 
        audit or make a final determination before including an airport 
        on the list referred to in paragraph (1).''.
  (f) Notice to Airport Sponsors Regarding Purchase of American Made 
Equipment and Products.--Section 306 of the Federal Aviation 
Administration Authorization Act of 1994 (49 U.S.C. 50101 note) is 
amended--
          (1) in subsection (a) by striking ``(a)'' and all that 
        follows through ``It is the sense'' and inserting ``It is the 
        sense''; and
          (2) by striking subsection (b).
  (g) Obsolete Aviation Security Requirements.--Sections 302, 307, 309, 
and 310 of the Federal Aviation Reauthorization Act of 1996 (Public Law 
104-264), and the items relating to such sections in the table of 
contents in section 1(b) of such Act, are repealed.
  (h) Regulation of Alaska Guide Pilots.--Section 732 of the Wendell H. 
Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century (49 U.S.C. 
44701 note) is amended--
          (1) by striking subsection (b);
          (2) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b); and
          (3) in subsection (b), as so redesignated--
                  (A) in the heading by striking ``Definitions'' and 
                inserting ``Definition of Alaska Guide Pilot''; and
                  (B) by striking ``, the following definitions apply'' 
                and all that follows through ``The term `Alaska guide 
                pilot''' and inserting ``the term `Alaska guide 
                pilot'''.
  (i) Next Generation Air Transportation Senior Policy Committee.--
Section 710 of the Vision 100-Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act 
(49 U.S.C. 40101 note), and the item relating to such section in the 
table of contents in section 1(b) of such Act, are repealed.
  (j) Improved Pilot Licenses and Pilot License Rulemaking.--
          (1) Intelligence reform and terrorism prevention act.--
        Section 4022 of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism 
        Prevention Act of 2004 (49 U.S.C. 44703 note), and the item 
        relating to such section in the table of contents in section 
        1(b) of such Act, are repealed.
          (2) FAA modernization and reform act of 2012.--Section 321 of 
        the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44703 
        note), and the item relating to such section in the table of 
        contents in section 1(b) of such Act, are repealed.
  (k) Technical Training and Staffing Study.--Section 605 of the FAA 
Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (Public Law 112-95) is amended--
          (1) by striking subsection (a);
          (2) in subsection (b)--
                  (A) by striking ``(b) Workload of Systems 
                Specialists.--''; and
                  (B) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through (3) as 
                subsections (a) through (c) (and adjust the margins 
                appropriately); and
          (3) in subsection (c) (as so redesignated) by striking 
        ``paragraph (1)'' and inserting ``subsection (a)''.
  (l) Ferry Flight Duty Period and Flight Time Rulemakings.--Section 
345 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44701 
note), and the item relating to such section in the table of contents 
in section 1(b) of such Act, are repealed.
  (m) Laser Pointer Incident Reports.--Section 2104 of FAA Extension, 
Safety, and Security Act of 2016 (49 U.S.C. 46301 note) is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a) by striking ``quarterly'' and inserting 
        ``annually''; and
          (2) by adding at the end the following:
  ``(c) Report Sunset.--Subsection (a) shall cease to be effective 
after September 30, 2028.''.
  (n) Cold Weather Projects Briefing.--Section 156 of the FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 47112 note) is amended--
          (1) by striking subsection (b); and
          (2) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b).

                       TITLE II--GENERAL AVIATION

         Subtitle A--Expanding Pilot Privileges and Protections

SEC. 201. REEXAMINATION OF PILOTS OR CERTIFICATE HOLDERS.

  The Pilot's Bill of Rights (49 U.S.C. 44703 note) is amended by 
adding at the end the following:

``SEC. 5. REEXAMINATION OF AN AIRMAN CERTIFICATE.

  ``(a) In General.--The Administrator shall provide timely, written 
notification to an individual subject to a reexamination of an airman 
certificate issued under chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code.
  ``(b) Information Required.--In providing notification under 
subsection (a), the Administrator shall inform the individual--
          ``(1) of the nature of the reexamination and the specific 
        activity on which the reexamination is necessitated;
          ``(2) that the reexamination shall occur within 1 year from 
        the date of the notice provided by the Administrator, after 
        which, if the reexamination is not conducted, the airman 
        certificate may be suspended or revoked; and
          ``(3) when, as determined by the Administrator, an oral or 
        written response to the notification from the Administrator is 
        not required.
  ``(c) Exception.--Nothing in this section prohibits the Administrator 
from reexamining a certificate holder if the Administrator has 
reasonable grounds--
          ``(1) to establish that an airman may not be qualified to 
        exercise the privileges of a certificate or rating based upon 
        an act or omission committed by the airman while exercising 
        such privileges or performing ancillary duties associated with 
        the exercise of such privileges; or
          ``(2) to demonstrate that the airman obtained such a 
        certificate or rating through fraudulent means or through an 
        examination that was substantially and inadequate to establish 
        the qualifications of an airman.
  ``(d) Standard of Review.--An order issued by the Administrator to 
amend, modify, suspend, or revoke an airman certificate after 
reexamination of the airman is subject to the standard of review 
provided for under section 2 of this Act.''.

SEC. 202. GAO REVIEW OF PILOT'S BILL OF RIGHTS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States 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 study of the implementation of the 
Pilot's Bill of Rights (49 U.S.C. 44703 note).
  (b) Contents.--In conducting the study under subsection (a), the 
Comptroller General shall review--
          (1) the implementation and application of the Pilot's Bill of 
        Rights (49 U.S.C. 44703 note);
          (2) the application of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 
        and the Federal Rules of Evidence to covered proceedings by the 
        National Transportation Safety Board, as required by section 2 
        of the Pilot's Bill of Rights (49 U.S.C. 44703 note);
          (3) the appeal process and the typical length of time 
        associated with a final determination in a covered proceeding; 
        and
          (4) any impacts of the implementation of the Pilot's Bill of 
        Rights (49 U.S.C. 44703 note).
  (c) Covered Proceedings.--In this section, the term ``covered 
proceeding'' means a proceeding conducted under subpart C, D, or F of 
part 821 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, relating to denial, 
amendment, modification, suspension, or revocation of an airman 
certificate.

SEC. 203. EXPANSION OF BASICMED.

  (a) In General.--Section 2307 of the FAA Extension, Safety, and 
Security Act of 2016 (49 U.S.C. 44703 note) is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the 
                following:
          ``(2) the individual holds a medical certificate issued by 
        the Federal Aviation Administration or has held such a 
        certificate at any time after July 14, 2006;'';
                  (B) in paragraph (7) by inserting ``calendar'' before 
                ``months''; and
                  (C) in paragraph (8)(A) by striking ``5'' and 
                inserting ``6'';
          (2) in subsection (b)(2)(A)(i) by inserting ``(or any 
        successor form)'' after ``(3-99)'';
          (3) by striking subsection (h) and inserting the following:
  ``(h) Report Required.--Not later than 4 years after the date of 
enactment of the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American 
Aviation Act, the Administrator, in coordination with the National 
Transportation Safety Board, 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 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.''; and
          (4) in subsection (j)--
                  (A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``6'' and inserting 
                ``7''; and
                  (B) in paragraph (2) by striking ``6,000'' and 
                inserting ``12,500''.
  (b) Rulemaking.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall update regulations in parts 61 and 68 of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations, as necessary, to implement the amendments 
made by this section.
  (c) Applicability.--Beginning on the date that is 120 days after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall apply part 68, 
Code of Federal Regulations, in a manner reflecting the amendments made 
by this section.

SEC. 204. DATA PRIVACY.

  (a) In General.--Chapter 441 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 44114. Privacy

  ``(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall establish 
and continuously improve a process by which, upon request of a private 
aircraft owner or operator, the Administrator blocks the registration 
number and other similar identifiable data or information, except for 
physical markings required by law, of the aircraft of the owner or 
operator from any public dissemination or display (except in furnished 
data or information made available to or from a Government agency 
pursuant to a government contract, subcontract, or agreement) for the 
noncommercial flights of the owner or operator.
  ``(b) Withholding Personally Identifiable Information on Aircraft 
Registry.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this 
section and notwithstanding any other provision of law, the 
Administrator shall establish a procedure by which, upon request of a 
private aircraft owner or operator, the Administrator shall withhold 
from public disclosure (except in furnished data or information made 
available to or from a Government agency pursuant to a government 
contract, subcontract, or agreement) the personally identifiable 
information of such individual on the Civil Aviation Registry website.
  ``(c) ICAO Aircraft Identification Code.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Administrator shall establish a 
        program for aircraft owners and operators to apply for a new 
        ICAO aircraft identification code.
          ``(2) Limitations.--In carrying out the program described in 
        paragraph (1), the Administrator shall require--
                  ``(A) each applicant to substantiate the safety or 
                security need in applying for a new ICAO aircraft 
                identification code; and
                  ``(B) each approved applicant who obtains a new ICAO 
                aircraft identification code to comply with all 
                applicable aspects of, or related to, part 45 of title 
                14, Code of Federal Regulations, including updating an 
                aircraft's registration number and N-Number to reflect 
                such aircraft's new ICAO aircraft identification code.
  ``(d) Decoupling Mode S Codes.--The Administrator shall develop a 
plan for which the Administrator could allow for a process to 
disassociate an assigned Mode S code with the number assigned to an 
aircraft that is registered pursuant to section 44103.
  ``(e) Definitions.--In this section:
          ``(1) ADS-B.--The term `ADS-B' means automatic dependent 
        surveillance-broadcast.
          ``(2) ICAO.--The term `ICAO' means the International Civil 
        Aviation Organization.
          ``(3) Personally identifiable information.--The term 
        `personally identifiable information' means--
                  ``(A) the mailing address or registration address of 
                an individual;
                  ``(B) an electronic address (including an e-mail 
                address) of an individual; or
                  ``(C) the telephone number of an individual.''.
  (b) Study on Encrypting ADS-B.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall seek to enter into an agreement 
        with a qualified organization to conduct a study assessing the 
        technical challenges, impact to international aviation 
        operations, benefits, and costs of encrypting ADS-B signals to 
        provide for a safer and more secure environment for national 
        airspace system users.
          (2) Consultation.--In carrying out the study under paragraph 
        (1), a qualified organization shall consult with 
        representatives of--
                  (A) air carriers;
                  (B) collective bargaining representatives of the 
                Federal Aviation Administration aeronautical 
                information specialists;
                  (C) original equipment manufacturers of ADS-B 
                equipment;
                  (D) general aviation;
                  (E) business aviation; and
                  (F) aviation safety experts with specific knowledge 
                of aircraft cybersecurity.
          (3) Considerations.--In carrying out the study under 
        paragraph (1), a qualified organization shall consider--
                  (A) the technical requirements for encrypting ADS-B 
                signals for both the 978 Mhz and 1090 Mhz frequencies;
                  (B) the advantages of encrypting ADS-B signals for 
                both the 978 Mhz and 1090 Mhz frequencies, including 
                those related to cybersecurity protections, safety, and 
                privacy of national airspace system users;
                  (C) the disadvantages of encrypting ADS-B signals for 
                both the 978 Mhz and 1090 Mhz frequencies, including 
                those related to cybersecurity protections, safety, and 
                privacy of national airspace system users;
                  (D) the challenges of encrypting ADS-B signals for 
                both the 978 Mhz and 1090 Mhz frequencies, including 
                coordination considerations with the International 
                Civil Aviation Organization and foreign civil aviation 
                authorities;
                  (E) potential new aircraft equipage requirements and 
                estimated costs;
                  (F) the impact to nongovernmental third-party users 
                of ADS-B data;
                  (G) the estimated costs to--
                          (i) the Federal Aviation Administration;
                          (ii) aircraft owners required to equip with 
                        ADS-B equipment for aviation operations; and
                          (iii) other relevant persons the 
                        Administrator determines necessary; and
                  (H) the impact to national airspace system operations 
                during implementation and post-implementation.
          (4) Report.--In any agreement entered into under paragraph 
        (1), the Administrator shall ensure that, not later than 1 year 
        after the completion of the study required under paragraph (1), 
        the qualified organization that has entered into such agreement 
        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 
        study described in paragraph (1), including the findings and 
        recommendations related to each item specified under paragraph 
        (3).
          (5) Definition of qualified organization.--In this 
        subsection, the term ``qualified organization'' means an 
        independent nonprofit organization described in section 
        501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and exempt from 
        taxation under section 501(a) of such Code.
  (c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 441 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``44114. Privacy.''.

  (d) Conforming Amendment.--Section 566 of the FAA Reauthorization Act 
of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44103 note) and the item relating to such section in 
the table of contents under section 1(b) of that Act are repealed.

SEC. 205. PROHIBITION ON USING ADS-B DATA TO INITIATE AN INVESTIGATION.

  Section 46101 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
  ``(c) Prohibition on Using ADS-B Data to Initiate an Investigation.--
          ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any provision of this 
        section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration may not initiate an investigation (excluding a 
        criminal investigation) of a person based exclusively on 
        automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast data.
          ``(2) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection shall 
        prohibit the use of automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast 
        data in an investigation that was initiated for any reason 
        other than the review of automatic dependent surveillance-
        broadcast data, including if such investigation was initiated 
        as a result of a report or complaint submitted to the 
        Administrator.''.

SEC. 206. PROHIBITION ON N-NUMBER PROFITEERING.

  Section 44103 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
  ``(e) Prohibition on N-Number Profiteering.--
          ``(1) In general.--No person may reserve an aircraft 
        registration number without certifying that such person intends 
        to use such registration number--
                  ``(A) immediately on a specific aircraft; or
                  ``(B) for future use on an aircraft owned or 
                controlled, or intended to be owned or controlled, by 
                such person.
          ``(2) Transfers.--A person may transfer a reserved aircraft 
        registration number to another person if--
                  ``(A) the transferor certifies that the aircraft 
                registration number is relinquished willingly and at a 
                cost to the transferee that does not otherwise exceed 
                the amount paid by the transferor to reserve such 
                number; and
                  ``(B) the transferee--
                          ``(i) certifies that the transferor did not 
                        impose a dollar cost on the transfer that 
                        exceeds the amount provided for in subparagraph 
                        (A); and
                          ``(ii) complies with the certification 
                        requirement under paragraph (1).''.

SEC. 207. ACCOUNTABILITY FOR AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION NUMBERS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall initiate a review of the process for reserving aircraft 
registration numbers to ensure that such process offers an equal 
opportunity for members of the general public to obtain specific 
aircraft registration numbers.
  (b) Assessment.--In conducting the review under subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall assess the following:
          (1) Whether the use of readily available software to prevent 
        computer or web-based auto-fill systems from reserving aircraft 
        registration numbers in bulk would improve participation in the 
        reservation process by the general public.
          (2) Whether a limit should be imposed on the number of 
        consecutive years a person may reserve an aircraft registration 
        number.
          (3) The impact of the prohibition imposed by section 44103(e) 
        of title 49, United States Code.
  (c) Briefing.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on 
the review conducted under subsection (a), including any 
recommendations of the Administrator to improve equal participation in 
the process for reserving aircraft registration numbers by the general 
public.

SEC. 208. TIMELY RESOLUTION OF INVESTIGATIONS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of issuance of 
a letter of investigation to any person, the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall--
          (1) make a determination regarding such investigation and 
        pursue subsequent action; or
          (2) close such investigation.
  (b) Extension.--
          (1) In general.--If, upon review of the facts and status of 
        an investigation described in subsection (a), the Administrator 
        determines that the time provided to make a final determination 
        or close such investigation is insufficient, the Administrator 
        may approve an extension of such investigation for 2 years.
          (2) Additional extensions.--The Administrator may approve 
        consecutive extensions under paragraph (1).
  (c) Delegation.--The Administrator may not delegate the authority to 
approve an extension described in subsection (b) to anyone other than 
the leadership of the Administration as described in section 106(b) of 
title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 209. EXPANSION OF VOLUNTEER PILOT ORGANIZATION DEFINITION.

  Section 821 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 
U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) by striking ``for the fuel costs associated 
                with'' and inserting ``for the fuel costs and airport 
                fees attributed to''; and
                  (B) by striking ``for an individual or organ for 
                medical purposes (and for other associated 
                individuals)'' and inserting ``for the purposes 
                described in subsection (c)(2)''; and
          (2) in subsection (c)(2) by striking ``charitable medical 
        transportation.'' and inserting the following: ``charitable 
        transportation for the following purposes:
                  ``(A) Assisting individuals in accessing medical care 
                or treatment (and for other associated individuals).
                  ``(B) Delivering human blood, tissues, or organs.
                  ``(C) Aiding disaster relief efforts pursuant to a--
                          ``(i) presidential declaration of a major 
                        disaster or an emergency under the Robert T. 
                        Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
                        Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.); or
                          ``(ii) declaration of a major disaster or an 
                        emergency by a Governor of a State.''.

SEC. 210. CHARITABLE FLIGHT FUEL REIMBURSEMENT EXEMPTIONS.

  (a) In General.--
          (1) Validity of exemption.--Except as otherwise provided in 
        this subsection, an exemption from section 61.113(c) of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations, that is granted by the 
        Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration for the 
        purpose of allowing a volunteer pilot to accept reimbursement 
        from a volunteer pilot organization for the fuel costs and 
        airport fees attributed to a flight operation to provide 
        charitable transportation pursuant to section 821 of the FAA 
        Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) 
        shall be valid for 5 years.
          (2) Failing to adhere.--If the Administrator finds an 
        exemption holder under paragraph (1) or a volunteer pilot fails 
        to adhere to the conditions and limitations of the exemption 
        described under such paragraph, the Administrator may rescind 
        or suspend the exemption.
          (3) No longer qualifying.--If the Administrator finds that 
        such exemption holder no longer qualifies as a volunteer pilot 
        organization, the Administrator shall rescind such exemption.
          (4) Forgoing exemption.--If such exemption holder informs the 
        Administrator that such holder no longer plans to exercise the 
        authority granted by such exemption, the Administrator may 
        rescind such exemption.
  (b) Additional Requirements.--
          (1) In general.--A volunteer pilot organization may impose 
        additional safety requirements on a volunteer pilot without--
                  (A) being considered--
                          (i) an air carrier (as such term is defined 
                        in section 40102 of title 49, United States 
                        Code); or
                          (ii) a commercial operator (as such term is 
                        defined in section 1.1 of title 14, Code of 
                        Federal Regulations); or
                  (B) constituting common carriage.
          (2) Savings clause.--Nothing in this subsection may be 
        construed to limit or otherwise affect the authority of the 
        Administrator to regulate, as appropriate, a flight operation 
        associated with a volunteer pilot organization that constitutes 
        a commercial operation or common carriage.
  (c) Reissuance of Existing Exemptions.--In reissuing an expiring 
exemption described in subsection (a) that was originally issued prior 
to the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall ensure 
that the reissued exemption--
          (1) accounts for the provisions of this section and section 
        821 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 
        40101 note), as amended by this Act; and
          (2) is otherwise substantially similar to the previously 
        issued exemption.
  (d) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed to--
          (1) affect the authority of the Administrator to exempt a 
        pilot (exercising the private pilot privileges) from any 
        restriction on receiving reimbursement for the fuel costs and 
        airport fees attributed to a flight operation to provide 
        charitable transportation; or
          (2) impose or authorize the imposition of any additional 
        requirements by the Administrator on a flight that is arranged 
        by a volunteer pilot organization in which the volunteer 
        pilot--
                  (A) is not reimbursed the fuel costs and airport fees 
                attributed to a flight operation to provide charitable 
                flights; or
                  (B) pays a pro rata share of expenses as described in 
                section 61.113(c) of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations.
  (e) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Volunteer pilot.--The term ``volunteer pilot'' means a 
        person who--
                  (A) acts as a pilot in command of a flight operation 
                to provide charitable transportation pursuant to 
                section 821 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 
                2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note); and
                  (B) holds a private pilot certificate, commercial 
                pilot certificate, or an airline transportation pilot 
                certificate issued under part 61 of title 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations.
          (2) Volunteer pilot organization.--The term ``volunteer pilot 
        organization'' has the meaning given such term in section 
        821(c) of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 
        U.S.C. 40101 note).

SEC. 211. GAO REPORT ON CHARITABLE FLIGHTS.

  (a) Report.--Not later than 4 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall initiate a 
review of the following:
          (1) Applicable laws, regulations, policies, legal opinions, 
        and guidance pertaining to charitable flights and the 
        operations of such flights, including reimbursement of fuel 
        costs.
          (2) Petitions for exemption from the requirements of section 
        61.113(c) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, for the 
        purpose of allowing a pilot to accept reimbursement for the 
        fuel costs associated with a flight operation to provide 
        charitable transportation pursuant to section 821 of the FAA 
        Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note), as 
        amended by this Act, including assessment of--
                  (A) the conditions and limitations a petitioner must 
                comply with if the exemption is granted and whether 
                such conditions and limitations are--
                          (i) applied to petitioners in a consistent 
                        manner; and
                          (ii) commensurate with the types of flight 
                        operations exemption holders propose to conduct 
                        under any such exemptions;
                  (B) denied petitions for such an exemption and the 
                reasons for the denial of such petitions; and
                  (C) the processing time of a petition for such an 
                exemption.
          (3) Charitable flights conducted without an exemption from 
        section 61.113(c) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        including an analysis of the certificates, qualifications, and 
        aeronautical experience of the operators of such flights.
  (b) Consultation.--In carrying out the review initiated under 
subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall consult with charitable 
organizations, including volunteer pilot organizations, aircraft 
owners, and pilots who volunteer to provide transportation for or on 
behalf of a charitable organization, flight safety experts, and 
employees of the Federal Aviation Administration.
  (c) Recommendations.--As part of the review initiated under 
subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall make recommendations, as 
determined appropriate, to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration to improve the rules, policies, and guidance pertaining 
to charitable flight operations.
  (d) Report.--Upon completion of the review initiated under subsection 
(a), 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 describing the findings of such review and recommendations 
developed under subsection (c).

SEC. 212. ALL MAKES AND MODELS AUTHORIZATION.

  (a) In General.--
          (1) Unlimited letter of authorization.--Not later than 180 
        days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 
        of the Federal Aviation Administration shall take such action 
        as may be necessary to allow for the issuance of letters of 
        authorizations to airmen with the authorization for--
                  (A) all types and makes of experimental high-
                performance single engine piston powered aircraft; and
                  (B) all types and makes of experimental high-
                performance multiengine piston powered aircraft.
          (2) Requirements.--An individual who holds a letter of 
        authorization and applies for an authorization described in 
        paragraph (1)(A) or (1)(B)--
                  (A) shall be given an all-makes and models 
                authorization of--
                          (i) experimental single-engine piston powered 
                        authorized aircraft; or
                          (ii) experimental multiengine piston powered 
                        authorized aircraft;
                  (B) shall hold the appropriate category and class 
                rating for the authorized aircraft;
                  (C) shall hold 3 experimental aircraft authorizations 
                in aircraft of the same category and class rating for 
                the authorization sought; and
                  (D) may become qualified in additional experimental 
                aircraft by completing aircraft specific training.
  (b) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section may be construed 
to disallow an individual from being given both an authorization 
described in paragraph (1)(A) and an authorization described in 
paragraph (1)(B).
  (c) Failure to Comply.--
          (1) In general.--If the Administrator fails to implement 
        subsection (a) within the time period prescribed in such 
        subsection, the Administrator shall brief the Committee on 
        Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate on the status of the 
        implementation of such subsection on a monthly basis until the 
        implementation is complete.
          (2) No delegation.--The Administrator may not delegate the 
        briefing described in paragraph (1).

SEC. 213. RESPONSE TO LETTER OF INVESTIGATION.

   Section 2(b) of the Pilot's Bill of Rights (49 U.S.C. 44703 note) is 
amended by adding at the end the following:
          ``(6) Response to letter of investigation.--If an individual 
        decides to respond to a Letter of Investigation described in 
        paragraph (2)(B) such individual may respond not later than 30 
        days after receipt of such Letter, including providing written 
        comments on the incident to the investigating office.''.

                  Subtitle B--General Aviation Safety

SEC. 221. ADS-B SAFETY ENHANCEMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM.

  (a) Establishment.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall establish a program to provide rebates to owners 
of covered general aviation aircraft for the purchase of covered ADS-B 
equipment.
  (b) Application.--To be eligible to receive a rebate under this 
section, an owner of a covered general aviation aircraft shall submit 
to the Administrator an application in such form, at such time, and 
containing such information as the Administrator may require, including 
proof of successful installation of covered ADS-B equipment.
  (c) Authorized Rebate.--
          (1) Amount.--A rebate approved by the Administrator to be 
        issued to an owner of a covered general aviation aircraft shall 
        be equal to the lesser of--
                  (A) the cost of purchasing the covered ADS-B 
                equipment; or
                  (B) $2,000.
          (2) Time.--A rebate issued under the program under this 
        section shall be redeemed or presented for payment not later 
        than 180 days after issuance, after which time the rebate shall 
        be deemed void.
  (d) Sunset.--The program established under subsection (a) shall 
terminate on October 1, 2027.
  (e) Restriction.--The Administrator may not offer rebates for--
          (1) a software upgrade for covered ADS-B equipment;
          (2) covered ADS-B equipment installed prior to the date of 
        enactment of this Act;
          (3) covered general aviation aircraft manufactured after 
        January 1, 2020; or
          (4) covered general aviation aircraft for which the 
        Administrator has previously issued a rebate related to the 
        purchase and installation of covered ADS-B equipment.
  (f) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) ADS-B.--The term ``ADS-B'' means automatic dependent 
        surveillance-broadcast.
          (2) Covered ads-b equipment.--The term ``covered ADS-B 
        equipment'' means ADS-B equipment that--
                  (A) meets the performance requirements described in 
                section 91.227 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations 
                (or any successor regulation); and
                  (B) is capable of receiving and displaying ADS-B 
                information from other aircraft.
          (3) Covered general aviation aircraft.--The term ``covered 
        general aviation aircraft'' means a single-engine piston 
        aircraft registered in the United States that is not equipped 
        with covered ADS-B equipment.
  (g) Authorization of Appropriations.--Out of amounts made available 
under section 106(k) of title 49, United States Code, there is 
authorized to be expended to carry out this section and pay 
administrative costs $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2024 to remain 
available until expended.

SEC. 222. GAO REPORT ON ADS-B TECHNOLOGY.

  (a) In General.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall 
conduct a study on automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast equipage 
and usage rates across the active general aviation fleet in the United 
States.
  (b) Contents.--In conducting the study described in subsection (a), 
the Comptroller General shall, at a minimum--
          (1) analyze the reasons why aircraft owners choose not to 
        equip or use an aircraft with automatic dependent surveillance-
        broadcast technology;
          (2) examine and substantiate any benefits and drawbacks of 
        using automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast technology, 
        including safety and operational benefits and drawbacks;
          (3) survey ways to further incentivize aircraft owners to 
        equip and use aircraft with automatic dependent surveillance-
        broadcast technology; and
          (4) examine the benefits, costs, and feasibility of requiring 
        equipage of automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast 
        technology on all newly manufactured aircraft other than 
        aircraft issued a special airworthiness certificate.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 18 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 automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast described in 
subsection (b) and make recommendations to incentivize equipage and 
usage rates across the active general aviation fleet in the United 
States.

SEC. 223. PROTECTING GENERAL AVIATION AIRPORTS FROM FAA CLOSURE.

  (a) Non-surplus Property.--Section 47125 of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
  ``(c) Waiving Restrictions.--
          ``(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary 
        may grant to an airport, city, or county a waiver of any of the 
        terms, conditions, reservations, or restrictions contained in a 
        deed under which the United States conveyed to the airport, 
        city, or county an interest in real property for airport 
        purposes pursuant to section 16 of the Federal Airport Act (60 
        Stat. 179), section 23 of the Airport and Airway Development 
        Act of 1970 (84 Stat. 232), or this section.
          ``(2) Conditions.--Any waiver granted by the Secretary 
        pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be subject to the following 
        conditions:
                  ``(A) The applicable airport, city, county, or other 
                political subdivision shall agree that in conveying any 
                interest in the real property which the United States 
                conveyed to the airport, city, or county, the airport, 
                city, or county will receive consideration for such 
                interest that is equal to its current fair market 
                value.
                  ``(B) Any consideration received by the airport, 
                city, or county under subparagraph (A) shall be used 
                exclusively for the development, improvement, 
                operation, or maintenance of a public airport by the 
                airport, city, or county.
                  ``(C) Such waiver--
                          ``(i) will not significantly impair the 
                        aeronautical purpose of an airport;
                          ``(ii) will not result in the permanent 
                        closure of an airport (unless the Secretary 
                        determines that the waiver will directly 
                        facilitate the construction of a replacement 
                        airport); or
                          ``(iii) is necessary to protect or advance 
                        the civil aviation interests of the United 
                        States.
                  ``(D) Any other conditions required by the Secretary.
          ``(3) Annual reporting.--The Secretary shall include a list 
        and description of each waiver granted pursuant to paragraph 
        (1) in the report required under section 47131.''.
  (b) Surplus Property.--
          (1) In general.--Section 47151 of title 49, United States 
        Code, is amended--
                  (A) by striking subsection (d) and inserting the 
                following:
  ``(d) Waiver of Condition.--The Secretary may not waive any condition 
imposed on an interest in surplus property conveyed under subsection 
(a) that such interest be used for an aeronautical purpose unless the 
Secretary provides public notice not less than 30 days before the 
issuance of such waiver and determines that such waiver--
          ``(1) will not significantly impair the aeronautical purpose 
        of an airport;
          ``(2) will not result in the permanent closure of an airport 
        (unless the Secretary determines that the waiver will directly 
        facilitate the construction of a replacement airport); or
          ``(3) is necessary to protect or advance the civil aviation 
        interests of the United States.''; and
                  (B) by adding at the end the following:
  ``(f) Reversions of Property.--The Secretary shall take all necessary 
action to revert surplus property conveyed under this subchapter back 
to the United States if--
          ``(1) the Secretary determines that an instrument conveying 
        an interest in surplus property under this subchapter 
        incorporates a provision providing for the reversion of such 
        property in the event the property is not used for aeronautical 
        purposes;
          ``(2) other efforts by the Secretary to ensure that the 
        property is used by the relevant airport sponsor is used for 
        aeronautical purposes are unsuccessful; and
          ``(3) the Secretary determines that a reversion--
                  ``(A) will result in the property being used for 
                aeronautical purposes; or
                  ``(B) will not transfer liabilities, including 
                environmental liabilities, greater than the fair market 
                value of the property to the Government.''; and
          (2) Waiving and adding terms.--Section 47153(c) of title 49, 
        United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
  ``(c) Restrictions on Waiver.--Notwithstanding subsections (a) and 
(b), the Secretary may not waive any term under this section that an 
interest in land be used for an aeronautical purpose unless--
          ``(1) the Secretary provides public notice not less than 30 
        days before the issuance of a waiver; and
          ``(2) the Secretary determines that such waiver--
                  ``(A) will not significantly impair the aeronautical 
                purpose of an airport;
                  ``(B) will not result in the permanent closure of an 
                airport (unless the Secretary determines that the 
                waiver will directly facilitate the construction of a 
                replacement airport); or
                  ``(C) is necessary to protect or advance the civil 
                aviation interests of the United States.''.
  (c) Repeals.--
          (1) Airports near closed or realigned bases.--Section 1203 of 
        the Federal Aviation Reauthorization Act of 1996 (49 U.S.C. 
        47101 note), and the item relating to such section in the table 
        of contents under section 1(b) of such Act, are repealed.
          (2) Release from restrictions.--Section 817 of the FAA 
        Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 47125 note), 
        and the item relating to such section in the table of contents 
        under section 1(b) of such Act, are repealed.

SEC. 224. ENSURING SAFE LANDINGS DURING OFF-AIRPORT OPERATIONS.

  The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall not 
apply section 91.119 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, in any 
manner that requires a pilot to continue a landing that is unsafe.

SEC. 225. AIRPORT DIAGRAM TERMINOLOGY.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall update Airport Diagram Order JO 7910.4 and any 
related advisory circulars, policy, and guidance to ensure the clear 
and consistent use of terms to delineate the types of parking available 
to general aviation pilots.
  (b) Collaboration.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator 
shall collaborate with industry stakeholders, commercial service 
airports, and general aviation airports in--
          (1) facilitating basic standardization of general aviation 
        parking terms;
          (2) accounting for the majority of uses of general aviation 
        parking terms; and
          (3) providing clarity for chart users.
  (c) IAC Specifications.--The Administrator shall encourage the 
Interagency Air Committee to incorporate the terms developed under 
subsection (a) in publications produced by the Committee.

SEC. 226. ALTERNATIVE ADS-B TECHNOLOGIES FOR USE IN CERTAIN SMALL 
                    AIRCRAFT.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall publish an approved list of effective alternatives to automatic 
dependent surveillance-broadcast equipment (in this section referred to 
as ``alternative ADS-B equipment'') for covered aircraft operating 
outside of Mode C veil airspace so that such aircraft may voluntarily 
broadcast positioning to other aircraft.
  (b) Review; Approval.--
          (1) Review.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
        Administrator shall, to the maximum extent practicable, review 
        available commercial-off-the-shelf alternative ADS-B equipment 
        that are used outside of the United States for purposes of 
        allowing a pilot to voluntarily utilize such equipment while 
        operating outside of Mode C veil airspace and within the 
        national airspace system.
          (2) Approval.--The Administrator shall work with 
        manufacturers of such equipment to expedite technical standard 
        order authorization, or other approvals, required by the 
        Administrator for such equipment for use in covered aircraft.
  (c) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Alternative ads-b equipment.--The term ``alternative ADS-
        B equipment'' means a positioning technology that--
                  (A) does not otherwise meet the performance 
                requirements prescribed in section 91.227 of title 14, 
                Code of Federal Regulations;
                  (B) may be affixed to, or portable within, a covered 
                aircraft; and
                  (C) can broadcast positioning of a covered aircraft 
                to other aircraft operating outside of Mode C veil 
                airspace.
          (2) Covered aircraft.--The term ``covered aircraft'' means--
                  (A) a single-engine piston aircraft;
                  (B) an ultralight aircraft; or
                  (C) an aircraft not equipped with an electrical 
                system.
  (d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section may be construed 
by the Administrator to require covered aircraft to install--
          (1) alternative ADS-B equipment; or
          (2) automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast equipment.

SEC. 227. AIRSHOW SAFETY TEAM.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall coordinate with the General Aviation Joint Safety Committee to 
establish an Airshow Safety Team focused on airshow and aerial event 
safety.
  (b) Objective.--The objective of the Airshow Safety Team described in 
subsection (a) shall be to--
          (1) serve as a mechanism for Federal Government and industry 
        cooperation, communication, and coordination on airshow and 
        aerial event safety; and
          (2) reduce airshow and aerial event accidents and incidents 
        through non-regulatory, proactive safety strategies.
  (c) Activities.--In carrying out the objectives pursuant to 
subsection (b), the Airshow Safety Team shall, at a minimum--
          (1) perform an analysis of airshow and aerial event accidents 
        and incidents in conjunction with the Safety Analysis Team;
          (2) publish and update every 2 years after initial 
        publication an Airshow Safety Plan that incorporates consensus 
        based and data driven mitigation measures and non-regulatory 
        safety strategies to improve and promote safety of the public, 
        performers, and airport personnel; and
          (3) engage the airshow and aerial event community to--
                  (A) communicate non-regulatory, proactive safety 
                strategies identified by the Airshow Safety Plan to 
                mitigate incidents; and
                  (B) discuss best practices to uphold and maintain 
                safety at events.
  (d) Membership.--The Administrator may request the Airshow Safety 
Team be comprised of at least 10 individuals, each of whom shall have 
knowledge or a background in the planning, execution, operation, or 
management of an airshow or aerial event.
  (e) Meetings.--The Airshow Safety Team shall meet at least twice a 
year at the direction of the co-chairs of the General Aviation Joint 
Safety Committee.
  (f) Construction.--The Administrator shall not initiate a regulatory 
action based on any--
          (1) discussion or sharing of information and data that occurs 
        as part of an official meeting of the Airshow Safety Team; or
          (2) safety strategies or best practices identified by the 
        Airshow Safety Plan that are not intended to be used by the 
        Administrator for regulatory purposes.

SEC. 228. TOWER MARKING NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING.

  (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 a notice of proposed rulemaking to implement section 2110 
of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 (49 U.S.C. 44718 
note).
  (b) Report.--If the Administrator fails to issue the notice of 
proposed rulemaking pursuant to 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 an annual report on the status of such 
rulemaking, including--
          (1) the reasons that the Administrator has failed to issue 
        the rulemaking; and
          (2) a list of fatal aircraft accidents associated with 
        unmarked towers that have occurred over the 5 years previous to 
        the date of submission of the report.

                   Subtitle C--Improving FAA Services

SEC. 241. AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION VALIDITY DURING RENEWAL.

  (a) In General.--Section 44103 of title 49, United States Code, is 
further amended by adding at the end the following:
  ``(f) Validity of Aircraft Registration During Renewal.--
          ``(1) In general.--An aircraft may be operated on or after 
        the expiration date found on the certificate of registration 
        issued for such aircraft under this section as if it were not 
        expired if the operator of such aircraft has aboard the 
        aircraft--
                  ``(A) documentation validating that--
                          ``(i) an aircraft registration renewal 
                        application form (AC Form 8050-1B, or a 
                        succeeding form) has been submitted to the 
                        Administrator for such aircraft but not yet 
                        approved or denied; and
                          ``(ii) such aircraft is compliant with 
                        maintenance, inspections, and any other 
                        requirements for the aircraft's airworthiness 
                        certificate issued under section 44704(d); and
                  ``(B) the most recent aircraft registration.
          ``(2) Proof of pending renewal application.--The 
        Administrator shall provide an applicant for renewal of 
        registration under this section with documentation described in 
        paragraph (1)(A). Such documentation shall--
                  ``(A) be made electronically available to the 
                applicant immediately upon submitting an aircraft 
                registration renewal application to the Civil Aviation 
                Registry for an aircraft;
                  ``(B) notify the applicant of the operational 
                allowance described in paragraph (1);
                  ``(C) deem an aircraft's airworthiness certificate 
                issued under section 44704(d) as valid provided that 
                the applicant confirms acknowledgment of the 
                requirements of paragraph (1)(A)(ii);
                  ``(D) confirm the applicant acknowledged the 
                limitations described in paragraph (3)(A) and (3)(B); 
                and
                  ``(E) include identifying information pertaining to 
                such aircraft and to the registered owner.
          ``(3) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection shall 
        be construed to permit any person to operate an aircraft--
                  ``(A) with an expired registration, except as 
                specifically provided for under this subsection; or
                  ``(B) if the Administrator has denied an application 
                to renew the registration of such aircraft.''.
  (b) Rulemaking; Guidance.--Not later than 18 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall issue a final rule, if necessary, and update all 
applicable guidance and policies to implement the amendment made by 
this section.

SEC. 242. TEMPORARY AIRMAN CERTIFICATES.

  Section 44703 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
  ``(l) Temporary Airman Certificate.--An individual may obtain a 
temporary airman certificate from the Administrator after requesting a 
permanent replacement airman certificate issued under this section. A 
temporary airman certificate shall be--
          ``(1) made available--
                  ``(A) electronically to the individual immediately 
                upon submitting an online application for a replacement 
                certificate to the Administrator; or
                  ``(B) physically to the individual at a flight 
                standards district office--
                          ``(i) if the individual submits an online 
                        application for a replacement certificate; or
                          ``(ii) if the individual applies for a 
                        permanent replacement certificate other than by 
                        online application and such application has 
                        been received by the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration; and
          ``(2) destroyed upon receipt of the permanent replacement 
        airman certificate from the Administrator.''.

SEC. 243. FLIGHT INSTRUCTION OR TESTING.

  (a) In General.--An authorized flight instructor providing student 
instruction, flight instruction, or flight training shall not be deemed 
to be operating an aircraft carrying persons or property for 
compensation or hire.
  (b) Authorized Additional Pilots.--An individual acting as an 
authorized additional pilot during Phase I flight testing of aircraft 
holding an experimental airworthiness certificate, in accordance with 
section 21.191 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and meeting 
the requirements set forth in Federal Aviation Administration 
regulations and policy in effect as of the date of enactment of this 
section, shall not be deemed to be operating an aircraft carrying 
persons or property for compensation or hire.
  (c) Use of Aircraft.--An individual who uses, causes to use, or 
authorizes to use aircraft for flights conducted under subsection (a) 
or (b) shall not be deemed to be operating an aircraft carrying persons 
or property for compensation or hire.
  (d) Revision of Rules.--
          (1) In general.--The requirements of this section shall 
        become effective upon the date of enactment of this Act.
          (2) Revision.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration shall issue, revise, or repeal the rules, 
        regulations, guidance, or procedures of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration to conform to the requirements of this section.

SEC. 244. LETTER OF DEVIATION AUTHORITY.

  (a) In General.--A flight instructor, registered owner, lessor, or 
lessee of a covered aircraft shall not be required to obtain a letter 
of deviation authority from the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration to allow, conduct, or receive flight training, checking, 
and testing in such aircraft if--
          (1) the flight instructor is not providing both the training 
        and the aircraft;
          (2) no person advertises or broadly offers the aircraft as 
        available for flight training, checking, or testing; and
          (3) no person receives compensation for use of the aircraft 
        for a specific flight during which flight training, checking, 
        or testing was received, other than expenses for owning, 
        operating, and maintaining the aircraft.
  (b) Covered Aircraft Defined.--In this section, the term ``covered 
aircraft'' means--
          (1) an experimental category aircraft;
          (2) a limited category aircraft; and
          (3) a primary category aircraft.

SEC. 245. NATIONAL COORDINATION AND OVERSIGHT OF DESIGNATED PILOT 
                    EXAMINERS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 16 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall establish a program or office to provide national coordination 
and oversight of designated pilot examiners appointed under section 
183.23 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  (b) Responsibilities.--The program or office established under 
subsection (a) shall be responsible for the following:
          (1) Oversight of designated pilot examiners appointed under 
        section 183.23 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        including the selection, training, duties, and deployment of 
        such examiners.
          (2) Supporting the standardization of policy, guidance, and 
        regulations across the Administration pertaining to the 
        selection, training, duties, and deployment of designated pilot 
        examiners appointed under section 183.23 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, including evaluating the consistency by 
        which such examiners apply Administration policies, orders, and 
        guidance.
          (3) Coordinating placement and deployment of such examiners 
        across regions based on demand for examinations from the pilot 
        community.
          (4) Developing a code of conduct for such examiners.
          (5) Deploying a survey system to track the performance and 
        merit of such examiners.
          (6) Facilitating an industry partnership to create a formal 
        mentorship program for such examiners.
  (c) Coordination.--In carrying out the responsibilities listed in 
subsection (b), the Administrator shall ensure the program--
          (1) coordinates on an ongoing basis with flight standards 
        district offices, designated pilot examiner managing 
        specialists, and aviation industry stakeholders, including 
        representatives of the general aviation community; and
          (2) considers (or reconsiders) implementing the final 
        recommendations report issued by the Designated Pilot Examiner 
        Reforms Working Group and accepted by the Aviation Rulemaking 
        Advisory Committee on June 17, 2021.
  (d) Briefing.--The Administrator shall brief the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate in 
each fiscal year beginning after the date of enactment of this Act 
through fiscal year 2028 detailing--
          (1) the methodology by which designated pilot examiners 
        appointed under section 183.23 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, are deployed and any subsequent changes to the 
        methodology to fulfill the demand for examinations;
          (2) a review of the previous fiscal year detailing the 
        average time an individual in each region must wait to schedule 
        an appointment with such an examiner; and
          (3) the turnover rates and resource costs associated with 
        such examiners.

SEC. 246. BASICMED FOR EXAMINERS ADMINISTERING TESTS OR PROFICIENCY 
                    CHECKS.

  (a) Equivalent Pilot-in-command Medical Requirements.--
Notwithstanding section 61.23(a)(3)(iv) of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations, an examiner may administer a practical test or proficiency 
check if such examiner meets the medical qualification requirements 
under part 68 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, if the 
operation being conducted is in a covered aircraft, as such term is 
defined in section 2307(j) of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security 
Act of 2016 (49 U.S.C. 44703 note).
  (b) Rulemaking.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall issue a final rule to update part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations, to implement the requirements under subsection (a), in 
addition to any related requirements the Administrator finds are in the 
interest of aviation safety.

SEC. 247. DESIGNEE LOCATOR TOOL IMPROVEMENTS.

  Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall ensure that 
the designee locator search function of the public website of the 
Designee Management System of the Administration has the functionality 
to--
          (1) filter a search for an Aviation Medical Examiner (as 
        described in section 183.21 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations) by sex, if such information is available;
          (2) display credentials and aircraft qualifications of a 
        designated pilot examiner (as described in section 183.23 of 
        such title); and
          (3) display the scheduling availability of a designated pilot 
        examiner (as described in section 183.23 of such title) to 
        administer a test or proficiency check to an airman.

SEC. 248. DEADLINE TO ELIMINATE AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION BACKLOG.

  Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall take such 
actions as may be necessary to reduce and maintain the aircraft 
registration and recordation backlog at the Civil Aviation Registry so 
that, on average, applications are processed not later than 10 business 
days after receipt.

SEC. 249. PART 135 AIR CARRIER CERTIFICATE BACKLOG.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall take such actions as may be necessary to achieve 
the goal of reducing the backlog of air carrier certificate 
applications under part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
to--
          (1) not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this 
        Act, maintain an average certificate decision time of less than 
        60 days; and
          (2) not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
        this Act, maintain an average certificate decision time of less 
        than 30 days.
  (b) Measures.--In meeting the goal under subsection (a), the 
Administrator may--
          (1) assign, as appropriate, additional personnel or support 
        staff, including on a temporary basis, to review, adjudicate, 
        and approve applications;
          (2) improve and expand promotion of existing applicant 
        resources which could improve the quality of applications 
        submitted to decrease the need for Administration applicant 
        coordination and communications; and
          (3) take into consideration any third-party entity that 
        assisted in the preparation of an application for an air 
        carrier certificate under part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations.
  (c) Working Group.--The Administrator shall convene a working group 
comprised of industry stakeholders and aviation experts to--
          (1) not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this 
        Act, study methods and make recommendations to clarify 
        requirements and standardize the process for conducting and 
        completing aircraft conformity processes for existing air 
        carriers and operators under part 135 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, in a timely manner, which shall include--
                  (A) developing a plan to honor or expedite the 
                consideration of previously accepted aircraft 
                configuration evaluations when an aircraft moves from 
                one certificate under part 135 of title 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations, to another such certificate;
                  (B) streamlining protocols for operators under such 
                part 135 to add an aircraft that was listed on another 
                certificate under such part 135 immediately prior to 
                moving to the new carrier; and
                  (C) evaluating non-safety related Federal Aviation 
                Administration policies, guidance, and documentation 
                and identify needed changes to such policies, guidance, 
                and documentation to accomplish subparagraph (B); and
          (2) not later than 2 years after of the date of enactment of 
        this Act--
                  (A) study and review methods to modernize and improve 
                the air carrier certification process under part 135 of 
                title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; and
                  (B) recommend long-term solutions for effective 
                management of Administration resources dedicated to 
                approving air carrier certificate applications under 
                such part 135.
  (d) Congressional Briefing.--Beginning 6 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, and not less than every 6 months thereafter 
until the Administrator complies with the requirements under subsection 
(a)(2), the Administrator shall provide a briefing 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 status of the backlog of air carrier certificate applications under 
part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, any measures the 
Administrator has put in place under subsection (b), and any 
recommendations received from the review under subsection (c).

SEC. 250. LOGGING FLIGHT TIME ACCRUED IN CERTAIN PUBLIC AIRCRAFT.

  (a) Completion of Rulemaking.--Not later than 18 months after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall issue a final rule modifying section 
61.51(j)(4) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to include 
aircraft under the direct operational control of forestry and fire 
protection agencies, as required by section 517 of the FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44703 note).
  (b) Failure to Complete Rulemaking.--If the Administrator fails to 
issue a final rule pursuant to subsection (a) by the deadline described 
in such subsection, beginning on the date that is 18 months after the 
date of enactment of this Act--
          (1) notwithstanding section 61.51(j)(4) of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, a pilot, while engaged on an official 
        flight for a Federal, State, county, or municipal forestry or 
        fire protection agency, may log flight time so long as the time 
        acquired is in an aircraft that--
                  (A) is identified as an aircraft under section 
                61.5(b) of such title; and
                  (B) is a public aircraft under the direct operational 
                control of a forestry or fire protection agency; and
          (2) the Administrator may not take an enforcement action 
        against the pilot for logging such flight time as described in 
        paragraph (1).
  (c) Sunset.--Subsection (b) shall cease to be effective on the date 
on which the final rule required under subsection (a) is effective.

SEC. 251. FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATES.

  (a) Completion of Rulemaking.--Not later than 36 months after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall issue a final rule for the rulemaking 
activity titled ``Removal of the Expiration Date on a Flight Instructor 
Certificate'', published in Fall 2022 in the Unified Agenda of Federal 
Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions (RIN 2120-AL25) to, at a minimum, 
update part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to--
          (1) remove the expiration date on a flight instructor 
        certificate; and
          (2) replace the requirement that a flight instructor renews 
        their flight instructor certificate with appropriate recent 
        experience requirements for the holder of a flight instructor 
        certificate to exercise the privileges of such certificate.
  (b) Failure to Complete Rulemaking.--If the Administrator fails to 
issue a final rule pursuant to subsection (a) before the deadline 
prescribed in that subsection, beginning on the date that is 36 months 
after the date of enactment of this Act--
          (1) notwithstanding sections 61.19(d) and 61.197 of title 14, 
        Code of Federal Regulations, an individual holding a flight 
        instructor certificate that is not expired as of the date that 
        is 36 months after the date of enactment of this Act may 
        exercise the privileges of the certificate regardless of 
        whether the certificate subsequently expires, provided that the 
        individual meets eligibility requirements in accordance with 
        section 61.183 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; and
          (2) the Administrator--
                  (A) shall consider a flight instructor certificate 
                described in paragraph (1) as having no expiration 
                date; and
                  (B) may not enforce any regulation attributed to the 
                renewal of a flight instructor certificate of an 
                individual.
  (c) Sunset.--Subsection (b) shall cease to be effective on the 
effective date of a final rule issued pursuant to subsection (a).

SEC. 252. CONSISTENCY OF POLICY APPLICATION IN FLIGHT STANDARDS AND 
                    AIRCRAFT CERTIFICATION.

  (a) In General.--The inspector general of the Department of 
Transportation shall initiate audits, as described in subsection (d), 
of the Flight Standards and Aircraft Certification Services of the 
Federal Aviation Administration, and the personnel of such offices, on 
the consistency of--
          (1) the interpretation of policies, orders, guidance, and 
        regulations; and
          (2) the application of policies, orders, guidance, and 
        regulations.
  (b) Components.--In completing the audits required under this 
section, the inspector general shall interview stakeholders, including 
at a minimum, individuals or entities that--
          (1) hold a certificate or authorization related to the issue 
        being audited under subsection (d);
          (2) are from different regions of the country with matters 
        before different flight standards district offices or aircraft 
        certification offices of the Administration;
          (3) work with multiple flight standards district offices or 
        aircraft certification offices of the Administration; or
          (4) hold a single or multiple relevant certificates or 
        authorizations.
  (c) Reports.--The inspector general of the Department of 
Transportation shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, the Secretary of 
Transportation, and the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration a report for each audit required in this section, 
containing the results of the audit, including findings and 
recommendations to the Administrator to improve the consistency of 
decision-making by Flight Standards and Aircraft Certification Services 
offices of the Administration.
  (d) Audits.--The inspector general shall complete an audit and issue 
the associated report required under subsection (c) not later than--
          (1) 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, with 
        regard to supplemental type certificates;
          (2) 34 months after the date of enactment of this Act, with 
        regard to repair stations certificated under part 145 of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations; and
          (3) 50 months after the date of enactment of this Act, with 
        regard to technical standards orders.
  (e) Implementation.--In addressing any recommendations from the 
inspector general contained in the reports required under subsection 
(c), the Administrator shall--
          (1) maintain an implementation plan; and
          (2) broadly adopt any best practices to improve the 
        consistency of interpretation and application of policies, 
        orders, guidance, and regulations by other offices of the 
        Administration and with regard to other activities of the 
        Administration.
  (f) Briefing.--Not later than 6 months after receiving a report 
required under subsection (c), the Administrator shall brief the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate on the implementation plan required under 
subsection (d), the status of any recommendation received pursuant to 
this section, and any best practices that are being implemented more 
broadly.

SEC. 253. APPLICATION OF POLICIES, ORDERS, AND GUIDANCE.

  Section 44701 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
  ``(g) Policies, Orders, and Guidance.--
          ``(1) Consistency of application.--The Administrator shall 
        ensure consistency in the application of policies, orders, and 
        guidance of the Administration by--
                  ``(A) regular audits of the application and 
                interpretation of such material by Administration 
                personnel from person to person and office to office;
                  ``(B) updating policies, orders, and guidance to 
                resolve inconsistencies and clarify demonstrated 
                ambiguities, such as through repeated inconsistent 
                interpretation; and
                  ``(C) ensuring officials are properly documenting 
                findings and decisions throughout a project to decrease 
                the occurrence of duplicative work and inconsistent 
                findings by subsequent officials assigned to the same 
                project.
          ``(2) Alterations.--The Administrator shall consult as 
        appropriate with regulated entities who will be impacted by 
        proposed changes to the content or application of policies, 
        orders, and guidance before making such changes.
          ``(3) Authorities and regulations.--The Administrator shall 
        issue policies, orders, and guidance documents that are related 
        to a law or regulation or clarify the intent of or compliance 
        with specific laws and regulations.''.

SEC. 254. EXPANSION OF THE REGULATORY CONSISTENCY COMMUNICATIONS BOARD.

  Section 224 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44701 
note) is amended--
          (1) in subsection (c)--
                  (A) in paragraph (2) by striking ``; and'' and 
                inserting a semicolon;
                  (B) in paragraph (3) by striking the period and 
                inserting a semicolon; and
                  (C) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(4) the Office of Airports;
          ``(5) the Office of Security and Hazardous Materials Safety;
          ``(6) the Office of Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement; 
        and
          ``(7) such other offices as the Administrator determines 
        appropriate.''; and
          (2) in subsection (d)(1)--
                  (A) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``anonymous 
                regulatory interpretation questions'' and inserting 
                ``regulatory interpretation questions, including 
                anonymously,'';
                  (B) in subparagraph (C) by striking ``anonymous 
                regulatory interpretation questions'' and inserting 
                ``regulatory interpretation questions, including 
                anonymously''; and
                  (C) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(6) Submit recommendations, as needed, to the Assistant 
        Administrator for Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement for 
        consideration.''.

SEC. 255. EXEMPTION OF FEES FOR AIR TRAFFIC SERVICES.

  (a) In General.--Chapter 453 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 45307. Exemption of fees for air traffic services

  ``(a) Requirement to Provide Services and Related Support.--The 
Administrator shall provide or ensure the provisioning of air traffic 
services and aviation safety support for large, multiday aviation 
events, including airshows and fly-ins, where the average daily number 
of manned operations were 1,000 or greater in at least 1 of the 
preceding 3 years, without the imposition or collection of any fee, 
tax, or other charge for that purpose. Amounts for the provision of 
such services and support shall be derived from amounts appropriated or 
otherwise available for the Administration.
  ``(b) Determination of Services and Support to Be Provided.--In 
determining the services and support to be provided for an aviation 
event for purposes of subsection (a), the Administrator shall take into 
account the following:
          ``(1) The services and support required to meet levels of 
        activity at prior events, if any, similar to the event.
          ``(2) The anticipated need for services and support at the 
        event.''.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis of chapter 453 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 45307. Exemption of fees for air traffic services.''.

  (c) Conforming Repeal.--Section 530 of the FAA Reauthorization of 
2018 (49 U.S.C. 40103 note), and the item relating to that section in 
the table of contents in section 1(b) of such Act, are repealed.

SEC. 256. MODERNIZATION OF SPECIAL AIRWORTHINESS CERTIFICATION 
                    RULEMAKING DEADLINE.

  Not later than 24 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue a 
final rule for the rulemaking activity titled ``Modernization of 
Special Airworthiness Certification'', published in Fall 2022 in the 
long-term actions of the Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and 
Deregulatory Actions (RIN 2120-AL50).

SEC. 257. TERMINATION OF DESIGNEES.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall update the Administration's Designee Management Policy (FAA Order 
8000.95B), or any successor order, to ensure due process and increase 
transparency in Federal Aviation Administration-initiated terminations 
of designees.
  (b) Updates to the Designee Management Policy.--In updating the 
Administration's Designee Management Policy under subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall, at a minimum, provide for the following:
          (1) A process by which a designee--
                  (A) is notified of the root causes and reasons for a 
                termination initiated by the Administrator;
                  (B) is notified of the change in a delegated 
                authority to ``suspended'' or ``terminated'' during a 
                Federal Aviation Administration-initiated termination;
                  (C) is provided a point of contact, who is 
                independent of any investigation or termination action 
                involving the designee, within the Administration, to 
                correspond with for purposes of discussing the 
                termination process and the designee's status, 
                including the handling of correspondence during the 
                investigation process described in paragraph (2), if 
                applicable, and the review panel described in paragraph 
                (3);
                  (D) is notified of the results of the investigation 
                described in paragraph (2) in a reasonable and timely 
                manner, which shall include notice of additional action 
                by the Administrator, if required; and
                  (E) may respond within 30 calendar days to the 
                Administrator if the Administrator determines that a 
                termination for cause is the appropriate course of 
                action and initiates such action.
          (2) An investigation process to determine the appropriate 
        outcome in situations in which termination is being considered 
        by the Administrator, which shall include the following 
        elements:
                  (A) The root causes and reasons for the 
                investigation, including any complaints or allegations.
                  (B) Collection of evidence related to the 
                investigation.
                  (C) A review of the facts and circumstances 
                surrounding the case.
                  (D) A review of the designee's record in the designee 
                management system and any relevant background 
                information in the appropriate Federal Aviation 
                Administration databases to determine if there is a 
                pattern of inappropriate behavior or misconduct.
                  (E) A review of the designee's response to the 
                investigation, if provided, to include any 
                documentation provided by the designee.
                  (F) A decision on the appropriate course of action 
                based on the results of the investigation.
                  (G) Recording the results of the investigation in the 
                Federal Aviation Administration's designee management 
                system.
                  (H) A notification to the designee that an 
                investigation has been initiated, but only after it is 
                determined through an established process that such 
                notification would not adversely impact the 
                investigation or safety.
          (3) A review panel to determine whether a termination is 
        appropriate when termination for cause is a possible outcome 
        upon the completion of the investigation described in paragraph 
        (2), of which such review panel shall--
                  (A) consider the elements of the investigation 
                process provided for under paragraph (2), including the 
                designee's response to the investigation and any 
                associated documents, if provided; and
                  (B) complete the review process within 45 calendar 
                days of the Administrator initiating a for cause 
                termination decision of a designee.
  (c) Subsequent Review for Designated Pilot Examiners.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall set up a process 
        through which a Designated Pilot Examiner terminated for cause 
        may request a subsequent review by the Executive Director of 
        the Flight Standards Service.
          (2) Request.--A Designated Pilot Examiner terminated for 
        cause may request a subsequent review described in paragraph 
        (1) not later than 15 calendar days after termination,
          (3) Review.--The Executive Director shall review all relevant 
        information and facts by which the decision was made to 
        terminate the designee, including the information considered by 
        the review panel, and issue a final determination.
          (4) Timing.--Such final determination shall be issued by the 
        Director not later than 45 calendar days upon receiving the 
        request.
  (d) Limitation on Investigation and Review Panel Participants.--An 
Administration employee involved in the selection, appointment, or 
management of a designee the Administrator is investigating or 
terminating for cause may not be party--
          (1) to an investigation described in subsection (b)(2) of 
        such designee; or
          (2) participating on a review panel described in subsection 
        (b)(3) pertaining to such designee.

SEC. 258. PART 135 CHECK AIRMEN REFORMS.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall assign to the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory 
Committee (in this section referred to as the ``Committee'') the task 
of reviewing all regulations and policies related to check airmen for 
air carrier operations conducted under part 135 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations.
  (b) Duties.--The Committee shall--
          (1) review the processes and requirements by which authorized 
        check airmen are selected, trained, and approved by the 
        Administrator, and provide recommendations with respect to the 
        regulatory and policy changes necessary to ensure efficient 
        training and utilization of such check airmen;
          (2) review differences in qualification standards between an 
        inspector of the Federal Aviation Administration and an 
        authorized check airmen in evaluating and certifying the 
        knowledge and skills of pilots; and
          (3) make recommendations with respect to the regulatory and 
        policy changes necessary to allow authorized check airmen to 
        perform duties beyond the duties permitted on the date of 
        enactment of this Act.
  (c) Action Based on Recommendations.--Not later than 1 year after 
receiving recommendations under subsection (a), the Administrator shall 
take such action as the Administrator considers appropriate with 
respect to such recommendations.
  (d) Definition of Authorized Check Airman.--In this section, the term 
``authorized check airman'' means an individual employed by an air 
carrier that meets the qualifications and training requirements of 
sections 135.337 and 135.339 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
and is approved to evaluate and certify the knowledge and skills of 
pilots employed by such air carrier.

                      Subtitle D--Other Provisions

SEC. 261. REQUIRED CONSULTATION WITH NATIONAL PARKS OVERFLIGHTS 
                    ADVISORY GROUP.

  Section 40128(b)(4) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subparagraph (C) by striking ``and'' at the end;
          (2) in subparagraph (D) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting ``; and''; and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
                  ``(E) consult with the advisory group established 
                under section 805 of the National Parks Air Tour 
                Management Act of 2000 (49 U.S.C. 40128 note) and 
                consider all advice, information, and recommendations 
                provided by the advisory group to the Administrator and 
                the Director.''.

SEC. 262. SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN REGULATORY REFORM.

  (a) In General.--Beginning on the date that is 30 days after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the following regulations shall cease to 
apply to any aircraft operating below 41,000 feet above mean sea level:
          (1) Paragraphs (3) and (4) of section 135.89(b) of title 14, 
        Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulations).
          (2) Paragraphs (1)(ii) and (2) of section 91.211(b) of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulations).
  (b) Conforming Amendment.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall issue a final regulation revising the provisions 
of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, described in paragraphs (1) 
and (2) of subsection (a) to conform to the limitation in applicability 
pursuant to subsection (a).

SEC. 263. EXCLUSION OF GYROPLANES FROM FUEL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS.

  Section 44737 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking ``rotorcraft'' and inserting ``helicopter'' 
        each place it appears; and
          (2) by adding at the end the following:
  ``(d) Exemption.--A helicopter issued an experimental certificate 
under section 21.191 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any 
successor regulations), or operating under a Special Flight Permit 
issued under section 21.197 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations 
(or any successor regulations), is exempt from the requirements of this 
section.''.

SEC. 264. AIRSHOW VENUE INFORMATION, AWARENESS, TRAINING, AND EDUCATION 
                    PROGRAM.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 4 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall establish a program, in cooperation with the National Center for 
the Advancement of Aerospace, to be known as the ``Airshow Venue 
Information, Awareness, Training, and Education Program'' (in this 
section referred to as the ``AVIATE Program'').
  (b) Objective.--The objectives of the AVIATE Program shall be--
          (1) to make information available to general aviation airport 
        managers, local government officials, and other relevant 
        stakeholders about how to host an airshow;
          (2) to provide guidance and resources to help organizers plan 
        and execute airshows and aerial events, including--
                  (A) compliance with all applicable regulations;
                  (B) providing technical assistance in establishing--
                          (i) emergency response plans; and
                          (ii) communication plans between relevant 
                        event stakeholders, including local enforcement 
                        and emergency first responders; and
                  (C) ensuring protection of the public, performers, 
                and airport personnel;
          (3) to promote public awareness and engagement with airshows 
        and aerial events, including opportunities for community 
        education, outreach, and involvement; and
          (4) to provide access to tools and resources that enable 
        general aviation airport managers, local government officials, 
        and other relevant stakeholders to understand the impact of 
        airshows and aerial events on local economies and communities.
  (c) Administration.--In carrying out the AVIATE Program, the 
Administrator shall consult and coordinate, as appropriate, with 
relevant stakeholders, including--
          (1) airshow safety experts;
          (2) general aviation aircraft owners and operators, including 
        experimental aircraft owners and operators;
          (3) general aviation airports, including airport officials;
          (4) air traffic control specialists with knowledge of 
        coordinating airshows and aerial events, including experts from 
        the exclusive bargaining representative of air traffic 
        controllers certified under section 7111 of title 5, United 
        States Code; and
          (5) experts from the exclusive bargaining representative of 
        air traffic controllers certified under section 7111 of title 
        5, United States Code.

SEC. 265. LOW ALTITUDE ROTORCRAFT AND POWERED-LIFT OPERATIONS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall, as appropriate, establish or update low altitude routes and 
flight procedures to ensure safe rotorcraft and powered-lift aircraft 
operations within Class B airspace of the national airspace system.
  (b) Flight Procedures.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall, as appropriate, establish or update approach and 
departure procedures at public-use airports and heliports within Class 
B airspace for rotorcraft and powered-lift aircraft operations.
  (c) Flight Routes.--
          (1) In general.--In carrying out this section, the 
        Administrator shall revise part 71 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, as necessary, to establish or update low altitude 
        routes related to Class B airspace operations for rotorcraft 
        and powered-lift aircraft.
          (2) Considerations.--In carrying out this section, the 
        Administrator shall consider the impact of such low altitude 
        flight routes described in paragraph (1) on other airspace 
        users and impacted communities to ensure that such routes are 
        designed to minimize--
                  (A) the potential for conflict with existing national 
                airspace system operations;
                  (B) the workload of air traffic controllers; and
                  (C) negative effects to impacted communities.
  (d) Consultation.--In carrying out this section, the Administrator 
shall develop the procedures and routes required under subsection (b) 
and (c) in consultation with--
          (1) rotorcraft operators, including air ambulance operators;
          (2) powered-lift operators;
          (3) exclusive bargaining representatives of air traffic 
        controllers certified under section 7111 of title 5, United 
        States Code; and
          (4) any other relevant stakeholders as determined by the 
        Administrator.

SEC. 266. BASICMED IN NORTH AMERICA.

  The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall seek 
to facilitate the recognition of medical qualifications under part 68 
of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, with civil aviation 
authorities in Canada and such other foreign countries that the 
Administrator determines are appropriate.

SEC. 267. ELIMINATE AVIATION GASOLINE LEAD EMISSIONS.

  (a) EAGLE Initiative.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration shall continue to partner with industry and 
        other Federal Government stakeholders in carrying out the 
        Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions Initiative (in this 
        section referred to as the ``EAGLE Initiative'').
          (2) FAA responsibilities.--In collaborating with industry and 
        other Government stakeholders to carry out the EAGLE 
        Initiative, the Administrator shall take such actions as may be 
        necessary under the Administrator's authority to facilitate--
                  (A) the safe elimination of the use of leaded 
                aviation gasoline by piston-engine aircraft by the end 
                of 2030 without adversely affecting the piston-engine 
                aircraft fleet;
                  (B) the approval of unleaded alternatives to leaded 
                aviation gasoline for use in all piston-engine aircraft 
                types and piston-engine types;
                  (C) the implementation of the requirements of section 
                431 as they relate to the continued availability of 
                aviation gasoline;
                  (D) efforts to make approved unleaded aviation 
                gasoline widely available at airports; and
                  (E) the development and implementation of a 
                transition plan to safely expedite the transition of 
                the piston-engine general aviation aircraft fleet to 
                unleaded fuels by 2030.
          (3) Activities.--In carrying out the Administration's 
        responsibilities pursuant to paragraph (2), the Administrator, 
        at a minimum, shall--
                  (A) develop and publish, as soon as practicable, a 
                fleet authorization process for the efficient approval 
                or authorization of unleaded aviation gasolines;
                  (B) review, update, and prioritize, as soon as 
                practicable, certification processes and projects for 
                aircraft engines and modifications to such engines to 
                operate with unleaded aviation gasoline;
                  (C) evaluate and support programs that accelerate the 
                creation, evaluation, qualification, deployment, and 
                use of unleaded aviation gasolines;
                  (D) carry out, in partnership with the general 
                aviation community, an ongoing campaign for training 
                and educating aircraft owners and operators on how to 
                safely transition to unleaded aviation gasoline;
                  (E) evaluate aircraft and aircraft engines to ensure 
                that such aircraft and aircraft engines can operate 
                with unleaded aviation gasoline candidates during cold 
                weather conditions; and
                  (F) facilitate Government policy, regulatory 
                proposals, and voluntary consensus standards with the 
                objective of achieving the following:
                          (i) Establishing a commercially viable supply 
                        chain for unleaded aviation gasolines.
                          (ii) Facilitating market-based production and 
                        distribution of unleaded aviation gasolines.
                          (iii) Encouraging procurement of equipment 
                        required for the deployment, storage, and 
                        dispensing of unleaded aviation gasolines.
          (4) Consultation and coordination with relevant 
        stakeholders.--In carrying out the EAGLE Initiative, the 
        Administrator shall continue to consult and coordinate, as 
        appropriate, with relevant stakeholders, including--
                  (A) general aviation aircraft engine, aircraft 
                propulsion, and aircraft airframe manufacturers;
                  (B) general aviation aircraft users, aircraft owners, 
                aircraft pilots, and aircraft operators;
                  (C) airports, heliports, and fixed-base operators;
                  (D) State, local, and Tribal airport officials or 
                public agencies, with representation from both urban 
                and rural areas;
                  (E) representatives of the petroleum industry, 
                including developers, refiners, producers, and 
                distributors of unleaded aviation gasolines; and
                  (F) air carriers and commercial operators operating 
                under part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations.
          (5) Reports to congress.--
                  (A) Initial 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 that--
                          (i) contains an updated strategic plan for 
                        developing a fleet authorization process for 
                        efficient approval and use of unleaded aviation 
                        gasolines;
                          (ii) describes the structure and involvement 
                        of all Federal Aviation Administration offices 
                        that have responsibilities described in 
                        paragraph (2); and
                          (iii) identifies cost-effective policy 
                        initiatives, regulatory initiatives, or 
                        legislative initiatives needed to improve and 
                        enhance the timely transition to unleaded 
                        aviation gasoline for the piston-engine 
                        aircraft fleet.
                  (B) Annual reporting.--Not later than 1 year after 
                the date on which the Administrator submits the initial 
                report under subparagraph (A), and annually thereafter, 
                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 an annual report on 
                activities and progress of the EAGLE Initiative.
                  (C) Sunset.--Subparagraph (B) shall cease to be 
                effective after December 31, 2030.
  (b) Transition Plan to Unleaded Fuels.--
          (1) In general.--In developing the transition plan under 
        subsection (a)(2)(E), the Administrator shall, at a minimum, 
        assess the following:
                  (A) Efforts undertaken by the EAGLE Initiative, 
                including progress towards--
                          (i) safely eliminating the use of leaded 
                        aviation gasoline by piston-engine aircraft by 
                        the end of 2030 without adversely affecting the 
                        piston-engine aircraft fleet;
                          (ii) approving unleaded alternatives to 
                        leaded aviation gasoline for use in all piston-
                        engine aircraft types and piston-engine types; 
                        and
                          (iii) facilitating efforts to make approved 
                        unleaded aviation gasoline widely available at 
                        airports.
                  (B) The evaluation and development of necessary 
                airport infrastructure, including fuel storage and 
                dispensing facilities, to support the distribution and 
                storage of unleaded aviation gasoline.
                  (C) The establishment of best practices for piston-
                engine aircraft owners and operators, airport managers 
                and personnel, aircraft maintenance technicians, and 
                other appropriate personnel for protecting against 
                exposure to lead containment when--
                          (i) conducting fueling operations;
                          (ii) disposing of inspected gasoline samples;
                          (iii) performing aircraft maintenance; and
                          (iii) conducting engine run-ups.
                  (D) Efforts to address supply chain and other 
                logistical barriers inhibiting the timely distribution 
                of unleaded aviation gasoline to airports.
                  (E) Outreach efforts to educate and update piston-
                engine aircraft owners and operators, airport 
                operators, and other members of the general aviation 
                community on the potential benefits, availability, and 
                safety of unleaded aviation gasoline.
          (2) Consultation.--In developing such transition plan, the 
        Administrator shall consult, at a minimum, with representatives 
        of entities described in subsection (a)(4).
          (3) Publication; guidance.--Upon completion of developing 
        such transition plan, the Administrator shall--
                  (A) make the plan available to the public on an 
                appropriate webpage of the Administration; and
                  (B) provide guidance supporting the implementation of 
                the transition plan.
          (4) Coordination with eagle initiative.--In developing such 
        transition plan and associated guidance pertaining to the 
        implementation of such transition plan, the Administrator shall 
        consult and coordinate with individuals carrying out the EAGLE 
        Initiative.
          (5) Mapping unleaded aviation gasoline.--The Administrator 
        shall develop and continuously update websites, brochures, and 
        other communication materials associated with such transition 
        plan to clearly convey the availability of unleaded aviation 
        gasoline at airports.
          (6) Briefing to congress.--Not later than 60 days after the 
        publication of such transition plan, the Administrator shall 
        brief the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
        House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, 
        Science, and Technology of the Senate on such transition plan 
        and any efforts or actions pertaining to the implementation of 
        such transition plan.

                     TITLE III--AEROSPACE WORKFORCE

                  Subtitle A--Growing the Talent Pool

SEC. 301. EXTENSION OF AVIATION WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS.

  Section 625(b)(1) of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 
40101 note) is amended by striking ``section 48105'' and all that 
follows through the period at the end and inserting the following: 
``section 48105 of title 49, United States Code, not more than--
                  ``(A) $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2024 
                through 2026 is authorized to be expended to provide 
                grants under the program established under subsection 
                (a)(1); and
                  ``(B) $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2024 
                through 2026 is authorized to provide grants under the 
                program established under subsection (a)(2).
                  ``(C) $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2024 
                through 2026 is authorized to be expended to provide 
                grants under the program established under subsection 
                (a)(3).''.

SEC. 302. IMPROVING AVIATION WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS.

  (a) Manufacturing Program.--Section 625(a) of the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``and'' at the end;
          (2) in paragraph (2) by striking the period and inserting ``; 
        and''; and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(3) a program to provide grants for eligible projects to 
        support the education and recruitment of aviation manufacturing 
        workers and the development of the aviation manufacturing 
        workforce.''.
  (b) Project Grants.--Section 625(b) of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 
2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (2) by striking ``$500,000'' and inserting 
        ``$750,000''; and
          (2) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(3) Education projects.--The Secretary shall ensure that 
        not less than 20 percent of the amounts authorized to be 
        expended under this subsection shall be used to carry out a 
        grant program which shall be referred to as the `Willa Brown 
        Aviation Education Program' (in this paragraph referred to as 
        the `Program') under which the Secretary shall provide grants 
        for eligible projects described in subsection (d) that are 
        carried out in communities in counties containing at least 1 
        qualified opportunity zone (as such term is defined in section 
        1400Z-1(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986).''.
  (c) Eligible Applications.--Section 625(c) of the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended by striking paragraphs 
(1) and (2) and inserting the following:
          ``(1) Application for aircraft pilot program.--An application 
        for a grant under the program established under subsection 
        (a)(1) may be submitted, in such form as the Secretary may 
        specify, by--
                  ``(A) an air carrier, as defined in section 40102 of 
                title 49, United States Code;
                  ``(B) an entity that holds management specifications 
                under subpart K of title 91 of title 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations;
                  ``(C) an institution of higher education (as defined 
                in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 
                U.S.C. 1001)), a postsecondary vocational institution 
                (as defined in section 102(c) of the Higher Education 
                Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002)), or a high school or 
                secondary school (as such terms are defined in section 
                8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 
                1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801));
                  ``(D) a flight school that provides flight training, 
                as defined in part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations, or that holds a pilot school certificate 
                under part 141 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations;
                  ``(E) a labor organization representing professional 
                pilots;
                  ``(F) an aviation-related nonprofit organization 
                described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue 
                Code of 1986 that is exempt from taxation under section 
                501(a) of such Code; or
                  ``(G) a State, local, territorial, or Tribal 
                governmental entity.
          ``(2) Application for aviation maintenance program.--An 
        application for a grant under the program established under 
        subsection (a)(2) may be submitted, in such form as the 
        Secretary may specify, by--
                  ``(A) a holder of a certificate issued under part 21, 
                121, 135, 145, or 147 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations;
                  ``(B) a labor organization representing aviation 
                maintenance workers;
                  ``(C) an institution of higher education (as defined 
                in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 
                U.S.C. 1001)), a postsecondary vocational institution 
                (as defined in section 102(c) of the Higher Education 
                Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002)), or a high school or 
                secondary school (as such terms are defined in section 
                8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 
                1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801));
                  ``(D) an aviation-related nonprofit organization 
                described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue 
                Code of 1986 that is exempt from taxation under section 
                501(a) of such Code; or
                  ``(E) a State, local, territorial, or Tribal 
                governmental entity.
          ``(3) Application for aviation manufacturing program.--An 
        application for a grant under the program established under 
        subsection (a)(3) may be submitted, in such form as the 
        Secretary may specify, by--
                  ``(A) an entity that--
                          ``(i) actively designs or manufactures any 
                        aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or 
                        appliance, or a component, part, or system 
                        thereof, covered under a type or production 
                        certificate issued under section 44704; and
                          ``(ii) has significant operations in the 
                        United States and a majority of the employees 
                        of such entity that are engaged in aviation 
                        manufacturing or development activities and 
                        services are based in the United States;
                  ``(B) an institution of higher education (as defined 
                in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 
                U.S.C. 1001)), a postsecondary vocational institution 
                (as defined in section 102(c) of the Higher Education 
                Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002)), or a high school or 
                secondary school (as such terms are defined in section 
                8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 
                1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801));
                  ``(C) an aviation-related nonprofit organization 
                described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue 
                Code of 1986 that is exempt from taxation under section 
                501(a) of such Code; or
                  ``(D) a State, local, territorial, or Tribal 
                governmental entity.''.
  (d) Eligible Projects.--Section 625(d) of the FAA Reauthorization Act 
of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended by striking paragraphs (1) 
and (2) and inserting the following:
          ``(1) Aircraft pilot program.--For purposes of the program 
        established under subsection (a)(1), an eligible project is a 
        project--
                  ``(A) to create and deliver curriculum that provides 
                high school or secondary school students with 
                meaningful aviation education to become aircraft 
                pilots, aerospace engineers, or unmanned aircraft 
                systems operators, including purchasing and operating a 
                computer-based simulator associated with such 
                curriculum;
                  ``(B) to support the professional development of 
                teachers using the curriculum described in subparagraph 
                (A);
                  ``(C) to create and deliver curriculum that provides 
                certified flight instructors with the necessary 
                instructional, leadership, and communication skills to 
                better educate student pilots;
                  ``(D) to support transition to professional pilot 
                careers, including for members of the Armed Forces; or
                  ``(E) to support robust outreach about careers in the 
                commercial aviation as a professional pilot, including 
                outreach to primary, secondary, and post-secondary 
                school students.
          ``(2) Aviation maintenance program.--For purposes of the 
        program established under subsection (a)(2), an eligible 
        project is a project--
                  ``(A) to create and deliver curriculum that provides 
                high school and secondary school students with 
                meaningful aviation maintenance education to become an 
                aviation mechanic or aviation maintenance technician, 
                including purchasing and operating equipment associated 
                with such curriculum;
                  ``(B) to support the professional development of 
                teachers using the curriculum described in subparagraph 
                (A);
                  ``(C) to establish or improve apprenticeship, 
                internship, or scholarship programs for individuals 
                pursuing employment in the aviation maintenance 
                industry;
                  ``(D) to support transition to aviation maintenance 
                careers, including for members of the Armed Forces; or
                  ``(E) to support robust outreach about careers in the 
                aviation maintenance industry, including outreach to 
                primary, secondary, and post-secondary school students.
          ``(3) Aviation manufacturing program.--For purposes of the 
        program established under subsection (a)(3), and eligible 
        project is a project--
                  ``(A) to create and deliver curriculum that provides 
                high school and secondary school students with 
                meaningful aviation manufacturing education, including 
                teaching the technical skills used in the production of 
                components, parts, or systems thereof for inclusion in 
                an aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance;
                  ``(B) to support the professional development of 
                teachers using the curriculum described in subparagraph 
                (A);
                  ``(C) to establish apprenticeship, internship, or 
                scholarship programs for individuals pursuing 
                employment in the aviation manufacturing industry;
                  ``(D) to support transition to aviation manufacturing 
                careers, including for members of the Armed Forces; or
                  ``(E) to support robust outreach about careers in the 
                aviation manufacturing industry, including outreach to 
                primary, secondary, and post-secondary school 
                students.''.
  (e) Reporting and Monitoring Requirements.--Section 625 of the FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
  ``(f) Reporting and Monitoring Requirements.--The Secretary shall 
establish reasonable reporting and monitoring requirements for grant 
recipients under this section to measure relevant outcomes for the 
grant programs established under paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of 
subsection (a).
  ``(g) Notice of Grants.--
          ``(1) Timely public notice.--The Secretary shall provide 
        public notice of any grant awarded under this section in a 
        timely fashion after the Secretary awards such grant.
          ``(2) Notice to congress.--The Secretary shall provide to the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate advance notice of a grant to be 
        made under this section.
  ``(h) Termination.--The authority of the Secretary to issue grants 
under this section shall terminate on September 30, 2026.''.

SEC. 303. NATIONAL CENTER FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF AEROSPACE.

  (a) In General.--Chapter 1 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 120. National Center for the Advancement of Aerospace

  ``(a) Federal Charter and Status.--
          ``(1) In general.--The National Center for the Advancement of 
        Aerospace (in this section referred to as the `Center') is a 
        federally chartered entity which shall be incorporated in the 
        District of Columbia. The Center is a private independent 
        entity, not a department, agency, or instrumentality of the 
        United States Government or a component thereof. Except as 
        provided in subsection (f)(1), an officer or employee of the 
        Center is not an officer or employee of the Federal Government.
          ``(2) Perpetual existence.--Except as otherwise provided, the 
        Center shall have perpetual existence.
  ``(b) Governing Body.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Board of Directors (in this section 
        referred to as the `Board') is the governing body of the 
        Center.
          ``(2) Authority.--
                  ``(A) In general.--The Board shall adopt bylaws, 
                policies, and procedures to carry out the purpose of 
                the Center and may take any other action that it 
                considers necessary (in accordance with the duties and 
                powers of the Center) for the management and operation 
                of the Center. The Board is responsible for the general 
                policies and management of the Center and for the 
                control of all funds of the Center.
                  ``(B) Powers of board.--The Board shall have the 
                power to do the following:
                          ``(i) Adopt and alter a corporate seal.
                          ``(ii) Establish and maintain offices to 
                        conduct its activities.
                          ``(iii) Enter into contracts or agreements as 
                        a private entity not subject to the 
                        requirements of title 41.
                          ``(iv) Acquire, own, lease, encumber, 
                        transfer, and dispose of property as necessary 
                        and appropriate to carry out the purposes of 
                        the Center.
                          ``(v) Publish documents and other 
                        publications in a publicly accessible manner.
                          ``(vi) Incur and pay obligations as a private 
                        entity not subject to the requirements of title 
                        31.
                          ``(vii) Perform any other act necessary and 
                        proper to carry out the purposes of the Center 
                        as described in its bylaws or duties outlined 
                        in this section.
          ``(3) Membership of the board.--
                  ``(A) In general.--The Board shall have 10 Directors 
                as follows:
                          ``(i) Ex-officio membership.--The following 
                        individuals, or their designees, shall be 
                        considered ex-officio members of the Board:
                                  ``(I) The Administrator of the 
                                Federal Aviation Administration.
                                  ``(II) The Executive Director, 
                                pursuant to paragraph (5)(D).
                          ``(ii) Appointments.--
                                  ``(I) In general.--From among those 
                                members of the public who are highly 
                                respected and have exert knowledge and 
                                experience in the fields of aviation, 
                                finance, or academia--
                                          ``(aa) the Secretary of 
                                        Transportation shall appoint 5 
                                        members to the Board;
                                          ``(bb) the Secretary of 
                                        Defense shall appoint 1 member 
                                        to the Board;
                                          ``(cc) the Secretary of 
                                        Veterans Affairs shall appoint 
                                        1 member to the Board; and
                                          ``(dd) the Secretary of 
                                        Education shall appoint 1 
                                        member to the Board.
                                  ``(II) Terms.--
                                          ``(aa) In general.--The 
                                        members appointed under 
                                        subclause (I) shall serve for a 
                                        term of 3 years and may be 
                                        reappointed.
                                          ``(bb) Staggering terms.--The 
                                        Board shall stagger the 
                                        duration of the terms of the 
                                        initial members appointed to 
                                        promote the stability of the 
                                        Board.
                  ``(B) Vacancies.--A vacancy on the Board shall be 
                filled in the same manner as the initial appointment.
                  ``(C) Status.--All Members of the Board shall have 
                equal voting powers, regardless if they are ex-officio 
                members or appointed.
          ``(4) Chair of the board.--The Board shall choose a Chair of 
        the Board from among the members of the Board that are not ex-
        officio members under paragraph (3)(A)(i).
          ``(5) Administrative matters.--
                  ``(A) Meetings.--
                          ``(i) In general.--The Board shall meet at 
                        the call of the Chair but not less than 2 times 
                        each year and may, as appropriate, conduct 
                        business by telephone or other electronic 
                        means.
                          ``(ii) Open.--
                                  ``(I) In general.--Except as provided 
                                in subclause (II), a meeting of the 
                                Board shall be open to the public.
                                  ``(II) Exception.--A meeting, or any 
                                portion of a meeting, may be closed if 
                                the Board, in public session, votes to 
                                close the meeting because the matters 
                                to be discussed--
                                          ``(aa) relate solely to the 
                                        internal personnel rules, 
                                        practices, and matters of the 
                                        Center;
                                          ``(bb) may result in 
                                        disclosure of commercial or 
                                        financial information obtained 
                                        from a person that is 
                                        privileged or confidential;
                                          ``(cc) may disclose 
                                        information of a personal 
                                        nature where disclosure would 
                                        constitute an unwarranted 
                                        invasion of personal privacy; 
                                        or
                                          ``(dd) are matters that are 
                                        specifically exempted from 
                                        disclosure by Federal or 
                                        District of Columbia law.
                          ``(iii) Public announcement.--At least 1 week 
                        before a meeting of the Board, and as soon as 
                        practicable thereafter if there are any changes 
                        to the information described in subclauses (I) 
                        through (III), the Board shall make a public 
                        announcement of the meeting that describes--
                                  ``(I) the time, place, and subject 
                                matter of the meeting;
                                  ``(II) whether the meeting is to be 
                                open or closed to the public; and
                                  ``(III) the name and appropriate 
                                contact information of a person who can 
                                respond to requests for information 
                                about the meeting.
                          ``(iv) Record.--The Board shall keep minutes 
                        from each Board meeting. Such minutes shall be 
                        made available to the public in an accessible 
                        format, except for portions of the meeting that 
                        are closed pursuant to subparagraph 
                        (A)(ii)(II).
                  ``(B) Quorum.--A majority of members of the Board 
                shall constitute a quorum.
                  ``(C) Code of ethics.--The Board shall adopt a code 
                of ethics for Directors, officers, agents, and 
                employees of the Center to--
                          ``(i) prevent inappropriate conflicts of 
                        interest and promote good employee conduct; and
                          ``(ii) at a minimum, prohibit any member of 
                        the Board from participating in any proceeding, 
                        application, ruling, or other determination, 
                        contract claim, award, controversy, or other 
                        matter in which the member, the member's 
                        employer or prospective employer, or the 
                        member's immediate family member has a direct 
                        financial interest.
                  ``(D) Executive director.--The Board shall appoint 
                and fix the pay of an Executive Director of the Center 
                (in this section referred to as the `Executive 
                Director') who shall--
                          ``(i) serve as an ex officio Member of the 
                        Board;
                          ``(ii) serve at the pleasure of the Board, 
                        under such terms and conditions as the Board 
                        shall establish;
                          ``(iii) is subject to removal by the Board at 
                        the discretion of the Board; and
                          ``(iv) be responsible for the daily 
                        management and operation of the Center and for 
                        carrying out the purposes and duties of the 
                        Center.
                  ``(E) Appointment of personnel.--The Board shall 
                delegate to the Executive Director the authority to 
                appoint additional personnel as the Board considers 
                appropriate and necessary to carry out the purposes and 
                duties of the Center.
          ``(6) Records.--The Board shall keep correct and complete 
        records of accounts.
          ``(7) Public information.--With the exception of the matters 
        described in subsection (b)(5)(A)(ii)(II), nothing in this 
        section may be construed to withhold disclosure of information 
        or records that are subject to disclosure under section 552 of 
        title 5.
  ``(c) Purpose.--The purpose of the Center is to--
          ``(1) develop a skilled and robust aerospace workforce in the 
        United States;
          ``(2) provide a forum to support collaboration and 
        cooperation between governmental, nongovernmental, and private 
        aerospace sector stakeholders regarding the advancement of the 
        aerospace workforce, including general, business, and 
        commercial aviation, education, labor, manufacturing, 
        international organizations, and commercial space 
        transportation organizations;
          ``(3) serve as a repository for research conducted by 
        institutions of higher education, research institutions, or 
        other stakeholders regarding the aerospace workforce and 
        related technical and skill development.
          ``(4) serve as a centralized resource that provides 
        comprehensive and relevant information sources on the 
        following:
                  ``(A) Aviation pathway programs and professional 
                development opportunities.
                  ``(B) Aviation apprenticeship, scholarship, and 
                internship programs.
                  ``(C) Aviation-related curricula and resources about 
                aviation occupations and career pathways developed for 
                students, teachers, and guidance counselors at all 
                levels of education.
                  ``(D) Aviation industry organizations.
  ``(d) Duties.--In order to accomplish the purpose described in 
subsection (c), the Center shall perform the following duties:
          ``(1) Improve access to aerospace education and related 
        skills training to help grow the U.S. aerospace workforce, 
        including by--
                  ``(A) assessing the state of the aerospace workforce, 
                including challenges and identifying actions to address 
                such challenges;
                  ``(B) developing a comprehensive workforce strategy 
                to help coordinate workforce development initiatives;
                  ``(C) establishing or supporting apprenticeship, 
                scholarship, internship, and mentorship programs that 
                assist individuals who wish to pursue a career in an 
                aerospace-related field;
                  ``(D) supporting the development of aerospace 
                education curricula, including syllabi, training 
                materials, and lesson plans, for use by an institution 
                of higher education (as defined in section 101 of the 
                Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)), a 
                postsecondary vocational institution (as defined in 
                section 102(c) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 
                U.S.C. 1002)), or a high school or secondary school (as 
                such terms are defined in section 8101 of the 
                Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 
                U.S.C. 7801)); and
                  ``(E) building awareness of youth-oriented aerospace 
                programs and other robust outreach programs, including 
                for primary, secondary, and post-secondary school 
                students.
                  ``(F) supporting the professional development of 
                teachers using the curricula, syllabi, training 
                materials, and lesson plans described in subparagraph 
                (D); and
                  ``(G) developing an array of educational and 
                informative aviation-related educational activities and 
                materials for students of varying ages and levels of 
                education to use in the classroom and at home.
          ``(2) Support personnel or veterans of the Armed Forces 
        seeking to transition to a career in aerospace through 
        outreach, training, scholarships, apprenticeships, or other 
        means.
          ``(3) Amplify and support the work carried out at the Centers 
        of Excellence and Technical Centers of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration regarding the aerospace workforce, or related 
        technical and skills advancement, including organizing and 
        hosting symposiums, conferences, and other forums as 
        appropriate.
          ``(4) Administer on behalf of the Secretary of the Department 
        of Transportation the Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, 
        Enrichment, and Employment Readiness Program established by 
        subsection (a) of 40131.
  ``(e) Duty to Maintain Tax-exempt Status.--The Center shall be 
operated in a manner and for purposes that qualify the Center for 
exemption from taxation under the Internal Revenue Code as an 
organization described in section 501(c)(3) of such Code.
  ``(f) Administrative Matters of Center.--
          ``(1) Detailees.--
                  ``(A) In general.--At the request of the Center, the 
                head of any Federal agency or department may, at the 
                discretion of such agency or department, detail to the 
                Center, on a reimbursable basis, an employee of the 
                agency or department.
                  ``(B) Civil servant status.--The detail of an 
                employee under subparagraph (A) shall be without 
                interruption or loss of civil service status or 
                privilege.
          ``(2) Names and symbols.--The Center may accept, retain, and 
        use proceeds derived from the Center's use of the exclusive 
        right to use its name and seal, emblems, and badges 
        incorporating such name as lawfully adopted by the Board in 
        furtherance of the purpose and duties of the Center.
          ``(3) Gifts, grants, bequests, and devises.--The Center may 
        accept, retain, use, and dispose of gifts, grants, bequests, or 
        devises of money, services, or property from any public or 
        private source for the purpose of covering the costs incurred 
        by the Center in furtherance of the purpose and duties of the 
        Center.
          ``(4) Voluntary services.--The Center may accept voluntary 
        services from any person that are provided in furtherance of 
        the purpose and duties of the Center.
  ``(g) Restrictions.--
          ``(1) Profit.--The Center may not engage in business activity 
        for profit.
          ``(2) Stocks and dividends.--The Center may not issue any 
        shares of stock or declare or pay any dividends.
          ``(3) Political activities.--The Center shall be nonpolitical 
        and may not provide financial aid or assistance to, or 
        otherwise contribute to or promote the candidacy of, any 
        individual seeking elective public office or political party. 
        The Center may not engage in activities that are, directly, or 
        indirectly, intended to be or likely to be perceived as 
        advocating or influencing the legislative process.
          ``(4) Distribution of income or assets.--The assets of the 
        Center may not inure to the benefit of any member of the Board, 
        or any officer or employee of the Center or be distributed to 
        any person. This paragraph does not prevent the payment of 
        reasonable compensation to any officer, employee, or other 
        person or reimbursement for actual and necessary expenses in 
        amounts approved by the Board.
          ``(5) Loans.--The Center may not make a loan to any member of 
        the Board or any officer or employee of the Center.
          ``(6) No claim of governmental approval or authority.--Except 
        as otherwise provided by section 40131, the Center may not 
        claim approval of Congress or of the authority of the United 
        States for any of its activities.
  ``(h) Advisory Committee.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Executive Director shall appoint 
        members to an advisory committee subject to approval by the 
        Board. Members of the Board may not sit on the advisory 
        committee.
          ``(2) Membership.--The advisory committee shall consist of 
        not more than 15 members who represent various aviation 
        industry and labor stakeholders, stakeholder associations, and 
        others as determined appropriate by the Board. The advisory 
        committee shall select a Chair and Vice Chair from among its 
        members by majority vote.
          ``(3) Duties.--The advisory committee shall--
                  ``(A) provide recommendations to the Board on an 
                annual basis regarding the priorities for the 
                activities of the Center;
                  ``(B) consult with the Board on an ongoing basis 
                regarding the appropriate powers of the Board to 
                accomplish the purposes and duties of the Center; and
                  ``(C) provide relevant data and information to the 
                Center in order to carry out the duties set forth in 
                subsection (d).
          ``(4) Meetings.--The provisions for meetings of the Board 
        under subsection (b)(5) shall apply as similarly as is 
        practicable to meetings of the advisory committee.
  ``(i) Working Groups.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Board may establish working groups as 
        determined necessary and appropriate to achieve the purpose of 
        the Center under subsection (c).
          ``(2) Membership.--Any working group established by the Board 
        shall be composed of private sector representatives, 
        stakeholder associations, members of the public, labor 
        representatives, and other relevant parties, as determined 
        appropriate by the Board. Once established, the membership of 
        such working group shall choose a Chair from among the members 
        of the working group by majority vote.
  ``(j) CAREER Council.--
          ``(1) Establishment.--Not later than September 30, 2026, the 
        Executive Director, in coordination with the Secretary, shall 
        establish a council (in this section referred to as the `CAREER 
        Council') for the CAREER Program established under section 
        40131.
          ``(2) Duties.--The CAREER Council shall aid the Secretary and 
        the Center in carrying out the CAREER Program by reviewing 
        grant applications and recommending grant recipients.
          ``(3) Appointment.--The CAREER Council shall be appointed 
        from candidates nominated by national associations representing 
        various sectors of the aviation industry, including--
                  ``(A) general aviation;
                  ``(B) commercial aviation;
                  ``(C) aviation labor, including collective bargaining 
                representatives of Federal Aviation Administration 
                aviation safety inspectors, aviation safety engineers, 
                and air traffic controllers;
                  ``(D) aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul; and
                  ``(E) unmanned aviation.
          ``(4) Term.--Each council member appointed under paragraph 
        (3) shall serve a term of 4 years.
  ``(k) Annual Report.--The Board shall submit an annual report to the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate that, at minimum, includes a review and 
examination of--
          ``(1) the activities performed as set forth in subsection (d) 
        during the prior fiscal year;
          ``(2) the advisory committee described in subsection (h);
          ``(3) the working groups described in subsection (i); and
          ``(4) the Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and 
        Employment Readiness Program and related activities established 
        under section 40131, including activities of the CAREER Council 
        established under subsection (j).
  ``(l) Audit by Department of Transportation Inspector General.--
          ``(1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date on 
        which the Center is established under subsection (a), the 
        inspector general of the Department of Transportation shall 
        conduct a review of the Center.
          ``(2) Contents.--The review shall--
                  ``(A) include, at a minimum, an evaluation of the 
                efforts taken at the Center to achieve the purpose set 
                forth in subsection (c); and
                  ``(B) provide any other information that the 
                inspector general determines is appropriate.
          ``(3) Report on audit.--
                  ``(A) Report to secretary.--Not later than 30 days 
                after the date of completion of the audit, the 
                inspector general shall submit to the Secretary a 
                report on the results of the audit.
                  ``(B) Report to congress.--Not later than 60 days 
                after the date of receipt of the report under 
                subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall submit to the 
                appropriate committees of Congress a copy of the 
                report, together with, if appropriate, a description of 
                any actions taken or to be taken to address the results 
                of the audit.
  ``(m) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be 
appropriated to the National Center for the Advancement of Aerospace 
out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund to carry out this section--
          ``(1) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
          ``(2) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
          ``(3) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
          ``(4) $11,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
          ``(5) $11,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 1 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to 
section 119 the following:

``120. National Center for the Advancement of Aerospace.''.

SEC. 304. COOPERATIVE AVIATION RECRUITMENT, ENRICHMENT, AND EMPLOYMENT 
                    READINESS PROGRAM.

  (a) In General.--Chapter 401 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 40131. Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and 
                    Employment Readiness Program

  ``(a) Establishment.--Not later than September 30, 2026, the 
Secretary of Transportation, through the National Center for the 
Advancement of Aerospace (in this section referred to as the `Center'), 
shall establish an aviation workforce cooperative development program 
to be known as the Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and 
Employment Readiness Program (in this section referred to as the 
`CAREER Program') to support the education, recruitment, training, and 
retention of future aviation professionals and the development of a 
robust United States aviation workforce by--
          ``(1) using relevant workforce forecasts to predict and 
        identify aviation-related workforce challenges; and
          ``(2) funding projects that address such challenges and help 
        to sustain the long-term growth of civil aviation.
  ``(b) Implementation.--
          ``(1) Partnership with ncaa.--In implementing the CAREER 
        Program established under subsection (a), the Secretary shall 
        partner with the CAREER Council established in subsection (j) 
        of section 120.
          ``(2) Nondelegation.--Except as provided in paragraph (3), 
        the Secretary may not delegate any of the authorities or 
        responsibilities under this section to the Administrator of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration.
          ``(3) Support.--To support the administration of the CAREER 
        Program, the Secretary may assign employees of the Department 
        of Transportation, including employees of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration, on detail to the Center.
  ``(c) Solicitation, Review, and Evaluation Process.--In carrying out 
the CAREER Program, the Secretary shall establish a solicitation, 
review, and evaluation process that ensures funds made available to 
carry out this section are awarded to eligible entities with proposals 
that have adequate merit and relevancy to the mission of the program.
  ``(d) Eligible Entities.--An eligible entity under this section is--
          ``(1) an air carrier;
          ``(2) an entity that holds management specifications under 
        subpart K of title 91 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations;
          ``(3) a holder of a certificate issued under parts 139, 145, 
        or 147 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations;
          ``(4) an institution of higher education (as defined in 
        section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 
        1001)), a postsecondary vocational institution (as defined in 
        section 102(c) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 
        1002)), or a high school or secondary school (as such terms are 
        defined in section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary 
        Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801));
          ``(5) a flight school that provides flight training, as 
        defined in part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, or 
        that holds a pilot school certificate under part 141 of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations;
          ``(6) an aviation labor organization;
          ``(7) a State, local, territorial, or Tribal government, 
        including a political subdivision thereof;
          ``(8) an aviation-related nonprofit organization described in 
        section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that is 
        exempt from taxation under section 501(a) of such Code; or
          ``(9) an entity that--
                  ``(A) actively designs or manufactures any aircraft, 
                aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance, or a 
                component, part, or system thereof, covered under a 
                type or production certificate issued under section 
                44704; and
                  ``(B) has significant operations in the United States 
                and a majority of the employees of such entity that are 
                engaged in aviation manufacturing or development 
                activities and services are based in the United States.
  ``(e) Reporting and Monitoring Requirements.--The Secretary shall 
establish reasonable reporting and monitoring requirements for grant 
recipients under this section to measure relevant outcomes of the 
program maintained pursuant to subsection (a).
  ``(f) Report.--Not later than September 30, 2027, and annually 
through fiscal year 2028, 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 program that includes--
          ``(1) a summary of projects awarded grants under this section 
        and the progress of each recipient towards fulfilling program 
        expectations;
          ``(2) an evaluation of how such projects cumulatively impact 
        the future supply of individuals in the U.S. aviation 
        workforce, including best practices or programs to incentivize, 
        recruit, and retain individuals in aviation professions; and
          ``(3) recommendations for better coordinating actions by 
        governmental entities, educational institutions, and 
        businesses, aviation labor organizations, or other stakeholders 
        to support aviation workforce growth.
  ``(g) Notice of Grants.--
          ``(1) Timely public notice.--The Secretary shall provide 
        public notice of any grant awarded under the CAREER Program in 
        a timely fashion after the Secretary awards such grant.
          ``(2) Notice to congress.--The Secretary shall provide 
        advance notice of a grant to be made under the CAREER Program 
        to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
        House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, 
        Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
  ``(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--Of the amounts made available 
under section 48105, $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 and 2028 
is authorized to be expended to provide grants under the program 
established under subsection (a).''.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 401 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``40131. Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and Employment 
Readiness Program.''.

SEC. 305. REPEAL OF DUPLICATIVE OR OBSOLETE WORKFORCE PROGRAMS.

  (a) Repeal.--Sections 44510 and 44515 of title 49, United States 
Code, are repealed.
  (b) Clerical Amendments.--The analysis for chapter 445 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking the items relating to 
sections 44510 and 44515.

SEC. 306. CIVIL AIRMEN STATISTICS.

  (a) Publication Frequency.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall publish the study commonly referred to as the 
``U.S. Civil Airmen Statistics'' on a monthly basis.
  (b) Presentation of Data.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall establish a web-based dashboard 
        for purposes of presenting the findings of the study described 
        in subsection (a).
          (2) Downloadable format.--The Administrator shall make the 
        data publicly available on the website of the Administration in 
        a downloadable format.
  (c) Expanded Data Criteria.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall ensure that data sets 
and tables published as part of the study described in subsection (a) 
display information relating to the sex of certificate holders in more 
instances.
  (d) Historical Data.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall make all previously 
published annual data from the study described in subsection (a) 
available on the website of the Administration.

SEC. 307. BESSIE COLEMAN WOMEN IN AVIATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

  (a) Establishment.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish 
a Bessie Coleman Women in Aviation Advisory Committee (hereinafter 
referred to as the ``Committee'').
  (b) Purpose.--The Committee shall advise the Secretary and the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration on matters and 
policies related to the recruitment, retention, employment, education, 
training, well-being, and treatment of women in the aviation industry 
and aviation-focused Federal civil service positions.
  (c) Form of Directives.--All activities carried out by the Committee, 
including special committees, shall be in response to written terms of 
reference or taskings from the Secretary and may not duplicate the 
objectives of the Air Carrier Training Aviation Rulemaking Committee.
  (d) Functions.--In carrying out the directives described in 
subsection (c), the functions of the Committee are as follows:
          (1) Foster industry collaboration in an open and transparent 
        manner by engaging, as prescribed by this section, 
        representatives of the private sector associated with an entity 
        described in subsection (e)(1)(B).
          (2) Make recommendations for strategic objectives, 
        priorities, and policies that would improve the recruitment, 
        retention, and training of women in aviation professions.
          (3) Evaluate opportunities for the Administration to improve 
        the recruitment and retention of women in the Administration.
  (e) Membership.--
          (1) Voting members.--The Advisory Committee shall be composed 
        of the following members:
                  (A) The Administrator, or the designee of the 
                Administrator.
                  (B) At least 25 individuals, appointed by the 
                Secretary, representing the following:
                          (i) Transport aircraft and engine 
                        manufacturers.
                          (ii) General aviation aircraft and engine 
                        manufacturers.
                          (iii) Avionics and equipment manufacturers.
                          (iv) Public and private aviation labor 
                        organizations, including collective bargaining 
                        representatives of--
                                  (I) aviation safety inspectors and 
                                safety engineers of the Federal 
                                Aviation Administration;
                                  (II) air traffic controllers;
                                  (III) certified aircraft maintenance 
                                technicians; and
                                  (IV) commercial airline pilots.
                          (v) General aviation operators.
                          (vi) Air carriers.
                          (vii) Business aviation operators.
                          (viii) Unmanned aircraft systems 
                        manufacturers and operators.
                          (ix) Aviation safety management experts.
                          (x) Aviation maintenance, repair, and 
                        overhaul entities.
                          (xi) Airport owners and operators.
                          (xii) Advanced air mobility manufacturers and 
                        operators.
                          (xiii) Institutions of higher education (as 
                        defined in section 101 of the Higher Education 
                        Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)), a postsecondary 
                        vocational institution (as defined in section 
                        102(c) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 
                        U.S.C. 1002)), or a high school or secondary 
                        school (as such terms are defined in section 
                        8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education 
                        Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801)).
                          (xiv) A flight school that provides flight 
                        training, as defined in part 61 of title 14, 
                        Code of Federal Regulations, or that holds a 
                        pilot school certificate under part 141 of 
                        title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                          (xv) Aviation maintenance technician schools 
                        governed under part 147 of title 14, Code of 
                        Federal Regulations.
          (2) Nonvoting members.--
                  (A) In general.--In addition to the members appointed 
                under paragraph (1), the Committee shall be composed of 
                not more than 5 nonvoting members appointed by the 
                Secretary from among officers or employees of the FAA.
                  (B) Duties.--The nonvoting members may--
                          (i) take part in deliberations of the 
                        Committee; and
                          (ii) provide subject matter expertise with 
                        respect to reports and recommendations of the 
                        Committee.
                  (C) Limitation.--The nonvoting members may not 
                represent any stakeholder interest other than that of 
                the FAA.
          (3) Terms.--Each voting member and nonvoting member of the 
        Committee appointed by the Secretary shall be appointed for a 
        term of 4 years.
          (4) Committee characteristics.--The Committee shall have the 
        following characteristics:
                  (A) The ability to obtain necessary information from 
                additional experts in the aviation and aerospace 
                communities.
                  (B) A membership size that enables the Committee to 
                have substantive discussions and reach consensus on 
                issues in a timely manner.
                  (C) Appropriate expertise, including expertise in 
                human resources, human capital management, policy, 
                labor relations, employment training, workforce 
                development, and youth outreach.
  (f) Chairperson.--
          (1) In general.--The Chairperson of the Committee shall be 
        appointed by the Secretary from among the voting members of the 
        Committee under subsection (e)(1)(B).
          (2) Term.--The Chairperson shall serve a 2-year term.
  (g) Meetings.--
          (1) Frequency.--The Committee shall meet at least twice each 
        year at the call of the Chairperson or the Secretary.
          (2) Public attendance.--The meetings of the Committee shall 
        be open and accessible to the public.
  (h) Special Committees.--
          (1) Establishment.--The Committee may establish special 
        committees composed of private sector representatives, members 
        of the public, labor representatives, and other relevant 
        parties in complying with the consultation and participation 
        requirements under subsection (d).
          (2) Authorities.--A special committee established by the 
        Committee may provide rulemaking advice, recommendations, and 
        additional opportunities to obtain firsthand information to the 
        Committee with respect to issues regarding the advancement of 
        women in aviation.
          (3) Applicable law.--Public Law 92-463 shall not apply to a 
        special committee established by the Committee.
  (i) Personnel Matters.--
          (1) No compensation of members.--
                  (A) Non-federal employees.--A member of the Committee 
                who is not an officer or employee of the Federal 
                Government shall serve without compensation.
                  (B) Federal employees.--A member of the Committee who 
                is an officer or employee of the Federal Government 
                shall serve without compensation in addition to the 
                compensation received for the services of the member as 
                an officer or employee of the Federal Government.
          (2) Travel expenses.--The members of the Committee shall be 
        allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of 
        subsistence, at rates authorized for employees of agencies 
        under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States 
        Code, while away from their homes or regular places of business 
        in the performance of services for the Committee.
  (j) Reports.--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 upon completion of each tasking 
summarizing the Committee's--
          (1) findings and associated recommendations to improve the 
        advancement of women in aviation; and
          (2) planned activities of the Committee, as tasked by the 
        Secretary, and proposed terms of work to fulfill each activity.
  (k) Sunset.--The Committee shall terminate on the last day of the 8-
year period beginning on the date of the initial appointment of the 
members of the Committee.
  (l) FAA Defined.--In this section, the term ``FAA'' means the Federal 
Aviation Administration.

SEC. 308. ESTABLISHING A COMPREHENSIVE WEB-BASED AVIATION RESOURCE 
                    CENTER.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall partner with the National Center for the Advancement of Aerospace 
(in this section referred to as the ``Center'') to establish a high-
quality, web-based resource center that provides stream-lined public 
access to information sources on the following:
          (1) Aviation pathway programs and professional development 
        opportunities.
          (2) Aviation apprenticeship, scholarship, and internship 
        programs.
          (3) Aviation-related curricula and resources about aviation 
        occupations and career pathways developed for students, 
        teachers, and guidance counselors at all levels of education.
          (4) Aviation industry organizations.
  (b) Leveraging FAA Education, Research, and Partnership Programs.--In 
carrying out subsection (a)(3), the Administrator and the Executive 
Director of the Center, in partnership with museums, nonprofit 
organizations, and commercial entities, shall, to the maximum extent 
practicable, leverage field and regional offices of the Federal 
Aviation Administration, the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, the 
William J. Hughes Technical Center for Advanced Aerospace, Air 
Transportation Centers of Excellence, and the Aviation and Space 
Education program of the Federal Aviation Administration to develop an 
array of educational and informative aviation-related educational 
activities and materials for students of varying ages and levels of 
education to use in the classroom, for after-school programs and at 
home.
  (c) Briefing.--Not later than 2 year after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology of the Senate on--
          (1) the web-based aviation resource center established under 
        subsection (a); and
          (2) the manner in which the education development and 
        engagement activities of the Federal Aviation Administration 
        are organized and funded.

SEC. 309. DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY FROM UAS COLLEGIATE TRAINING 
                    INITIATIVE.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration may hire individuals from eligible institutions of 
higher education under the Unmanned Aircraft System Collegiate Training 
Initiative (in this section referred to as ``UAS CTI''), as established 
in section 632 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 
note), without regard to--
          (1) sections 3309 through 3318 of title 5, United States 
        Code;
          (2) part 211 of title 5, Code of Federal Regulations; or
          (3) subpart A of part 337 of title 5, Code of Federal 
        Regulations.
  (b) Eligibility.--Individuals eligible for employment by the 
Administrator under subsection (a) shall--
          (1) be in good standing or have graduated in good standing 
        from an institution of higher education with a signed 
        memorandum of understanding under the UAS CTI;
          (2) hold or have completed the majority of a related 
        Bachelors or Associates degree, as described by the eligibility 
        requirements of the UAS CTI;
          (3) have completed all requirements for a related minor, 
        concentration, or certificate, as described by the eligibility 
        requirements of the UAS CTI; or
          (4) meet any other criteria as considered appropriate by the 
        Administrator.
  (c) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Institution of higher education.--The term ``institution 
        of higher education'' has the meaning given such term in 
        section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 
        1001).
          (2) Good standing.--The term ``good standing'' means in good 
        standing, as determined by the applicable institution of higher 
        education.
  (d) Sunset.--The authority of the Administrator under this section 
shall terminate on September 30, 2028.

     Subtitle B--Improving Training and Rebuilding Talent Pipelines

SEC. 311. JOINT AVIATION EMPLOYMENT TRAINING WORKING GROUP.

  (a) Establishment.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish 
an interagency working group (in this section referred to as the 
``working group'') to advise the Secretary of Transportation and the 
Secretary of Defense on matters and policies related to the training 
and certification of a covered aviation professional to improve career 
transition between the military and civilian workforces.
  (b) Membership.--
          (1) In general.--The working group shall consist of--
                  (A) 2 co-chairs described in paragraph (2);
                  (B) not less than 6 representatives of the Federal 
                Aviation Administration, to be appointed by the co-
                chair described in paragraph (2)(A); and
                  (C) not less than 1 representative of each component 
                of the armed forces (as such term is defined in section 
                101 of title 10, United States Code), to be appointed 
                by the co-chair described in paragraph (2)(B).
          (2) Co-chairs.--The working group shall be co-chaired by--
                  (A) a representative of the Department of 
                Transportation, to be appointed by the Secretary of 
                Transportation; and
                  (B) a representative of the Department of Defense, to 
                be appointed by the Secretary of Defense.
  (c) Activities.--The working group shall--
          (1) evaluate and compare all regulatory requirements, 
        guidance, and orders affecting covered aviation professionals 
        and identify challenges that inhibit recruitment, training, and 
        retention within the respective workforces of such 
        professionals; and
          (2) assess appropriate areas for increased interagency 
        information sharing and harmonization across workforces on 
        matters related to certification pathways and certification 
        requirements, including knowledge testing, affecting covered 
        aviation professionals.
  (d) Initial Report to Congress.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date on 
        which the Secretary of Transportation establishes the working 
        group, the working group shall submit to the appropriate 
        committees of Congress an initial report on the activities of 
        the working group.
          (2) Contents.--The report required under paragraph (1) shall 
        include--
                  (A) a detailed description of the findings of the 
                working group pursuant to the activities required under 
                subsection (c); and
                  (B) recommendations for regulatory, policy, or 
                legislative action to improve the training and 
                certification of covered aviation professionals across 
                the civilian and military workforces.
  (e) Annual Reporting.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which 
the working group submits the initial report under subsection (d), and 
annually thereafter, the working group shall submit to the appropriate 
committees of Congress a report--
          (1) describing the continued activities of the working group;
          (2) describing any progress made by the Secretary of 
        Transportation or Secretary of Defense in implementing the 
        recommendations described in subsection (d)(2)(B); and
          (3) containing any other recommendations the working group 
        may have with respect to efforts to improve the employment and 
        training of covered aviation professionals in the civilian and 
        military workforces.
  (f) Sunset.--The working group shall terminate on the date that is 4 
years after the date on which the working group submits the initial 
report to Congress pursuant to subsection (d).
  (g) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term 
        ``appropriate committees of Congress'' means--
                  (A) the Committee on Armed Services of the House of 
                Representatives;
                  (B) the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate;
                  (C) the Committee on Transportation and 
                Infrastructure of the House of Representatives; and
                  (D) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
                Transportation of the Senate.
          (2) Covered aviation profession.--The term ``covered aviation 
        professional'' means--
                  (A) an airman;
                  (B) an aircraft maintenance and repair technician;
                  (C) an air traffic controller; and
                  (D) any other aviation-related professional that has 
                comparable tasks and duties across the civilian and 
                military workforces, as determined jointly by the co-
                chairs of the working group.

SEC. 312. AIRMAN KNOWLEDGE TESTING WORKING GROUP.

  (a) Working Group.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall task the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee to 
establish a working group to review knowledge testing processes and 
procedures to improve the facilitation, administration, and 
accessibility of knowledge tests.
  (b) Activities.--The working group established pursuant to subsection 
(a) shall--
          (1) assess methods to increase knowledge testing capacity, 
        including through--
                  (A) the adoption of alternative proctoring methods; 
                and
                  (B) increased utilization of pilot schools that hold 
                a pilot school certificate under part 141 of title 14, 
                Code of Federal Regulations, and aviation maintenance 
                technician schools governed under part 147 of title 14, 
                Code of Federal Regulations; and
          (2) evaluate the following:
                  (A) The management and provision of knowledge tests 
                by testing centers.
                  (B) The testing registration process for students.
                  (C) Student access to knowledge tests.
                  (D) Fees associated with knowledge tests.
                  (E) The accuracy of public sample knowledge tests 
                available to students.
                  (F) Development and maintenance of knowledge tests 
                and forms.
  (c) Mechanic General Knowledge Test.--In addition to the activities 
under subsection (b), the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee shall 
task the working group established pursuant to subsection (a) with 
assessing opportunities to allow a high school student upon successful 
completion of an aviation maintenance curriculum to take the general 
written knowledge portion of the mechanic exam described in section 
65.75 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, at an Administration-
approved testing center.
  (d) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the Aviation Rulemaking 
Advisory Committee tasks the working group under subsection (a), the 
working group shall submit to the Administrator a final report making 
recommendations to improve the facilitation, administration, and 
accessibility of knowledge tests.
  (e) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) High school.--The term ``high school'' has the meaning 
        given such term in section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary 
        Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801).
          (2) Knowledge test.--The term ``knowledge test'' means a test 
        prescribed under parts 61 and 65 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations.
          (3) Secondary school.--The term ``secondary school'' has the 
        meaning given such term in section 8101 of the Elementary and 
        Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801).

SEC. 313. AIRMAN CERTIFICATION SYSTEM WORKING GROUP AND TIMELY 
                    PUBLICATION OF STANDARDS.

  (a) Working Group.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall task the Airman Certification System Working Group 
established under the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee of the 
Administration to review Airman Certification Standards to ensure that 
airman proficiency and knowledge correlates and corresponds to 
regulations, procedures, equipment, aviation infrastructure, and safety 
trends at the time of such review.
  (b) ACS Publication.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall publish on the website of the Administration--
          (1) the process by which the Airman Certification Standards 
        are to be established, updated, and maintained;
          (2) the process by which relevant guidance documents, 
        handbooks, and test materials associated with such standards 
        are to be established, updated, and maintained; and
          (3) any anticipated or required updates to such standards, 
        including providing a date by which such modifications can be 
        expected to be completed and made available to the public.

SEC. 314. AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL WORKFORCE STAFFING.

  (a) Responsibility for Controller Workforce Plan.--
          (1) Air traffic controller staffing initiatives and 
        analysis.--Section 221 of the Vision 100-Century of Aviation 
        Reauthorization Act (49 U.S.C. 44506 note) is amended by 
        striking ``Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration'' and inserting ``Chief Operating Officer of the 
        Air Traffic Organization of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration''.
          (2) Staffing report.--Section 44506(e) of title 49, United 
        States Code, is amended in the matter before paragraph (1) by 
        striking ``Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration'' and inserting ``Chief Operating Officer of the 
        Air Traffic Organization of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration''.
  (b) Maximum Hiring.--Subject to the availability of appropriations, 
for each of fiscal years 2024 through 2027, the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall set as the hiring target for new 
air traffic controllers (excluding individuals described in section 
44506(f)(1)(A) of title 49, United States Code) the maximum number of 
individuals able to be trained at the Federal Aviation Administration 
Academy.
  (c) Hiring and Staffing.--The Chief Operating Officer of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall revise the air traffic control hiring 
plans and staffing standards of the Administration to--
          (1) provide that the controller and management workforce is 
        adequately staffed to safely and efficiently manage and oversee 
        the air traffic control system to the satisfaction of the Chief 
        Operating Officer;
          (2) account for the target number of certified professional 
        controllers able to control traffic at each independent 
        facility; and
          (3) avoid any required or requested reduction of national 
        airspace system capacity or aircraft operations as a result of 
        inadequate air traffic control system staffing.
  (d) Interim Adoption of Collaborative Resource Workgroup Models.--
          (1) In general.--In carrying out subsection (c) and in 
        submitting a Controller Workforce Plan of the Administration 
        published after the date of enactment of this Act, the Chief 
        Operating Officer shall adopt and utilize the staffing models 
        and methodologies developed by the Collaborative Resource 
        Workgroup that were recommended in a report submitted to the 
        Administrator and referenced in the Controller Workforce Plan 
        submitted to Congress on May 5, 2023.
          (2) Sunset.--The requirement under paragraph (1) shall cease 
        to be effective upon the adoption of a staffing model required 
        under subsection (f).
  (e) Assessment.--
          (1) Review.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall enter into an 
        agreement with the Transportation Research Board to--
                  (A) compare the Administration's staffing models and 
                methodologies in determining staffing standards targets 
                with those developed by the Collaborative Resource 
                Workgroup, including--
                          (ii) the availability factor multiplier and 
                        other formula components; and
                          (iii) the independent facility staffing 
                        targets of certified professional controllers 
                        able to control traffic; and
                  (B) assess future needs of the air traffic control 
                system and potential impacts on staffing standards.
          (2) Report.--
                  (A) Findings.--In carrying out this subsection, the 
                Transportation Research Board shall--
                          (i) report to the Administrator and Congress 
                        on the findings of the review under this 
                        subsection; and
                          (ii) determine which staffing models and 
                        methodologies best accounts for the operational 
                        staffing needs of the air traffic control 
                        system and provide a justification for such 
                        determination.
                  (B) Modifications to identified model.--The 
                Transportation Research Board may make recommendations 
                to improve the staffing model described in (2)(A)(ii).
          (3) Consultation.--In conducting the assessment under this 
        subsection, the Transportation Research Board shall consult 
        with--
                  (A) exclusive bargaining representatives of air 
                traffic controllers certified under section 7111 of 
                title 5, United States Code;
                  (B) Administration officials and executives;
                  (C) front line managers of the air traffic control 
                system;
                  (D) managers and employees responsible for training 
                air traffic controllers;
                  (E) the MITRE Corporation;
                  (F) the Chief Operating Officer of the Air Traffic 
                Organization of the Federal Aviation Administration; 
                and
                  (G) users of the air traffic control system.
  (f) Required Implementation of Identified Staffing Model.--The 
Administrator shall take such action that may be necessary to adopt and 
utilize the staffing model identified by the Transportation Research 
Board pursuant to subsection (e)(2)(A)(ii), including any 
recommendations for improving such model.
  (g) Controller Training.--In any Controller Workforce Plan of the 
Administration published after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Chief Operating Officer shall--
          (1) identify all limiting factors on the Administration's 
        ability to hire and train controllers in line with the staffing 
        standards target set out in such Plan; and
          (2) describe what actions the Administration will take to 
        rectify any impediments to meeting staffing standards targets 
        and identify contributing factors that are outside the control 
        of the Administration.

SEC. 315. AVIATION SAFETY WORKFORCE ASSESSMENT.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall assess, on a recurring basis, staffing levels, 
critical competencies, and skills gaps of safety critical positions in 
the Flight Standards Service and Aircraft Certification Service and 
within other offices of the Administration that support such services.
  (b) Considerations.--In completing the assessment described in 
subsection (a), the Administrator shall--
          (1) evaluate the workload at the time of the assessment, 
        historic workload, and estimated future workload of such 
        personnel;
          (2) conduct a critical competency and skills gap analysis to 
        determine the knowledge and skill sets needed for work at the 
        time of the assessment and anticipated work, with an emphasis 
        on work pertaining to--
                  (A) new and novel aircraft propulsion and power 
                methods;
                  (B) simplified vehicle operations and human factors; 
                and
                  (C) autonomy, machine learning, and artificial 
                intelligence;
          (3) compare the outcome of such analysis described in 
        paragraph (2) to the competency and skills of the workforce at 
        the time of the assessment; and
          (4) review opportunities for employees of the Administration 
        to gain or enhance expertise, knowledge, skills, and abilities 
        through cooperative training with appropriate companies and 
        organizations; and
          (5) develop hiring and recruitment plans to--
                  (A) address hard to fill positions; and
                  (B) address competency and skill gaps at various 
                levels of experience and management within Flight 
                Standards Service and Aircraft Certification Service.
  (c) Report.--Upon completion of an assessment described in 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 detailing 
the following:
          (1) The methodology and findings of the assessment described 
        in subsection (a), including an analysis of hiring authorities 
        of the Administration at the time of the assessment, including 
        direct hiring authorities, by occupation series for inspector, 
        engineer, and other safety critical positions within Flight 
        Standards Service and Aircraft Certification Service.
          (2) Action based recommendations the Administration can take 
        to improve--
                  (A) the Aviation Safety Workforce Plan;
                  (B) the skill sets and competencies of inspectors, 
                engineers, and other safety critical positions at the 
                time of the assessment;
                  (C) competition with industry and other non-aviation 
                sectors for candidates with identified competencies and 
                technical skill sets; and
                  (D) overall hiring and retention of inspectors, 
                engineers, and other critical positions.
          (3) Actions Congress can take to improve the recruitment, 
        hiring, upskilling, and retention of inspectors, engineers, and 
        other safety critical positions in Flight Standards Service and 
        Aircraft Certification Service and within other offices of the 
        Administration that support such services.
  (d) Safety Critical Position Defined.--In this section, the term 
``safety critical position'' means--
          (1) an aviation safety inspector, an aviation safety 
        specialist (denoted by the Administration as 1801 series), an 
        aviation safety technician, and an operations support position 
        in the Flight Standards Service; and
          (2) a manufacturing safety inspector, a pilots, an engineer, 
        a Chief Scientist Technical Advisor, an aviation safety 
        specialist (denoted by the Administration as 1801 series), a 
        safety technical specialist, and an operational support 
        position in the Aircraft Certification Service.

SEC. 316. MILITARY AVIATION MAINTENANCE.

  (a) Streamlined Certification for Eligible Military Maintenance 
Technicians.--Not later than 1 year after the interagency working group 
in section 311 of this Act is convened, the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall task such working group with 
evaluating the appropriateness of revising part 65 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations, to--
          (1) create a mechanic written competency test for eligible 
        military maintenance technicians;
          (2) develop, as necessary, a relevant Airman Certification 
        Standard to qualify eligible military maintenance technicians 
        for a mechanic certificate issued by the Federal Aviation 
        Administration with an airframe rating or a powerplant rating, 
        or both; and
          (3) allow a certificate of eligibility from the Joint 
        Services Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council 
        (in this section referred to as the ``JSAMTCC'') evidencing 
        completion of a training curriculum for any rating sought to 
        serve as a substitute to fulfill the requirement under such 
        part 65 for oral and practical tests administered by a 
        designated mechanic examiner for eligible military maintenance 
        technicians.
  (b) Final Rule.--If the working group finds that revising part 65 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, as described in section (a) is 
appropriate, not later than 1 year after the finding, the Administrator 
shall issue a final rule that revises part 65 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations, as described in subsection (a).
  (c) Aeronautical Knowledge Subject Areas.--
          (1) In general.--The military mechanic written competency 
        test and Airman Certification Standard described in subsection 
        (a)(1) and subsection (a)(2), respectively, shall focus on the 
        aeronautical knowledge subject areas contained in the Aviation 
        Mechanic General, Airframe, and Powerplant Airman Certificate 
        Standards, as appropriate to the rating sought.
          (2) Identification of subject areas.--The aeronautical 
        knowledge subject areas described in paragraph (1) shall be 
        identified in consultation with industry stakeholders and the 
        Airman Certification System Working Group.
  (d) Expansion of Testing Locations.--The interagency working group 
described in subsection (a) shall determine whether an expansion of the 
number of active testing locations operated within military 
installation testing centers would increase access to testing, as well 
as how to implement such expansion.
  (e) Outreach and Awareness.--The interagency working group described 
in subsection (a) shall develop a plan to increase outreach and 
awareness regarding--
          (1) the services made available by the JSAMTCC; and
          (2) the military mechanic written competency test described 
        in subsection (a), if appropriate.
  (f) Eligible Military Maintenance Technician Defined.--In this 
section, the term ``eligible military maintenance technician'' means an 
individual who is a current or former military aviation maintenance 
technician who was honorably discharged or has retired from the armed 
forces (as such term is defined in section 101 of title 10, United 
States Code).

            Subtitle C--Engaging and Retaining the Workforce

SEC. 321. AIRMAN'S MEDICAL BILL OF RIGHTS.

  (a) In General.--
          (1) Development.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall develop a document (in this 
        section referred to as the ``Airman's Medical Bill of Rights'') 
        detailing the right of an individual before, during, and after 
        a medical exam conducted by an Aviation Medical Examiner.
          (2) Contents.--The Airman's Medical Bill of Rights required 
        under paragraph (1) shall, at a minimum, contain information 
        about the right of an individual to--
                  (A) bring a trusted companion or request to have a 
                chaperone present for a medical exam;
                  (B) terminate an exam at any time and for any reason;
                  (C) receive care with respect and recognition of the 
                dignity of the individual;
                  (D) be assured of privacy and confidentiality;
                  (E) select an Aviation Medical Examiner without 
                interference;
                  (F) privacy when changing, undressing, and using the 
                restroom;
                  (G) ask questions about the health status of the 
                individual or any suggested treatments or evaluations, 
                and to have such questions fully answered;
                  (H) report an incident of misconduct by an Aviation 
                Medical Examiner to the appropriate authorities, 
                including to the State licensing board of the Aviation 
                Medical Examiner or the Federal Aviation 
                Administration;
                  (I) report to the Administrator an allegation 
                regarding alleged Aviation Medical Examiner misconduct 
                without fear of retaliation or negative action relating 
                to an airman certificate of the individual; and
                  (J) be advised of any known conflicts of interest an 
                Aviation Medical Examiner may have with respect to the 
                care of the individual.
          (3) Public availability.--The Airman's Medical Bill of Rights 
        required under paragraph (1) shall be--
                  (A) made available to, and acknowledged by, an 
                individual in the MedXpress system;
                  (B) made available in a hard-copy format by an 
                Aviation Medical Examiner at the time of exam upon 
                request by an individual; and
                  (C) displayed in a common space in the office of the 
                Aviation Medical Examiner.
  (b) Expectations for Medical Examinations.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall develop a 
        simplified document explaining the standard procedures 
        performed during a medical examination conducted by an Aviation 
        Medical Examiner.
          (2) Public availability.--The document required under 
        paragraph (1) shall be--
                  (A) made available to, and acknowledged by, an 
                individual in the MedXpress system;
                  (B) made available in a hard-copy format by an 
                Aviation Medical Examiner at the time of exam upon 
                request by an individual; and
                  (C) displayed in a common space in the office of the 
                Aviation Medical Examiner.

SEC. 322. IMPROVED DESIGNEE MISCONDUCT REPORTING PROCESS.

  (a) Improved Designee Misconduct Reporting Process.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall establish a streamlined process 
        for individuals involved in incidents of alleged misconduct by 
        a designee to report such incidents in a manner that protects 
        the privacy and confidentiality of such individuals.
          (2) Public access to reporting process.--The process for 
        reporting alleged misconduct by a designee shall be made 
        available to the public on the website of the Administration, 
        including--
                  (A) the designee locator search webpage; and
                  (B) the webpage of the Office of Audit and Evaluation 
                of the Federal Aviation Administration.
          (3) Obligation to report criminal charges.--Not later than 90 
        days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 
        shall revise the orders and policies governing the Designee 
        Management System to clarify that designees are obligated to 
        report any arrest, indictment, or conviction for violation of a 
        local, State, or Federal law within a period of time specified 
        by the Administrator.
          (4) Audit of reporting process by inspector general.--
                  (A) In general.--Not later than 3 years after the 
                date on which the Administrator finalizes the update of 
                the reporting process under paragraph (1), the 
                inspector general of the Department of Transportation 
                shall conduct an audit of such reporting process.
                  (B) Contents.--In conducting the audit of the 
                reporting process described in subparagraph (A), the 
                inspector general shall, at a minimum--
                          (i) review the efforts of the Administration 
                        to improve the reporting process and solutions 
                        developed to respond to and investigate 
                        allegations of misconduct;
                          (ii) analyze reports of misconduct brought to 
                        the Administrator prior to any changes made to 
                        the reporting process as a result of the 
                        enactment of this Act, including the ultimate 
                        outcomes of those reports and whether any 
                        reports resulted in the Administrator taking 
                        action against the accused designee;
                          (iii) determine whether the reporting process 
                        results in appropriate action, including 
                        reviewing, investigating, and closing out 
                        reports; and
                          (iv) if applicable, make recommendations to 
                        improve the reporting process.
                  (C) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
                initiation of the audit described in subparagraph (A), 
                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 such audit, including findings and 
                recommendations.
  (b) Designee Defined.--In this section, the term ``designee'' means 
an individual who has been designated to act as a representative of the 
Administrator as--
          (1) an Aviation Medical Examiner (as described in section 
        183.21 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations);
          (2) a pilot examiner (as described in section 183.23 of such 
        title); or
          (3) a technical personnel examiner (as described in section 
        183.25 of such title).

SEC. 323. REPORT ON SAFE UNIFORM OPTIONS FOR CERTAIN AVIATION 
                    EMPLOYEES.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall conduct a review to determine whether air carriers 
operating under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and 
repair stations certificated under part 145 of such title have in place 
uniform policies and uniform offerings that ensure pregnant employees 
can perform required duties safely.
  (b) Consultation.--In conducting the review required under subsection 
(a), the Administrator shall consult with air carriers and repair 
stations described in subsection (a) and employees of such air carriers 
and such stations who are required to adhere to a uniform policy.
  (c) Briefing.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall brief the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the results of 
the review required under subsection (a).

SEC. 324. EXTENSION OF SAMYA ROSE STUMO NATIONAL AIR GRANT FELLOWSHIP 
                    PROGRAM.

  Section 131(d) of the Aircraft Certification, Safety, and 
Accountability Act (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended by striking 
``fiscal years 2021 through 2025'' and inserting ``fiscal years 2023 
through 2028''.

SEC. 325. PROMOTION OF CIVIL AERONAUTICS AND SAFETY OF AIR COMMERCE.

  Section 40104 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a) by striking ``In carrying out'' and all 
        that follows through ``other interested organizations.'';
          (2) by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (e);
          (3) by redesignating subsection (b) as subsection (d); and
          (4) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b) and 
        reordering the subsections accordingly.

SEC. 326. EDUCATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT.

  Section 40104 of title 49, United States Code, is further amended by 
inserting after subsection (b) (as redesignated by section 325) the 
following:
  ``(c) Educational and Professional Development.--
          ``(1) In general.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
        Administrator shall support and undertake efforts, including 
        through the National Center for the Advancement of Aerospace, 
        to promote and support the education of current and future 
        aerospace professionals.
          ``(2) Education materials.--Based on the availability of 
        resources, the Administrator shall distribute civil aviation 
        information, and educational materials, and provide expertise 
        to State and local school administrators, college and 
        university officials, and officers of other interested 
        organizations and entities.
          ``(3) Support for professional development and continuing 
        education.--To the extent a nonprofit organization, 
        association, industry group, educational institution, 
        collective bargaining unit, governmental organization, or other 
        entity that organizes or hosts a lecture, conference, 
        convention, meeting, round table, or any other type of program 
        with the purpose of sharing educational information related to 
        aerospace with a broad audience, the Administrator shall--
                  ``(A) strongly consider accepting an invitation to 
                attend, present, and contribute to content generation; 
                and
                  ``(B) make efforts to share information each year, 
                putting a particular emphasis on reaching audiences 
                consisting of representatives of the Administrator and 
                entities regulated entities by the Administrator.
          ``(4) Content.--In planning for the opportunities under 
        paragraph (3), the Administrator shall maintain presentations 
        and content covering topics of broad relevance, including--
                  ``(A) ethical decision-making and the 
                responsibilities of aerospace professionals;
                  ``(B) managing a workforce, encouraging proper 
                reporting of prospective safety issues, and educating 
                employees on safety management systems; and
                  ``(C) responsibilities as a designee or 
                representative of the Administrator.''.

SEC. 327. HUMAN FACTORS PROFESSIONALS.

  The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
establish a new work code for human factors professionals who--
          (1) perform work involving the design and testing of 
        technologies, processes, and systems which require effective 
        and safe human performance;
          (2) generate and apply theories, principles, practical 
        concepts, systems, and processes related to the design and 
        testing of technologies, systems, and training programs to 
        support and evaluate human performance in work contexts; and
          (3) meet education or experience requirements as determined 
        by the Administrator.

SEC. 328. AEROMEDICAL INNOVATION AND MODERNIZATION WORKING GROUP.

  (a) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall establish a working group (in this section 
referred to as the ``working group'') to review the medical processes, 
policies, and procedures of the Administration and to make 
recommendations to the Administrator on modernizing such processes, 
policies, and procedures to ensure timely and efficient certification 
of airmen.
  (b) Membership.--
          (1) In general.--The working group shall consist of--
                  (A) 2 co-chairs described in paragraph (2); and
                  (B) not less than 15 individuals appointed by the 
                Administrator, each of whom shall have knowledge or a 
                background in aerospace medicine, psychology, 
                neurology, cardiology, or internal medicine.
          (2) Co-chairs.--The working group shall be co-chaired by--
                  (A) the Federal Air Surgeon of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration; and
                  (B) a member described under paragraph (1)(A) to be 
                selected by members of the working group.
          (3) Preference.--The Administrator, in appointing members 
        pursuant to paragraph (1)(B), shall give preference to--
                  (A) Aviation Medical Examiners (as described in 
                section 183.21 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations);
                  (B) licensed medical physicians;
                  (C) practitioners holding a pilot certificate;
                  (D) individuals having demonstrated research and 
                expertise in aeromedical research or sciences; and
                  (E) representatives of organizations with memberships 
                affected by the medical processes, policies, and 
                procedures of the Administration.
  (c) Activities.--In reviewing the aeromedical decision-making 
processes, policies, and procedures of the Administration in accordance 
with subsection (a), the working group, at a minimum, shall--
          (1) assess the medical conditions an Aviation Medical 
        Examiner may issue a medical certificate directly to an 
        individual;
          (2) determine the appropriateness of expanding the list of 
        such medical conditions;
          (3) assess the special issuance process;
          (4) determine whether the renewal of a special issuance can 
        be based on a medical evaluation and treatment plan by the 
        treating medical specialist of the individual with concurrence 
        from an Aviation Medical Examiner;
          (5) evaluate advancements in technologies to address forms of 
        red-green color blindness;
          (6) determine whether such technologies may be approved for 
        use by airmen;
          (7) review policies and guidance relating to Attention-
        Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Attention Deficit Disorder;
          (8) evaluate whether medications used to treat such disorders 
        may be safely prescribed to an airman;
          (9) review protocols pertaining to the Human Intervention 
        Motivation Study of the Federal Aviation Administration;
          (10) review protocols and policies relating to--
                  (A) neurological disorders; and
                  (B) cardiovascular conditions to ensure alignment 
                with medical best practices, latest research;
          (11) review mental health protocols, including mental health 
        conditions such as depression and anxiety;
          (12) evaluate medications approved for treating such mental 
        health conditions;
          (13) assess processes and protocols pertaining to 
        recertification of an airman receiving disability insurance 
        post-recovery from the medical condition, injury, or disability 
        that precludes an airman from exercising the privileges of an 
        airman certificate; and
          (14) assess processes and protocols pertaining to the 
        certification of veterans reporting a disability rating from 
        the Department of Veterans Affairs.
  (d) Pilot Mental Health Task Group.--
          (1) Establishment.--Not later than 120 days after the working 
        group pursuant to subsection (a) is established, the co-chairs 
        of such working groups shall establish a pilot mental health 
        task group (referred to in this subsection as the ``task 
        group'') to develop and provide recommendations related to 
        supporting the mental health of aircraft pilots.
          (2) Composition.--The co-chairs of such working group shall 
        appoint--
                  (A) a Chair of the task group; and
                  (B) members of the task group from among the members 
                of the working group appointed by the Administrator 
                under subsection (b)(1).
          (3) Duties.--The duties of the task group shall include--
                  (A) carrying out the activities described in 
                subsection (c)(11) and subsection (c)(12);
                  (B) reviewing and evaluating guidance issued by the 
                International Civil Aviation Organization on pilot 
                mental health; and
                  (C) providing recommendations for--
                          (i) best practices for detecting, assessing, 
                        and reporting mental health conditions and 
                        treatment options as part of pilot aeromedical 
                        assessments;
                          (ii) improving the training of aviation 
                        medical examiners to identify mental health 
                        conditions among pilots, including guidance on 
                        referrals to a mental health provider or other 
                        aeromedical resource;
                          (iii) expanding and improving mental health 
                        outreach, education, and assistance programs 
                        for pilots; and
                          (iv) reducing the stigma of assistance for 
                        mental health in the aviation industry.
          (4) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of the 
        establishment of the task group, the task group 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 detailing--
                  (A) the results of the review and evaluation under 
                paragraph (3)(A); and
                  (B) recommendations developed pursuant to paragraph 
                (3)(C).
  (d) Support.--The Administrator shall seek to enter into one or more 
agreements with the National Academies to support the activities of the 
working group described in subsection (c).
  (e) Findings; Recommendations.--
          (1) Findings.--The working group shall report annually 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 on findings resulting from the activities carried out 
        pursuant to subsection (c).
          (2) Recommendations.--Findings reported pursuant to paragraph 
        (1) shall be accompanied by recommendations for regulatory, 
        policy, or legislative action to improve or modernize the 
        medical certification and aeromedical processes, procedures, 
        and policies of the Administration.
  (f) Implementation.--The Administrator shall implement, as 
appropriate, the recommendations of the working group.
  (g) Sunset.--The working group shall terminate on September 30, 2028.

SEC. 329. FRONTLINE MANAGER WORKLOAD STUDY.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Chief Operating Officer of the Air Traffic 
Organization of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct a 
study on frontline manager workload challenges in air traffic control 
facilities.
  (b) Considerations.--In conducting the study required under 
subsection (a), the Chief Operating Officer may--
          (1) consider--
                  (A) workload challenges including--
                          (i) the managerial tasks expected to be 
                        performed by frontline managers, including 
                        employee development, management, and 
                        counseling;
                          (ii) the number of supervisory positions of 
                        operations requiring watch coverage in each air 
                        traffic control facility;
                          (iii) the complexity of traffic and 
                        managerial responsibilities; and
                          (iv) proficiency and training requirements;
                  (B) facility type;
                  (C) facility staffing levels; and
                  (D) any other factors as the Chief Operating Officer 
                considers appropriate; and
          (2) describe recommendations for updates to the Frontline 
        Manager's Quick Reference Guide that reflect current 
        operational standards.
  (c) Briefing.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Chief Operating Officer shall brief the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on 
the results of the study conducted under subsection (a).

SEC. 330. AGE STANDARDS FOR PILOTS.

  Section 44729 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) by striking ``Subject to the limitation in 
                subsection (c), a'' and inserting ``A''; and
                  (B) by striking ``65'' and inserting ``67'';
          (2) in subsection (b)(1) by striking ``; or'' and inserting 
        ``, unless the operation takes place in airspace where such 
        operations are not permitted; or'';
          (3) by striking subsection (c) and redesignating subsections 
        (d) through (h) as subsections (c) through (g), respectively;
          (4) in subsection (c), as so redesignated--
                  (A) in the heading by striking ``60'' and inserting 
                ``65'';
                  (B) by striking ``the date of enactment of this 
                section,'' and inserting ``the date of enactment of the 
                Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American 
                Aviation Act,'';
                  (C) by striking ``section 121.383(c)'' and inserting 
                ``subsections (d) and (e) of section 121.383''; and
                  (D) by inserting ``(or any successor regulations)'' 
                after ``Regulations'';
          (5) in subsection (d), as so redesignated--
                  (A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the 
                following:
          ``(1) Retroactivity.--A person who has attained 65 years of 
        age on or before the date of enactment of the Securing Growth 
        and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act may return to 
        service as a pilot for an air carrier engaged in covered 
        operations.''; and
                  (B) in paragraph (2) by striking ``section, taken in 
                conformance with a regulation issued to carry out this 
                section, or taken prior to the date of enactment of 
                this section in conformance with section 121.383(c) of 
                title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect 
                before such date of enactment), may'' and inserting 
                ``section or taken in conformance with a regulation 
                issued to carry out this section, may''; and
          (6) by adding at the end the following:
  ``(h) Savings Clause.--An air carrier engaged in covered operations 
described in subsection (b)(1) on or after the date of enactment of the 
Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act may not 
require employed pilots to serve in such covered operations after 
attaining 65 years of age.''.

                    TITLE IV--AIRPORT INFRASTRUCTURE

         Subtitle A--Airport Improvement Program Modifications

SEC. 401. AIP DEFINITIONS.

  (a) In General.--Section 47102 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
          ``(1) `air carrier' has the meaning given the term in section 
        40102.'';
          (2) in paragraph (3)--
                  (A) in subparagraph (A)--
                          (i) in clause (i) by striking ``and'' at the 
                        end;
                          (ii) in clause (ii) by striking the period at 
                        the end and inserting ``; and''; and
                          (iii) by adding at the end the following:
                          ``(iii) a secondary runway at a nonhub 
                        airport that is equivalent in size and type to 
                        the primary runway of such airport.'';
                  (B) in subparagraph (B)(iii) by inserting ``and fuel 
                infrastructure'' after ``surveillance equipment'';
                  (C) in subparagraph (E) by striking ``after December 
                31, 1991,'';
                  (D) in subparagraph (K) by striking ``if the airport 
                is located in an air quality nonattainment or 
                maintenance area (as defined in sections 171(2) and 
                175A of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7501(2); 7505a)) 
                and if the airport would be able to receive emission 
                credits, as described in section 47139'';
                  (E) in subparagraph (L) by striking ``the airport is 
                located in an air quality nonattainment or maintenance 
                area (as defined in sections 171(2) and 175A of the 
                Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7501(2); 7505a)), if the 
                airport would be able to receive appropriate emission 
                credits (as described in section 47139), and'';
                  (F) in subparagraph (P) by striking ``improve the 
                reliability and efficiency of the airport's power 
                supply'' and inserting ``improve reliability and 
                efficiency of the airport's power supply or meet 
                current and future electrical power demand''; and
                  (G) by adding at the end the following:
                  ``(S) construction or renovation of childcare 
                facilities for the exclusive use of airport employees 
                or other individuals who work on airport property, 
                including for air carriers and airport concessionaires.
                  ``(T) advanced digital construction management 
                systems and related technology used in the planning, 
                design and engineering, construction, operations, and 
                maintenance of airport facilities.
                  ``(U) an improvement of any runway, taxiway, or apron 
                that would be necessary to sustain commercial service 
                flight operations or permit the resumption of flight 
                operations under visual flight rules following a 
                natural disaster at--
                          ``(i) a primary airport; or
                          ``(ii) a general aviation airport that is 
                        designated as a Federal staging area by the 
                        Administrator of the Federal Emergency 
                        Management Agency.
                  ``(V) any other activity that the Secretary concludes 
                will reasonably improve or contribute to the 
                maintenance of the safety, efficiency, or capacity of 
                the airport.'';
          (3) in paragraph (5) by inserting after subparagraph (C) the 
        following:
                  ``(D) assessing current and future electrical power 
                demand.'';
          (4) by redesignating paragraphs (9), (10), (11), (12), (13), 
        (14), (15), (16), (17), (18), (19), (20), (21), (22), (23), 
        (24), (25), (26), (27), and (28) as paragraphs (10), (11), 
        (12), (13), (14), (15), (16), (17), (18), (19), (20), (21), 
        (22), (23), (24), (25), (26), (27), (28), and (29), 
        respectively;
          (5) by inserting after paragraph (8) the following:
          ``(9) `heliport'--
                  ``(A) means an area of land, water, or structure used 
                or intended to be used for the landing or takeoff of 
                aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing 
                profiles; and
                  ``(B) includes a vertiport.'';
          (6) in paragraph (28) (as so redesignated) by striking ``the 
        Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands,'';
          (7) in paragraph (29)(B) (as so redesignated) by striking 
        ``described in section 47119(a)(1)(B)'' and inserting ``for 
        moving passengers and baggage between terminal facilities and 
        between terminal facilities and aircraft''; and
          (8) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(30) `vertiport' means an area of land, water, or structure 
        used or intended to be used for the landing or takeoff of 
        powered-lift aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing 
        profiles.''.
  (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 47127(a) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking ``air carrier airport'' and 
inserting ``commercial service airport''.

SEC. 402. REVENUE DIVERSION PENALTY ENHANCEMENT.

  (a) In General.--Section 47107 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) in subsection (m)(4) by striking ``an amount equal to'' 
        and inserting ``an amount equal to double''; and
          (2) in subsection (n)(1) by striking ``an amount equal to'' 
        and inserting ``an amount equal to double''.
  (b) Applicability.--The amendments made by subsection (a) shall not 
apply to any illegal diversion of airport revenues (as described in 
section 47107(m) of title 49, United States Code) that occurred prior 
to the date of enactment of this Act.

SEC. 403. EXTENSION OF COMPETITIVE ACCESS REPORT REQUIREMENT.

  Section 47107(r)(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``2023'' and inserting ``2028''.

SEC. 404. RENEWAL OF CERTAIN LEASES.

  Section 47107(t)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``the date of enactment 
        of this subsection'' and inserting ``October 7, 2016''; and
          (2) by striking subparagraph (D) and inserting the following:
                  ``(D) that--
                          ``(i) supports the operation of military 
                        aircraft by the Air Force or Air National 
                        Guard--
                                  ``(I) at the airport; or
                                  ``(II) remotely from the airport; or
                          ``(ii) is for the use of nonaeronautical land 
                        or facilities of the airport by the National 
                        Guard.''.

SEC. 405. COMMUNITY USE OF AIRPORT LAND.

  Section 47107(v) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read 
as follows:
  ``(v) Community Use of Airport Land.--
          ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding subsections (a)(13), (b), 
        and (c), and subject to paragraph (2), the sponsor of a public-
        use airport shall not be considered to be in violation of this 
        subtitle, or to be found in violation of a grant assurance made 
        under this section, or under any other provision of law, as a 
        condition for the receipt of Federal financial assistance for 
        airport development, solely because the sponsor has--
                  ``(A) entered into an agreement, including a revised 
                agreement, with a local government providing for the 
                use of airport property for an interim compatible 
                recreational purpose at below fair market value; or
                  ``(B) permanently restricted the use of airport 
                property to compatible recreational and public park use 
                without paying or otherwise obtaining payment of fair 
                market value for the property.
          ``(2) Restrictions.--
                  ``(A) Interim compatible recreational purpose.--
                Paragraph (1) shall apply, with respect to a sponsor 
                that has taken the action described in subparagraph (A) 
                of such paragraph, only--
                          ``(i) to an agreement regarding airport 
                        property that was initially entered into before 
                        the publication of the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration's Policy and Procedures 
                        Concerning the Use of Airport Revenue, dated 
                        February 16, 1999;
                          ``(ii) if the agreement between the sponsor 
                        and the local government is subordinate to any 
                        existing or future agreements between the 
                        sponsor and the Secretary, including agreements 
                        related to a grant assurance under this 
                        section;
                          ``(iii) to airport property that was acquired 
                        under a Federal airport development grant 
                        program;
                          ``(iv) if the airport sponsor has provided a 
                        written statement to the Administrator that the 
                        property made available for a recreational 
                        purpose will not be needed for any aeronautical 
                        purpose during the next 10 years;
                          ``(v) if the agreement includes a term of not 
                        more than 2 years to prepare the airport 
                        property for the interim compatible 
                        recreational purpose and not more than 10 years 
                        of use for that purpose;
                          ``(vi) if the recreational purpose will not 
                        impact the aeronautical use of the airport;
                          ``(vii) if the airport sponsor provides a 
                        certification that the sponsor is not 
                        responsible for preparation, startup, 
                        operations, maintenance, or any other costs 
                        associated with the recreational purpose; and
                          ``(viii) if the recreational purpose is 
                        consistent with Federal land use compatibility 
                        criteria under section 47502.
                  ``(B) Permanent recreational use.--Paragraph (1) 
                shall apply, with respect to a sponsor that has taken 
                the action described in subparagraph (B) of such 
                paragraph, only--
                          ``(i) to airport property that was purchased 
                        using funds from a Federal grant for acquiring 
                        land issued prior to December 30, 1987;
                          ``(ii) to airport property that has been 
                        continuously used as a recreational and public 
                        park since January 1, 1995;
                          ``(iii) if the airport sponsor has provided a 
                        written statement to the Administrator that the 
                        property to be permanently restricted for 
                        recreational and public park use is not needed 
                        for any aeronautical use at the time the 
                        written statement is provided and is not 
                        expected to be needed for any aeronautical use 
                        at any time after such statement is provided;
                          ``(iv) if the recreational and public park 
                        use does not impact the aeronautical use of the 
                        airport;
                          ``(v) if the airport sponsor provides a 
                        certification that the sponsor is not 
                        responsible for operations, maintenance, or any 
                        other costs associated with the recreational 
                        and public park use;
                          ``(vi) if the recreational purpose is 
                        consistent with Federal land use compatibility 
                        criteria under section 47502;
                          ``(vii) if, in the event the airport sponsor 
                        leases the property, the lease will be to a 
                        local government entity or nonprofit entity to 
                        operate and maintain the property at no cost 
                        the airport sponsor; and
                          ``(viii) if, in the event the airport sponsor 
                        sells the property, the sale will be to a local 
                        government entity and subject to a permanent 
                        deed restriction ensuring compatible airport 
                        use under regulations issued pursuant to 
                        section 47502.
          ``(3) Revenue from certain sales of airport property.--
        Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an airport sponsor 
        selling a portion of airport property as described in paragraph 
        (2)(B)(viii)(II) may--
                  ``(A) sell such portion of airport property for less 
                than fair market value; and
                  ``(B) subject to the requirements of subsection (b), 
                retain the revenue from the sale of such portion of 
                airport property.
          ``(4) Statutory construction.--Nothing in this subsection may 
        be construed as permitting a diversion of airport revenue for 
        the capital or operating costs associated with the community 
        use of airport land.''.

SEC. 406. PRICE ADJUSTMENT PROVISIONS.

  Section 47108 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a) by striking ``47114(d)(3)(A) of this 
        title'' and inserting ``47114(d)(2)(A)'';
          (2) by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following:
  ``(b) Increasing Government Share.--
          ``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2) or 
        (3), the amount stated in an offer as the maximum amount the 
        Government will pay may not be increased when the offer has 
        been accepted in writing.
          ``(2) Exception.--For a project receiving assistance under a 
        grant approved under this chapter or chapter 475, the amount 
        may be increased--
                  ``(A) for an airport development project, by not more 
                than 15 percent; and
                  ``(B) to acquire an interest in land for an airport 
                (except a primary airport), by not more than the 
                greater of the following, based on current creditable 
                appraisals or a court award in a condemnation 
                proceeding:
                          ``(i) 15 percent; or
                          ``(ii) 25 percent of the total increase in 
                        allowable project costs attributable to 
                        acquiring an interest in land.
          ``(3) Price adjustment provisions.--
                  ``(A) In general.--The Secretary may incorporate a 
                provision in a project grant agreement under which the 
                Secretary agrees to pay more than the maximum amount 
                otherwise specified in the agreement if the Secretary 
                finds that commodity or labor prices have increased 
                since the agreement was made.
                  ``(B) Decrease in costs.--A provision incorporated in 
                a project grant agreement under this paragraph shall 
                ensure that the Secretary realizes any financial 
                benefit associated with a decrease in material or labor 
                costs for the project.'';
          (3) by striking subsection (c); and
          (4) by redesignating subsections (d) and (e) as subsections 
        (c) and (d), respectively.

SEC. 407. ALLOWABLE PROJECT COSTS AND LETTERS OF INTENT.

  Section 47110 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (c)--
                  (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by striking 
                ``after May 13, 1946, and''; and
                  (B) in paragraph (1)--
                          (i) by inserting ``or preparing for'' after 
                        ``formulating''; and
                          (ii) by inserting ``utility relocation, work 
                        site preparation,'' before ``and 
                        administration'';
          (2) in subsection (d)(1) by striking ``section 47114(c)(1) or 
        47114(d)'' and inserting ``section 47114 or distributed from 
        the small airport fund under section 47116'';
          (3) in subsection (e)(2)(C) by striking ``commercial service 
        airport having at least 0.25 percent of the boardings each year 
        at all such airports'' and inserting ``medium hub airport or 
        large hub airport'';
          (4) in subsection (h) by striking ``section 47114(d)(3)(A)'' 
        and inserting ``section 47114(c)(1)(D) or section 
        47114(d)(2)(A)''; and
          (5) by striking subsection (i).

SEC. 408. SMALL AIRPORT LETTERS OF INTENT.

  (a) In General.--Section 47110 of title 49, United States Code, is 
further amended by adding at the end the following:
  ``(i) Small Airport Letters of Intent.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Secretary may issue a letter of intent 
        to a sponsor stating an intention to obligate an amount from 
        future budget authority for an airport development project 
        (including costs of formulating the project) at a nonhub 
        airport or an airport that is not a primary airport. The letter 
        shall establish a schedule under which the Secretary will 
        reimburse the sponsor for the Government's share of allowable 
        project costs, as amounts become available, if the sponsor, 
        after the Secretary issues the letter, carries out the project 
        without receiving amounts under this subchapter.
          ``(2) Limitations.--The amount the Secretary intends to 
        obligate in a letter of intent issued under this subsection 
        shall not exceed the larger of--
                  ``(A) the Government's share of allowable project 
                costs; or
                  ``(B) $10,000,000.
          ``(3) Financing.--Allowable project costs under paragraph (1) 
        may include costs associated with making payments for debt 
        service on indebtedness incurred to carry out the project.
          ``(4) Requirements.--The Secretary shall only issue a letter 
        of intent under paragraph (1) if--
                  ``(A) the sponsor notifies the Secretary, before the 
                project begins, of the sponsor's intent to carry out 
                the project and requests a letter of intent; and
                  ``(B) the sponsor agrees to comply with all statutory 
                and administrative requirements that would apply to the 
                project if it were carried out with amounts made 
                available under this subchapter.
          ``(5) Assessment.--In reviewing a request for a letter of 
        intent under this subsection, the Secretary shall consider the 
        grant history of an airport, the airport's enplanements or 
        operations, and such other factors as the Secretary determines 
        appropriate.
          ``(6) Prioritization.--In issuing letters of intent under 
        this subsection, the Secretary shall--
                  ``(A) prioritize projects that--
                          ``(i) cannot reasonably be funded by an 
                        airport sponsor using funds apportioned under 
                        section 47114(c), 47114(d)(2)(A)(i), or 
                        47114(d)(6), including funds apportioned under 
                        those sections in multiple fiscal years 
                        pursuant to section 47117(b)(1); and
                          ``(ii) are necessary to an airport's 
                        continued safe operation or development; and
                  ``(B) structure the reimbursement schedules under 
                such letters in a manner that minimizes unnecessary or 
                undesirable project segmentation.
          ``(7) Required use.--
                  ``(A) In general.--Beginning in fiscal year 2028, and 
                in each fiscal year thereafter, the Secretary shall 
                ensure that not less than $100,000,000 is committed to 
                be reimbursed in such fiscal year pursuant to letters 
                of intent issued under this subsection.
                  ``(B) Waiver.--The Secretary may waive the 
                requirement under subparagraph (A) for a fiscal year if 
                the Secretary determines there are insufficient letter 
                of intent requests that meet the requirements of 
                paragraph (4). Upon such waiver, the Secretary shall 
                provide a briefing 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 reasons contributing to the need 
                for such waiver and the actions the Secretary intends 
                to take to ensure that there are sufficient letter of 
                intent requests that meet the requirements of paragraph 
                (4) in the fiscal year succeeding the fiscal year for 
                which the Secretary issued such waiver.
                  ``(C) Restriction.--The total estimated amount of 
                future Government obligations covered by all 
                outstanding letters of intent under paragraph (1) may 
                not be more than the amount authorized to carry out 
                section 48103 of this title, less an amount reasonably 
                estimated by the Secretary to be needed for grants 
                under section 48103 that are not covered by a letter.
          ``(8) No obligation or commitment.--A letter of intent issued 
        under this subsection is not an obligation of the Government 
        under section 1501 of title 31, and the letter is not deemed to 
        be an administrative commitment for financing. An obligation or 
        administrative commitment may be made only as amounts are 
        provided in authorization and appropriation laws.
          ``(9) Limitation on statutory construction.--Nothing in this 
        section shall be construed to prohibit the obligation of 
        amounts pursuant to a letter of intent under this subsection in 
        the same fiscal year as the letter of intent is issued.''.
  (b) Conforming Amendments.--
          (1) Letters of intent.--Section 47110(e)(7) of title 49, 
        United States Code, is amended by striking ``under this 
        section'' and inserting ``under this subsection''.
          (2) Priority for letters of intent.--Section 47115(h) of 
        title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting ``prior 
        to fulfilling intentions to obligate under section 47110(i)'' 
        after ``section 47110(e)''.

SEC. 409. PROHIBITION ON USE OF AIP FUNDS TO PROCURE CERTAIN PASSENGER 
                    BOARDING BRIDGES.

  Section 47110 of title 49, United States Code, is further amended by 
adding at the end the following:
  ``(j) Additional Nonallowable Costs.--
          ``(1) In general.--A cost is not an allowable airport 
        development project cost under this chapter if the cost relates 
        to a contract for procurement or installation of a passenger 
        boarding bridge if the contract is with an entity on the list 
        required under paragraph (2).
          ``(2) Required list.--Not later than 30 days after the date 
        of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall, based on 
        information provided by the United States Trade Representative 
        and the Attorney General, publish and annually update a list of 
        entities manufacturing airport passenger boarding bridges--
                  ``(A) that are owned, directed, or subsidized by the 
                People's Republic of China; and
                  ``(B) that--
                          ``(i) have been determined by a Federal court 
                        to have misappropriated intellectual property 
                        or trade secrets from an entity organized under 
                        the laws of the United States or any 
                        jurisdiction within the United States; or
                          ``(ii) own or control, are owned or 
                        controlled by, are under common ownership or 
                        control with, or are successors to, an entity 
                        described in clause (i).''.

SEC. 410. FUEL INFRASTRUCTURE.

  Section 47110 of title 49, United States Code, is further amended by 
adding at the end the following:
  ``(k) Fuel Infrastructure.--
          ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision of 
        law, the Secretary may decide that covered costs are allowable 
        for an airport development project at a primary or nonprimary 
        airport where such costs are paid for with funds apportioned to 
        the sponsor of such airport under section 47114 or provided 
        pursuant to section 47115.
          ``(2) Prioritization.--If the Secretary makes grants from the 
        discretionary fund under section 47115 for covered costs, the 
        Secretary shall prioritize providing such grants to general 
        aviation airports.
          ``(3) Covered costs defined.--In this subsection, the term 
        `covered costs'--
                  ``(A) means construction costs related to an airport-
                owned--
                          ``(i) aeronautical fueling system for 
                        unleaded fuel; and
                          ``(ii) fueling systems for type certificated 
                        hydrogen-powered aircraft; and
                  ``(B) may include capital costs for fuel farms and 
                other equipment and infrastructure used for the 
                delivery and storage of fuel.''.

SEC. 411. APPORTIONMENTS.

  (a) Primary, Commercial Service, and Cargo Airports.--
          (1) Primary and commercial service airports.--Section 
        47114(c)(1) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read 
        as follows:
          ``(1) Primary and commercial service airports.--
                  ``(A) Primary airport apportionment.--The Secretary 
                shall apportion to the sponsor of each primary airport 
                for each fiscal year an amount equal to--
                          ``(i) $15.60 for each of the first 50,000 
                        passenger boardings at the airport during the 
                        prior calendar year;
                          ``(ii) $10.40 for each of the next 50,000 
                        passenger boardings at the airport during the 
                        prior calendar year;
                          ``(iii) $5.20 for each of the next 400,000 
                        passenger boardings at the airport during the 
                        prior calendar year;
                          ``(iv) $1.30 for each of the next 500,000 
                        passenger boardings at the airport during the 
                        prior calendar year; and
                          ``(v) $1.00 for each additional passenger 
                        boarding at the airport during the prior 
                        calendar year.
                  ``(B) Minimum and maximum apportionments.--Not less 
                than $1,300,000 nor more than $22,000,000 may be 
                apportioned under subparagraph (A) to an airport 
                sponsor for a primary airport for each fiscal year.
                  ``(C) New airport.--Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), 
                the Secretary shall apportion in the first fiscal year 
                following the official opening of a new airport with 
                scheduled passenger air transportation an amount equal 
                to $1,300,000 to the sponsor of such airport.
                  ``(D) Nonprimary commercial service airport 
                apportionment.--
                          ``(i) In general.--The Secretary shall 
                        apportion to each commercial service airport 
                        that is not a primary airport an amount equal 
                        to--
                                  ``(I) $60 for each of the first 2,500 
                                passenger boardings at the airport 
                                during the prior calendar year; and
                                  ``(II) $153.33 for each of the next 
                                7,499 passenger boardings at the 
                                airport during the prior calendar year.
                          ``(ii) Applicability.--Paragraphs (4) and (5) 
                        of subsection (d) shall apply to funds 
                        apportioned under this subparagraph.
                  ``(E) Special rule for air reserve stations.--
                Notwithstanding section 47102, the Secretary shall 
                consider a public-use airport that is co-located with 
                an air reserve station to be a primary airport for 
                purposes of this chapter.
                  ``(F) Special rule for fiscal years 2024 and 2025.--
                Notwithstanding any other provision of this paragraph 
                or the absence of scheduled passenger service at an 
                airport, the Secretary shall apportion in fiscal years 
                2024 and 2025 to the sponsor of an airport an amount 
                based on the number of passenger boardings at the 
                airport during whichever of the following years that 
                would result in the highest apportioned amount under 
                this paragraph:
                          ``(i) Calendar year 2018.
                          ``(ii) Calendar year 2019.
                          ``(iii) The prior full calendar year prior to 
                        the current fiscal year.''.
          (2) Cargo airports.--Section 47114(c)(2) of title 49, United 
        States Code, is amended--
                  (A) in subparagraph (A)--
                          (i) by striking ``3.5'' and inserting ``4''; 
                        and
                          (ii) by striking ``100,000,000 pounds'' and 
                        inserting ``25,000,000 pounds'';
                  (B) by striking subparagraph (C); and
                  (C) by redesignating subparagraphs (D) and (E) as 
                subparagraphs (C) and (D), respectively.
  (b) General Aviation Airports.--Section 47114(d) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (3)--
                  (A) in the heading by striking ``Special rule'' and 
                inserting ``Apportionment'';
                  (B) by striking ``excluding primary airports but 
                including reliever and nonprimary commercial service 
                airports'' each place it appears and inserting 
                ``excluding commercial service airports but including 
                reliever airports'';
                  (C) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) by 
                striking ``20 percent'' and inserting ``25 percent''; 
                and
                  (D) by striking subparagraphs (C) and (D) and 
                inserting the following:
                  ``(C) An airport that has previously been listed as 
                unclassified under the national plan of integrated 
                airport systems that has reestablished the classified 
                status of such airport as of the date of apportionment 
                shall be eligible to accrue apportionment funds 
                pursuant to subparagraph (A) so long as such airport 
                retains such classified status.'';
          (2) in paragraph (4)--
                  (A) in the heading by striking ``Airports in alaska, 
                puerto rico, and hawaii'' and inserting ``Airports in 
                Noncontiguous States and Territories'';
                  (B) by striking ``An amount apportioned under 
                paragraph (2) or (3)'' and inserting the following:
                  ``(A) Alaska, puerto rico, and hawaii.--An amount 
                apportioned under this subsection''; and
                  (C) by adding at the end the following:
                  ``(B) Other territories.--An amount apportioned under 
                paragraph (2)(B)(i) may be made available by the 
                Secretary for any public-use airport in Guam, American 
                Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana 
                Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands if the 
                Secretary determines that there are insufficient 
                qualified grant applications for projects at airports 
                that are otherwise eligible for funding under that 
                paragraph. The Secretary shall prioritize the use of 
                such amounts in the territory the amount was originally 
                apportioned in.'';
          (3) in paragraph (5) by inserting ``or subsection (c)(1)(D)'' 
        after ``under this subsection'';
          (4) in paragraph (6)--
                  (A) by striking ``provision of this subsection'' and 
                inserting ``provision of this section''; and
                  (B) by inserting ``or subsection (c)(1)(D)'' after 
                ``under this subsection'';
          (5) by striking paragraph (2); and
          (6) by redesignating paragraphs (3) through (7) as paragraphs 
        (2) through (6), respectively.
  (c) Conforming Amendment.--Section 47106(a)(7) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking ``section 47114(d)(3)(B)'' and 
inserting ``section 47114(d)(2)(B)''

SEC. 412. PFC TURNBACK REDUCTION.

  (a) In General.--Section 47114(f) of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) in paragraph (1)--
                  (A) by striking ``sponsor of an airport having at 
                least .25 percent of the total number of boardings each 
                year in the United States and'' and inserting ``sponsor 
                of a medium or large hub airport''; and
                  (B) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``75 percent'' 
                and inserting ``60 percent'' each place it appears; and
          (2) by striking paragraphs (2) and (3) and inserting the 
        following:
          ``(2) Effective date of reduction.--
                  ``(A) New charge collection.--A reduction in an 
                apportionment under paragraph (1) shall not take effect 
                until the first fiscal year following the year in which 
                the collection of the charge imposed under section 
                40117 has begun.
                  ``(B) New categorization.--A reduction in an 
                apportionment under paragraph (1) shall only be applied 
                to an airport if such airport has been designated as a 
                medium or large hub airport for 3 consecutive years.''.
  (b) Applicability.--For an airport that increased in categorization 
from a small hub to a medium hub in any fiscal year beginning after the 
date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 
115-254) and prior to the date of enactment of this Act, the amendment 
to section 47114(f)(2) of title 49, United States Code, under 
subsection (a) shall be applied as though the airport increased in 
categorization from a small hub to a medium hub in the calendar year 
prior to the first fiscal year in which such amendment is applicable.

SEC. 413. TRANSFER OF AIP SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDS TO FORMULA PROGRAM.

  Section 47115(j) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (3) by striking subparagraph (B) and 
        inserting the following:
                  ``(B) Minimum allocation.--Not more than 25 percent 
                of the amounts available under this subsection shall be 
                used to provide grants at nonhub and small hub 
                airports.
                  ``(C) Prioritization.--In making grants under this 
                subsection, the Secretary shall prioritize projects 
                that reduce runway incursions or increase runway or 
                taxiway safety.'';
          (2) in paragraph (4)(A) by striking clause (v) and inserting 
        the following:
                          ``(v) $1,110,000,000 for fiscal year 2023.
                          ``(vi) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2024.
                          ``(vii) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2025.
                          ``(viii) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2026.
                          ``(ix) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2027.
                          ``(x) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.''; 
                        and
          (3) in paragraph (4)(B) by striking ``2 fiscal years'' and 
        inserting ``3 fiscal years''.

SEC. 414. SMALL AIRPORT FUND.

  Section 47116 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (b) by striking paragraphs (1) and (2) and 
        inserting the following:
          ``(1) Not more than 25 percent for grants for projects at 
        small hub airports.
          ``(2) Not less than 25 percent for grants to sponsors of 
        public-use airports (except commercial service airports).
          ``(3) Not less than 50 percent for grants to sponsors of 
        commercial service airports that are not larger than a nonhub 
        airport.'';
          (2) in subsection (d)--
                  (A) by striking paragraph (2); and
                  (B) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2); 
                and
          (3) by striking subsections (e) and (f) and inserting the 
        following:
  ``(e) General Aviation Hangars and Transient Aprons.--In distributing 
amounts from the fund described in subsection (a) to sponsors described 
in subsection (b)(2) and (b)(3)--
          ``(1) 5 percent of each amount shall be used for projects to 
        construct aircraft hangars that are not larger than 5,000 
        square feet; and
          ``(2) 5 percent of each amount shall be used for projects to 
        construct or rehabilitate aprons intended to be used for 
        itinerant general aviation aircraft parking.''.

SEC. 415. REVISION OF DISCRETIONARY CATEGORIES.

  Section 47117 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (b)(2)--
                  (A) in subparagraph (A)(i) by striking ``or (3)(A), 
                whichever is applicable''; and
                  (B) in subparagraph (B)--
                          (i) by striking ``section 47114(d)(3)(A)'' 
                        and inserting ``section 47114(d)(2)(A)''; and
                          (ii) by striking ``section 47114(d)(3)(B)'' 
                        and inserting ``section 47114(d)(2)(B)'';
          (2) in subsection (c)(2) by striking ``47114(d)(3)(A)'' and 
        inserting ``47114(d)(2)(A)'';
          (3) in subsection (d)--
                  (A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``section 
                47114(d)(2)(A) of this title'' and inserting ``section 
                47114(d)(2)(B)(i)''; and
                  (B) in paragraph (2)--
                          (i) by striking ``section 47114(d)(2)(B) or 
                        (C)'' and inserting ``section 
                        47114(d)(2)(B)(ii) or (iii)'' in each place it 
                        appears; and
                          (ii) by striking ``of this title'';
          (4) in subsection (e)--
                  (A) in paragraph (1)--
                          (i) in subparagraph (A)--
                                  (I) by striking ``$300,000,000'' and 
                                inserting ``$200,000,000'';
                                  (II) by striking ``for compatible 
                                land use planning and projects carried 
                                out by State and local governments 
                                under section 47141,'';
                                  (III) by striking ``section 
                                47102(3)(Q)'' and inserting 
                                ``subparagraphs (O) through (Q) of 
                                section 47102(3)'';
                                  (IV) by striking ``to comply with the 
                                Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et 
                                seq.)''; and
                                  (V) by adding at the end the 
                                following: ``The Secretary shall 
                                provide not less than two-thirds of 
                                amounts under this subparagraph and 
                                paragraph (3) for grants to sponsors of 
                                small hub, medium hub, and large hub 
                                airports.''; and
                          (ii) by striking subparagraph (C); and
                  (B) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the 
                following:
          ``(3) Special rule.--Beginning in fiscal year 2025, if the 
        amount made available under paragraph (1)(A) was not equal to 
        or greater than $150,000,000 in the preceding fiscal year, the 
        Secretary shall issue grants for projects eligible under 
        paragraph (1)(A) from apportionments made under section 47114 
        that are not required during the fiscal year to fund a grant 
        for which such apportionments may be used in an amount that is 
        not less than--
                  ``(A) $150,000,000; minus
                  ``(B) the amount made available under paragraph 
                (1)(A) in the preceding fiscal year.''; and
          (5) in subsection (f)(1) by striking ``Subject to paragraph 
        (2)'' and inserting ``Subject to paragraph (2) and except as 
        provided in section 47116(a)(2)''.

SEC. 416. TERMINAL DEVELOPMENT.

  Section 47119 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``in a nonrevenue-
                producing public-use area of a commercial service 
                airport'' and all that follows through ``of the 
                Government'' and inserting the following: ``at an 
                airport if the sponsor certifies that the airport, on 
                the date the grant application is submitted to the 
                Secretary, has--
                  ``(A) that any necessary airport development project 
                affecting airport safety, security, or capacity will 
                not be deferred if the Secretary approves a terminal 
                development project under this section; and
                  ``(B) provided for access by passengers to the area 
                of the airport for boarding or exiting aircraft that 
                are not air carrier aircraft.''; and
                  (B) in paragraph (2) by striking ``parking lot if'' 
                and all that follows through ``Secretary's approval'' 
                and inserting ``parking lot'';
          (2) by striking subsections (b), (e) and (f);
          (3) by redesignating subsection (c) and (d) as subsections 
        (b) and (c), respectively; and
          (4) in subsection (b) (as so redesignated) by striking 
        paragraphs (1) through (5) and inserting the following:
          ``(1) any part of amounts apportioned to an airport sponsor 
        under subsection (c) or (d) of section 47114 to pay project 
        costs allowable under subsection (a);
          ``(2) on the approval of the Secretary, any part of amounts 
        that may be distributed for the fiscal year from the 
        discretionary fund established under section 47115 to the 
        sponsor of an airport to pay project costs allowable under 
        subsection (a);
          ``(3) on the approval of the Secretary, any part of amounts 
        that may be distributed for the fiscal year from the small 
        airport fund established under section 47116 to the sponsor of 
        an airport eligible to receive funds under section 47116 to pay 
        project costs allowable under subsection (a);''.

SEC. 417. STATE BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM.

  (a) Offsetting Administrative Expenses Burden on States.--Section 
47109(a)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking 
``90 percent'' and inserting ``91 percent''.
  (b) Training.--Section 47128 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following:
  ``(e) Training for Participating States.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall provide to each State 
        participating in the block grant program under this section 
        training or updated training materials for the administrative 
        responsibilities assumed by the State under such program at no 
        cost to the State.
          ``(2) Timing.--The training or updated training materials 
        provided under paragraph (1) shall be provided at least once 
        during each 2-year period and at any time there is a material 
        change in the program.''.
  (c) Administration.--Section 47128 of title 49, United States Code, 
is further amended by adding at the end the following:
  ``(f) Roles and Responsibilities of Participating States.--
          ``(1) Airports.--Unless a State participating in the block 
        grant program under this section expressly agrees in a 
        memorandum of agreement, the Secretary shall not require the 
        State to manage functions and responsibilities for airport 
        actions or projects that do not relate to such program.
          ``(2) Program documentation.--Any grant agreement providing 
        funds to be administered under such program shall be consistent 
        with the most recently executed memorandum of agreement between 
        the State and the Federal Aviation Administration. The 
        Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
        provide parity to participating States and shall only require 
        the same type of information and level of detail for any 
        program agreements and documentation that the Administrator 
        would perform with respect to such action if the State did not 
        participate in the program.
          ``(3) Responsibilities.--The Administrator shall retain 
        responsibility for the following, unless expressly agreed to by 
        the State:
                  ``(A) Grant compliance investigations, 
                determinations, and enforcement.
                  ``(B) Obstruction evaluation and airport airspace 
                analysis, determinations, and enforcement off airport 
                property.
                  ``(C) Non-rulemaking analysis, determinations, and 
                enforcement for proposed improvements on airport 
                properties not associated with this subchapter, or off 
                airport property.
                  ``(D) Land use determinations under section 163 of 
                the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 47107 
                note), compatibility planning, and airport layout plan 
                review and approval for projects not funded by amounts 
                available under this subchapter.
                  ``(E) Nonaeronautical and special event 
                recommendations and approvals.
                  ``(F) Instrument approach procedure evaluations and 
                determinations.
                  ``(G) Environmental review for projects not funded by 
                amounts available under this subchapter.
                  ``(H) Review and approval of land leases, land 
                releases, changes in on-airport land-use designation, 
                and through-the-fence agreements.''.
  (d) Report.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall issue 
a report on the Office of Airports of the Federal Aviation 
Administration and the airport improvement program under subchapter I 
of chapter 471 and chapter 475 of title 49, United States Code, and 
include in such report a description of--
          (1) the responsibilities of States participating in the block 
        grant program under section 47128 of title 49, United States 
        Code; and
          (2) the impact of title VIII of division J of the 
        Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58) and 
        other Federal administrative funding sources on the ability of 
        such States to disburse and administer airport improvement 
        program funds.
  (e) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that Congress 
supports the disbursement of a percentage of administrative funds made 
available under the heading ``Federal Aviation Administration--Airport 
Infrastructure Grants'' in title VIII of division J of the 
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58) to non-
primary airports participating in the State's block grant program each 
fiscal year of the Airport Infrastructure Grants program.

SEC. 418. INNOVATIVE FINANCING TECHNIQUES.

  Section 47135 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking subsections (a) and (b) and inserting the 
        following:
  ``(a) Authority.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Secretary of Transportation may 
        approve an application by an airport sponsor to use grants 
        received under this subchapter for innovative financing 
        techniques related to an airport development project that is 
        located at an airport that is not a large hub airport.
          ``(2) Approval.--The Secretary may approve not more than 30 
        applications described under paragraph (1) in a fiscal year.
  ``(b) Purposes.--The purpose of grants made under this section shall 
be to--
          ``(1) provide information on the benefits and difficulties of 
        using innovative financing techniques for airport development 
        projects;
          ``(2) lower the total cost of an airport development project; 
        or
          ``(3) expedite the delivery or completion of an airport 
        development project without reducing safety or causing 
        environmental harm.''; and
          (2) in subsection (c)(2)--
                  (A) in subparagraph (C) by striking ``and'' at the 
                end;
                  (B) in subparagraph (D) by striking the period at the 
                end and inserting ``; and''; and
                  (C) by adding at the end the following:
                  ``(E) any other techniques that the Secretary 
                determines are consistent with the purposes of this 
                section.''.

SEC. 419. LONG-TERM MANAGEMENT PLANS.

  Section 47136(c) of title 49, United States Code is amended--
          (1) by striking ``applicants that will'' and inserting the 
        following: ``applicants that--
          ``(1) will'';
          (2) by striking the period at the end and inserting ``; 
        and''; and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(2) provide a long-term management plan for eligible 
        vehicles and equipment that includes the existing and future 
        infrastructure requirements of the airport related to such 
        vehicles and equipment.''.

SEC. 420. ALTERNATIVE PROJECT DELIVERY.

  (a) In General.--Section 47142 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) in the section heading by striking ``Design-build 
        contracting'' and inserting ``Alternative project delivery'';
          (2) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1)--
                          (i) by striking ``Administrator of the 
                        Federal Aviation Administration'' and inserting 
                        ``Secretary of Transportation''; and
                          (ii) by striking ``award a design-build'' and 
                        inserting ``award a covered project delivery'';
                  (B) in paragraph (2) by striking ``design-build'' and 
                inserting ``covered project delivery''; and
                  (C) in paragraph (4) by striking ``design-build 
                contract will'' and inserting ``covered project 
                delivery contract is projected to''; and
          (3) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:
  ``(c) Covered Project Delivery Contract Defined.--In this section, 
the term `covered project delivery contract' means--
          ``(1) an agreement that provides for both design and 
        construction of a project by a contractor; or
          ``(2) a single contract for the delivery of a whole project 
        that--
                  ``(A) includes, at a minimum, the sponsor, builder, 
                and architect-engineer as parties that are subject to 
                the terms of the contract;
                  ``(B) aligns the interests of all the parties to the 
                contract with respect to the project costs and project 
                outcomes; and
                  ``(C) includes processes to ensure transparency and 
                collaboration among all parties to the contract 
                relating to project costs and project outcomes.''.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 471 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to section 
47142 and inserting the following:

``47142. Alternative project delivery.''.

SEC. 421. NONMOVEMENT AREA SURVEILLANCE SURFACE DISPLAY SYSTEMS PILOT 
                    PROGRAM.

  Section 47143(c) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``2023'' and inserting ``2028''.

SEC. 422. REPEAL OF OBSOLETE CRIMINAL PROVISIONS.

  Section 47306 of title 49, United States Code, and the item relating 
to such section in the analysis for chapter 473 of such title, are 
repealed.

SEC. 423. LIMITATION ON CERTAIN ROLLING STOCK PROCUREMENTS.

  (a) In General.--Section 50101 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) by striking ``(except section 47127)'' each place it 
        appears; and
          (2) by adding at the end the following:
  ``(d) Limitation on Certain Rolling Stock Procurements.--
          ``(1) In general.--Financial assistance made available under 
        the provisions described in subsection (a) shall not be used in 
        awarding a contract or subcontract to an entity on or after the 
        date of enactment of this subsection for the procurement of 
        rolling stock for use in an airport-related project if the 
        manufacturer of the rolling stock--
                  ``(A) is incorporated in or has manufacturing 
                facilities in the United States; and
                  ``(B) is owned or controlled by, is a subsidiary of, 
                or is otherwise related legally or financially to a 
                corporation based in a country that--
                          ``(i) is identified as a nonmarket economy 
                        country (as defined in section 771(18) of the 
                        Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1677(18))) as of 
                        the date of enactment of this subsection;
                          ``(ii) was identified by the United States 
                        Trade Representative in the most recent report 
                        required by section 182 of the Trade Act of 
                        1974 (19 U.S.C. 2242) as a foreign country 
                        included on the priority watch list defined in 
                        subsection (g)(3) of that section; and
                          ``(iii) is subject to monitoring by the Trade 
                        Representative under section 306 of the Trade 
                        Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2416).
          ``(2) Exception.--
                  ``(A) In general.--For purposes of paragraph (1), the 
                term `otherwise related legally or financially' does 
                not include--
                          ``(i) a minority relationship or investment; 
                        or
                          ``(ii) relationship with or investment in a 
                        subsidiary, joint venture, or other entity 
                        based in a country described in paragraph 
                        (1)(B) that does not export rolling stock or 
                        components of rolling stock for use in the 
                        United States.
                  ``(B) Corporation based in people's republic of 
                china.--Notwithstanding subparagraph (A)(i), for 
                purposes of paragraph (1), the term `otherwise related 
                legally or financially' includes a minority 
                relationship or investment if the relationship or 
                investment involves a corporation based in the People's 
                Republic of China.
          ``(3) International agreements.--This subsection shall be 
        applied in a manner consistent with the obligations of the 
        United States under international agreements.''.
  (b) Conforming Amendments.--
          (1) Restricting contract awards because of discrimination 
        against united states goods or services.--Section 50102 of 
        title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``(except 
        section 47127)''.
          (2) Restriction on airport projects using products or 
        services of foreign countries denying fair market 
        opportunities.--Section 50104(b) of title 49, United States 
        Code, is amended by striking ``(except section 47127)''.
          (3) Fraudulent use of made in america label.--Section 50105 
        of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking 
        ``(except section 47127)''.

SEC. 424. REGULATORY APPLICATION.

  Section 40113(f) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by inserting ``or in administering the Airport 
        Improvement Program under chapter 471'' after ``Code of Federal 
        Regulations,''; and
          (2) by inserting ``or administrative'' after ``regulatory''.

SEC. 425. NATIONAL PRIORITY SYSTEM FORMULAS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall review and update the 
National Priority System prioritization formulas contained in Federal 
Aviation Administration Order 5090.5 to account for the amendments to 
chapter 471 of title 49, United States Code, made by this Act.
  (b) Required Consultation.--In revising the formulas under subsection 
(a), the Secretary shall consult with representatives of the following:
          (1) Primary airports, including large, medium, small, and 
        nonhub airports.
          (2) Non-primary airports, including general aviation 
        airports.
          (3) Airport trade associations, including trade associations 
        representing airport executives.
          (4) State aviation officials, including associations 
        representing such officials.
          (5) Air carriers, including mainline, regional, and low cost 
        air carriers.
          (6) Associations representing air carriers.
  (c) Priority Projects.--In revising the formulas under subsection 
(a), the Secretary shall assign the highest priority to projects that 
increase or maintain the safety, efficiency, and capacity of the 
aviation system.

SEC. 426. MINORITY AND DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS PARTICIPATION.

  (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
          (1) While significant progress has occurred due to the 
        establishment of the airport disadvantaged business enterprise 
        program and the airport concessions disadvantaged business 
        enterprise program under sections 47113 and 47107(e) of title 
        49, United States Code, respectively, 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.
          (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. 
        Such testimony and documentation show that race- and gender-
        neutral efforts alone are insufficient to address the problem.
          (3) The testimony and documentation described in paragraph 
        (2) demonstrate that race and gender discrimination 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 other aspects of airport-related business in 
        the public and private markets.
          (4) The testimony and documentation described in paragraph 
        (2) provide 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.
  (b) Supportive Services.--Section 47113 of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
  ``(f) Supportive Services.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Secretary of Transportation, in 
        coordination with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration, may, at the request of an airport sponsor, 
        provide assistance under a grant issued under this subchapter 
        to develop, conduct, and administer training programs and 
        assistance programs in connection with any airport improvement 
        project subject to part 26 of title 49, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, for small business concerns referred to in 
        subsection (b) to achieve proficiency to compete, on an equal 
        basis for contracts and subcontracts related to such projects.
          ``(2) Eligible entities.--An entity eligible to receive 
        assistance under this section is--
                  ``(A) a State;
                  ``(B) a political subdivision of a State or local 
                government;
                  ``(C) a Tribal government;
                  ``(D) an airport sponsor;
                  ``(E) a metropolitan planning organization;
                  ``(F) a group of entities described in subparagraphs 
                (A) through (E); or
                  ``(G) any other organization considered appropriate 
                by the Secretary.''.

SEC. 427. AIRPORT ACCESS ROADS IN REMOTE LOCATIONS.

  Section 162 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 47102 
note) is amended in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by striking 
``2023'' and inserting ``2028''.

SEC. 428. LIMITED REGULATION OF NONFEDERALLY SPONSORED PROPERTY.

  Section 163 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 47107 
note) is amended--
          (1) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following:
  ``(a) In General.--
          ``(1) Limited regulation.--Except as provided in subsection 
        (b), the Secretary of Transportation may not require an airport 
        to seek approval for (including in the submission of an airport 
        layout plan), or directly or indirectly regulate (including 
        through any grant assurance)--
                  ``(A) the acquisition, use, lease, encumbrance, 
                transfer, or disposal of land (including any portion of 
                such land) by an airport sponsor; or
                  ``(B) the construction, development, improvement, 
                use, or removal of any facility (including any portion 
                of such facility) upon such land.
          ``(2) Burden of demonstrating applicability.--The burden of 
        demonstrating the nonapplicability of paragraph (1), or the 
        applicability of an exception under subsection (b), shall be on 
        the Secretary.'';
          (2) in subsection (b)--
                  (A) in paragraph (1)--
                          (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) 
                        by striking ``regulation'' and inserting ``law, 
                        regulation, or grant assurance''; and
                          (ii) in subparagraph (A) by striking 
                        ``aircraft operations'' and inserting 
                        ``aircraft operations that occur or are 
                        projected to occur at an airport as described 
                        in an airport's master plan'';
                  (B) in paragraph (2) by striking ``facility'' and 
                inserting ``facility that the Secretary demonstrates 
                was''; and
                  (C) in paragraph (3) by striking ``contained'' and 
                inserting ``that the Secretary demonstrates is 
                contained''; and
          (3) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:
  ``(c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed--
          ``(1) to affect the applicability of sections 47107(b) or 
        47133 of title 49, United States Code, to revenues generated by 
        the use, lease, encumbrance, transfer, or disposal of land 
        under subsection (a), facilities upon such land, or any portion 
        of such land or facilities; or
          ``(2) to limit the Secretary's authority to approve or 
        regulate airport projects (or portions of airport projects) 
        that are not subject to the provisions of subsection (a).''.

SEC. 429. MOTORCOACH ENPLANEMENT PILOT PROGRAM.

  With respect to fiscal years 2024 through 2028, passengers who board 
a motorcoach at an airport that is chartered or provided by an air 
carrier to transport such passengers to another airport at which the 
passengers board an aircraft in service in air commerce, that entered 
the sterile area of the airport at which such passengers initially 
boarded the motorcoach, shall be deemed to be included under the term 
``passenger boardings'' in section 47102 of title 49, United States 
Code.

SEC. 430. POPULOUS COUNTIES WITHOUT AIRPORTS.

  Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary of 
Transportation may not deny inclusion in the national plan of 
integrated airport systems maintained under section 47103 of title 49, 
United States Code, to an airport or proposed airport if the airport or 
proposed airport--
          (1) is located in the most populous county (as such term is 
        defined in section 2 of title 1, United States Code) of a State 
        that does not have an airport listed in the national plan;
          (2) has an airport sponsor that was established before 
        January 1, 2017;
          (3) is located more than 15 miles away from another airport 
        listed in the national plan;
          (4) demonstrates how the airport will meet the operational 
        activity required, through a forecast validated by the 
        Secretary, within the first 10 years of operation;
          (5) meets Federal Aviation Administration airport design 
        standards;
          (6) submits a benefit-cost analysis;
          (7) presents a detailed financial plan to accomplish 
        construction and ongoing maintenance; and
          (8) has the documented support of the State government for 
        the entry of the airport or proposed airport into the national 
        plan.

SEC. 431. CONTINUED AVAILABILITY OF AVIATION GASOLINE.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall ensure that any of such varieties of aviation 
gasoline as may be necessary to fuel any model of piston-engine 
aircraft remain available for purchase at each airport listed on the 
national plan of integrated airport systems (as described in section 
47103 of title 49, United States Code) at which aviation gasoline was 
available for purchase as of October 5, 2018.
  (b) Removal of Availability.--The Administrator shall consider a 
prohibition or restriction on the sale of such varieties of aviation 
gasoline to violate assurance 22 (or any successor assurance related to 
economic nondiscrimination) of grant assurances associated with the 
airport improvement program under subchapter I of chapter 471 and 
chapter 475 of title 49, United States Code.
  (c) Aviation Gasoline Defined.--In this section, the term ``aviation 
gasoline'' means a gasoline on which a tax is imposed under section 
4081(a)(2)(A)(ii) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
  (d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section may be construed 
to--
          (1) affect any airport sponsor found to be out of compliance 
        with the grant assurance described in subsection (b) before the 
        date of enactment of this Act;
          (2) affect any investigation of an airport sponsor initiated 
        by the Administrator under parts 13 or 16 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, relating to the availability of aviation 
        gasoline; or
          (3) require any particular action by the Administrator if the 
        Administrator determines through such investigation that such 
        airport sponsor has violated a grant assurance

SEC. 432. AIP HANDBOOK UPDATE.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 4 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall revise the Airport Improvement Program Handbook (Order 5100.38D) 
(in this section referred to as the ``Handbook'') to account for 
legislative changes to the airport improvement program under subchapter 
I of chapter 471 and chapter 475 of title 49, United States Code, and 
to make such other changes as the Administrator determines necessary.
  (b) Requirements.--In updating the Handbook, the Administrator may 
not impose any additional requirements or restrictions on the use of 
Airport Improvement Program funds except as specifically directed by 
legislation.
  (c) Consultation and Public Comment.--
          (1) Consultation.--In developing the revised Handbook under 
        this section, the Administrator shall consult with aviation 
        stakeholders, including airports and air carriers.
          (2) Public comment.--
                  (A) In general.--Not later than 30 months after the 
                date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall 
                publish a draft revision of the Handbook and make such 
                draft available for public comment for a period of not 
                less than 90 days.
                  (B) Review.--The Administrator shall review all 
                comments submitted during the public comment period 
                described under subparagraph (A) and, as the 
                Administrator considers appropriate, incorporate 
                changes based on such comments into the final revision 
                of the Handbook.
  (d) Interim Implementation of Changes.--Not later than 1 year after 
the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall issue 
program guidance letters to provide for the interim implementation of 
amendments to the Airport Improvement Program made by this Act.

SEC. 433. GAO AUDIT OF AIRPORT FINANCIAL REPORTING PROGRAM.

  (a) Audit.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall complete 
an audit of the airport financial reporting program of the Federal 
Aviation Administration and provide recommendations to the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration on improvements to 
such program.
  (b) Requirements.--In conducting the audit required under subsection 
(a), the Comptroller General shall, at a minimum--
          (1) review relevant Administration guidance to airports, 
        including the version of Advisory Circular 150/5100-19, titled 
        ``Operating and Financial Summary'', that is in effect on the 
        date of enactment of this Act;
          (2) evaluate the information requested or required by the 
        Administrator from airports for completeness and usefulness by 
        the Administration and the public;
          (3) assess the costs associated with collecting, reporting, 
        and maintaining such information for airports and the 
        Administration;
          (4) determine if such information provided is--
                  (A) updated on a regular basis to make such 
                information useful; and
                  (B) audited and verified in an appropriate manner;
          (5) assess if the Administration has addressed the issues the 
        Administration discovered during the apportionment and 
        disbursement of relief funds to airports under the Coronavirus 
        Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (Public Law 116-136) 
        using inaccurate and aged airport financial data; and
          (6) determine whether the airport financial reporting program 
        as structured as of the date of enactment provides value to the 
        Administration, the aviation industry, or the public.
  (c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 3 months after the completion 
of the audit required under subsection (a), 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 containing the findings of 
such audit and any recommendations provided to the Administrator to 
improve or alter the airport financial reporting program.

SEC. 434. GAO REVIEW OF NONAERONAUTICAL REVENUE STREAMS AT AIRPORTS.

  (a) Review.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall initiate a 
review of non-aeronautical revenue streams currently used by hub 
airports of varying size, assess the impact of nonaeronautical revenue 
on airports, and evaluate opportunities for revenue that are unutilized 
or are underutilized by such airports.
  (b) Scope.--In conducting the review required under subsection (a), 
the Comptroller General shall, at a minimum--
          (1) examine the nonaeronautical revenue streams at a variety 
        of public-use airports in the United States;
          (2) examine nonaeronautical revenue streams used by foreign 
        airports;
          (3) examine revenue streams used by similar types of 
        infrastructure operators like train stations, bus depots, and 
        shopping malls;
          (4) determine the revenue effects of entering into, or 
        choosing not to enter into, concessionaire agreements with 
        companies operating at airports that are not a party to such 
        agreements; and
          (5) examine users and beneficiaries of airport services, 
        facilities, property, and passengers, and determine if any such 
        users or beneficiaries could or should be considered as a 
        source of nonaeronautical revenue for an airport.
  (c) Consultation.--As part of the review required under subsection 
(a), the Comptroller General shall consult with representatives of 
airport concessionaires, airport sponsors, airport governance entities, 
airport financial planning consultants, and any other relevant 
stakeholders the Comptroller General determines appropriate.
  (d) Findings, Best Practices, and Recommendations.--As part of the 
review required under subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall 
produce best practices and recommendations that can be adopted by 
public-use airports to increase non-aeronautical revenue.
  (e) Report to Congress.--Not later than 3 months after the completion 
of the review required under subsection (a), 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 containing the findings, best 
practices, and recommendations of such review.

SEC. 435. MAINTAINING SAFE FIRE AND RESCUE STAFFING LEVELS.

  (a) Update to Regulation.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall update the regulations contained in section 
139.319 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to ensure that 
paragraph (4) of such section provides that at least 1 individual 
maintains certification at the emergency medical technician basic 
level, or higher.
  (b) Staffing Review.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall conduct a review of 
airport environments and related regulations to evaluate sufficient 
staffing levels necessary for firefighting and rescue services and 
response at airports certified under part 139 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after completing 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 containing the results of the review.

SEC. 436. GAO STUDY OF ONSITE AIRPORT GENERATION.

  (a) Study.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this 
Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall initiate a 
study on the feasibility of installation and adoption of certain power 
generation property at airports which receive funding from the Federal 
Government.
  (b) Content.--In carrying out the study required under subsection 
(a), the Comptroller General shall examine--
          (1) any safety impacts of the installation and operation of 
        such power generation property, either in aggregate or around 
        certain locations or structures at the airport;
          (2) regulatory barriers to adoption;
          (3) benefits to adoption;
          (4) previous examples of adoptions;
          (5) impacts on other entities; and
          (6) previous examples of adoption and factors pertaining to 
        previous examples of adoption, including--
                  (A) novel uses beyond supplemental power generation, 
                such as expanding nonresidential property around 
                airports to minimize noise, power generation 
                resilience, and market forces;
                  (B) challenges identified in the installation 
                process;
                  (C) upfront and long-term costs, both foreseen and 
                unforeseen;
                  (D) funding sources used to pay for upfront costs; 
                and
                  (E) long-term savings.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the initiation of the study 
under subsection (a), 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 and recommendations on the 
results of the study.
  (d) Power Generation Property Defined.--In this section, the term 
``power generation property'' means equipment defined in section 
48(a)(3)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

SEC. 437. TRANSPORTATION DEMAND MANAGEMENT AT AIRPORTS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a 
study to examine the efficacy of transportation demand management 
strategies at United States airports.
  (b) Considerations.--In conducting the study under subsection (a), 
the Comptroller General shall examine, at minimum--
          (1) whether transportation demand management strategies 
        should be considered by airports when making infrastructure 
        planning and construction decisions;
          (2) the impact of transportation demand management strategies 
        on existing multimodal options to and from airports in the 
        United States; and
          (3) best practices for developing transportation demand 
        management strategies that can be used to improve access to 
        airports for passengers and airport and airline personnel.
  (c) Report.--Upon completion of the study conducted under subsection 
(a), 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 such study.
  (d) Definition.--In this section, the term ``transportation demand 
management strategy'' means the use of planning, programs, policy, 
marketing, communications, incentives, pricing, data, and technology to 
optimize travel modes, routes used, departure times, and number of 
trips.

SEC. 438. COASTAL AIRPORTS ASSESSMENT.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall, in coordination with the Chief of Engineers and Commanding 
General of the United States Army Corps of Engineers, initiate an 
assessment on the resiliency of coastal airports in the United States.
  (b) Contents.--The assessment required under subsection (a) shall--
          (1) examine the impact of sea-level rise and other 
        environmental factors that pose risks to coastal airports; and
          (2) identify and evaluate current initiatives to prevent and 
        mitigate the impacts of factors described in paragraph (1) on 
        coastal airports.
  (c) Report.--Upon completion of 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--
          (1) the results of the assessment required under subsection 
        (a); and
          (2) recommendations to improve the resiliency of coastal 
        airports in the United States.

SEC. 439. AIRPORT INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM.

  Section 47134(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
          ``(4) Benefit-cost analysis.--Prior to approving an 
        application submitted under subsection (a), the Secretary may 
        require a benefit-cost analysis. If a benefit-cost analysis is 
        required, the Secretary shall issue a preliminary and 
        conditional finding, which shall--
                  ``(A) be issued not later than 60 days after the date 
                on which the sponsor submits all information required 
                by the Secretary;
                  ``(B) be based upon a collaborative review process 
                that includes the sponsor or sponsor's representative;
                  ``(C) not constitute the issuance of a Federal grant 
                or obligation to issue a grant under this chapter or 
                other provision of law; and
                  ``(D) not constitute any other obligation on the part 
                of the Federal Government until the conditions 
                specified in the final benefit-cost analysis are 
                met.''.

SEC. 440. GAO STUDY ON PER-TRIP AIRPORT FEES FOR TNC CONSUMERS.

  (a) Study.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a 
study of fees that airports assess against customers of transportation 
network companies.
  (b) Contents.--In carrying out the study required under subsection 
(a), the Comptroller General shall address--
          (1) the methodology used by airports to set a fee for 
        customers of TNCs;
          (2) expenditures by airports of fees assessed against 
        customers of TNCs; and
          (3) a comparison of the fees imposed by airports on customers 
        of TNCs and other comparable modes of for-hire transportation, 
        such as taxi.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 12 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 study.
  (d) Transportation Network Company Defined; TNC Defined.--In this 
section, the term ``transportation network company'' or ``TNC''--
          (1) means a corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship, or 
        other entity that uses a digital network to connect riders to 
        drivers affiliated with the entity in order for the driver to 
        transport the rider using a vehicle owned, leased, or otherwise 
        authorized for use by the driver to a point chosen by the 
        rider; and
          (2) does not include a shared-expense carpool or vanpool 
        arrangement that is not intended to generate profit for the 
        driver.

SEC. 441. SPECIAL RULE FOR RECLASSIFICATION OF CERTAIN UNCLASSIFIED 
                    AIRPORTS.

  (a) Request for Reclassification.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than September 30, 2024, a 
        privately owned reliever airport (as such term is defined in 
        section 47102 of title 49, United States Code) that is 
        identified as unclassified in the National Plan of Integrated 
        Airport Systems, 2021-2025 (as published under section 47103 of 
        title 49, United States Code) may submit to the Secretary of 
        Transportation a request to reclassify the airport according to 
        the criteria used to classify a publicly owned airport.
          (2) Required information.--In submitting a request under 
        paragraph (1), a privately owned reliever airport shall include 
        the following information:
                  (A) A sworn statement and accompanying documentation 
                that demonstrates how the airport would satisfy the 
                requirements of Federal Aviation Administration Order 
                5090.5, titled ``Formulation of the NPIAS and ACIP'' 
                (or any successor guidance), to be classified as 
                ``Local'' or ``Basic'' if the airport was publicly 
                owned.
                  (B) A report that--
                          (i) identifies the role of the airport to the 
                        aviation system; and
                          (ii) describes the long-term fiscal viability 
                        of the airport based on demonstrated 
                        aeronautical activity and associated revenues 
                        relative to ongoing operating and maintenance 
                        costs.
  (b) Eligibility Review.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 60 days after receiving a 
        request from a privately owned reliever airport under 
        subsection (a), the Secretary shall perform an eligibility 
        review with respect to the airport, including an assessment of 
        the airport's safety, security, capacity, access, compliance 
        with Federal grant assurances, and protection of natural 
        resources and the quality of the environment, as prescribed by 
        the Secretary.
          (2) Public sponsor.--In performing the eligibility review 
        under paragraph (1), the Secretary--
                  (A) may require the airport requesting 
                reclassification to provide information regarding the 
                outlook (whether positive or negative) for obtaining a 
                public sponsor; and
                  (B) may not require the airport to obtain a public 
                sponsor.
  (c) Reclassification by the Secretary.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 60 days after receiving a 
        request from a privately owned reliever airport under 
        subsection (a)(1), the Secretary shall grant such request if 
        the following criteria are met:
                  (A) The request includes the required information 
                under subsection (a)(2).
                  (B) The privately owned reliever airport, to the 
                satisfaction of the Secretary--
                          (i) passes the eligibility review performed 
                        under subsection (b); or
                          (ii) submits a corrective action plan in 
                        accordance with paragraph (2).
          (2) Corrective action plan.--With respect to a privately 
        owned reliever airport that does not, to the satisfaction of 
        the Secretary, pass the eligibility review performed under 
        subsection (b), such airport may resubmit to the Secretary a 
        reclassification request along with a corrective action plan 
        that--
                  (A) resolves any shortcomings identified in such 
                eligibility review; and
                  (B) proves that any necessary corrective action has 
                been completed by the airport.
  (d) Effective Date.--The reclassification of any privately owned 
reliever airport under this section shall take effect not later than--
          (1) September 30, 2026, for any request granted under 
        subsection (c)(1); and
          (2) September 30, 2027, for any request granted after the 
        submission of a corrective action plan under subsection (c)(2).

SEC. 442. PERMANENT SOLAR POWERED TAXIWAY EDGE LIGHTING SYSTEMS.

  Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall produce an 
engineering brief that describes the acceptable use of permanent solar 
powered taxiway edge lighting systems at regional, local, and basic 
nonprimary airports (as categorized in the most recent National Plan of 
Integrated Airport Systems).

SEC. 443. SECONDARY RUNWAYS.

  In approving grants for projects with funds made available pursuant 
to title VIII of division J of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs 
Act (Public Law 117-58) under the heading ``Federal Aviation 
Administration--Airport Infrastructure Grants'', the Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration shall consider permitting a nonhub 
or small hub airport to use such funds to extend secondary runways, 
notwithstanding the level of operational activity as such airport.

SEC. 444. INCREASING THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY OF AIRPORTS AND MEETING 
                    CURRENT AND FUTURE ELECTRICAL POWER DEMANDS.

  (a) In General.--Section 47140 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended to read as follows:

``Sec. 47140. Meeting current and future electrical power demand

  ``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall establish a 
program under which the Secretary shall--
          ``(1) encourage the sponsor of each public-use airport to--
                  ``(A) conduct airport planning that assesses the 
                airport's--
                          ``(i) current and future electrical power 
                        requirements, including--
                                  ``(I) heating and cooling;
                                  ``(II) on-road airport vehicles, 
                                including ground support equipment;
                                  ``(III) gate electrification; and
                                  ``(IV) electric aircraft charging; 
                                and
                          ``(ii) existing electrical infrastructure 
                        condition, location and capacity, including 
                        base load and backup power, to meet the current 
                        and future electrical power demand as 
                        identified in this subparagraph; and
                  ``(B) conduct airport development to increase energy 
                efficiency or meet future electrical power demands as 
                identified in subparagraph (A); and
          ``(2) reimburse the airport sponsor for the costs incurred in 
        conducting the assessment under paragraph (1).
  ``(b) Grants.--The Secretary may make grants from amounts made 
available under section 48103 to assist airport sponsors that have 
completed the assessment described in subsection (a)(1)--
          ``(1) to acquire or construct equipment that will increase 
        energy efficiency at the airport; and
          ``(2) to pursue an airport development project described in 
        subsection (a)(1)(B).''.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 471 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to section 
47140 and inserting the following:

``47140. Meeting current and future electrical power demand.''.

SEC. 445. ELECTRIC AIRCRAFT INFRASTRUCTURE PILOT PROGRAM.

  (a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation may establish a 
pilot program under which the sponsors of public-use airports may use 
funds made available under chapter 471 or section 48103 of title 49, 
United States Code, for use at up to 10 airports to carry out--
          (1) activities associated with the acquisition, by purchase 
        or lease, operation, and installation of equipment to support 
        the operations of electric aircraft, including interoperable 
        electric vehicle charging equipment; and
          (2) the construction or modification of infrastructure to 
        facilitate the delivery of power or services necessary for the 
        use of electric aircraft, including--
                  (A) on airport utility upgrades; and
                  (B) associated design costs.
  (b) Eligibility.--A public-use airport is eligible for participation 
in the pilot program under this section if the Secretary finds that 
funds made available under subsection (a) would support--
          (1) electric aircraft operators at such airport, or using 
        such airport; or
          (2) electric aircraft operators planning to operate at such 
        airport with an associated agreement in place.
  (c) Sunset.--The pilot program established under subsection (a) shall 
sunset 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act.

SEC. 446. CURB MANAGEMENT PRACTICES.

  Nothing in this Act shall be construed to--
          (1) prevent airports from engaging in curb management 
        practices, including determining and assigning curb 
        designations, regulations, and to install and maintain upon any 
        of the roadways or parts of roadways as many curb zones as 
        necessary to aid in the regulation, control, and inspection of 
        passenger loading and unloading; or
          (2) prevent airports from enforcing curb zones using sensor, 
        camera, automated license plate recognition, and software 
        technologies and issuing citations by mail to the registered 
        owner of the vehicle.

                 Subtitle B--Passenger Facility Charges

SEC. 461. PFC APPLICATION APPROVALS.

  Section 40117(d) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following:
          ``(2) each project is an eligible airport-related project;''.

SEC. 462. PFC AUTHORIZATION PILOT PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION.

  Section 40117(l) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in the subsection heading by striking ``Pilot Program'' 
        and inserting ``Alternative Procedures''; and
          (2) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
          ``(1) In general.--In lieu of submitting an application under 
        subsection (c), an eligible agency may impose a passenger 
        facility charge in accordance with the procedures under this 
        subsection subject to the limitations of this section.''.

     Subtitle C--Noise and Environmental Programs and Streamlining

SEC. 471. STREAMLINING CONSULTATION PROCESS.

  Section 47101(h) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``shall'' and inserting ``may''.

SEC. 472. REPEAL OF BURDENSOME EMISSIONS CREDIT REQUIREMENTS.

  Section 47139 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1)--
                          (i) by striking ``airport sponsors receive'' 
                        and inserting ``airport sponsors may receive'';
                          (ii) by striking ``carrying out projects'' 
                        and inserting ``carrying out projects, 
                        including projects''; and
                          (iii) by striking ``conditions'' and 
                        inserting ``considerations''; and
                  (B) in paragraph (2)--
                          (i) by striking ``airport sponsor'' and 
                        inserting ``airport sponsor, including for an 
                        airport outside of a nonattainment area,'';
                          (ii) by striking ``only'';
                          (iii) by striking ``or as offsets'' and 
                        inserting ``, as offsets''; and
                          (iv) by striking the period at the end and 
                        inserting ``, or as part of a State 
                        implementation plan.'';
          (2) by striking subsection (b); and
          (3) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b).

SEC. 473. EXPEDITED ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW AND ONE FEDERAL DECISION.

  Section 47171 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a) by striking ``Secretary of 
        Transportation'' and inserting ``Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration'';
          (2) by striking ``Secretary'' in each place it appears and 
        inserting ``Administrator'';
          (3) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1)--
                          (i) by striking ``develop and''; and
                          (ii) by striking ``projects at congested 
                        airports'' and all that follows through 
                        ``aviation security projects'' and inserting 
                        ``projects, terminal development projects, 
                        general aviation airport construction or 
                        improvement projects, and aviation safety 
                        projects''; and
                  (B) in paragraph (1) by striking ``better'' and 
                inserting ``streamlined''.
          (4) by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following:
  ``(b) Aviation Projects Subject to a Streamlined Environmental Review 
Process.--
          ``(1) In general.--Any airport capacity enhancement project, 
        terminal development project, or general aviation airport 
        construction or improvement project shall be subject to the 
        coordinated and expedited environmental review process 
        requirements set forth in this section.
          ``(2) Project designation criteria.--
                  ``(A) In general.--The Administrator may designate an 
                aviation safety project for priority environmental 
                review. A designated project shall be subject to the 
                coordinated and expedited environmental review process 
                requirements set forth in this section.
                  ``(B) Project designation criteria.--The 
                Administrator shall establish guidelines for the 
                designation of an aviation safety project or aviation 
                security project for priority environmental review. 
                Such guidelines shall provide for consideration of--
                          ``(i) the importance or urgency of the 
                        project;
                          ``(ii) the potential for undertaking the 
                        environmental review under existing emergency 
                        procedures under the National Environmental 
                        Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.);
                          ``(iii) the need for cooperation and 
                        concurrent reviews by other Federal or State 
                        agencies; and
                          ``(iv) the prospect for undue delay if the 
                        project is not designated for priority 
                        review.'';
          (5) in subsection (c) by striking ``an airport capacity 
        enhancement project at a congested airport or a project 
        designated under subsection (b)(3)'' and inserting ``a project 
        described or designated under subsection (b)'';
          (6) in subsection (d) by striking ``each airport capacity 
        enhancement project at a congested airport or a project 
        designated under subsection (b)(3)'' and inserting ``a project 
        described or designated under subsection (b)'';
          (7) in subsection (h) by striking ``designated under 
        subsection (b)(3)'' and all that follows through ``congested 
        airports'' and inserting ``described in subsection (b)(1)'';
          (8) in subsection (j)--
                  (A) by striking ``For any'' and inserting the 
                following:
          ``(1) In general.--For any''; and
                  (B) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(2) Deadline.--The Administrator shall define the purpose 
        and need of a project not later than 45 days after receipt of a 
        draft purpose and need statement (or revision thereof that 
        materially affects a statement previously prepared or accepted 
        by the Administrator) from an airport sponsor. The 
        Administrator shall provide airport sponsors with appropriate 
        guidance to implement any applicable requirements.'';
          (9) in subsection (k)--
                  (A) by striking ``an airport capacity enhancement 
                project at a congested airport or a project designated 
                under subsection (b)(3)'' and inserting ``a project 
                described or designated under subsection (b)'';
                  (B) by striking ``project shall consider'' and 
                inserting the following:
  ``project shall--
          ``(1) consider'';
                  (C) by striking the period at the end and inserting 
                ``; and''; and
                  (D) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(2) limit the comments of the agency to--
                  ``(A) subject matter areas within the special 
                expertise of the agency; and
                  ``(B) changes necessary to ensure the agency is 
                carrying out the obligations of that agency under the 
                National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and other 
                applicable law.'';
          (10) in subsection (l) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting ``and section 1503 of title 40, Code of Federal 
        Regulations.''; and
          (11) by striking subsection (m) and inserting the following:
  ``(m) Coordination and Schedule.--
          ``(1) Coordination plan.--
                  ``(A) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the 
                date of publication of a notice of intent to prepare an 
                environmental impact statement or the initiation of an 
                environmental assessment, the Administrator of the 
                Federal Aviation Administration shall establish a plan 
                for coordinating public and agency participation in and 
                comment on the environmental review process for a 
                project described or designated under subsection (b). 
                The coordination plan may be incorporated into a 
                memorandum of understanding.
                  ``(B) Schedule.--
                          ``(i) In general.--The Administration shall 
                        establish as part of such coordination plan, 
                        after consultation with and the concurrence of 
                        each participating agency for the project and 
                        with the State in which the project is located 
                        (and, if the State is not the project sponsor, 
                        with the project sponsor), a schedule for--
                                  ``(I) interim milestones and 
                                deadlines for agency activities 
                                necessary to complete the environmental 
                                review; and
                                  ``(II) completion of the 
                                environmental review process for the 
                                project.
                          ``(ii) Factors for consideration.--In 
                        establishing the schedule under clause (i), the 
                        Administration shall consider factors such as--
                                  ``(I) the responsibilities of 
                                participating agencies under applicable 
                                laws;
                                  ``(II) resources available to the 
                                cooperating agencies;
                                  ``(III) overall size and complexity 
                                of the project;
                                  ``(IV) the overall time required by 
                                an agency to conduct an environmental 
                                review and make decisions under 
                                applicable Federal law relating to a 
                                project (including the issuance or 
                                denial of a permit or license) and the 
                                cost of the project; and
                                  ``(V) the sensitivity of the natural 
                                and historic resources that could be 
                                affected by the project.
                          ``(iii) Maximum project schedule.--To the 
                        maximum extent practicable and consistent with 
                        applicable Federal law, the Administrator shall 
                        develop, in concurrence with the project 
                        sponsor, a maximum schedule for the project 
                        described or designated under subsection (b) 
                        that is not more than 2 years for the 
                        completion of the environmental review process 
                        for such projects, as measured from, as 
                        applicable the date of publication of a notice 
                        of intent to prepare an environmental impact 
                        statement to the record of decision.
                          ``(iv) Dispute resolution.--
                                  ``(I) In general.--Any issue or 
                                dispute that arises between the 
                                Administrator and participating 
                                agencies (or amongst participating 
                                agencies) during the environmental 
                                review process will be addressed 
                                expeditiously to avoid delay.
                                  ``(II) Responsibilities.--The 
                                Administrator and participating 
                                agencies shall--
                                          ``(aa) implement the 
                                        requirements of this section 
                                        consistent with any dispute 
                                        resolution process established 
                                        in an applicable law, 
                                        regulation, or legally binding 
                                        agreement to the maximum extent 
                                        permitted by law; and
                                          ``(bb) seek to resolve issues 
                                        or disputes at the earliest 
                                        possible time at the project 
                                        level through agency employees 
                                        who have day-to-day involvement 
                                        in the project.
                                  ``(III) Elevation for missed 
                                milestone.--If a dispute between the 
                                Administrator and participating 
                                agencies (or amongst participating 
                                agencies) causes a milestone to be 
                                missed or extended, or the 
                                Administrator anticipates that a 
                                permitting timetable milestone will be 
                                missed or will need to be extended, 
                                then the dispute shall be elevated to 
                                an official designated by the relevant 
                                agency for resolution. Such elevation 
                                should take place as soon as 
                                practicable after the Administrator 
                                becomes aware of the dispute or 
                                potential missed milestone.
                                  ``(IV) Exception.--Disputes that do 
                                not impact the ability of an agency to 
                                meet a milestone may be elevated as 
                                appropriate.
                                  ``(V) Further evaluation.--Once a 
                                dispute has been elevated to the 
                                designated official, if no resolution 
                                has been reached at the end of 30 days 
                                after the relevant milestone date or 
                                extension date, then the relevant 
                                agencies shall elevate the dispute to 
                                senior agency leadership for 
                                resolution.
                  ``(C) Consistency with other time periods.--A 
                schedule under subparagraph (B) shall be consistent 
                with any other relevant time periods established under 
                Federal law.
                  ``(D) Modification.--
                          ``(i) In general.--Except as provided in 
                        clause (ii), the Administrator may lengthen or 
                        shorten a schedule established under 
                        subparagraph (B) for good cause. A decision by 
                        a project sponsor to change, modify, expand, or 
                        reduce the scope of a project may be considered 
                        as good cause for lengthening or shortening of 
                        such schedule as appropriate and based on the 
                        nature and extent of the proposed project 
                        adjustment.
                          ``(ii) Limitations.--
                                  ``(I) Lengthened schedule.--The 
                                Administrator may lengthen a schedule 
                                under clause (i) for a cooperating 
                                Federal agency by not more than 1 year 
                                after the latest deadline established 
                                for the project described or designated 
                                under subsection (b) by the 
                                Administration.
                                  ``(II) Shortened schedule.--The 
                                Administrator may not shorten a 
                                schedule under clause (i) if doing so 
                                would impair the ability of a 
                                cooperating Federal agency to conduct 
                                necessary analyses or otherwise carry 
                                out relevant obligations of the Federal 
                                agency for the project.
                  ``(E) Failure to meet deadline.--If a cooperating 
                Federal agency fails to meet a deadline established 
                under subparagraph (D)(ii)(I)--
                          ``(i) the cooperating Federal agency shall, 
                        not later than 10 days after meeting the 
                        deadline, submit to the Administrator a report 
                        that describes the reasons why the deadline was 
                        not met; and
                          ``(ii) the Secretary shall--
                                  ``(I) 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 copy of 
                                the report under clause (i); and
                                  ``(II) make the report under clause 
                                (i) publicly available on the website 
                                of the agency.
                  ``(F) Dissemination.--A copy of a schedule under 
                subparagraph (B), and of any modifications to the 
                schedule, shall be--
                          ``(i) provided to all participating agencies 
                        and to the State transportation department of 
                        the State in which the project is located (and, 
                        if the State is not the project sponsor, to the 
                        project sponsor); and
                          ``(ii) made available to the public.
          ``(2) Comment deadlines.--The Administrator shall establish 
        the following deadlines for comment during the environmental 
        review process for a project:
                  ``(A) For comments by agencies and the public on a 
                draft environmental impact statement, a period of not 
                more than 60 days after publication in the Federal 
                Register of notice of the date of public availability 
                of such statement, unless--
                          ``(i) a different deadline is established by 
                        agreement of the lead agency, the project 
                        sponsor, and all participating agencies; or
                          ``(ii) the deadline is extended by the lead 
                        agency for good cause.
                  ``(B) For all other comment periods established by 
                the lead agency for agency or public comments in the 
                environmental review process, a period of no more than 
                30 days from availability of the materials on which 
                comment is requested, unless--
                          ``(i) a different deadline is established by 
                        agreement of the Administrator, the project 
                        sponsor, and all participating agencies; or
                          ``(ii) the deadline is extended by the lead 
                        agency for good cause.
          ``(3) Deadlines for decisions under other laws.--In any case 
        in which a decision under any Federal law relating to a project 
        described or designated under subsection (b) (including the 
        issuance or denial of a permit or license) is required to be 
        made by the later of the date that is 180 days after the date 
        on which the Administrator made all final decisions of the lead 
        agency with respect to the project, or 180 days after the date 
        on which an application was submitted for the permit or 
        license, 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, and publish on the website of the 
        Administration--
                  ``(A) as soon as practicable after the 180-day 
                period, an initial notice of the failure of the Federal 
                agency to make the decision; and
                  ``(B) every 60 days thereafter until such date as all 
                decisions of the Federal agency relating to the project 
                have been made by the Federal agency, an additional 
                notice that describes the number of decisions of the 
                Federal agency that remain outstanding as of the date 
                of the additional notice.
          ``(4) Involvement of the public.--Nothing in this subsection 
        shall reduce any time period provided for public comment in the 
        environmental review process under existing Federal law, 
        including a regulation.
  ``(n) Concurrent Reviews and Single NEPA Document.--
          ``(1) Concurrent reviews.--Each participating agency and 
        cooperating agency under the expedited and coordinated 
        environmental review process established under this section 
        shall--
                  ``(A) carry out the obligations of that agency under 
                other applicable law concurrently, and in conjunction, 
                with the review required under the National 
                Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et 
                seq.), unless doing so would impair the ability of the 
                Federal agency to conduct needed analysis or otherwise 
                carry out such obligations; and
                  ``(B) formulate and implement administrative, policy, 
                and procedural mechanisms to enable the agency to 
                ensure completion of the environmental review process 
                in a timely, coordinated, and environmentally 
                responsible manner.
          ``(2) Single nepa document.--
                  ``(A) In general.--Except as inconsistent with 
                subsection (a), to the maximum extent practicable and 
                consistent with Federal law, all Federal permits and 
                reviews for a project shall rely on a single 
                environment document prepared under the National 
                Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et 
                seq.) under the leadership of the Administrator of the 
                Federal Aviation Administration.
                  ``(B) Use of document.--
                          ``(i) In general.--To the maximum extent 
                        practicable, the Administrator shall develop an 
                        environmental document sufficient to satisfy 
                        the requirements for any Federal approval or 
                        other Federal action required for the project, 
                        including permits issued by other Federal 
                        agencies.
                          ``(ii) Cooperation of participating 
                        agencies.--Other participating agencies shall 
                        cooperate with the lead agency and provide 
                        timely information to help the lead agency 
                        carry out this subparagraph.
                  ``(C) Treatment as participating and cooperating 
                agencies.--A Federal agency required to make an 
                approval or take an action for a project, as described 
                in this paragraph, shall work with the Administration 
                for the project to ensure that the agency making the 
                approval or taking the action is treated as being both 
                a participating and cooperating agency for the project.
          ``(3) Participating agency responsibilities.--An agency 
        participating in the expedited and coordinated environmental 
        review process under this section shall--
                  ``(A) provide comments, responses, studies, or 
                methodologies on those areas within the special 
                expertise or jurisdiction of the agency; and
                  ``(B) use the process to address any environmental 
                issues of concern to the agency.
  ``(o) Environmental Impact Statement.--
          ``(1) In general.--In preparing a final environmental impact 
        statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 
        (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) for a project described or designated 
        under subsection (b), if the Administrator modifies the 
        statement in response to comments that are minor and are 
        confined to factual corrections or explanations of why the 
        comments do not warrant additional agency response, the 
        Administrator may write on errata sheets attached to the 
        statement instead of rewriting the draft statement, subject to 
        the condition that the errata sheets--
                  ``(A) cite the sources, authorities, and reasons that 
                support the position of the agency; and
                  ``(B) if appropriate, indicate the circumstances that 
                would trigger agency reappraisal or further response.
          ``(2) Single document.--To the maximum extent practicable, 
        for a project subject to a coordinated review process under 
        this section, the Administrator shall expeditiously develop a 
        single document that consists of a final environmental impact 
        statement and a record of decision, unless--
                  ``(A) the final environmental impact statement or 
                record of decision makes substantial changes to the 
                project that are relevant to environmental or safety 
                concerns; or
                  ``(B) there is a significant new circumstance or 
                information relevant to environmental concerns that 
                bears on the proposed action or the environmental 
                impacts of the proposed action.
          ``(3) Length of environmental document.--
                  ``(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph 
                (B), an environmental impact statement shall not exceed 
                150 pages, not including any citations or appendices.
                  ``(B) Extraordinary complexity.--An environmental 
                impact statement for a proposed agency action of 
                extraordinary complexity shall not exceed 300 pages, 
                not including any citations or appendices.
  ``(p) Integration of Planning and Environmental Review.--
          ``(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (5) and to the 
        maximum extent practicable and appropriate, the following 
        agencies may adopt or incorporate by reference, and use a 
        planning product in proceedings relating to, any class of 
        action in the environmental review process of a project 
        described or designated under subsection (b):
                  ``(A) The lead agency for a project, with respect to 
                an environmental impact statement, environmental 
                assessment, categorical exclusion, or other document 
                prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 
                1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
                  ``(B) A cooperating agency with responsibility under 
                Federal law with respect to the process for and 
                completion of any environmental permit, approval, 
                review, or study required for a project under any 
                Federal law other than the National Environmental 
                Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), if 
                consistent with that law.
          ``(2) Identification.--If the relevant agency makes a 
        determination to adopt or incorporate by reference and use a 
        planning product under paragraph (1), such agency shall 
        identify the agencies that participated in the development of 
        the planning products.
          ``(3) Adoption or incorporation by reference of planning 
        products.--The relevant agency may--
                  ``(A) adopt or incorporate by reference an entire 
                planning product under paragraph (1); or
                  ``(B) select portions of a planning project under 
                paragraph (1) for adoption or incorporation by 
                reference.
          ``(4) Timing.--The adoption or incorporation by reference of 
        a planning product under paragraph (1) may--
                  ``(A) be made at the time the relevant agencies 
                decide the appropriate scope of environmental review 
                for the project; or
                  ``(B) occur later in the environmental review 
                process, as appropriate.
          ``(5) Conditions.--The relevant agency in the environmental 
        review process may adopt or incorporate by reference a planning 
        product under this section if the relevant agency determines, 
        with the concurrence of the lead agency and, if the planning 
        product is necessary for a cooperating agency to issue a 
        permit, review, or approval for the project, with the 
        concurrence of the cooperating agency, that the following 
        conditions have been met:
                  ``(A) The planning product was developed through a 
                planning process conducted pursuant to applicable 
                Federal law.
                  ``(B) The planning product was developed in 
                consultation with appropriate Federal and State 
                resource agencies and Indian Tribes.
                  ``(C) The planning process included broad 
                multidisciplinary consideration of systems-level or 
                corridor-wide transportation needs and potential 
                effects, including effects on the human and natural 
                environment.
                  ``(D) The planning process included public notice 
                that the planning products produced in the planning 
                process may be adopted during any subsequent 
                environmental review process in accordance with this 
                section.
                  ``(E) During the environmental review process, the 
                relevant agency has--
                          ``(i) made the planning documents available 
                        for public review and comment by members of the 
                        general public and Federal, State, local, and 
                        Tribal governments that may have an interest in 
                        the proposed project;
                          ``(ii) provided notice of the intention of 
                        the relevant agency to adopt or incorporate by 
                        reference the planning product; and
                          ``(iii) considered any resulting comments.
                  ``(F) There is no significant new information or new 
                circumstance that has a reasonable likelihood of 
                affecting the continued validity or appropriateness of 
                the planning product or portions thereof.
                  ``(G) The planning product has a rational basis and 
                is based on reliable and reasonably current data and 
                reasonable and scientifically acceptable methodologies.
                  ``(H) The planning product is documented in 
                sufficient detail to support the decision or the 
                results of the analysis and to meet requirements for 
                use of the information in the environmental review 
                process.
                  ``(I) The planning product is appropriate for 
                adoption or incorporation by reference and use in the 
                environmental review process for the project and is 
                incorporated in accordance with, and is sufficient to 
                meet the requirements of, the National Environmental 
                Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and section 
                1502.21 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations.
          ``(6) Effect of adoption or incorporation by reference.--Any 
        planning product or portions thereof adopted or incorporated by 
        reference by the relevant agency in accordance with this 
        subsection may be--
                  ``(A) incorporated directly into an environmental 
                review process document or other environmental 
                document; and
                  ``(B) relied on and used by other Federal agencies in 
                carrying out reviews of the project.
  ``(q) Report on NEPA Data.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration shall carry out a process to track, and annually 
        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 projects 
        described in subsection (b)(1) that contains the information 
        described in paragraph (3).
          ``(2) Time to complete.--For purposes of paragraph (3), the 
        NEPA process--
                  ``(A) for an environmental impact statement--
                          ``(i) begins on the date on which a notice of 
                        intent is published in the Federal Register; 
                        and
                          ``(ii) ends on the date on which the 
                        Administrator issues a record of decision, 
                        including, if necessary, a revised record of 
                        decision; and
                  ``(B) for an environmental assessment--
                          ``(i) begins on the date on which the 
                        Administrator makes a determination to prepare 
                        an environmental assessment; and
                          ``(ii) ends on the date on which the 
                        Administrator issues a finding of no 
                        significant impact or determines that 
                        preparation of an environmental impact 
                        statement is necessary.
          ``(3) Information described.--The information referred to in 
        paragraph (1) is, with respect to the Federal Aviation 
        Administration--
                  ``(A) the number of proposed actions for which a 
                categorical exclusion was applied by the Administration 
                during the reporting period;
                  ``(B) the number of proposed actions for which a 
                documented categorical exclusion was applied by the 
                Administration during the reporting period;
                  ``(C) the number of proposed actions pending on the 
                date on which the report is submitted for which the 
                issuance of a documented categorical exclusion by the 
                Administration is pending;
                  ``(D) the number of proposed actions for which an 
                environmental assessment was issued by the 
                Administration during the reporting period;
                  ``(E) the length of time the Administration took to 
                complete each environmental assessment described in 
                subparagraph (D);
                  ``(F) the number of proposed actions pending on the 
                date on which the report is submitted for which an 
                environmental assessment is being drafted by the 
                Administration;
                  ``(G) the number of proposed actions for which a 
                final environmental impact statement was completed by 
                the Administration during the reporting period;
                  ``(H) the length of time that the Administration took 
                to complete each environmental impact statement 
                described in subparagraph (G);
                  ``(I) the number of proposed actions pending on the 
                date on which the report is submitted for which an 
                environmental impact statement is being drafted; and
                  ``(J) for the proposed actions reported under 
                subparagraphs (F) and (I), the percentage of those 
                proposed actions for which--
                          ``(i) project funding has been identified; 
                        and
                          ``(ii) all other Federal, State, and local 
                        activities that are required to allow the 
                        proposed action to proceed are completed.
          ``(4) Definitions.--In this section:
                  ``(A) Environmental assessment.--The term 
                `environmental assessment' has the meaning given the 
                term in section 1508.1 of title 40, Code of Federal 
                Regulations (or a successor regulation).
                  ``(B) Environmental impact statement.--The term 
                `environmental impact statement' means a detailed 
                statement required under section 102(2)(C) of the 
                National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 
                4332(2)(C)).
                  ``(C) NEPA process.--The term `NEPA process' means 
                the entirety of the development and documentation of 
                the analysis required under the National Environmental 
                Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), including 
                the assessment and analysis of any impacts, 
                alternatives, and mitigation of a proposed action, and 
                any interagency participation and public involvement 
                required to be carried out before the Administrator 
                undertakes a proposed action.
                  ``(D) Proposed action.--The term `proposed action' 
                means an action (within the meaning of the National 
                Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et 
                seq.)) under this title that the Administrator proposes 
                to carry out.
                  ``(E) Reporting period.--The term `reporting period' 
                means the fiscal year prior to the fiscal year in which 
                a report is issued under subsection (a).''.

SEC. 474. SUBCHAPTER III DEFINITIONS.

  Section 47175 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (3)(A) by striking ``and'' at the end and 
        inserting ``or'';
          (2) in paragraph (4)--
                  (A) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``and'' at the 
                end; and
                  (B) in subparagraph (B)--
                          (i) by striking ``(B)''; and
                          (ii) by redesignating clauses (i) and (ii) as 
                        subparagraphs (B) and (C), respectively;
          (3) by striking paragraph (5);
          (4) by redesignating paragraphs (3), (1), (4), (2), (6), and 
        (8) as paragraphs (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), and (6), 
        respectively; and
          (5) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(8) Terminal development.--The term `terminal development' 
        has the same meaning given such term in section 47102.''.

SEC. 475. PILOT PROGRAM EXTENSION.

  Section 190(i) of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 
47104 note) is amended by striking ``5 years'' and all that follows 
through the period at the end and inserting ``on October 1, 2028.''.

SEC. 476. PART 150 NOISE STANDARDS UPDATE.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall review and revise part 150 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations, to reflect all relevant laws and regulations, including 
part 161 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  (b) Outreach.--As part of the review conducted under subsection (a), 
the Administrator shall clarify existing and future noise policies and 
standards and seek feedback from airports, airport users, and 
individuals living in the vicinity of airports before implementing any 
changes to any noise policies or standards.
  (c) Briefing.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, and every 6 months thereafter, the Administrator shall brief 
the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate regarding the review conducted under 
subsection (a).
  (d) Sunset.--The requirement under subsection (c) shall terminate on 
September 30, 2028.

SEC. 477. REDUCING COMMUNITY AIRCRAFT NOISE EXPOSURE.

  In implementing or revising a flight procedure, the Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration shall seek to take the following 
actions (to the extent that such actions do not negatively affect 
aviation safety or efficiency) to reduce undesirable aircraft noise:
          (1) Implement flight procedures that can mitigate the impact 
        of aircraft noise.
          (2) Work with airport sponsors and potentially impacted 
        neighboring communities in establishing or modifying aircraft 
        arrival and departure routes.
          (3) Discourage local encroachment of residential or other 
        buildings near airports that could create future aircraft noise 
        complaints or impact airport operations or aviation safety.

SEC. 478. CATEGORICAL EXCLUSIONS.

  (a) Categorical Exclusion for Projects of Limited Federal 
Assistance.--An action by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration to approve, permit, finance, or otherwise authorize any 
airport project that is undertaken by the sponsor, owner, or operator 
of a public-use airport shall be presumed to be covered by a 
categorical exclusion under Federal Aviation Administration Order 
1050.1F, or any successor document, if such project--
          (1) receives less than $6,000,000 (as adjusted annually by 
        the Administrator to reflect any increases in the Consumer 
        Price Index prepared by the Department of Labor) of Federal 
        funds or funds from charges collected under section 40117 of 
        title 49, United States Code; or
          (2) with a total estimated cost of not more than $35,000,000 
        (as adjusted annually by the Administrator to reflect any 
        increases in the Consumer Price Index prepared by the 
        Department of Labor) and Federal funds comprising less than 15 
        percent of the total estimated project cost.
  (b) Categorical Exclusion in Emergencies.--An action by the 
Administrator to approve, permit, finance, or otherwise authorize an 
airport project that is undertaken by the sponsor, owner, or operator 
of a public-use airport shall be presumed to be covered by a 
categorical exclusion under Federal Aviation Administration Order 
1050.1F, or any successor document, if such project is--
          (1) for the repair or reconstruction of any airport facility, 
        runway, taxiway, or similar structure that is in operation or 
        under construction when damaged by an emergency declared by the 
        Governor of the State and concurred in by the Administrator, or 
        for a disaster or emergency declared by the President pursuant 
        to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
        Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.);
          (2) in the same location with the same capacity, dimensions, 
        and design as the original airport facility, runway, taxiway, 
        or similar structure as before the declaration described in 
        this section; and
          (3) commenced within a 2-year period beginning on the date of 
        a declaration described in this section.
  (c) Extraordinary Circumstances.--The presumption that an action is 
covered by a categorical exclusion under subsections (a) and (b) shall 
not apply if the Administrator determines that extraordinary 
circumstances exist with respect to such action.
  (d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be construed 
to impact any aviation safety authority of the Administrator.
  (e) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Categorical exclusion.--The term ``categorical 
        exclusion'' has the meaning given the term in section 1508.1(d) 
        of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (2) Public-use airport; sponsor.--The terms ``public-use 
        airport'' and ``sponsor'' have the meaning given such terms in 
        section 47102 of title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 479. CRITICAL HABITAT ON OR NEAR AIRPORT PROPERTY.

  (a) Federal Agency Requirements.--The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration, to the maximum extent practicable, shall 
collaborate with the heads of appropriate Federal agencies to ensure 
that designations of critical habitat, as such 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 in which 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 
Administrator, to the maximum extent practicable, shall collaborate 
with the State in the same manner as the Administrator collaborates 
with the heads of Federal agencies under subsection (a).

SEC. 480. UPDATING PRESUMED TO CONFORM LIMITS.

  Not later than 24 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall take such 
actions as are necessary to update the Administration's list of actions 
that are presumed to conform to a State implementation plan pursuant to 
section 93.153(f) of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, to include 
projects relating to the construction of aircraft hangars.

SEC. 481. RECOMMENDATIONS ON REDUCING ROTORCRAFT NOISE IN DISTRICT OF 
                    COLUMBIA.

  (a) Study.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall 
conduct a study on reducing rotorcraft noise in the District of 
Columbia.
  (b) Contents.--The study conducted under subsection (a) shall 
consider--
          (1) the extent to which military operators consider operating 
        over unpopulated areas outside of the District of Columbia for 
        training missions;
          (2) the extent to which vehicles or aircraft other than 
        conventional rotorcraft (such as unmanned aircraft) could be 
        used for emergency and law enforcement response; and
          (3) the extent to which relevant operators and entities have 
        assessed and addressed, as appropriate, the noise impacts of 
        various factors of operating rotorcraft, including, at a 
        minimum--
                  (A) altitude;
                  (B) the number of flights;
                  (C) flight paths;
                  (D) time of day of flights;
                  (E) types of aircraft;
                  (F) operating procedures; and
                  (G) pilot training.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall brief the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate on preliminary observations with a report 
to follow at a date agreed upon at the time of the briefing 
containing--
          (1) the contents of the study conducted under subsection (a); 
        and
          (2) any recommendations for the reduction of rotorcraft noise 
        in the District of Columbia.
  (d) Relevant Operators and Entities Defined.--In this section, the 
term ``relevant operators and entities'' means--
          (1) the Chief of Police of the Metropolitan Police Department 
        of the District of Columbia;
          (2) any medical rotorcraft operator that routinely flies a 
        rotorcraft over the District of Columbia; and
          (3) any other operator that routinely flies a rotorcraft over 
        the District of Columbia.

SEC. 482. UFP STUDY.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall enter into an agreement with the National Academies under which 
the National Research Council shall carry out a study examining 
airborne ultrafine particles and the effect of such particles on human 
health.
  (b) Scope of Study.--The study conducted under subsection (a) shall--
          (1) summarize the relevant literature and studies done on 
        airborne UPFs worldwide;
          (2) focus on large hub airports;
          (3) examine airborne UFPs and their potential effect on human 
        health, including--
                  (A) characteristics of UFPs present in the air;
                  (B) spatial and temporal distributions of UFP 
                concentrations;
                  (C) primary sources of UFPs;
                  (D) the contribution of aircraft and airport 
                operations to the distribution of UFP concentrations 
                compared to other sources;
                  (E) potential health effects associated with elevated 
                UFP exposures, including outcomes related to 
                cardiovascular disease, respiratory infection and 
                disease, degradation of neurocognitive functions, and 
                other health effects; and
                  (F) potential UFP exposures, especially to 
                susceptible groups;
          (4) identify measures intended to reduce the release of UFPs; 
        and
          (5) identify information gaps related to understanding 
        potential relationships between UFP exposures and health 
        effects, contributions of aviation-related emissions to UFP 
        exposures, and the effectiveness of mitigation measures.
  (c) Coordination.-- The Administrator may coordinate with the heads 
of such other agencies that the Administrator considers appropriate to 
provide data and other assistance necessary for the study.
  (d) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the National Research 
Council submits of the results of the study to the Administrator, 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 study carried out under subsection (a), including 
any recommendations based on such study.
  (e) Definition of Ultrafine Particle.--In this section, the terms 
``ultrafine particle'' and ``UFP'' mean particles with diameters less 
than or equal to 100 nanometers.

SEC. 483. AVIATION AND AIRPORT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT.

  (a) Establishment of Task Force.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall establish an airport community of 
        interest task force (in this section referred to as the ``Task 
        Force'') to evaluate and improve existing processes and 
        mechanisms for engaging communities impacted by airport 
        development and aviation operations.
          (2) Activities.--The Task Force shall--
                  (A) review research on aircraft noise impacts to 
                identify potential actions the Administrator could 
                take;
                  (B) review processes and practices of the 
                Administration for engaging communities prior to or 
                after air traffic pattern changes that impact such 
                communities, including with how such processes and 
                practices compare to best practices from organizations 
                with expertise in grassroots community organizing and 
                collaboration;
                  (C) assess Federal efforts to mitigate noise impacts 
                on communities, including costs and benefits of such 
                efforts;
                  (D) assess the various actions that State and local 
                government officials and community planners could take 
                when considering changes to airport infrastructure, 
                including planned airport projects or surrounding 
                airport community developments;
                  (E) identify potential improvements to Federal, 
                State, and local airport development policy and 
                planning processes to better balance which communities 
                experience negative externalities as a result of 
                airport operations;
                  (F) consider guidance to airports and airport 
                communities to improve engagement with the 
                Administration, as recommended by the document titled 
                ``Aircraft Noise: FAA Could Improve Outreach Through 
                Enhanced Noise Metrics, Communication, and Support to 
                Communities'', issued in September 2021 (GAO-21-
                103933);
                  (G) consider mechanisms and opportunities for the 
                Administration to facilitate better exchange of 
                helicopter noise information with operators in 
                communities adversely impacted by helicopter noise, as 
                recommended by the Comptroller General in the document 
                titled ``Aircraft Noise: Better Information Sharing 
                Could Improve Responses to Washington, D.C. Area 
                Helicopter Noise Concerns'' (GAO-21-200); and
                  (H) review air traffic controller guidance on use and 
                development of noise abatement procedures of the 
                Administration to identify areas for improvement or 
                efficiency that do not adversely impact aviation 
                safety.
          (3) Composition.--
                  (A) Appointment.--The Administrator shall appoint the 
                members of the Task Force.
                  (B) Chairperson.--The Task Force shall be chaired by 
                the Administrator's executive level designee.
                  (C) Representation.--The Task Force shall be 
                comprised of representatives from--
                          (i) airport communities or a representative 
                        organization of an airport community;
                          (ii) airport operators;
                          (iii) airlines;
                          (iv) experts with specific knowledge of air 
                        traffic planning;
                          (v) aircraft manufacturers;
                          (vi) local government officials; and
                          (vii) such other representatives as the 
                        Administrator considers appropriate.
          (4) Compensation.--Members of the Task Force shall serve 
        without compensation.
          (5) Nonapplicability of faca.--Chapter 10 of title 5, United 
        States Code, shall not apply to the Task Force established 
        under this section.
          (6) Consultation.--The Task Force shall, as appropriate, 
        consult with relevant experts and stakeholders not listed in 
        paragraph (3)(C) in conducting the activities described in 
        paragraph (2).
          (7) Reports.--
                  (A) Recommendations.--Not later than 1 year after the 
                date of the establishment of the Task Force and every 
                year thereafter through fiscal year 2028, the Task 
                Force shall provide to the Committee on Transportation 
                and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, the 
                Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
                the Senate, and the Administrator recommendations to 
                improve the processes and mechanisms for engaging 
                communities impacted by airport development and 
                aviation operations.
                  (B) Briefing.--Not later than 60 days after the 
                submission of the annual recommendations under 
                subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall brief the 
                committees described in such subparagraph on any plans 
                of the Administration to implement the recommendations 
                of the Task Force, including explanations for each of 
                the recommendations the Administrator does not intend 
                to adopt.
  (b) Engagement Events.--
          (1) Annual event.--The Administrator shall seek to convene at 
        least 1 annual event in each geographic region of the 
        Administration to engage with aviation communities on issues of 
        regional import.
          (2) Purpose.--The purpose of the engagement events described 
        under paragraph (1) shall be to foster open and transparent 
        communication between the Federal Government and aviation-
        impacted communities prior to, during, and after decision 
        making at the Federal level.
          (3) Topics of consideration.--The topics of consideration of 
        such engagement events shall be approved by the Regional 
        Administrator or the Regional Community Engagement Officer of 
        the applicable region, in consultation with regional interest 
        groups. Topic areas shall be driven by local and regional 
        feedback and may focus on--
                  (A) noise concerns from low-flying commercial 
                aircraft;
                  (B) purchase and installation of aircraft noise 
                reduction measures;
                  (C) new development projects in close proximity to 
                airports and realistic noise expectations for such 
                projects;
                  (D) proposed airport expansion projects and the 
                potential noise implications of such projects;
                  (E) the establishment of new, or changes to existing, 
                approach and departure routes and the community impacts 
                of such changes;
                  (F) upcoming events with an aviation component; or
                  (G) any other topic or issue considered relevant by 
                an aviation-impacted community.
          (4) Participation.--
                  (A) Coordination.--All events described in paragraph 
                (3) shall be convened by or in coordination with the 
                regional offices of the Administration.
                  (B) Attendance by representatives.--The Administrator 
                shall ensure representatives from relevant program 
                offices of the Administration are in attendance at such 
                events.
                  (C) Appropriate participation.--The Administrator 
                shall collaborate with community groups at the State, 
                municipal, city, or local government level to ensure 
                appropriate participation by as many relevant parties 
                on a given issue as practicable. Such relevant parties 
                may include--
                          (i) State or local government officials;
                          (ii) local or municipal planning and zoning 
                        officials;
                          (iii) neighborhood representatives;
                          (iv) aircraft operators, flight school 
                        representatives, or other local aviation 
                        entities;
                          (v) airport operators; and
                          (vi) any other parties as appropriate.
                  (D) Coordination.--The Administrator shall coordinate 
                Federal participation that is not under the 
                Administration through the Federal Interagency 
                Committee on Aviation Noise to encourage appropriate 
                Federal representation at all such events, based on the 
                topic areas of consideration.

SEC. 484. COMMUNITY COLLABORATION PROGRAM.

  (a) Establishment.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall establish a Community Collaboration Program (in 
this section referred to as the ``Program'') within the Office for 
Policy, International Affairs, and Environment of the Administration.
  (b) Staff.--The Program shall be comprised of representatives from--
          (1) the Office for Policy, International Affairs, and 
        Environment of the Administration;
          (2) the Office of Airports of the Administration;
          (3) the Air Traffic Organization of the Administration; and
          (4) other entities as considered appropriate by the 
        Administrator.
  (c) Responsibilities.--
          (1) In general.--The Program shall facilitate and harmonize, 
        as appropriate, policies and procedures carried out by the 
        entities listed in subsection (b) pertaining to community 
        engagement relating to--
                  (A) airport planning and development;
                  (B) noise and environmental policy;
                  (C) NextGen implementation;
                  (D) air traffic route changes;
                  (E) integration of new and emerging entrants; and
                  (F) other topics with respect to which community 
                engagement is critical to program success.
          (2) Specified responsibilities.--The responsibilities of the 
        Program lead shall include--
                  (A) the establishment of, and membership selection 
                for, the Airport Community of Interest Task Force, 
                established under section 483;
                  (B) joint execution with Federal Aviation 
                Administration Regional Administrators of regional 
                community engagement events, as described in section 
                483;
                  (C) updating the internal guidance of the 
                Administration for community engagement based on 
                recommendations from such Task Force and best practices 
                of other Federal agencies and external organizations 
                with expertise in community engagement;
                  (D) coordinating with the Air Traffic Organization on 
                community engagement efforts related to air traffic 
                procedure changes to ensure that impacted communities 
                are consulted in a meaningful way;
                  (E) oversight of Regional Ombudsmen of the 
                Administration;
                  (F) oversight, streamlining, and increasing the 
                responsiveness of the noise complaint process of the 
                Administration by--
                          (i) centralizing noise complaint data and 
                        improving data collection methodologies;
                          (ii) increasing public accessibility to such 
                        Regional Ombudsmen;
                          (iii) ensuring such Regional Ombudsmen are 
                        consulted in local air traffic procedure 
                        development decisions;
                          (iv) collecting feedback from such Regional 
                        Ombudsmen to inform national policymaking 
                        efforts; and
                          (v) other recommendations made by the Airport 
                        Community of Interest Task Force;
                  (G) timely implementation of the recommendations, as 
                appropriate, made by the Comptroller General of the 
                United States to the Secretary of Transportation 
                contained in the report titled ``Aircraft Noise: FAA 
                Could Improve Outreach Through Enhanced Noise Metrics, 
                Communication, and Support to Communities'', issued in 
                September 2021 (GAO-21-103933) to improve the outreach 
                of the FAA to local communities impacted by aircraft 
                noise, including--
                          (i) any recommendations to--
                                  (I) identify appropriate supplemental 
                                metrics for assessing noise impacts and 
                                circumstances for their use to aid in 
                                the internal assessment of the 
                                Administration of noise impacts related 
                                to proposed flight path changes;
                                  (II) update guidance to incorporate 
                                additional tools to more clearly convey 
                                expected impacts, such as other noise 
                                metrics and visualization tools; and
                                  (III) improve guidance to airports 
                                and communities on effectively engaging 
                                with the Administration; and
                          (ii) any other recommendations included in 
                        the report that would assist the agency in 
                        improving outreach to communities affected by 
                        aircraft noise; and
                  (H) other responsibilities as considered appropriate 
                by the Administrator.
  (d) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the Administrator 
implements the recommendations described in subsection (c)(2)(H), the 
Administrator shall brief the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate describing--
          (1) the implementation of each such recommendation;
          (2) how any recommended actions are assisting the 
        Administrator in improving outreach to communities affected by 
        aircraft noise and other community engagement concerns; and
          (3) any challenges or barriers that limit or prevent the 
        ability of the Administrator to take such actions.

SEC. 485. THIRD PARTY STUDY ON AVIATION NOISE METRICS.

  (a) Study.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall enter into an agreement with the National Academies to conduct a 
study on aviation noise metrics.
  (b) Contents.--The study required under subsection (a) shall include 
an assessment of--
          (1) the efficacy of the day-night average sound level (in 
        this section referred to as ``DNL'') noise metric compared to 
        other alternative models;
          (2) the disadvantages of the DNL noise metric in effect as of 
        the date of enactment of this Act compared to other alternative 
        models;
          (3) any potential changes that should be made to the DNL 
        noise metric in effect as of the date of enactment of this Act; 
        and
          (4) the data collected by the Neighborhood Environmental 
        Survey of the Administration using alternative noise metrics.
  (c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the National Academies 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--
          (1) on the results of the study described in subsection (a); 
        and
          (2) containing recommendations regarding the most appropriate 
        metric to adequately assess the public health impacts of 
        aircraft noise.

SEC. 486. INFORMATION SHARING REQUIREMENT.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation, acting through the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, shall establish a 
mechanism to make helicopter noise complaint data accessible to the 
Federal Aviation Administration, to helicopter operators operating in 
the Washington, D.C. area, and to the public on a website of the 
Administration, based on the recommendation of the Government 
Accountability Office in the report published on January 7, 2021, 
titled ``Aircraft Noise: Better Information Sharing Could Improve 
Responses to Washington, D.C. Area Helicopter Noise Concerns''.
  (b) Cooperation.--Any helicopter operator operating in the 
Washington, D.C. area shall provide helicopter noise complaint data to 
the Federal Aviation Administration through the mechanism established 
under subsection (a).
  (c) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Helicopter noise complaint data.--The term ``helicopter 
        noise complaint data''--
                  (A) means general data relating to a complaint made 
                by an individual about helicopter noise in the 
                Washington, D.C. area and may include--
                          (i) the location and description of the event 
                        that is the subject of the complaint;
                          (ii) the start and end time of such event;
                          (iii) a description of the aircraft that is 
                        the subject of the complaint; and
                          (iv) the airport name associated with such 
                        event; and
                  (B) does not include the personally identifiable 
                information of the individual who submitted the 
                complaint.
          (2) Washington, d.c. area.--The term ``Washington, D.C. 
        area'' means the area inside of a 30-mile radius surrounding 
        Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

                        TITLE V--AVIATION SAFETY

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

SEC. 501. ZERO TOLERANCE FOR NEAR MISSES, RUNWAY INCURSIONS, AND 
                    SURFACE SAFETY RISKS.

  (a) Policy.--
          (1) In general.--Section 47101(a) of title 49, United States 
        Code, is amended--
                  (A) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (13) as 
                paragraphs (3) through (14), respectively; and
                  (B) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
          ``(2) that projects, activities, and actions that prevent 
        runway incursions serve to--
                  ``(A) improve airport surface surveillance; and
                  ``(B) mitigate surface safety risks that are 
                essential to ensuring the safe operation of the airport 
                and airway system;''.
          (2) Conforming amendments.--Section 47101 of title 49, United 
        States Code, is amended--
                  (A) in subsection (g) by striking ``subsection 
                (a)(5)'' and inserting ``subsection (a)(6)''; and
                  (B) in subsection (h) by striking ``subsection 
                (a)(6)'' and inserting ``subsection (a)(7)''.
          (3) Continuous evaluation.--In carrying out section 47101(a) 
        of title 49, United States Code, as amended by this subsection, 
        the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
        establish a process to continuously track and evaluate ground 
        traffic and air traffic activity and related incidents at 
        airports.
  (b) Runway Safety Council.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 6 months after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall establish a council, to be known 
        as the ``Runway Safety Council'' (in this section referred to 
        as the ``Council''), to develop a systematic proactive 
        management strategy to address surface safety risks.
          (2) Duties.--The duties of the Council shall include, at a 
        minimum, advancing the development of risk-based, data driven, 
        integrated systems solutions and strategies to enhance surface 
        safety risk mitigation.
          (3) Membership.--
                  (A) In general.--In establishing the Council, the 
                Administrator shall appoint at least 1 member from each 
                of the following:
                          (i) Airport operators.
                          (ii) Air carriers.
                          (iii) Aircraft operators.
                          (iv) Avionics manufacturers.
                          (v) Flight schools.
                          (vi) The certified bargaining representative 
                        of aviation safety inspectors for the 
                        Administration.
                          (vii) The exclusive bargaining representative 
                        of the air traffic controllers certified under 
                        section 7111 of title 5, United States Code.
                          (viii) Other safety experts the Administrator 
                        determines appropriate.
                  (B) Additional members.--The Administrator may 
                appoint members representing any other stakeholder 
                organization that the Administrator determines 
                appropriate to the Runway Safety Council.
  (c) Airport Surface Surveillance.--
          (1) Identification.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
        of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall, in 
        coordination with the Council, consult with relevant 
        stakeholders to identify technologies, equipment, and systems 
        that--
                  (A) may provide airport surface surveillance 
                capabilities at airports lacking such capabilities;
                  (B) may augment existing airport surface surveillance 
                systems; or
                  (C) may provide onboard situational awareness to 
                pilots.
          (2) Criteria.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall--
                  (A) based on the information obtained pursuant to 
                paragraph (1), identify airport surface surveillance 
                systems that meet the standards of the Administration 
                and may be able to--
                          (i) provide airport surface surveillance 
                        capabilities at airports lacking such 
                        capabilities; or
                          (ii) augment existing airport surface 
                        surveillance systems; and
                  (B) establish clear and quantifiable criteria 
                relating to operational factors, including ground 
                traffic and air traffic activity and the rate of runway 
                and terminal airspace safety events (including runway 
                incursions), that determine when the installation and 
                deployment of an airport surface surveillance system, 
                or other runway safety system (including runway status 
                lights), at an airport is required.
          (3) Deployment.--Not later than 5 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall ensure that 
        airport surface surveillance systems are deployed and 
        operational at--
                  (A) all airports described in paragraph (2)(A); and
                  (B) all medium and large hub airports.
          (4) Report.--Not later than 4 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate on the progress of the deployment 
        described in paragraph (3).
  (d) Foreign Object Debris Detection.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 3 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall assess, in 
        coordination with the Council, automated foreign object debris 
        monitoring and detection systems at not less than 3 airports 
        that are using such systems.
          (2) Considerations.--In conducting the assessment under 
        paragraph (1), the Administrator shall consider the following:
                  (A) The categorization of an airport.
                  (B) The potential frequency of foreign object debris 
                incidents on airport runways or adjacent ramp areas.
                  (C) The availability of funding for the installation 
                and maintenance of foreign object debris monitoring and 
                detection systems.
                  (D) The impact of such systems on the airfield 
                operations of an airport.
                  (E) The effectiveness of available foreign object 
                debris monitoring and detection systems.
                  (F) Any other factors relevant to assessing the 
                return on investment of foreign object debris 
                monitoring and detection systems.
          (3) Consultation.--In carrying out this subsection, the 
        Administrator and the Council shall consult with manufacturers 
        and suppliers of foreign object debris detection technology and 
        any other relevant stakeholders.
  (e) Runway Safety Study.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall seek to enter 
        into an agreement with a federally funded research and 
        development center to conduct a study of runway incursions, 
        surface incidents, operational errors, or losses of standard 
        separation of aircraft in the approach or departure phase of 
        flight to determine how advanced technologies and future 
        airport development projects may be able to reduce the 
        frequency of such events and enhance aviation safety.
          (2) Considerations.--In conducting the study under paragraph 
        (1), the federally funded research and development center 
        shall--
                  (A) examine data relating to recurring runway 
                incursions, surface incidents, operational errors, or 
                losses of standard separation of aircraft in the 
                approach or departure phase of flight at airports to 
                identify the underlying factors that caused such 
                events;
                  (B) assess metrics used to identify when such events 
                are increasing at an airport;
                  (C) assess available and developmental technologies, 
                including and beyond such technologies considered in 
                subsection (c), that may augment existing air traffic 
                management capabilities of surface surveillance and 
                terminal airspace equipment;
                  (D) consider growth trends in airport size, staffing 
                and communication complexities to identify--
                          (i) future gaps in information exchange 
                        between aerospace stakeholders; and
                          (ii) methods for meeting future near real-
                        time information sharing needs; and
                  (E) examine airfield safety training programs used by 
                airport tenants and other stakeholders operating on 
                airfields of airports, including airfield 
                familiarization training programs for employees, to 
                assess scalability to handle future growth in airfield 
                capacity and traffic.
          (3) Recommendations.--In conducting the study required by 
        paragraph (1), the federally funded research and development 
        center shall develop recommendations for the strategic planning 
        efforts of the Administration to appropriately maintain surface 
        safety considering future increases in air traffic and based on 
        the considerations described in paragraph (2).
          (4) Report to congress.--Not later than 90 days after the 
        completion of the study required by paragraph (1), 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 such study and any 
        recommendations developed under paragraph (3).
  (f) Airport Surface Detection and Surveillance System Defined.--In 
this section, the term ``airport surface detection and surveillance 
system'' means an airport surveillance system that is--
          (1) designed to track surface movement of aircraft and 
        vehicles; and
          (2) capable of alerting air traffic controllers or flight 
        crew members of a possible runway incursion, misaligned 
        approach, or other safety event.

SEC. 502. GLOBAL AVIATION SAFETY.

  (a) In General.--Section 40104(d) of title 49, United States Code, 
(as redesignated by section 325) is amended--
          (1) in the subsection heading by inserting``and Assistance'' 
        after ``International Role'';
          (2) in paragraph (1) by striking ``The Administrator'' and 
        inserting ``In carrying out subsection (a), the 
        Administrator'';
          (3) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (4); and
          (4) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
          ``(2) International presence.--The Administrator shall 
        maintain an international presence to--
                  ``(A) assist foreign civil aviation authorities in--
                          ``(i) establishing robust aerospace oversight 
                        practices and policies;
                          ``(ii) training staff, to include inspectors 
                        and accident investigators;
                          ``(iii) harmonizing international aerospace 
                        standards for air traffic management, operator 
                        certification, aircraft certification, 
                        airports, and certificated or credentialed 
                        individuals;
                          ``(iv) validating and accepting foreign 
                        aircraft design and production approvals;
                          ``(v) maintaining appropriate levels of air 
                        navigation services;
                          ``(vi) preparing for new aerospace 
                        technologies; and
                          ``(vii) appropriately adopting continuing 
                        airworthiness information, such as 
                        airworthiness directives;
                  ``(B) encourage the adoption of United States 
                standards, regulations, and policies;
                  ``(C) establish, maintain, and update bilateral or 
                multilateral aviation safety agreements and the 
                aviation safety information contained within such 
                agreements;
                  ``(D) engage in bilateral and multilateral 
                discussions and provide technical assistance as 
                described in paragraph (5);
                  ``(E) validate foreign aerospace products and ensure 
                reciprocal validation of products for which the United 
                States is the state of design or production;
                  ``(F) support accident and incident investigations, 
                particularly such investigations that involve United 
                States persons and certified products and such 
                investigations where the National Transportation Safety 
                Board is supporting an investigation pursuant to annex 
                13 of the International Civil Aviation Organization;
                  ``(G) support the international activities of the 
                United States aerospace sector;
                  ``(H) maintain valuable relationships with entities 
                with aerospace equities, including civil aviation 
                authorities, other governmental bodies, non-
                governmental organizations, and foreign manufacturers; 
                and
                  ``(I) perform other activities as determined 
                necessary by the Administrator.''.
  (b) Review of International Field Offices.--Section 40104(d) of title 
49, United States Code, (as redesignated by section 325) is further 
amended by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
          ``(3) International offices.--In carrying out the 
        responsibilities described in subsection (a), the Administrator 
        shall--
                  ``(A) maintain international offices of the 
                Administration;
                  ``(B) every 3 years, review existing international 
                offices to determine--
                          ``(i) the effectiveness of such offices in 
                        fulfilling the mission described in paragraph 
                        (2); and
                          ``(ii) the adequacy of resources and staffing 
                        to achieve the mission described in paragraph 
                        (2);
                  ``(C) establish offices to address gaps identified by 
                the review under subparagraph (B) and in furtherance of 
                the mission described in paragraph (2), putting an 
                emphasis on establishing such offices--
                          ``(i) where international civil aviation 
                        authorities are located;
                          ``(ii) where regional intergovernmental 
                        organizations are located;
                          ``(iii) in countries that have difficulty 
                        maintaining a category 1 classification through 
                        the International Aviation Safety Assessment 
                        program; and
                          ``(iv) in regions that have experienced 
                        substantial growth in aerospace operations or 
                        manufacturing.''.
  (c) Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreements.--
          (1) Establishment.--Section 40104(d) of title 49, United 
        States Code, (as redesignated by section 325) is further 
        amended by inserting after paragraph (4) the following:
          ``(5) Bilateral aviation safety agreements.--
                  ``(A) In general.--The Administrator shall negotiate, 
                enter into, promote, enforce, evaluate the 
                effectiveness of, and seek to update bilateral or 
                multilateral aviation safety agreements, and the parts 
                of such agreements, with international aviation 
                authorities.
                  ``(B) Purpose.--The Administrator shall seek to enter 
                into bilateral aviation safety agreements under this 
                section to, at a minimum--
                          ``(i) improve global aerospace safety;
                          ``(ii) increase harmonization of, and reduce 
                        duplicative, requirements, processes, and 
                        approvals to advance the aerospace interests of 
                        the United States;
                          ``(iii) ensure access to international 
                        markets for operators, service providers, and 
                        manufacturers from the United States; and
                          ``(iv) put in place procedures for recourse 
                        when a party to such agreements fails to meet 
                        the obligations of such party under such 
                        agreements.
                  ``(C) Scope.--The scope of a bilateral aviation 
                safety agreement entered into under this section shall, 
                as appropriate, cover existing aerospace users and 
                concepts and establish a process by which bilateral 
                aviation safety agreements can be updated to include 
                new and novel concepts on an ongoing basis.
                  ``(D) Contents.--Bilateral aviation safety agreements 
                entered into under this section shall, as appropriate 
                and consistent with United States law and regulation, 
                include topics such as--
                          ``(i) airworthiness, certification, and 
                        validation;
                          ``(ii) maintenance;
                          ``(iii) operations and pilot training;
                          ``(iv) airspace access, efficiencies, and 
                        navigation services;
                          ``(v) transport category aircraft;
                          ``(vi) fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, and 
                        powered-lift aircraft;
                          ``(vii) aerodrome certification;
                          ``(viii) unmanned aircraft and associated 
                        elements of such aircraft;
                          ``(ix) flight simulation training devices;
                          ``(x) new or emerging aerospace technologies 
                        and technology trends; and
                          ``(xi) other topics as determined appropriate 
                        by the Administrator.
                  ``(E) Rule of construction.--Bilateral or 
                multilateral aviation safety agreements entered into 
                under this subsection shall not be construed to 
                diminish or alter any authority of the Administrator 
                under any other provision of law.''.
          (2) Audit of validation activities under bilateral aviation 
        safety agreements.--
                  (A) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the 
                date of enactment of this Act, the inspector general of 
                the Department of Transportation shall initiate an 
                audit of bilateral compliance with respect to the 
                validation of aircraft and aircraft parts as set forth 
                in bilateral or multilateral aviation safety agreements 
                between the Federal Aviation Administration and the 
                civil aviation authorities of--
                          (i) the European Union;
                          (ii) Canada;
                          (iii) Brazil;
                          (iv) China;
                          (v) the United Kingdom; and
                          (vi) any other country as determined by the 
                        inspector general.
                  (B) Review contents.--As part of the review required 
                under this subsection, the inspector general shall 
                evaluate the performance of validation programs by 
                assessing--
                          (i) validation timelines and milestones for 
                        individual projects;
                          (ii) trends relating to the repeated use of 
                        nonbasic criteria to review systems and methods 
                        of compliance that have been validated 
                        previously in similar contexts;
                          (iii) the extent to which implementation 
                        tools such as validation workplans and safety 
                        emphasis items have addressed validation 
                        issues;
                          (iv) the perspective of Administration 
                        employees;
                          (v) the perspective of employees of other 
                        civil aviation authorities, who wish to provide 
                        such perspective, on the validation of products 
                        certified in the United States and the 
                        validation of products by the United States of 
                        products certified abroad; and
                          (vi) the perspective of domestic and foreign 
                        industry applicants seeking validation of 
                        aircraft and aircraft parts.
                  (C) Report and recommendations.--Not later than 14 
                months after beginning the audit under paragraph (1), 
                the Comptroller General shall provide to the 
                Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, 
                the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
                the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
                Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
                report summarizing the findings of the audit and any 
                recommendations to increase compliance and improve the 
                validation timeframes of aircraft and aircraft parts.
  (d) International Engagement Strategy.--Section 40104(d) of title 49, 
United States Code, (as redesignated by section 325) is further amended 
by inserting after paragraph (5) the following:
          ``(6) Strategic plan.--The Administrator shall maintain a 
        strategic plan for the international engagement of the 
        Administration that includes--
                  ``(A) all elements of the report required in section 
                243(b)(1) of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 
                U.S.C. 44701 note);
                  ``(B) measures to fulfill the mission described in 
                paragraph (2);
                  ``(C) initiatives to attain greater expertise among 
                employees of the Federal Aviation Administration in 
                issues related to dispute resolution, intellectual 
                property, and expert control laws;
                  ``(D) policy regarding the future direction and 
                strategy of the United States engagement with the 
                International Civil Aviation Organization;
                  ``(E) procedures for acceptance of mandatory 
                airworthiness information, such as airworthiness 
                directives, and other safety-related regulatory 
                documents, including procedures to implement the 
                requirements of section 44701(e)(5);
                  ``(F) all factors, including funding and resourcing, 
                necessary for the Administration to maintain leadership 
                in the global activities related to aviation safety and 
                air transportation; and
                  ``(G) establishment of, and a process to regularly 
                track and update, metrics to measure the effectiveness 
                of, and foreign civil aviation authority compliance 
                with, bilateral aviation safety agreements.''.

SEC. 503. AVAILABILITY OF PERSONNEL FOR INSPECTIONS, SITE VISITS, AND 
                    TRAINING.

  Section 40104 of title 49, United States Code, is further amended by 
adding at the end the following:
  ``(f) Travel.--The Administrator and the Secretary of Transportation 
shall, in carrying out the responsibilities described in subsection 
(a), delegate to the appropriate supervisors of offices of the 
Administration the ability to authorize the domestic and international 
travel of relevant personnel who are not in the Federal Aviation 
Administration Executive System, without any additional approvals 
required, for the purposes of--
          ``(1) promoting aviation safety, aircraft operations, air 
        traffic, airport, unmanned aircraft systems, commercial space 
        transportation, and other aviation standards and regulations 
        adopted by the United States;
          ``(2) facilitating the adoption of United States approaches 
        on standards and recommended practices at the International 
        Civil Aviation Organization;
          ``(3) promoting environmental standards adopted by the United 
        States and standards promulgated under section 44714;
          ``(4) supporting the acceptance of Administration design and 
        production approvals by other civil aviation authorities;
          ``(5) training Administration personnel and training provided 
        to other persons;
          ``(6) engaging with regulated entities, including performing 
        site visits;
          ``(7) activities associated with subsections (c) through (f) 
        of this section; and
          ``(8) other activities as determined by the Administrator.''.

SEC. 504. HELICOPTER AIR AMBULANCE OPERATIONS.

  (a) Outdated Air Ambulance Rulemaking Requirement.--Section 44730 of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)(1) by striking ``not later than 180 
        days after the date of enactment of this section,'';
          (2) in subsection (c) by striking ``address the following'' 
        and inserting ``consider, or address through other means, the 
        following'';
          (3) in subsection (d) by striking ``provide for the 
        following'' and inserting ``consider, or address through other 
        means, the following''; and
          (4) in subsection (e)--
                  (A) in the heading by striking ``Subsequent 
                Rulemaking'' and inserting ``Subsequent Actions'';
                  (B) in paragraph (1) by striking ``shall conduct a 
                follow-on rulemaking to address the following:'' and 
                inserting ``shall address through a follow-on 
                rulemaking, or through such other means that the 
                Administrator considers appropriate, the following:'';
                  (C) by striking paragraph (2); and
                  (D) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2).
  (b) Safety Management Systems Briefing.--Not later than 180 days 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall brief the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on 
how the proposed rule published on January, 11, 2023, titled ``Safety 
Management System'' (88 Fed. Reg. 1932) will--
          (1) improve helicopter air ambulance operations and piloting; 
        and
          (2) consider the use of safety equipment by flight crew and 
        medical personnel on a helicopter conducting an air ambulance 
        operation.
  (c) Improvement of Publication of Helicopter Air Ambulance Operations 
Data.--Section 44731 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking subsection (d);
          (2) in subsection (e)--
                  (A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``and'' at the end; 
                and
                  (B) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the 
                following:
          ``(2) make publicly available, in part or in whole, on the 
        website of the Federal Aviation Administration website, the 
        database developed pursuant to subsection (c); and
          ``(3) analyze the data submitted under subsection (a) 
        periodically and use such data to inform efforts to improve the 
        safety of helicopter air ambulance operations.''; and
          (3) by redesignating subsections (e) and (f) as subsections 
        (d) and (e), respectively.

SEC. 505. GLOBAL AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS.

  (a) FAA Oversight of Repair Stations Located Outside the United 
States.--
          (1) In general.--Section 44733 of title 49, United States 
        Code, is amended--
                  (A) in the heading by striking ``Inspection'' and 
                inserting ``Oversight'';
                  (B) in subsection (a) by striking ``Not later than 1 
                year after the date of enactment of this section, the'' 
                and inserting ``The'';
                  (C) in subsection (e)--
                          (i) by inserting ``, without prior notice to 
                        such repair stations,'' after ``annually'';
                          (ii) by inserting ``and the applicable laws 
                        of the country in which the repair station is 
                        located'' after ``international agreements''; 
                        and
                          (iii) by striking the last sentence and 
                        inserting ``The Administrator may carry out 
                        announced or unannounced inspections in 
                        addition to the annual unannounced inspection 
                        required under this subsection based on 
                        identified risks and in a manner consistent 
                        with United States obligations under 
                        international agreements and the applicable 
                        laws of the country in which the part 145 
                        repair station is located.'';
                  (D) by redesignating subsection (g) as subsection 
                (j); and
                  (E) by inserting after subsection (f) the following:
  ``(g) Data Analysis.--
          ``(1) In general.--Each fiscal year in which a part 121 air 
        carrier has had heavy maintenance work performed on an aircraft 
        owned or operated by such carrier, such carrier shall provide 
        to the Administrator, not later than the end of the following 
        fiscal year, a report containing the information described in 
        paragraph (2).
          ``(2) Information required.--A report under paragraph (1) 
        shall contain the following:
                  ``(A) The location where any heavy maintenance work 
                on aircraft was performed outside the United States.
                  ``(B) A description of the work performed at each 
                such location.
                  ``(C) The date of completion of the work performed at 
                each such location.
                  ``(D) A list of all failures, malfunctions, or 
                defects affecting the safe operation of such aircraft 
                identified by the air carrier not later than 30 days 
                after the date on which an aircraft is returned to 
                service, organized by reference to aircraft 
                registration number, that--
                          ``(i) requires corrective action after the 
                        aircraft is approved for return to service; and
                          ``(ii) results from such work performed on 
                        such aircraft.
                  ``(E) The certificate number of the person approving 
                such aircraft or on-wing aircraft engine, for return to 
                service following completion of the work performed at 
                each such location.
          ``(3) Analysis.--The Administrator shall--
                  ``(A) analyze information provided under this 
                subsection and sections 121.703, 121.705, 121.707, and 
                145.221 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, or 
                any successor provisions of such title, to detect 
                safety issues associated with heavy maintenance work on 
                aircraft performed outside the United States; and
                  ``(B) require appropriate actions by an air carrier 
                or repair station in response to any safety issue 
                identified by the analysis conducted under subparagraph 
                (A).
          ``(4) Confidentiality.--Information provided under this 
        subsection shall be subject to the same protections given to 
        voluntarily provided safety or security related information 
        under section 40123.
  ``(h) Applications and Prohibition.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Administrator may not approve any new 
        application under part 145 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, from a person located or headquartered in a 
        country that the Administration, through the International 
        Aviation Safety Assessment program, has classified as Category 
        2.
          ``(2) Exception.--Paragraph (1) shall not apply to an 
        application for the renewal of a certificate issued under part 
        145 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          ``(3) Maintenance implementation procedures agreement.--The 
        Administrator may elect not to enter into a new maintenance 
        implementation procedures agreement with a country classified 
        as Category 2, for as long as the country remains classified as 
        Category 2.
          ``(3) Prohibition on continued heavy maintenance work.--No 
        part 121 air carrier may enter into a new contract for heavy 
        maintenance work with a person located or headquartered in a 
        country that the Administrator, through the International 
        Aviation Safety Assessment program, has classified as Category 
        2, for as long as such country remains classified as Category 
        2.
  ``(i) Minimum Qualifications for Mechanics and Others Working on U.S. 
Registered Aircraft.--
          ``(1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
        enactment of this subsection, the Administrator shall require 
        that, at each covered repair station--
                  ``(A) all supervisory personnel of such station are 
                appropriately certificated as a mechanic or repairman 
                under part 65 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
                or under an equivalent certification or licensing 
                regime, as determined by the Administrator; and
                  ``(B) all personnel of such station authorized to 
                approve an article for return to service are 
                appropriately certificated as a mechanic or repairman 
                under part 65 of such title, or under an equivalent 
                certification or licensing regime, as determined by the 
                Administrator.
          ``(2) Available for consultation.--Not later than 2 years 
        after the date of enactment of this subsection, the 
        Administrator shall require any individual who is responsible 
        for approving an article for return to service or who is 
        directly in charge of heavy maintenance work performed on 
        aircraft operated by a part 121 air carrier be available for 
        consultation while work is being performed at a covered repair 
        station.''.
          (2) Definitions.--
                  (A) In general.--Section 44733(j) of title 49, United 
                States Code (as redesignated by this section), is 
                amended--
                          (i) in paragraph (1) by striking ``aircraft'' 
                        and inserting ``aircraft (including on-wing 
                        aircraft engines)'';
                          (ii) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through 
                        (3) as paragraphs (2) through (4), 
                        respectively; and
                          (iii) by inserting before paragraph (2), as 
                        so redesignated, the following:
          ``(1) Covered repair station.--The term `covered repair 
        station' means a facility that--
                  ``(A) is located outside the United States;
                  ``(B) is a part 145 repair station; and
                  ``(C) performs heavy maintenance work on aircraft 
                operated by a part 121 air carrier.''.
                  (B) Technical amendment.--Section 44733(a)(3) of 
                title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking 
                ``covered part 145 repair stations'' and inserting 
                ``part 145 repair stations''.
          (3) Conforming amendments.--The analysis for chapter 447 of 
        title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking the item 
        relating to section 44733 and inserting the following:

``44733. Oversight of repair stations located outside the United 
States.''.

  (b) International Standards for Safety Oversight of Extraterritorial 
Repair Stations.--
          (1) Establishment.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall invite other civil aviation 
        authorities to convene with the Administration an 
        extraterritorial repair station working group (hereinafter 
        referred to as the ``Working Group'') to conduct a review of 
        the certification and oversight of extraterritorial repair 
        stations and to identify any future enhancements or 
        harmonization that might be appropriate to strengthen oversight 
        of such repair stations and improve global aviation safety.
          (2) Composition of working group.--The Working Group shall 
        consist of--
                  (A) technical representatives from the FAA; and
                  (B) such other civil aviation authorities or 
                international intergovernmental aviation safety 
                organizations as the Administrator determines 
                appropriate and are willing to participate, including--
                          (i) civil aviation authorities responsible 
                        for certificating extraterritorial repair 
                        stations; and
                          (ii) civil aviation authorities of countries 
                        in which extraterritorial repair stations are 
                        located.
          (3) Consultation.--In conducting the review under this 
        section, the Working Group shall, as appropriate, consult with 
        relevant experts and stakeholders.
          (4) Recommendations.--The Working Group shall make 
        recommendations with respect to any future enhancements that 
        might be appropriate to--
                  (A) strengthen oversight of extraterritorial repair 
                stations; and
                  (B) better leverage the resources of other civil 
                aviation authorities to conduct such oversight.
          (5) Reports.--
                  (A) Repair station working group report.--In 
                establishing the Working Group, the Administrator shall 
                task the Working Group with submitting to the 
                participating civil aviation authorities a report 
                containing the findings of the recommendations made 
                under paragraph (4).
                  (B) FAA report.--
                          (i) Transmission of repair station working 
                        group report.--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 copy of the 
                        report required under subparagraph (A) as soon 
                        as is practicable after the receipt of such 
                        report.
                          (ii) FAA briefing to congress.--Not later 
                        than 45 days after receipt of the report under 
                        paragraph (1), the Administrator shall brief 
                        the Committee on Transportation and 
                        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives 
                        and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
                        Transportation of the Senate on--
                                  (I) whether the Administrator concurs 
                                or does not concur with each 
                                recommendation contained in the report 
                                required under subparagraph (A);
                                  (II) any recommendation with which 
                                the Administrator does not concur, a 
                                detailed explanation as to why the 
                                Administrator does not concur;
                                  (III) a plan to implement each 
                                recommendation with which the 
                                Administrator concurs; and
                                  (IV) a plan to work with the 
                                international community to implement 
                                the recommendations applicable to both 
                                the FAA as well as other civil aviation 
                                authorities.
          (6) Termination.--The Working Group shall terminate 90 days 
        after the date of submission of the report under paragraph 
        (5)(A), unless the Administrator or another participant of the 
        Working Group requests for an extension of the Working Group in 
        order to inform the implementation and harmonization of any 
        recommendation applicable to multiple civil aviation 
        authorities.
          (7) Definition of extraterritorial repair station.--In this 
        subsection, the term ``extraterritorial repair station'' means 
        a repair station that performs heavy maintenance work on an 
        aircraft (including on-wing engines) and that is located 
        outside of the territory of the country of the civil aviation 
        authority which certificated the repair station.
  (c) Alcohol and Drug Testing and Background Checks.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, 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 updating Congress on the progress and 
        challenges involved with carrying out the requirements of 
        subsection (b) of section 2112 of the FAA Extension, Safety, 
        and Security Act of 2016 (49 U.S.C. 44733).
          (2) Sunset.--The reporting requirement under paragraph (1) 
        shall cease to be effective after a final rule carrying out the 
        requirements of such subsection (b) has been published in the 
        Federal Register.
          (3) Rulemaking on assessment requirement.--With respect to 
        any employee not covered under the requirements of section 
        1554.101 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, the 
        Administrator shall initiate a rulemaking or request the head 
        of another Federal agency to initiate a rulemaking that 
        requires a covered repair station to confirm that any such 
        employee has successfully completed an assessment commensurate 
        with a security threat assessment described in subpart C of 
        part 1540 of such title.
  (d) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) FAA.--The term ``FAA'' means the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
          (2) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the 
        Administrator of the FAA.
          (3) Covered repair station; heavy maintenance work.--The 
        terms ``covered repair station'' and ``heavy maintenance work'' 
        have the meaning given those terms in section 44733(j) of title 
        49, United States Code.

SEC. 506. ODA BEST PRACTICE SHARING.

  Section 44736(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``Not later than 120 days 
        after the date of enactment of this section, the'' and insert 
        ``The''; and
          (2) in paragraph (3)--
                  (A) in subparagraph (E) by striking ``and'' at the 
                end;
                  (B) in subparagraph (F) by striking the period and 
                inserting ``; and''; and
                  (C) by adding at the end the following:
                  ``(G) convene a forum not less than every 2 years 
                between ODA holders, unit members, and other 
                organizational representatives and relevant experts, in 
                order to--
                          ``(i) share best practices;
                          ``(ii) instill professionalism, ethics, and 
                        personal responsibilities in unit members; and
                          ``(iii) foster open and transparent 
                        communication between Administration safety 
                        specialists, ODA holders, and unit members.''.

SEC. 507. TRAINING OF ORGANIZATION DELEGATION AUTHORITY UNIT MEMBERS.

  (a) Unit Member Annual Ethics Training.--Section 44736 of title 49, 
United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end the 
following:
  ``(g) Ethics Training Requirement for ODA Holders.--
          ``(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this subsection, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall review and ensure each ODA holder 
        approved under section 44741 has in effect a recurrent training 
        program for all ODA unit members that covers--
                  ``(A) unit member professional obligations and 
                responsibilities;
                  ``(B) the ODA holder's code of ethics as required to 
                be established under section 102(f) of the Aircraft 
                Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act (49 
                U.S.C. 44701 note);
                  ``(C) procedures for reporting safety concerns, as 
                described in the respective approved procedures manual 
                for the delegation;
                  ``(D) the prohibition against and reporting 
                procedures for interference from a supervisor or other 
                ODA member described in section 44742; and
                  ``(E) any additional information the Administrator 
                considers relevant to maintaining ethical and 
                professional standards across all ODA holders and unit 
                members.
          ``(2) FAA review.--
                  ``(A) Review of training program.--The Organization 
                Designation Authorization Office of the Administration 
                shall review each ODA holders' recurrent training 
                program to ensure such program includes all elements 
                described in paragraph (1).
                  ``(B) Changes to program.--Such Office may require 
                changes to the training program considered necessary to 
                maintain ethical and professional standards across all 
                ODA holders and unit members.
          ``(3) Training.--As part of the recurrent training required 
        under paragraph (1), not later than 60 business days after 
        being designated as an ODA unit member, and annually 
        thereafter, each ODA unit member shall complete the ethics 
        training required by the ODA holder of the respective ODA unit 
        member in order to exercise the functions delegated under the 
        ODA.
          ``(4) Accountability.--The Administrator shall establish such 
        processes or requirements as are necessary to ensure compliance 
        with paragraph (3).''.
  (b) Deadline.--An ODA unit member authorized to perform delegated 
functions under an ODA prior to the date of completion of an ethics 
training required under section 44736(g) of title 49, United States 
Code, shall complete such training not later than 30 days after the 
training program is approved by the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration pursuant to such section.

SEC. 508. CLARIFICATION ON SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM INFORMATION 
                    DISCLOSURE.

  Section 44735 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``; or'' and 
                inserting a semicolon;
                  (B) in paragraph (2) by striking the period at the 
                end and inserting ``; or''; and
                  (C) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(3) if the report, data, or other information is submitted 
        for any purpose relating to the development, implementation, 
        and use of a safety management system, including a system 
        required by regulation, that is acceptable to the 
        Administrator.''; and
          (2) by adding at the end the following:
  ``(d) Other Agencies.--
          ``(1) In general.--The limitation established under 
        subsection (a) shall apply to the head of any other Federal 
        agency who receives reports, data, or other information 
        described in such subsection from the Administrator.
          ``(2) Rule of construction.--This section shall not be 
        construed to limit the accident or incident investigation 
        authority of the National Transportation Safety Board under 
        chapter 11, including the requirement to not disclose 
        voluntarily provided safety-related information under section 
        1114.''.

SEC. 509. EXTENSION OF AIRCRAFT CERTIFICATION, SAFETY, AND 
                    ACCOUNTABILITY ACT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

  (a) Appeals of Certification Decisions.--Section 44704(g)(1)(C)(ii) 
of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``2025'' and 
inserting ``2028''.
  (b) Oversight of Organization Designation Authorization Unit 
Members.--Section 44741(f)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by striking ``Not later than 90 days'' and all that follows 
through ``the Administrator shall provide a briefing'' and inserting 
``The Administrator shall provide an annual briefing each fiscal year 
through fiscal year 2028''.
  (c) Integrated Project Teams.--Section 108(f) of the Aircraft 
Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act (49 U.S.C. 44704 note) is 
amended by striking ``2023'' and inserting ``2028''.
  (d) Voluntary Safety Reporting Program.--Section 113(f) of the 
Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act (49 U.S.C. 44701 
note) is amended by striking ``2023'' and inserting ``2028''.
  (e) Changed Product Rule.--Section 117(b)(1) of the Aircraft 
Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act (49 U.S.C. 44704 note) is 
amended by striking ``2023'' and inserting ``2028''.

SEC. 510. DON YOUNG ALASKA AVIATION SAFETY INITIATIVE.

  (a) In General.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 44745. Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative.

  ``(a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall redesignate the FAA Alaska Aviation Safety 
Initiative of the Administration as the Don Young Alaska Aviation 
Safety Initiative (in this section referred to as the `Initiative'), 
under which the Administrator shall carry out the provisions of this 
section and take such other actions as the Administrator determines 
appropriate to improve aviation safety in covered locations.
  ``(b) Objective.--The objective of the Initiative shall be to work 
cooperatively with aviation stakeholders and other stakeholders towards 
the goal of--
          ``(1) reducing the rate of fatal aircraft accidents in 
        covered locations by 90 percent from 2019 to 2033; and
          ``(2) by January 1, 2033, eliminating fatal accidents of 
        aircraft operated by an air carrier that operates under part 
        135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  ``(c) Leadership.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Administrator shall designate the 
        Regional Administrator for the Alaskan Region of the 
        Administration to serve as the Director of the Initiative.
          ``(2) Reporting chain.--In all matters relating to the 
        Initiative, the Director of the Initiative shall report 
        directly to the Administrator.
          ``(3) Coordination.--The Director of the Initiative shall 
        coordinate with the heads of other offices and lines of 
        business of the Administration, including the other regional 
        administrators, to carry out the Initiative.
  ``(d) Automated Weather Systems.--
          ``(1) Requirement.--The Administrator shall ensure, to the 
        greatest extent practicable, that a covered automated weather 
        system is installed and operated at each covered airport not 
        later than December 31, 2030.
          ``(2) Waiver.--In complying with the requirement under 
        paragraph (1), the Administrator may waive any positive 
        benefit-cost ratio requirement for the installation and 
        operation of a covered automated weather system.
          ``(3) Prioritization.--In developing the installation 
        timeline of a covered automated weather system at a covered 
        airport pursuant to this subsection, the Administrator shall--
                  ``(A) coordinate and consult with the governments 
                with jurisdiction over covered locations, covered 
                airports, air carriers operating in covered locations, 
                private pilots based in covered locations, and such 
                other members of the aviation community in covered 
                locations; and
                  ``(B) prioritize early installation at covered 
                airports that would enable the greatest number of 
                instrument flight rule operations by air carriers 
                operating under part 121 or 135 of title 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations.
          ``(4) Reliability.--
                  ``(A) In general.--Pertaining to both Federal and 
                non-Federal systems, the Administrator shall be 
                responsible for ensuring--
                          ``(i) the reliability of covered automated 
                        weather systems; and
                          ``(ii) the availability of weather 
                        information from such systems.
                  ``(B) Specifications.--The Administrator shall 
                establish data availability and equipment reliability 
                specifications for covered automated weather systems.
                  ``(C) System reliability and restoration plan.--Not 
                later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this 
                section, the Administrator shall establish an automated 
                weather system reliability and restoration plan. Such 
                plan shall document the Administrator's strategy for 
                ensuring covered automated weather system reliability, 
                including the availability of weather information from 
                such system, and for restoring service in as little 
                time as possible.
                  ``(D) Telecommunications or other failures.--If a 
                covered automated weather system is unable to broadly 
                disseminate weather information due to a 
                telecommunications failure or a failure other than an 
                equipment failure, the Administrator shall take such 
                actions as may be necessary to restore the full 
                functionality and connectivity of the covered automated 
                weather system. The Administrator shall take actions 
                under this subparagraph with the same urgency as the 
                Administrator would take an action to repair a covered 
                automated weather system equipment failure or data 
                fidelity issue.
                  ``(E) Reliability data.--In tabulating data relating 
                to the operational status of covered automated weather 
                systems (including individually or collectively), the 
                Administrator may not consider a covered automated 
                weather system that is functioning nominally but is 
                unable to broadly disseminate weather information 
                telecommunications failure or a failure other than an 
                equipment failure as functioning reliably.
          ``(5) Inventory.--The Administrator shall consider storing 
        excess inventory necessary for air traffic control equipment, 
        including commonly required replacement parts, in covered 
        locations to reduce the amount of time necessary to acquire 
        such equipment or such parts necessary to replace or repair air 
        traffic control system components.
          ``(6) Visual weather observation system.--Not later than 1 
        year after the date of enactment of this section, the 
        Administrator shall take such actions as may be necessary to--
                  ``(A) deploy visual weather observation systems; and
                  ``(B) ensure that such systems are capable of meeting 
                the definition of covered automated weather systems.
  ``(e) Weather Cameras.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Director shall continuously assess the 
        state of the weather camera systems in covered locations to 
        ensure the operational sufficiency and reliability of such 
        systems.
          ``(2) Applications.--The Director shall--
                  ``(A) accept applications from persons to install 
                weather cameras; and
                  ``(B) consult with the governments with jurisdiction 
                over covered locations, covered airports, air carriers 
                operating in covered locations, private pilots based in 
                covered locations, and such other members of the 
                aviation community in covered locations as the 
                Administrator determines appropriate to solicit 
                additional locations at which to install and operate 
                weather cameras.
          ``(3) Presumption.--Unless the Director has clear and 
        compelling evidence to the contrary, the Director shall presume 
        that the installation of a weather camera at a covered airport, 
        or that is recommended by a government with jurisdiction over a 
        covered location, is cost beneficial and will improve aviation 
        safety.
  ``(f) Cooperation With Other Agencies.--In carrying out this section, 
the Administrator shall cooperate with the heads of other Federal or 
State agencies with responsibilities affecting aviation safety in 
covered locations, including the collection and dissemination of 
weather data.
  ``(g) Surveillance and Communication.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Director shall take such actions as 
        may be necessary to--
                  ``(A) encourage and incentivize the equipage of 
                aircrafts that operate under part 135 of title 14, Code 
                of Federal Regulations, with automatic dependent 
                surveillance and broadcast out equipment; and
                  ``(B) improve aviation surveillance and 
                communications in covered locations.
          ``(2) Requirement.--Not later than December 31, 2030, the 
        Administrator shall ensure that automatic dependent 
        surveillance and broadcast coverage is available at 5,000 feet 
        above ground level throughout each covered location.
          ``(3) Waiver.--In complying with the requirement under 
        paragraph (2), the Administrator shall waive any positive 
        benefit-cost ratio requirement for the installation and 
        operation of equipment and facilities necessary to implement 
        such requirement.
          ``(4) Service areas.--The Director shall continuously 
        identify additional automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast 
        service areas in which the deployment of automatic dependent 
        surveillance-broadcast receivers and equipment would improve 
        aviation safety.
  ``(h) Other Projects.--The Director shall continue to build upon 
other initiatives recommended in the reports of the FAA Alaska Aviation 
Safety Initiative of the Administration published before the date of 
enactment of this section.
  ``(i) Annual Report.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Director shall submit an annual report 
        on the status and progress of the Initiative to the Committee 
        on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate.
          ``(2) Objectives and requirements.--The report under 
        paragraph (1) shall include a detailed description of the 
        Director's progress in and plans for meeting the objectives of 
        the Initiative under subsection (b) and the other requirements 
        of this section.
          ``(3) Stakeholder comments.--The Director shall append 
        stakeholder comments, organized by topic, to each report 
        submitted under paragraph (1) in the same manner as appendix 3 
        of the report titled `FAA Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative 
        FY21 Final Report', dated September 30, 2021.
  ``(j) Funding.--
          ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision of 
        law, in fiscal years 2024 through 2028--
                  ``(A) the Administrator may, upon application from 
                the government with jurisdiction over a covered 
                location, use amounts apportioned to a covered location 
                under subsection (d)(2)(B) or subsection (e)(5) of 
                section 47114 to carry out the Initiative; or
                  ``(B) the sponsor of an airport in a covered location 
                that receives an apportionment under subsection 
                (d)(2)(B) or subsection (e) of section 47114 may use 
                such apportionment for any purpose contained in this 
                section.
          ``(2) Supplemental funding.--Out of amounts made available 
        under section 106(k) and section 48101, not more than a total 
        of $25,000,000 for each of fiscal year 2024 through 2028 is 
        authorized to be expended to carry out the Initiative.
  ``(k) Definitions.--In this section:
          ``(1) Covered airport.--The term `covered airport' means an 
        airport in a covered location that is included in the national 
        plan of integrated airport systems required under section 47103 
        and that has a status other than unclassified in such plan.
          ``(2) Covered automated weather system.--The term `covered 
        automated weather system' means an automated or visual weather 
        reporting facility that enables a pilot to begin an instrument 
        procedure approach to an airport under section 91.1039 or 
        135.225 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          ``(3) Covered location.--The term `covered location' means 
        Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern 
        Mariana Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands.''.
  (b) Remote Positions.--Section 40122(g) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
          ``(7) Remote positions.--
                  ``(A) In general.--If the Administrator determines 
                that a covered position has not been filled after 
                multiple vacancy announcements and that there are 
                unique circumstances affecting the ability of the 
                Administrator to fill such position, the Administrator 
                may consider, in consultation with the appropriate 
                labor union, applicants for the covered position who 
                apply under a vacancy announcement recruiting from the 
                State or territory in which the position is based.
                  ``(B) Covered position defined.--In this paragraph, 
                the term `covered position' means a safety-critical 
                position based in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, American 
                Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the 
                Virgin Islands.''.
  (c) Runway Length.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the 
Secretary of Transportation may not require an airport to shorten a 
runway or prevent airport improvement grants made by the Secretary to 
be used for reconstructing and rehabilitating a primary runway on the 
basis that the airport does not have a sufficient number of aircraft 
operations requiring a certain runway length if--
          (1) the airport is located in a covered location;
          (2) the airport is not connected to the road transportation 
        network; and
          (3) the runway length is utilized by aircraft to deliver 
        necessary cargo, including heating fuel and gasoline, for the 
        community served by the airport.
  (d) Alaskan Regional Administrator.--
          (1) Sense of congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
                  (A) the Regional Administrator for the Alaskan Region 
                is a uniquely important position that contributes to 
                aviation safety in the State of Alaska;
                  (B) vacancies in any Federal Aviation Administration 
                office have a deleterious effect on the efficacy of the 
                Alaskan Region office;
                  (C) a prolonged vacancy in the position of Regional 
                Administrator for the Alaskan Region may be detrimental 
                to the effective administration of such region and the 
                Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative; and
                  (D) the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration should ensure that any vacancy in the 
                position of Regional Administrator for the Alaskan 
                Region is filled will a highly qualified candidate as 
                expeditiously as possible.
          (2) Vacancy notification requirements.--
                  (A) Initial vacancy.--The Administrator of the 
                Federal Aviation Administration shall notify the 
                appropriate committees of Congress when there is a 
                vacancy for the position of Regional Administrator for 
                the Alaskan Region.
                  (B) Status updates.--Not later than 90 days after the 
                notification under subparagraph (A) (and every 30 days 
                thereafter until the vacancy described under 
                subparagraph (A) is filled), the Administrator shall 
                notify the appropriate committees of Congress of any 
                vacancy of such position, if so, provide an estimated 
                timeline for filling such vacancy.
                  (C) Appropriate committees of congress defined.--In 
                this paragraph, the term ``appropriate committees of 
                Congress'' means the Committee on Transportation and 
                Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
                Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
                the Senate.
                  (D) Sunset.--This paragraph shall cease to be 
                effective after September 30, 2028.
  (e) Implementation of NTSB Recommendations.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 3 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall take such 
        actions as may be necessary to implement National 
        Transportation Safety Board recommendations A-22-25 and A-22-26 
        (as contained in Aviation Investigation Report AIR-22-09, 
        adopted November 16, 2022).
          (2) Coordination.--In taking actions under paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator shall coordinate with the State of Alaska, 
        airports in Alaska, air carriers operating in Alaska, private 
        pilots (including tour operators) based in Alaska, and such 
        other members of the Alaska aviation community or other 
        stakeholders as the Administrator determines appropriate.
  (f) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 447 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``44745. Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative.''.

SEC. 511. CONTINUED OVERSIGHT OF FAA COMPLIANCE PROGRAM.

  Section 122 of the Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability 
Act (Public Law 116-260; 134 Stat. 2344) is amended--
          (1) in subsection (b) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting 
        the following:
          ``(2) conduct an annual agency-wide evaluation of the 
        Compliance Program through fiscal year 2028 to assess the 
        functioning and effectiveness of such program and to 
        determine--
                  ``(A) the need for long-term metrics that, to the 
                maximum extent practicable, apply to all program 
                offices to assess the effectiveness of the program;
                  ``(B) if the program ensures the highest level of 
                compliance with safety standards; and
                  ``(C) if the program has met its stated safety goals 
                and purpose;'';
          (2) in subsection (c)(4) by striking ``2023'' and inserting 
        ``2028''; and
          (3) in subsection (d) by striking ``2023'' and inserting 
        ``2028''.

SEC. 512. SCALABILITY OF SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS.

  In conducting any rulemaking to require, or implementing a regulation 
requiring, a safety management system, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall consider the scalability of such safety 
management system requirements to the full range of entities in terms 
of size or complexity that may be affected by such rulemaking or 
regulation, including--
          (1) how an entity can demonstrate compliance using various 
        documentation, tools, and methods, including, as appropriate, 
        systems with multiple small operators collectively monitoring 
        for and addressing risks;
          (2) a review of traditional safety management techniques and 
        the suitability of such techniques for small entities;
          (3) the applicability of existing safety management system 
        programs implemented by an entity;
          (4) the suitability of existing requirements under part 5 of 
        title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, for small entities; and
          (5) other unique challenges relating to small entities the 
        Administrator determines appropriate to consider.

SEC. 513. FINALIZE SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM RULEMAKING.

  (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 a final rule relating to the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking 
of the Federal Aviation Administration titled ``Safety Management 
Systems'', issued on January 11, 2023.
  (b) Applicability.--In issuing a final rule under subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall ensure that the safety management system 
requirement under the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking described in 
subsection (a) is applied to all certificate holders operating under 
the rules for commuter and on-demand operations under part 135 of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations, commercial air tour operators 
operating under section 91.147 of such title, production certificate 
holders that are holders or licensees of a type certificate for the 
same product, and holders of a type certificate who license out such 
certificate for production under part 21 of such title.

SEC. 514. IMPROVEMENTS TO AVIATION SAFETY INFORMATION ANALYSIS AND 
                    SHARING.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall implement improvements to the Aviation Safety Information 
Analysis and Sharing Program with respect to safety data sharing and 
risk mitigation.
  (b) Requirements.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator 
shall--
          (1) identify methods to increase the rate at which data is 
        collected, processed, and analyzed to expeditiously share 
        safety intelligence;
          (2) develop predictive capabilities to anticipate emerging 
        safety risks;
          (3) identify methods to improve shared data environments with 
        external stakeholders;
          (4) establish a robust process for prioritizing requests for 
        safety information;
          (5) establish guidance to encourage regular safety inspector 
        review of non-confidential aviation safety and performance 
        data;
          (6) identify industry segments not yet included and conduct 
        outreach to such industry segments to increase the rate of 
        participation, including--
                  (A) general aviation;
                  (B) rotorcraft;
                  (C) air ambulance; and
                  (C) maintenance facilities; and
          (7) establish processes for obtaining and analyzing 
        comprehensive and aggregate data for new and future industry 
        segments.
  (c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed--
          (1) to require the Administrator to share confidential or 
        proprietary information and data to safety inspectors for 
        purposes of enforcement; or
          (2) to limit the applicability of section 44735 of title 49, 
        United States Code, to the Aviation Safety Information Analysis 
        and Sharing Program.
  (d) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, and every 6 months thereafter until the improvements under 
subsection (a) are made, the Administrator shall brief the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on 
the progress of implementation of the Aviation Safety Information 
Analysis and Sharing Program and steps taken to make improvements under 
subsection (a).

SEC. 515. IMPROVEMENT OF CERTIFICATION PROCESSES.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall continually look for opportunities and methods to 
improve the processing of applications, consideration of applications, 
communication with applicants, and quality of feedback provided to 
applicants, for aircraft certification projects.
  (b) Certification Improvements.--Not later than 270 days after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall enter into an 
appropriate arrangement with a qualified third-party organization or 
consortium to identify and assess digital tools and software systems to 
allow for efficient and virtual evaluation of an applicant design, 
associated documentation, and software or systems engineering product, 
including in digital 3 dimensional formats or using model-based systems 
engineering design techniques for aircraft certification projects.
  (c) Parties to Review.--In identifying digital tools and software 
systems as described in subsection (b), the Administrator shall ensure 
that the qualified third-party organization or consortium entering into 
an arrangement under this section shall, throughout the review, consult 
with--
          (1) the aircraft certification and flight standards offices 
        or services of the Administration; and
          (2) at least 3 industry members representing aircraft and 
        aircraft part manufacturing interests.
  (d) Digital Tool and Software System Requirements.--In identifying 
digital tools and software systems under subsection (b), the qualified 
third-party organization or consortium shall--
          (1) consider the interoperability of such systems to the 
        extent practicable;
          (2) consider the scalability and usability of such systems 
        for differing use-cases by aircraft manufacturers, aircraft 
        operators, and the Administration, including cross-office use-
        cases within the Administration;
          (3) consider such systems currently in use by United States 
        manufacturers or other civil aviation authorities for 
        certification and engineering purposes;
          (4) consider the--
                  (A) available technology support for such systems; 
                and
                  (B) ability for such systems to be updated and 
                adapted over time to improve user interfaces, including 
                providing additional functionalities and addressing 
                gaps;
          (5) consider the ability of digital tools and software 
        systems to aid in the electronic review of software components 
        of aircraft and aircraft systems;
          (6) consider the ability of the Administration and aircraft 
        designers to use digital tools and software systems for 
        corrective actions and modifications in a more rapid fashion;
          (7) determine if each system provides adequate protections 
        for the exchange of information between governmental and 
        nongovernmental entities, including--
                  (A) intellectual property protections;
                  (B) cyber and network security protections; and
                  (C) the ability for governmental and nongovernmental 
                entities to control what is acceptable and what is 
                restricted for other parties;
          (8) evaluate the estimated ease of adoption and any 
        impediments to adoption for personnel of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration; and
          (9) evaluate the ability for nongovernmental organizations of 
        various sizes to adopt and utilize the digital and software 
        systems identified under subsection (b) to improve the aircraft 
        certification application and coordination processes with the 
        Administration.
  (e) Assessment.--After reviewing digital and software systems under 
subsection (b), the qualified third-party organization or consortium 
shall provide an assessment to the Administrator as to--
          (1) whether or not digital and software systems and tools 
        would improve the coordination of the Administration with 
        industry;
          (2) whether or not such systems and tools would improve the 
        ability of the Administration to validate and verify aircraft 
        and software designs in non-paper formats; and
          (3) the potential safety benefits or safety risks of using 
        such systems and tools.
  (f) Content of Assessment.--In the event the qualified third-party 
organization or consortium finds that digital and software systems and 
tools would assist the work of the Administration and improve 
certification projects processing, the assessment described under 
subsection (e) shall also include--
          (1) a prioritization, expected costs, and timeline of 
        acquisitions and training based on immediate and future needs 
        and benefits; and
          (2) suggest actions the Administration could take in order to 
        institutionalize the use of such technologies at the 
        headquarters and field offices of the Administration, and to 
        protect information shared through such technologies, including 
        recommended updates to orders issued by the Administration.
  (g) Implementation.--Based on the assessment required in subsections 
(e) and (f), if the qualified third-party organization finds that the 
use of digital software systems and tools would assist the work of the 
agency, the Administrator shall--
          (1) provide the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
        Senate with a briefing on the intended actions of the 
        Administrator;
          (2) not later than 60 days after receiving such assessment 
        develop a plan to--
                  (A) work towards the acquisition of the systems and 
                tools recommended, subject to the availability of 
                appropriations;
                  (B) update any applicable orders and guidance to 
                allow for the use of these new systems and tools by 
                personnel of the Administration and nongovernmental 
                entities applying to or coordinating with the 
                Administration on certification related activities, at 
                the discretion of the applicant or nongovernmental 
                entity;
                  (C) on an ongoing basis review and modify orders and 
                guidance to improve the use of these systems and tools 
                as well as addressing any intellectual property 
                vulnerabilities; and
  (h) Briefing.--Not later than 30 months after receiving such 
assessment, the Administrator shall provide the committees described in 
paragraph (1) with a briefing on the use, benefits, and any drawbacks 
of the systems and tools, including comparisons between certification 
programs using and not using digital and software systems and tools.

SEC. 516. INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONTINUED AIRWORTHINESS AVIATION RULEMAKING 
                    COMMITTEE.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall convene an aviation rulemaking committee to review, and develop 
findings and recommendations regarding, instructions for continued 
airworthiness (as described in section 21.50 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations), and provide to the Administrator a report on such 
findings and recommendations and for other related purposes as 
determined by the Administrator.
  (b) Composition.--The aviation rulemaking committee established 
pursuant to subsection (a) shall consist of members appointed by the 
Administrator, including representatives of--
          (1) holders of type certificates (as described in subpart B 
        of part 21, title 14, Code of Federal Regulations);
          (2) holders of production certificates (as described in 
        subpart G of part 21, title 14, Code of Federal Regulations);
          (3) holders of parts manufacturer approvals (as described in 
        subpart K of part 21, title 14, Code of Federal Regulations);
          (4) holders of technical standard order authorizations (as 
        described in subpart O of part 21, title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations);
          (5) operators under parts 121, 125, or 135 of title 14, Code 
        of Federal Regulations;
          (6) holders of repair station certificates (as described in 
        section 145 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations);
          (7) the certified bargaining representative of aviation 
        safety inspectors for the Administration;
          (8) general aviation operators;
          (9) mechanics certificated under part 65 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations;
          (10) holders of supplemental type certificates (as described 
        in subpart E of part 21 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations);
          (11) designated engineering representatives employed by 
        repair stations; and
          (12) aviation safety experts with specific knowledge of 
        instructions for continued airworthiness policies and 
        regulations.
  (c) Considerations.--The aviation rulemaking committee established 
pursuant to subsection (a) shall consider--
          (1) existing standards, regulations, certifications, 
        assessments, and guidance related to instructions for continued 
        airworthiness and the clarity of such standards, regulations, 
        certifications, assessments, and guidance to all parties;
          (2) the sufficiency of safety data used in preparing 
        instructions for continued airworthiness;
          (3) the sufficiency of maintenance data used in preparing 
        instructions for continued airworthiness;
          (4) the protection of proprietary information and 
        intellectual property in instructions for continued 
        airworthiness;
          (5) the availability of instructions for continued 
        airworthiness, as needed, for maintenance activities;
          (6) the need to harmonize or deconflict proposed and existing 
        regulations with other Federal regulations, guidance, and 
        policies;
          (7) international collaboration, where appropriate and 
        consistent with the interests of safety in air commerce and 
        national security, with other civil aviation authorities, 
        international aviation and standards organizations, and any 
        other appropriate entities; and
          (8) any other matter the Administrator determines 
        appropriate.
  (d) Duties.--The Administrator shall--
          (1) not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this 
        Act, 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 copy of the aviation rulemaking committee report under 
        subsection (a); and
          (2) not later than 180 days after the date of submission of 
        the report under paragraph (1), initiate a rulemaking activity 
        or make such policy and guidance updates necessary to address 
        any consensus recommendations reached by the aviation 
        rulemaking committee established pursuant to subsection (a), as 
        determined appropriate by the Administrator.

SEC. 517. CLARITY FOR SUPPLEMENTAL TYPE CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall issue or update guidance, policy documents, 
orders, job aids, or regulations to clarify the conditions under which 
a major alteration will require a supplemental type certificate under 
part 21 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  (b) Contents.--Issuances or updates under subsection (a) shall 
include providing clarity around--
          (1) the terms ``might appreciatively effect'' and ``no 
        appreciable effect pursuant to sections 1.1 and 21.93 of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations, respectively''; and
          (2) whether the term ``other approved design'', as such term 
        appears in part 21.1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        includes engineering data approved by the Administrator by 
        means other than through a supplemental type certificate.
  (c) Considerations.--In satisfying subsection (a), the Administrator 
shall make such updates as necessary to provide consideration for the 
level of effort required by an applicant to make a major alteration and 
the associated level of risk to the national airspace system for a 
single aircraft or multiple aircraft using such alteration.

SEC. 518. USE OF ADVANCED TOOLS IN CERTIFYING AEROSPACE PRODUCTS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 30 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall complete an assessment of the use of advanced tools during the 
testing, analysis, and verification stages of aerospace certification 
projects to reduce the risks associated with high-risk flight profiles 
and performing limit testing.
  (b) Considerations.--In carrying out the assessment under subsection 
(a), the Administrator shall consider--
          (1) instances where high risk flight profiles and limit 
        testing have already occurred in the certification process and 
        the applicability of such test data for use in other aspects of 
        flight testing;
          (2) the safety of pilots during such testing;
          (3) the value and accuracy of data collected using such 
        advanced tools;
          (4) the ability to produce more extensive data sets using 
        such advanced tools;
          (5) any aspects of testing for which the use of such tools 
        would not be valuable or applicable;
          (6) the cost of using such advanced tools; and
          (7) the best practices of other civil aviation authorities 
        that permit the use of advanced tools during aerospace 
        certification projects.
  (c) Consultation.--In carrying out the assessment under subsection 
(a), the Administrator shall consult with--
          (1) aircraft manufacturers, including manufacturers that have 
        designed and certified aircraft under--
                  (A) part 23 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations;
                  (B) part 25 of such title; or
                  (C) part 27 of such title;
          (2) aircraft manufacturers that have designed and certified, 
        or are in the process of certifying, aircraft with a novel 
        design under part 21.17(b) of such title;
          (3) associations representing aircraft manufacturers;
          (4) researchers and academics in related fields; and
          (5) pilots who are experts in flight testing.
  (d) Congressional Report.--Not later than 60 days after the 
completion of the assessment under subsection (a), the Administrator 
shall brief the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate on--
          (1) the results of the assessment conducted under subsection 
        (a); and
          (2) how the Administrator plans to implement the findings of 
        the assessment and any changes needed to Administration policy, 
        guidance, and regulations to allow for and optimize the use of 
        advanced tools during the certification of aerospace products 
        in order to reduce risk and improve safety outcomes.

SEC. 519. TRANSPORT AIRPLANE AND PROPULSION CERTIFICATION 
                    MODERNIZATION.

  Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall publish a 
notice of proposed rulemaking for the rulemaking activity titled 
``Transport Airplane and Propulsion Certification Modernization'', 
published in Fall 2022 in the Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and 
Deregulatory Actions (RIN 2120-AL42).

SEC. 520. ENGINE FIRE PROTECTION STANDARDS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall establish an internal regulatory review team to review and 
compare domestic and international airworthiness standards and guidance 
for aircraft engine firewalls.
  (b) Review.--In completing the review under subsection (a), the 
regulatory review team shall--
          (1) identify any significant differences in standards or 
        guidance with respect to test article selection, fire test 
        boundaries, and pass-fail criteria;
          (2) consider if alternative international standards used by 
        peer civil aviation authorities reflect best practices that 
        should be adopted by the Administration;
          (3) recommend updates, if appropriate, to the Significant 
        Standards List of the Administration based on any findings;
          (4) assess whether a selection of aircraft engine firewalls 
        certified by other civil aviation authorities, which were 
        validated by the Administration, comply with the requirements 
        of the Administration;
          (5) recommend actions the Administration should take during 
        future validation activities or with other civil aviation 
        authorities to address any gaps in requirements; and
          (6) consult with industry stakeholders during such review.
  (c) Briefing.--Not later than 120 days after the completion of the 
review under subsection (a), the Administrator shall brief the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate on the findings and recommendations 
stemming from such review.

SEC. 521. RISK MODEL FOR PRODUCTION FACILITY INSPECTIONS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act and periodically thereafter, the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall--
          (1) conduct a review of the risk-based model used by Federal 
        Aviation Administration certification management offices to 
        inform the frequency of aircraft manufacturing or production 
        facility inspections; and
          (2) update the model to ensure such model adequately accounts 
        for risk at facilities during periods of increased production.
  (b) Briefings.--Not later than 60 days after the date on which the 
review is conducted under subsection (a), the Administrator shall brief 
the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate on--
          (1) the results of the review;
          (2) any changes made to the risk-based model described in 
        subsection (a); and
          (3) how such changes would help improve the in-plant 
        inspection process.

SEC. 522. SECONDARY COCKPIT BARRIERS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 6 months after the issuance of a 
final rule on the proposed rule of the Federal Aviation Administration 
titled ``Installation and Operation of Flightdeck Installed Physical 
Secondary Barriers on Transport Category Airlines in Part 121 
Service'', and issued on August 1, 2022 (87 Fed. Reg. 46892), the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall convene an 
aviation rulemaking committee to review and develop findings and 
recommendations to require installation of a secondary cockpit barrier 
on aircraft operated under the provisions of part 121 of title 14, Code 
of Federal Regulations, that are not captured under another regulation 
or proposed regulation.
  (b) Membership.--The Administrator shall appoint the members of the 
rulemaking committee convened under subsection (a), which shall be 
comprised of at least 1 representative each of--
          (1) mainline air carriers;
          (2) regional air carriers;
          (3) cargo air carriers;
          (4) aircraft manufacturers;
          (5) a labor group representing pilots;
          (6) a labor group representing flight attendants; and
          (7) other stakeholders the Administrator determines 
        appropriate.
  (c) Considerations.--The aviation rulemaking committee convened under 
subsection (a) shall consider--
          (1) minimum dimension requirements for secondary barriers on 
        all aircraft types operated under part 121 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations;
          (2) secondary barrier performance standards manufacturers and 
        air carriers must meet for such aircraft types;
          (3) the availability of certified secondary barriers suitable 
        for use on such aircraft types;
          (4) the development, certification, testing, manufacturing, 
        installation, and training for secondary barriers for such 
        aircraft types;
          (5) flight duration and stage length;
          (6) the location of lavatory on such aircraft as related to 
        operational complexities;
          (7) operational complexities;
          (8) any risks to safely evacuate passengers of such aircraft; 
        and
          (9) other considerations the Administrator determines 
        appropriate.
  (d) Report to Congress.--Not later than 18 months after the convening 
of the aviation rulemaking committee described in 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 based on 
the findings and recommendations of the aviation rulemaking committee 
convened under subsection (a), to include--
          (1) if applicable, any dissenting positions on the findings 
        and the rationale for each position; and
          (2) any disagreements, including the rationale for each 
        position and the reasons for the disagreement.

SEC. 523. REVIEW OF FAA USE OF AEROSPACE SAFETY DATA.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall enter into an appropriate arrangement with a qualified third-
party organization or consortium to evaluate the Administration's 
collection, collation, analysis, and use of aerospace data across the 
Administration.
  (b) Consultation.--In completing the evaluation under subsection (a), 
the qualified third-party organization or consortium shall--
          (1) seek the input of experts in data analytics, including at 
        least 1 expert in the commercial data services or analytics 
        solutions sector;
          (2) consult with the National Transportation Safety Board and 
        the Transportation Research Board; and
          (3) consult with appropriate federally funded research and 
        development centers, to the extent that such centers are not 
        already involved in the evaluation.
  (c) Substance of Evaluation.--In completing the evaluation under 
subsection (a), the qualified third-party organization or consortium 
shall--
          (1) compile a list of internal and external sources, 
        databases, and streams of information the Administration 
        receives or has access to that provide the Administration with 
        operational or safety information and data about the national 
        airspace system, its users, and other regulated entities of the 
        Administration;
          (2) review data sets to determine completeness and accuracy 
        of relevant information;
          (3) identify gaps in information that the Administration 
        could fill through sharing agreements, partnerships, or other 
        means that would add value during safety trend analysis;
          (4) assess the Administration's capabilities, including 
        analysis systems and workforce skillsets, to analyze relevant 
        data and information to make informed decisions;
          (5) review data and information for proper storage, 
        identification controls, and data privacy--
                  (A) as required by law; and
                  (B) consistent with best practices for data 
                collection, storage, and use;
          (6) review the format of such data and identify methods to 
        improve the usefulness of such data;
          (7) assess internal and external access to data for--
                  (A) appropriateness based on data type and level of 
                detail;
                  (B) proper data access protocols and precautions; and
                  (C) maximizing availability of safety-related data 
                that could support the improvement of safety management 
                systems of and trend identification by regulated 
                entities and the Administration;
          (8) examine the collation and dissemination of data within 
        offices and between offices of the Administration;
          (9) review and recommend improvements to the data analysis 
        techniques of the Administration; and
          (10) recommend investments the Administration should consider 
        to better collect, manage, and analyze data sets, including 
        within and between offices of the Administration.
  (d) Access to Information.--The Administration shall provide the 
qualified third-party organization or consortium and the experts 
described in subsection (b) with adequate access to safety and 
operational data collected by and held by the agency across all offices 
of the Administration, except if specific access is otherwise 
prohibited by law.
  (e) Nondisclosure.--Prior to participating in the review, the 
Administrator shall ensure that each person participating in the 
evaluation under this section enters into an agreement with the 
Administrator in which the person shall be prohibited from disclosing 
at any time, except as required by law, to any person, foreign or 
domestic, any non-public information made accessible to the federally 
funded research and development center under this section.
  (f) Report.--The qualified third-party organization or consortium 
carrying out the evaluation under this section shall provide a report 
of the findings of the center to the Administrator and include 
recommendations to improve the Administration's collection, collation, 
analysis, and use of aerospace data, including recommendations to--
          (1) improve data access across offices within the 
        Administration, as necessary, to support efficient execution of 
        safety analysis and programs across such offices;
          (2) improve data storage best practices;
          (3) develop or refine methods for collating data from 
        multiple administration and industry sources; and
          (4) procure or use available analytics tools to draw 
        conclusions and identify previously unrecognized trends or 
        miscategorized risks in the aviation system, particularly when 
        identification of such information requires the analysis of 
        multiple sets of data from multiple sources.
  (g) Implementation of Recommendations.--Not later than 6 months after 
the receipt of the report under subsection (f), the Administrator shall 
review, develop an implementation plan, and begin the implementation of 
the recommendations received in such report.
  (h) Review of Implementation.--The qualified third-party organization 
or consortium that conducted the initial evaluation, and any experts 
who contributed to such evaluation pursuant to subsection (b)(1), shall 
provide regular feedback and advice to the Administrator on the 
implementation plan developed under subsection (g) and any 
implementation activities for at least 2 years beginning on the date of 
the receipt of the report under subsection (f).
  (i) Report to Congress.--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 the report described in subsection (f) and 
the implementation plan described in subsection (g).
  (j) Existing Reporting Systems.--Consistent with section 132 of the 
Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act (Public Law 116-
260), the Executive Director of the Transportation Research Board, in 
consultation with the Secretary of Transportation and the 
Administrator, may further harmonize data and sources following the 
implementation of recommendations contained in the report required 
under subsection (g).

SEC. 524. PART 135 DUTY AND REST.

  (a) Part 91 Tail-end Ferry Rulemaking.--Not later than 3 years after 
the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall require that any operation conducted by a 
flightcrew member during an assigned duty period under the operational 
control of an operator holding a certificate under part 135 of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations, before, during, or after the duty 
period (including any operations under part 91 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations), without an intervening rest period, shall count 
towards the flight time and duty period limitations of such flightcrew 
member under part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  (b) Record Keeping.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall update any 
Administration policy and guidance regarding complete and accurate 
record keeping practices for operators holding a certificate under part 
135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, in order to properly 
document, at a minimum--
          (1) flightcrew assignments;
          (2) flightcrew rest notifications;
          (3) compliance with flight and duty times limitations and 
        post-duty rest requirements; and
          (4) duty period start and end times.
  (c) Safety Management System Oversight.--The Administrator, in 
performing oversight of the safety management system of an operator 
holding a certificate under part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations, following the implementation of the final rule issued 
based on the rulemaking titled ``Safety Management Systems'', and 
published on January 11, 2023 (88 Fed. Reg 1932), shall ensure such 
operator is evaluating and appropriately mitigating aviation safety 
risks, including, at minimum, risks associated with--
          (1) inadequate flightcrew member duty and rest periods; and
          (2) incomplete records pertaining to flightcrew rest, duty, 
        and flight times.

SEC. 525. COCKPIT VOICE AND VIDEO RECORDERS.

  (a) In General.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, is 
further amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 44746. Cockpit recording device

  ``(a) In General.--Not later than 18 months after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall complete a rulemaking proceeding to--
          ``(1) require that, not later than 4 years after the date of 
        enactment of this section, all applicable aircraft are fitted 
        with a cockpit voice recorder and a flight data recorder that 
        are each capable of recording the most recent 25 hours of data;
          ``(2) prohibit any person from deliberately erasing or 
        tampering with any recording on such a cockpit voice recorder 
        or flight data recorder following a National Transportation 
        Safety Board reportable event under part 830 of title 49, Code 
        of Federal Regulations, and provide for civil and criminal 
        penalties for such deliberate erasing or tampering, which may 
        be assessed in accordance with section 1155 and section 32 of 
        title 18;
          ``(3) require that such a cockpit voice recorder has the 
        capability for an operator to use an erasure feature, such as 
        an installed bulk erase function, consistent with applicable 
        law and regulations;
          ``(4) require that, in the case of such a cockpit voice 
        recorder or flight data recorder that uses a solid state 
        recording medium in which activation of a bulk erase function 
        assigns a random discrete code to the deleted recording, only 
        the manufacturer of the recorder and National Transportation 
        Safety Board have access to the software necessary to determine 
        the code in order to extract the deleted recorded data; and
          ``(5) ensure that data on such a cockpit voice recorder or a 
        flight data recorder, through technical means other than 
        encryption (such as overwriting or the substitution of a blank 
        recording medium before the recorder is returned to the owner) 
        is not disclosed for use other than for accident or incident 
        investigation purposes.
  ``(b) Prohibited Use.--A cockpit voice recorder recording shall not 
be used by the Administrator or any employer for any certificate 
action, civil penalty, or disciplinary proceedings against flight 
crewmembers.
  ``(c) Applicable Aircraft Defined.--In this section, the term 
`applicable aircraft' means an aircraft that is--
          ``(1) operated under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations; and
          ``(2) required by regulation to have a cockpit voice recorder 
        or a flight data recorder.''.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 447 of title 49, 
United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end the 
following:

``44746. Cockpit recording device.''.

SEC. 526. FLIGHT DATA RECOVERY FROM OVERWATER OPERATIONS.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall direct the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee 
(hereinafter referred to as the ``Committee'' in this section) to 
review regulations regarding flight data recovery for aircraft--
          (1) operated under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations; and
          (2) used in extended overwater operations.
  (b) Considerations.--In carrying out the review pursuant to 
subsection (a), the Committee shall provide to the Administrator any 
consensus recommendations for the equipage of aircraft described in 
subsection (a) with a cockpit voice recorder and a flight data recorder 
that--
          (1) provide a means, in the event of an accident, to recover 
        mandatory flight data parameters in a manner that does not 
        require the underwater retrieval of the cockpit voice recorder 
        or flight data recorder;
          (2) is equipped with a tamper-resistant method to broadcast 
        sufficient information to a ground station to establish the 
        location where an aircraft terminates flight as the result of 
        an accident within 6 nautical miles of the point of impact of 
        the aircraft; and
          (3) is equipped with an airframe low-frequency underwater 
        locating device that functions for at least 90 days and that 
        can be detected by appropriate equipment.
  (c) Recommendations.--Not later than 18 months after tasking the 
aviation rulemaking advisory committee under subsection (a), the 
committee shall submit to the Administrator any consensus 
recommendations developed under subsection (b).
  (d) Rulemaking.--Not later than 1 year after receiving any 
recommendations pursuant to subsection (c), the Administrator shall 
initiate a rulemaking activity based on such consensus recommendations, 
if determined appropriate.
  (e) Briefing.--If the Administrator decides not to issue a final rule 
with respect to the rulemaking initiated under subsection (d), the 
Administrator shall brief the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the 
justification for such decision.

SEC. 527. EMERGENCY MEDICAL EQUIPMENT ON PASSENGER AIRCRAFT.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 12 months after date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall review and update, as appropriate, part 121 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations, regarding emergency medical equipment, including 
the contents of emergency medical kits, and training required for 
flight crew.
  (b) Consideration.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator 
shall consider--
          (1) the benefits and costs (including the costs of flight 
        diversions and emergency landings) of requiring any new 
        medications or equipment necessary to be included in approved 
        emergency medical kits under part 121 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations; and
          (2) whether the contents of the emergency medical kits 
        include the appropriate medications and equipment that can 
        practicably be administered to address--
                  (A) the emergency medical needs of children and 
                pregnant women;
                  (B) opioid overdose;
                  (C) anaphylaxis; and
                  (D) cardiac arrest.
  (c) Consultation.--In conducting the review required under subsection 
(a), the Administrator shall consult with associations representing 
aerospace medical professionals.

SEC. 528. NAVIGATION AIDS STUDY.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the inspector general of the Department of Transportation 
shall initiate a study examining the effects of reclassifying 
navigation aids to Design Assurance Level-A from Design Assurance 
Level-B, including the following navigation aids:
          (1) Distance measuring equipment.
          (2) Very high frequency omni-directional range.
          (3) Tactical air navigation.
          (4) Wide area augmentation system.
  (b) Contents.--In conducting the study required under subsection (a), 
the inspector general shall address--
          (1) the cost-benefit analyses associated with the 
        reclassification described in such subsection;
          (2) the findings from the operational safety assessments and 
        preliminary hazard analyses of the navigation aids listed in 
        such subsection;
          (3) the risks of such reclassification on navigation aid 
        equipment currently in use;
          (4) the potential impacts on global interoperability of 
        navigational aids; and
          (5) what additional actions should be taken based on the 
        findings of this subsection.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 24 months after the date of enactment of 
this Act, 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 describing the results of the study conducted under subsection 
(a).

SEC. 529. REMOTE TOWERS.

  (a) Study.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall seek to enter into an agreement 
        with a qualified organization to conduct a study examining the 
        viability and feasibility of remote tower technology available 
        on the date of enactment of this Act to accommodate existing 
        air traffic activity at non-towered, public-use airports and 
        airports with a visual flight rule air traffic control tower.
          (2) Considerations.--In the study conducted under subsection 
        (a), the qualified organization selected under such subsection 
        shall consider and include in such study--
                  (A) the effectiveness and adequacy of the pilot 
                program established under section 161 of the FAA 
                Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 47104 note) in--
                          (i) assessing the installation, maintenance, 
                        and operational costs and benefits of remote 
                        tower technology; and
                          (ii) establishing a clear process for the 
                        safety and operational certification of such 
                        technology;
                  (B) a description of actions that the Administration 
                has undertaken to carry out such pilot program;
                  (C) any barriers related to the safety and 
                operational certification of such technology;
                  (D) the number and type of non-towered airports in 
                the national airspace system;
                  (E) the availability and development of remote tower 
                technology;
                  (F) the potential to use remote tower systems to 
                control air traffic at multiple airports and from a 
                single physical location, similar to a terminal radar 
                approach control facility;
                  (G) staffing flexibility to support seasonal staffing 
                of remote towers;
                  (H) safety factors related to the potential need for 
                such remote tower technology;
                  (I) the potential to use remote tower systems to 
                surveil for unmanned aircraft, in conjunction with 
                unmanned aircraft system traffic management systems, to 
                enhance air traffic management of manned air traffic;
                  (J) factors related to the demand for remote tower 
                technology;
                  (K) an examination of remote tower use in other 
                countries;
                  (L) projected costs associated with installing and 
                maintain remote tower technology at a single airport; 
                and
                  (M) recommendations regarding the most cost-effective 
                approach to provide air traffic control services at 
                non-towered airports in the national airspace system.
          (3) Input.--In carrying out the study under subsection (a), 
        the qualified organization selected under such subsection 
        shall--
                  (A) seek coordination with the Air Traffic 
                Organization and other offices of the Administration; 
                and
                  (B) seek the participation of representatives of--
                          (i) the exclusive bargaining representatives 
                        of air traffic controllers certified under 
                        section 7111 of title 5, United States Code;
                          (ii) manufacturers of remote towers;
                          (iii) airport operators; and
                          (iv) other stakeholders that the 
                        Administrator determines appropriate.
          (4) 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 detailing the results of 
        the study under subsection (a).
  (b) Certification Process.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the completion 
        of the study required under subsection (a), the Administrator 
        shall establish a process for the certification of system 
        design and operational approval of remote towers for use at 
        public-use airports.
          (2) Consultation.--In carrying out subsection (b), the 
        Administrator shall consult with the following:
                  (A) The exclusive bargaining representative of the 
                air traffic controllers certified under section 7111 of 
                title 5, United States Code.
                  (B) Manufacturers of remote towers.
                  (C) Non-towered airport operators.
          (3) Requirements.--In developing the certification process 
        required under subsection (b), the Administrator shall--
                  (A) establish requirements for the system design and 
                operational approval of remote towers, including--
                          (i) sensor and camera visual requirements;
                          (ii) datalink latency requirements; and
                          (iii) visual presentation design requirements 
                        for monitors used to display sensor and camera 
                        feeds;
                  (B) establish tower-closure standards for contingency 
                operations and procedures for remote tower failures and 
                malfunctions; and
                  (C) consider the use of--
                          (i) ground- and space-based 
                        telecommunications infrastructure; and
                          (ii) any other wireless telecommunications 
                        infrastructure that may enable the operation of 
                        a remote tower.
          (4) Operational approval assessments.--In developing the 
        operational approval process required under this subsection, 
        the Administrator shall--
                  (A) determine the appropriate number of air traffic 
                controllers necessary to staff a remote tower for safe 
                air traffic control operations at the respective 
                airport based on the existing or projected air traffic 
                activity at the airport;
                  (B) use a safety risk management panel process to 
                address any safety issues with respect to the remote 
                tower;
                  (C) if the remote tower is intended to be installed 
                at a non-towered airport, assess the safety benefits of 
                the remote tower against the lack of an existing tower; 
                and
                  (D) establish, to the satisfaction of the 
                Administrator and using performance-based criteria, to 
                the extent appropriate, published in advance, the level 
                of safety necessary for the operation of the remote 
                tower at the airport.
          (5) Airport operators.--An airport operator seeking to 
        install or construct a certified remote tower shall submit to 
        the Administrator an application in such form and containing 
        such information as the Administrator may require.
          (6) Implementation.--In carrying out this section, the 
        Administrator shall--
                  (A) identify air traffic control information and data 
                that assists the Administrator in categorically 
                certifying remote towers at different types of 
                airports;
                  (B) implement processes necessary to collect the 
                information and data identified in subparagraph (A); 
                and
                  (C) develop criteria from the information and data 
                identified in subparagraph (A) to assess remote towers 
                for widespread use at categories of public-use 
                airports.
          (7) Prioritization of remote tower certification 
        applicants.--With respect to applications submitted as required 
        by paragraph (4), the Administrator shall prioritize--
                  (A) airports that do not have a permanent air traffic 
                control tower at the time of application;
                  (B) airports that would provide small and rural 
                community air service; or
                  (C) airports that have been newly accepted as of the 
                date of enactment of this Act into the Contract Tower 
                Program.
          (8) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after receiving the 
        report required under subsection (a), and annually thereafter 
        through fiscal year 2028, the Administrator shall brief the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate on the status of the activities 
        required under this section.
  (c) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Air traffic activity.--The term ``air traffic activity'' 
        means the number of takeoffs, landings, and simulated 
        approaches of an airport and the time of which such takeoffs, 
        landings, and simulated approaches occur.
          (2) Contract tower program.--The term ``Contract Tower 
        Program'' has the meaning given such term in section 47124(e) 
        of title 49, United States Code.
          (3) Qualified organization.--The term ``qualified 
        organization'' means an independent non-profit organization 
        that recommends solutions to public policy challenges through 
        objective analysis.
          (4) Remote tower.--The term ``remote tower'' has the meaning 
        given such term in section 161(a)(9) of the FAA Reauthorization 
        Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 47104 note).

SEC. 530. WEATHER REPORTING SYSTEMS STUDY.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall 
initiate a study to examine how to improve the procurement, 
functionality, and sustainability of weather reporting systems, 
including--
          (1) automated weather observing systems;
          (2) automated surface observing systems;
          (3) visual weather observing systems; and
          (4) non-Federal weather reporting systems.
  (b) Contents.--In conducting the study required under section (a), 
the Comptroller General shall address--
          (1) the current state of the supply chain related to weather 
        reporting systems and the components of such systems, 
        including--
                  (A) the adequacy of suppliers of such systems and 
                components;
                  (B) the affordability of such systems and components; 
                and
                  (C) the availability and affordability of replacement 
                parts;
          (2) the average age of weather reporting systems 
        infrastructure installed in the national airspace system;
          (3) challenges to maintaining and replacing weather reporting 
        systems, including--
                  (A) root causes of weather reporting system outages, 
                including failures of such systems, and supporting 
                systems such as telecommunications infrastructure; and
                  (B) the degree to which such outages affect weather 
                reporting in the national airspace system;
          (4) mitigation measures to maintain aviation safety during 
        such an outage; and
          (5) alternative means of obtaining weather elements at 
        airports, including wind direction, wind speed, barometric 
        pressure setting, and cloud coverage, including visibility.
  (c) Consultation.--In conducting the study required under subsection 
(a), the Comptroller General shall consult with the appropriate 
stakeholders and Federal agencies involved in installing, managing, and 
supporting weather reporting systems in the national airspace system.
  (d) Report.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years 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 describing the results of 
        the study conducted under subsection (a).
          (2) Recommendations.--The Comptroller General shall include 
        in the report submitted under paragraph (1) recommendations 
        for--
                  (A) ways to improve the resiliency and redundancy of 
                weather reporting systems;
                  (B) alternative means of compliance for obtaining 
                weather elements at airports; and
                  (C) if necessary, changes to Orders of the 
                Administration, including the following:
                          (i) Surface Weather Observing, Joint Order 
                        7900.5.
                          (ii) Notices to Air Missions, Joint Order 
                        7930.2.

SEC. 531. GAO STUDY ON EXPANSION OF THE FAA WEATHER CAMERA PROGRAM.

  (a) Study.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall 
conduct a study on the feasibility and benefits and costs of expanding 
the Weather Camera Program of the Federal Aviation Administration to 
locations in the United States that lack weather camera services.
  (b) Considerations.--In conducting the study required under 
subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall review--
          (1) the potential effects of the existing Weather Camera 
        Program on weather-related aviation accidents and flight 
        interruptions;
          (2) the potential benefits and costs associated with 
        expanding the Weather Camera Program;
          (3) limitations on the real-time access of weather camera 
        information by pilots and aircraft operators;
          (4) non-safety related regulatory structures or barriers to 
        the allowable use of weather camera information for the 
        purposes of aircraft operations;
          (5) limitations of existing weather camera systems at the 
        time of the study;
          (6) alternative sources of viable weather data;
          (7) funding mechanisms for weather camera installation and 
        operations; and
          (8) other considerations the Comptroller General determines 
        appropriate.
  (c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 28 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 study 
required under subsection (a).

SEC. 532. STUDY ON AVIATION SAFETY IN ERA OF WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall seek to enter into an agreement with the National Academies to 
conduct a study on matters related to potential conflicts between uses 
of radio spectrum by the aviation ecosystem and wireless 
telecommunication networks.
  (b) Contents.--The study described in subsection (a) shall address 
approaches to mitigating potential safety hazards posed by conflicts 
between uses of spectrum by the aviation ecosystem and wireless 
telecommunications network, including best practices and policy 
recommendations for the Federal Aviation Administration to--
          (1) improve the process by which proposed spectrum 
        reallocations or auctions are thoroughly reviewed in advance to 
        ensure that any comments, objections, or technical concerns 
        from stakeholders or Federal agencies in any Federal 
        Communication Commission proceeding are definitively assessed 
        and, if necessary, addressed;
          (2) assess the effects of proposed spectrum reallocations or 
        auctions on the aviation ecosystem in a timely manner to better 
        meet the needs of the aviation system or to establish realistic 
        timeframes relating to potential aviation equipment 
        modifications or replacements; and
          (3) better communicate to relevant Federal partners and 
        agencies when a proposed spectrum reallocation or auctions may 
        pose a potential risk to aviation safety.
  (c) Stakeholder Views.--In conducting the study under subsection (a), 
the National Academy shall consult with relevant stakeholders, 
including--
          (1) air carriers operating under part 121 of title 14, Code 
        of Federal Regulations;
          (2) operators holding a certificate under part 135, of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations;
          (3) general aviation operators;
          (4) manufacturers of aircraft and aircraft components;
          (5) wireless telecommunication carriers;
          (6) labor unions representing pilots;
          (7) air traffic system safety specialists;
          (8) other representatives of the telecommunications industry;
          (9) aviation safety experts;
          (10) radio spectrum experts; and
          (11) such other stakeholders as the Administrator determines 
        appropriate.
  (d) Report to Congress.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the National Academies shall complete and submit 
a report on the study described in subsection (a) to--
          (1) the Administrator;
          (2) the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
        House of Representatives; and
          (3) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology of the 
        Senate.

SEC. 533. RAMP WORKER SAFETY CALL TO ACTION.

  (a) Call to Action Ramp Worker Safety Review.--Not later than 180 
days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall initiate a Call to Action safety 
review of airport ramp worker safety in order to bring stakeholders 
together to share best practices and implement actions to address 
airport ramp worker safety.
  (b) Contents.--The Call to Action safety review required pursuant to 
subsection (a) shall include--
          (1) a review of Administration regulations, guidance, and 
        directives related to airport ramp worker procedures and 
        oversight of such processes;
          (2) a review of reportable accidents and incidents involving 
        airport ramp workers, including any identified contributing 
        factors to the reportable accident or incident;
          (3) a review of training and related educational materials 
        for airport ramp workers, including supervisory employees;
          (4) a review of devices and methods for communication on the 
        ramp;
          (5) a review of markings on the ramp that define restriction, 
        staging, safety, or hazard zones;
          (6) a review of aircraft jet blast and engine intake safety 
        markings; and
          (7) a process for stakeholders, including airlines, aircraft 
        manufacturers, airports, labor, and aviation safety experts, to 
        provide feedback and share best practices.
  (c) Report and Actions.--Not later than 180 days after the conclusion 
of the Call to Action safety review pursuant to subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall--
          (1) 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 any 
        recommendations for actions or best practices to improve 
        airport ramp worker safety, including the identification of 
        risks and possible mitigations to be considered in any 
        applicable safety management system of air carriers and 
        airports; and
          (2) initiate such actions as are necessary to act upon the 
        findings of the review under subsection (b).

SEC. 534. SAFETY DATA ANALYSIS FOR AIRCRAFT WITHOUT TRANSPONDERS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, 
in coordination with the Chairman of the National Transportation Safety 
Board, shall collect and analyze data relating to accidents and 
incidents involving covered exempt aircraft that occurred within 30 
nautical miles of an airport.
  (b) Requirements.--The analysis required under subsection (a) shall 
include with respect to covered exempt aircraft a review of--
          (1) incident and accident data since 2006;
          (2) incidents and accidents involving midair events, 
        including collisions;
          (3) incidents and accidents involving ground proximity 
        warning system alerts;
          (4) incidents and accidents involving traffic collision 
        avoidance system alerts;
          (5) incidents and accidents involving a loss of separation or 
        near miss; and
          (6) the causes of the accidents and incidents described in 
        paragraphs (1) through (5).
  (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 containing the results of the analysis required under 
subsection (a) and, if appropriate, recommendations on how to reduce 
the number of incidents and accidents associated with such covered 
exempt aircraft.
  (d) Covered Exempt Aircraft Defined.--In this section, the term 
``covered exempt aircraft'' means aircraft, balloons, and gliders 
exempt from air traffic control transponder and altitude reporting 
equipment and use requirements under part 91.215(b)(3) of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 535. CRASH-RESISTANT FUEL SYSTEMS IN ROTORCRAFT.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall task the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee 
to--
          (1) review the data analysis conducted and the 
        recommendations developed by the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory 
        Committee Rotorcraft Occupant Protection Working Group of the 
        Administration;
          (2) update the 2018 report of such working group on 
        rotorcraft occupant protection by--
                  (A) reviewing National Transportation Safety Board 
                data from 2016 through 2023 on post-crash fires in 
                helicopter accidents; and
                  (B) determining whether and to what extent crash-
                resistant fuel systems could have prevented fatalities; 
                and
          (3) develop recommendations for either the Administrator or 
        the helicopter industry to encourage helicopter owners and 
        operators to expedite the installation of crash-resistant fuel 
        systems in the aircraft of such owners and operators regardless 
        of original certification and manufacture date.
  (b) Schedule.--
          (1) Deadline.--Not later than 18 months after the 
        Administrator tasks the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee 
        under subsection (a), the Committee shall submit the 
        recommendations developed under subsection (a)(2) to the 
        Administrator.
          (2) Implementation.--If applicable, and not later than 180 
        days after receiving the recommendations under paragraph (1), 
        the Administrator shall--
                  (A) begin implementing, as appropriate, any consensus 
                safety recommendations the Administrator receives from 
                the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee, and brief 
                the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
                the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
                Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on 
                any recommendations the Administrator does not 
                implement; and
                  (B) partner with the United States Helicopter Safety 
                Team, as appropriate, to facilitate implementation of 
                any recommendations for the helicopter industry 
                pursuant to subsection (a)(2)

SEC. 536. REDUCING TURBULENCE ON PART 121 AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall review and implement, as appropriate, the recommendations made by 
the Chair of the National Transportation Safety Board to the 
Administrator contained in the safety research report titled 
``Preventing Turbulence-Related Injuries in Air Carrier Operations 
Conducted Under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 121'', issued 
on August 10, 2021 (NTSB/SS-21/01).
  (b) Report.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after completing the 
        review under subsection (a), and every 2 years thereafter, 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 status of the recommendations in the 
        safety research report described in subsection (a) until the 
        earlier of--
                  (A) the date on which such recommendations have been 
                adopted; or
                  (B) the date that is 10 years after the date of 
                enactment of this Act.
          (2) Contents.--If the Administrator decides not to implement 
        a recommendation in the safety research report described in 
        subsection (a), the Administrator shall provide, as a part of 
        the report required under paragraph (1), a description of why 
        the Administrator did not implement such recommendation.

SEC. 537. STUDY ON RADIATION EXPOSURE.

  (a) Study.--Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall seek to enter into an agreement with the National Academies of 
Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine under which the National Research 
Council of the National Academies shall conduct a study on radiation 
exposure onboard various aircraft types operated under part 121 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  (b) Scope of Study.--In conducting the study under subsection (a), 
the National Research Council shall assess--
          (1) radiation concentrations in such aircraft at takeoff, in-
        flight at high altitudes, and upon landing;
          (2) the health risks and impact of radiation exposure to 
        flight attendants and passengers onboard aircraft operating at 
        high altitudes; and
          (3) mitigation measures to prevent and reduce the health and 
        safety impacts of radiation exposure to flight attendants and 
        passengers.
  (c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 16 months after the 
initiation of the study required under subsection (a), the Secretary 
shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress the study 
conducted by the National Research Council pursuant to this section.
  (d) Appropriate Committees of Congress Defined.--In this section, the 
term ``appropriate committees of Congress'' means the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on Energy and 
Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, 
Science, and Transportation of the Senate.

SEC. 538. DETERRING CREWMEMBER INTERFERENCE.

  (a) Task Force.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall convene a task force to develop 
        voluntary standards and best practices relating to suspected 
        violations of sections 46318, 46503, and 46504 of title 49, 
        United States Code, including--
                  (A) proper and consistent incident documentation and 
                reporting techniques;
                  (B) best practices for flight crew and cabin crew 
                response, including de-escalation;
                  (C) improved coordination between stakeholders, 
                including flight crew and cabin crew, airport staff, 
                other Federal agencies as appropriate, and law 
                enforcement; and
                  (D) appropriate enforcement actions.
          (2) Membership.--The task force convened under paragraph (1) 
        shall be comprised representatives of--
                  (A) air carriers;
                  (B) airport sponsors and airport law enforcement 
                agencies;
                  (C) other Federal agencies determined necessary by 
                the Administrator; and
                  (D) labor organizations representing air carrier 
                pilots;
                  (E) labor organizations representing flight 
                attendants; and
                  (F) labor organizations representing ticketing, 
                check-in, or other customer service representatives 
                employed by air carriers.
  (b) Announcements.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall initiate such actions as 
may be necessary to include in the briefing of passengers before 
takeoff required under section 121.571 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations, a statement informing passengers that it is against 
Federal law to assault or threaten to assault any individual on an 
aircraft or interfere with the duties of a crewmember.
  (c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section, the definitions in 
section 40102(a) of title 49, United States Code, shall apply to terms 
in this section.

SEC. 539. CABIN TEMPERATURE STANDARDS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 24 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall review existing standards produced by recognized industry 
standards organizations on safe air temperatures and humidity levels in 
enclosed environments, including onboard aircraft, and determine the 
validity of such standards, including the American Society of Heating, 
Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (in this section referred 
to as ``ASHRAE'') standards titled ``Air Quality within Commercial 
Aircraft'' (ASHRAE Guideline 28-2021) and ``Thermal Environmental 
Conditions for Human Occupancy'' (ASHRAE Standard 55-2020).
  (b) Consultation.--In conducting the review under subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall consult with--
          (1) certificate holders under part 121 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations;
          (2) certified labor representatives of flight attendants, 
        pilots, and other crewmembers;
          (3) relevant Federal agencies; and
          (4) other relevant stakeholders, as appropriate.
  (c) Academic Study.--In the event that the Administrator determines, 
through the review carried out under subsection (a), that there is not 
an appropriate standard to determine unsafe temperatures onboard 
aircraft operated under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations, the Administrator shall enter into an appropriate 
agreement with the National Academies to--
          (1) conduct a study of unsafe aircraft cabin temperatures and 
        aircraft conditions that contribute to such temperatures; and
          (2) provide recommendations for air carriers and aircraft 
        manufacturers to improve the management of temperature and 
        related factors onboard aircraft.
  (d) Reports.--
          (1) FAA.--Not later than 3 months after completing the review 
        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 
        findings and determination of the review.
          (2) National academies.--If a report is produced under 
        subsection (c), not later than 1 month after receiving such 
        report 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 such report.

SEC. 540. CABIN AIR QUALITY.

  (a) Reporting of Smoke or Fume Events Onboard Commercial Aircraft.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
        the enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall develop a standardized system for 
        a flight attendants, pilots, and aircraft maintenance 
        technicians of air carriers to voluntarily report fume events 
        onboard passenger-carrying aircraft operating under part 121 of 
        title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (2) Information submission.--The system developed under 
        paragraph (1) shall include a method of submission, which shall 
        request at least the following information:
                  (A) Identification of the flight number, type, and 
                registration of the aircraft.
                  (B) The date of the reported fume event onboard the 
                aircraft.
                  (C) Description of smoke or fume in the aircraft, 
                including the nature, intensity, and visual consistency 
                or smell (if any).
                  (D) The location of the smoke or fumes in the 
                aircraft.
                  (E) The source (if discernible) of the smoke or fumes 
                in the aircraft.
                  (F) The phase of flight during which smoke or fumes 
                first became present.
                  (G) The duration of the fume event.
                  (H) Any required onboard medical attention for 
                passengers or crew members.
                  (I) Any additional factors as determined appropriate 
                by the Administrator or crew member submitting a 
                report.
          (3) Guidelines for submission.--The Administrator shall issue 
        guidelines on how to submit the information described in 
        paragraph (2).
          (4) Confirmation of submission.--Upon submitting the 
        information described in paragraph (2), the submitting party 
        shall receive a duplicate record of the submission and 
        confirmation of receipt.
          (5) Use of information.--The Administrator--
                  (A) may not publish any information submitted under 
                this section;
                  (B) shall maintain a database of such information;
                  (C) at the request of an air carrier, shall provide 
                to such air carrier any information submitted under 
                this section that is relevant to such air carrier, 
                except any information that may be used to identify the 
                party submitting such information;
                  (D) may not, without validation, assume that 
                information submitted under this section is accurate 
                for the purposes of initiating rulemaking or taking an 
                enforcement action;
                  (E) may use information submitted under this section 
                to inform the oversight of the safety management system 
                of an air carrier; and
                  (F) may use information submitted under this section 
                for the purpose of performing a study or supporting a 
                study sponsored by the Administrator.
  (b) Study.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 3 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall seek to enter into the 
        appropriate arrangements with the National Academies to conduct 
        a study and issue recommendations to be made publicly available 
        pertaining to cabin air quality and any risk of, and potential 
        for, persistent and accidental fume events onboard a passenger-
        carrying aircraft operating under part 121 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations.
          (2) Scope.--In carrying out a study pursuant to paragraph 
        (1), the National Academies shall examine--
                  (A) the information collected pursuant to subsection 
                (a);
                  (B) the report issued pursuant to section 326 of the 
                FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) 
                and any identified assumptions or gaps described in 
                such report;
                  (C) any health risks or impacts of fume events on 
                flight crews, including flight attendants and pilots, 
                and passengers onboard aircraft operating under part 
                121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations;
                  (D) instances of persistent or regularly occurring 
                (as determined by the National Academies) fume events 
                in such aircraft;
                  (E) instances of accidental, unexpected, or 
                irregularly occurring (as determined by the National 
                Academies) fume events on such aircraft, including 
                whether such accidental events are more frequent during 
                various phases of operations, including ground 
                operations, taxiing, take off, cruise, and landing;
                  (F) the likely originating material of, and the air 
                contaminants present during, the situations described 
                in subparagraphs (D) and (E);
                  (G) the frequencies, durations, and likely causes of 
                the situations described in subparagraphs (D) and (E); 
                and
                  (H) any additional data on fume events as determined 
                appropriate by the National Academies.
          (3) Recommendations.--The National Academies shall provide 
        recommendations based on the study conducted under paragraph 
        (1)--
                  (A) that shall, at minimum, address how to--
                          (i) improve overall cabin air quality of 
                        passenger-carrying aircraft;
                          (ii) improve the detection, accuracy, and 
                        reporting of fume events; and
                          (iii) reduce the frequency and impact of fume 
                        events; and
                  (B) for any updates to standards, guidelines, or 
                regulations that could help achieve the recommendations 
                described in subparagraph (A).
          (4) Report to congress.--Not later than 1 month after the 
        completion of the study conducted under paragraph (1), 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 copy of such study.
  (c) Fume Event Defined.--In this section, the term ``fume event'' 
means the presence of fumes in the cabin, including smoke.

SEC. 541. EVACUATION STANDARDS FOR TRANSPORT CATEGORY AIRPLANES.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall task the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee with reviewing 
and proposing updates to the evacuation requirements under section 
25.803 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and appendix J to part 
25 of such title.
  (b) Considerations.--In tasking the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory 
Committee under subsection (a), the Administrator shall, at a minimum, 
task the Committee to--
          (1) evaluate whether the representative passenger loads, 
        prescribed in regulation on the date of enactment of this Act, 
        represent a realistic composition of passengers on an aircraft 
        operated under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, including accounting for--
                  (A) children, including infants;
                  (B) passengers who do not speak English;
                  (C) passengers with disabilities; and
                  (D) service animals (as such term is defined in 
                section 35.104 and 36.104 of title 28, Code of Federal 
                Regulations, or successor regulations); and
          (2) determine if there are technologies or techniques that 
        can be used to more accurately represent categories of 
        passengers who are unable to provide consent during evacuation 
        testing, but should be simulated in such testing;
          (3) evaluate whether the requirements prescribed in 
        regulation on the date of enactment of this Act adequately 
        consider the varying sizes, weight, and matter or baggage 
        present in an aircraft cabin; and
          (4) determine whether the evacuation testing performed, 
        associated with section 25.803 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, considers the seat size, seat pitch, seating 
        layout, aisle width, and aisle layout of the aircraft type 
        being tested.
  (c) Consultation.--In tasking the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory 
Committee under subsection (a), the Administrator shall allow such 
Committee to consult with the National Transportation Safety Board, 
transport category aircraft manufacturers, air carriers certificated 
under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, crew members 
of such air carriers, emergency responders, groups representing 
passengers and passengers with disabilities, and other relevant 
experts.
  (d) Rulemaking.--Not later than 18 months after receiving such 
recommendations to update section 25.803 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations, and appendix J to part 25 of such title, the Administrator 
shall issue a final rulemaking based on the recommendations provided by 
the aviation rulemaking advisory committee tasked under this section, 
as necessary.
  (e) Passenger With Disabilities.--In this section, the term 
``passenger with disabilities'' means any qualified individual with a 
disability, as such term is defined in section 382.3 of title 14, Code 
of Federal Regulations, or successor regulations.

SEC. 542. LITHIUM-ION POWERED WHEELCHAIRS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall task the Air Carrier 
Access Act Advisory Committee (in this section referred to as the 
``Committee'') to conduct a review of regulations regarding lithium-ion 
battery powered wheelchairs and mobility aids and provide 
recommendations to the Secretary to ensure safe transport of such 
wheelchairs and mobility aids in air transportation.
  (b) Considerations.--In conducting the review required under 
subsection (a), the Committee shall consider the following:
          (1) Any existing or necessary standards for lithium-ion 
        batteries, including casings or other similar components, in 
        such wheelchairs and mobility aids.
          (2) The availability of necessary containment or storage 
        devices, including fire containment covers or fire-resistant 
        storage containers, for such wheelchairs and mobility aids.
          (3) The policies of each air carrier (as such term is defined 
        in part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations) 
        pertaining to lithium-ion battery powered wheelchairs and 
        mobility aids (as in effect on the date of enactment of this 
        Act).
          (4) Any other considerations the Secretary determines 
        appropriate.
  (c) Consultation Requirement.--In conducting the review required 
under subsection (a), the Committee shall consult with the 
Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety 
Administration.
  (d) Notification.--
          (1) In general.--Upon completion of the review conducted 
        under subsection (a), the Committee shall notify the Secretary 
        if an air carrier does not have a policy pertaining to lithium-
        ion battery powered wheelchairs and mobility aids in effect.
          (2) Notification.--The Secretary shall notify an air carrier 
        described in paragraph (1) of the status of such air carrier.
  (e) Report to Congress.--Not later than 90 days after submission of 
the recommendations to the Secretary, 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 any recommendations under subsection (a), 
in the form of a report.
  (f) Publication.--The Secretary shall publish the report required 
under subsection (e) on the public website of the Department of 
Transportation.

SEC. 543. NATIONAL SIMULATOR PROGRAM POLICIES AND GUIDANCE.

  (a) Review.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall review relevant policies and guidance, including all advisory 
circulars, information bulletins, and directives, pertaining to part 60 
of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  (b) Updates.--Upon completion of the review required under subsection 
(a), the Administrator shall, at a minimum, update the following:
          (1) Advisory Circular 120-40B, issued July 29, 1991.
          (2) Advisory Circular 120-45A, issued February 5, 1992.
          (3) Advisory Circular 120-50A, issued February 9, 1996.
          (4) Advisory Circular 120-63, issued October 11, 1994.
  (c) Consultation.--In carrying out the review required under 
subsection (a), the Administrator shall convene and consult with 
entities required to comply with part 60 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations, including representatives of--
          (1) air carriers;
          (2) flight schools certificated under part 141 of title 14, 
        Code of Federal Regulations;
          (3) training centers certificated under part 142 of title 14, 
        Code of Federal Regulations; and
          (4) manufacturers and suppliers of flight simulation training 
        devices (as defined in part 1 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, and Appendix F to part 60 of such title).

SEC. 544. GAO STUDY ON FAA NATIONAL SIMULATOR PROGRAM.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct 
a study into the National Simulator Program of the Federal Aviation 
Administration that is part of the Air Transportation Division's 
Training and Simulation Group.
  (b) Considerations.--In conducting the study required under 
subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall, at a minimum, assesses--
          (1) how the program described under subsection (a), is 
        maintained to reflect and account for advancement in 
        technologies pertaining to flight simulation training devices 
        (as defined in part 1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        and appendix F to part 60 of such title);
          (2) the staffing levels, critical competencies, and skills 
        gaps of Administration personnel responsible for carrying out 
        and supporting the program described in subsection (a); and
          (3) how the program described in subsection (a) engages air 
        carriers and relevant industry stakeholders, including flight 
        schools, to ensure efficient compliance with part 60 of such 
        title.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 18 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 findings of the study conducted under subsection (a).

SEC. 545. GAO STUDY ON FAA ALIGNMENT WITH BEST AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGIES 
                    AND STANDARDS.

  (a) In General.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall 
conduct a study on the incorporation of best available technologies by 
the Federal Aviation Administration to increase aviation safety and 
improve the health and safety of aviation workers.
  (b) Scope.--In conducting the study under subsection (a), the 
Comptroller General shall--
          (1) analyze the degree to which the Administrator of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration is enabling the use or adoption 
        of technologies used by other air navigation service providers 
        to meet ICAO standards; and
          (2) identify any barriers to adoption of such technologies.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 4 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General 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 findings of the study.
  (d) ICAO Defined.--In this section, the term ``ICAO'' means the 
International Civil Aviation Organization.

SEC. 546. ADVANCED SIMULATION TRAINING.

  (a) In General.--Notwithstanding section 61.159(a)(6) of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulations), a person 
who is applying for an airline transport certificate with an airplane 
category and class rating may obtain up to 150 additional hours of the 
total aeronautical experience requirement in a full flight simulator 
representing an airplane that provides six-degrees of freedom motion, 
provided the aeronautical experience--
          (1) was accomplished as part of a Federal Aviation 
        Administration approved training course in parts 121, 135, 141, 
        or 142 of such title; and
          (2) does not qualify for flight credit hours for an 
        individual applying for an airline transport pilot certificate 
        with restricted privileges under paragraphs (a), (b), (c), and 
        (d) of section 61.160 of such title (or any successor 
        regulation).
  (b) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be construed 
to affect the ability of a person to also obtain 100 hours of 
aeronautical experience in a flight training device or full flight 
simulator under section 61.159(a)(6) of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations (or any successor regulations).
  (c) Rulemaking.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall issue a final rule to update part 
        61 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to reflect changes 
        made by this section.
          (2) Consultation.--The Administrator shall consult with the 
        Air Carrier Training Aviation Rulemaking Committee--
                  (A) in developing the rule under paragraph (1), and
                  (B) in evaluating, notwithstanding subsection (a), 
                whether the additional 150 hours allowed under 
                subsection (a) may be accrued in a full flight 
                simulator representing an airplane that provides three-
                degrees of freedom motion.
          (3) Applicability.--Nothing in this subsection, nor any 
        potential failure of the Administrator to issue a final rule 
        under paragraph (1), shall be construed to prohibit the 
        immediate applicability of subsection (a).
  (d) Definitions.--In this section, the terms ``flight training 
device'' and ``full flight simulator'' have the meanings given such 
terms in section 1.1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 547. INCREMENTAL SAFETY IMPROVEMENT.

  Section 44704 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
  ``(h) Incremental Safety Improvement.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Administrator may consider and approve 
        a proposed incremental design change request from a type 
        certificate holder, if such holder is required by the 
        Administrator to make a safety-related design change to bring a 
        product into compliance, even if the proposed incremental 
        design change does not eliminate all noncompliant conditions.
          ``(2) Proposed incremental design change.--A proposed 
        incremental design change under paragraph (1) shall--
                  ``(A) be related to the required safety-related 
                change described in this subsection; and
                  ``(B) improve safety.
          ``(3) Full compliance.--An approval issued under this 
        subsection shall not be construed to relieve a type certificate 
        holder from addressing all noncompliant conditions under 
        paragraph (1).''.

                   Subtitle B--Aviation Cybersecurity

SEC. 571. FINDINGS.

  Congress finds the following:
          (1) Congress has repeatedly tasked the Federal Aviation 
        Administration with responsibility for securing the national 
        airspace system, including the air traffic control system and 
        other air navigation services, civil aircraft, and aeronautical 
        products and articles through safety regulation and oversight. 
        These mandates have routinely included protecting against 
        associated cyber threats affecting aviation safety or the 
        Administration's provision of safe, secure, and efficient air 
        navigation services and airspace management.
          (2) In 2016, Congress passed the FAA Extension, Safety, and 
        Security Act of 2016, which established requirements for the 
        Federal Aviation Administration to enhance the national 
        airspace system's cybersecurity and included mandates for the 
        Administration to--
                  (A) develop a cybersecurity strategic plan;
                  (B) coordinate with other Federal agencies to 
                identify cyber vulnerabilities;
                  (C) develop a cyber threat model; and
                  (D) complete a comprehensive, strategic policy 
                framework to identify and mitigate cybersecurity risks 
                to the air traffic control system.
          (3) In 2018, Congress passed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 
        2018 which--
                  (A) authorized funding for the construction of 
                Federal Aviation Administration facilities dedicated to 
                improving the cybersecurity of the national airspace 
                system;
                  (B) required the Federal Aviation Administration to 
                review and update its comprehensive, strategic policy 
                framework for cybersecurity to assess the degree to 
                which the framework identifies and addresses known 
                cybersecurity risks associated with the aviation 
                system, and evaluate existing short- and long-term 
                objectives for addressing cybersecurity risks to the 
                national airspace system;
                  (C) created a Chief Technology Officer position 
                within the Federal Aviation Administration to be 
                responsible for, among other things, coordinating the 
                implementation, operation, maintenance, and 
                cybersecurity of technology programs relating to the 
                air traffic control system with the aviation industry 
                and other Federal agencies; and
                  (D) directed the National Academy of Sciences to 
                study the cybersecurity workforce of the Federal 
                Aviation Administration in order to develop 
                recommendations to increase the size, quality, and 
                diversity of such workforce.
          (4) Congress has tasked the Federal Aviation Administration 
        with being the primary Federal agency to assess and address the 
        threats posed from cyber incidents relating to Federal Aviation 
        Administration-provided air traffic control and air navigation 
        services and the threats posed from cyber incidents relating to 
        civil aircraft, aeronautical products and articles, aviation 
        networks, aviation systems, services, and operations, and the 
        aerospace industry affecting aviation safety or the provision 
        of safe, secure, and efficient air navigation services and 
        airspace management by the Administration.
          (5) Since 2005, the Federal Aviation Administration has been 
        addressing cyber vulnerabilities in civil aircraft and 
        aeronautical products and articles during the safety 
        certification process.

SEC. 572. AEROSPACE PRODUCT SAFETY.

  (a) Cybersecurity Standards.--Section 44701(a) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``cybersecurity,'' after 
        ``quality of work,''; and
          (2) in paragraph (5)--
                  (A) by inserting ``cybersecurity and'' after 
                ``standards for''; and
                  (B) by striking ``procedure'' and inserting 
                ``procedures''.
  (b) Exclusive Rulemaking Authority.--Section 44701 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
  ``(h) Exclusive Rulemaking Authority.--Notwithstanding any other 
provision of law and except as provided in section 40132, the 
Administrator, in consultation with the heads of such other agencies as 
the Administrator determines necessary, shall have exclusive authority 
to prescribe regulations for purposes of assuring civil aircraft, 
including unmanned aircraft systems, aircraft engine, propeller, and 
appliance cybersecurity.''.

SEC. 573. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS, POLICY, AND 
                    GUIDANCE.

  (a) In General.--Chapter 401 of title 49, United States Code, is 
further amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 40132. National airspace system cyber threat management process

  ``(a) Establishment.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration, in consultation with other agencies as the 
Administrator determines necessary, shall establish a national airspace 
system cyber threat management process to protect the national airspace 
system cyber environment, including the safety, security, and 
efficiency of the air navigation services provided by the 
Administration.
  ``(b) Issues To Be Addressed.--In establishing the national airspace 
system cyber threat management process under subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall, at a minimum--
          ``(1) monitor the national airspace system for cybersecurity 
        incidents;
          ``(2) in consultation with appropriate Federal agencies, 
        evaluate the cyber threat landscape for the national airspace 
        system, including updating such evaluation on both annual and 
        threat-based timelines;
          ``(3) conduct national airspace system cyber incident 
        analyses;
          ``(4) create a cyber common operating picture for the 
        national airspace system cyber environment;
          ``(5) coordinate national airspace system cyber incident 
        responses with other appropriate Federal agencies;
          ``(6) track cyber incident detection, response, mitigation 
        implementation, recovery, and closure;
          ``(7) establish a process, or utilize existing processes, to 
        collect relevant interagency and stakeholder national airspace 
        system cyber incident data, including data from other Federal 
        agencies and private persons; and
          ``(8) consider any other matter the Administrator determines 
        appropriate.
  ``(c) Definitions.--In this section:
          ``(1) Cyber common operating picture.--The term `cyber common 
        operating picture' means the correlation of a detected cyber 
        incident or cyber threat in the national airspace system and 
        other operational anomalies to provide a holistic view of 
        potential cause and impact.
          ``(2) Cyber environment.--The term `cyber environment' means 
        the information environment consisting of the interdependent 
        networks of information technology infrastructures and resident 
        data, including the internet, telecommunications networks, 
        computer systems, and embedded processors and controllers.
          ``(3) Cyber incident.--The term `cyber incident' means an 
        action that creates noticeable degradation, disruption, or 
        destruction to the cyber environment and causes a safety or 
        other negative impact on operations of--
                  ``(A) the national airspace system;
                  ``(B) civil aircraft; or
                  ``(C) aeronautical products and articles.
          ``(4) Cyber threat.--The term `cyber threat' means the threat 
        of an action that, if carried out, would constitute a cyber 
        incident or an electronic attack.
          ``(5) Electronic attack.--The term `electronic attack' means 
        the use of electromagnetic spectrum energy to impede operations 
        in the cyber environment, including through techniques such as 
        jamming or spoofing.''.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 401 of title 49, 
United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end the 
following:

``40132. National airspace system cyber threat management process.''.

SEC. 574. CIVIL AVIATION CYBERSECURITY RULEMAKING COMMITTEE.

  (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 an aviation rulemaking committee on civil aircraft 
cybersecurity to conduct a review and develop findings and 
recommendations on cybersecurity standards for civil aircraft, aircraft 
ground support information systems, airports, air traffic control 
mission systems, and aeronautical products and articles.
  (b) Duties.--The Administrator shall--
          (1) not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
        this Act, 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 based on the findings of the aviation 
        rulemaking committee convened under subsection (a); and
          (2) not later than 180 days after the date of submission of 
        the report under paragraph (1) and, in consultation with other 
        agencies as the Administrator determines necessary, for 
        consensus recommendations reached by such aviation rulemaking 
        committee--
                  (A) undertake a rulemaking, if appropriate, based on 
                such recommendations; and
                  (B) 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 supplemental report with explanations for 
                each consensus recommendation not addressed, if 
                applicable, by a rulemaking under subparagraph (A).
  (c) Composition.--The aviation rulemaking committee convened under 
subsection (a) shall consist of members appointed by the Administrator, 
including representatives of--
          (1) aircraft manufacturers, to include at least 1 
        manufacturer of transport category aircraft;
          (2) air carriers;
          (3) unmanned aircraft system stakeholders, including 
        operators, service suppliers, and manufacturers of hardware 
        components and software applications;
          (4) manufacturers of powered-lift aircraft;
          (5) airports;
          (6) original equipment manufacturers of ground and space 
        based aviation infrastructure;
          (7) aviation safety experts with specific knowledge of 
        aircraft cybersecurity; and
          (8) a non-profit which operates 1 or more federally funded 
        research and development centers with specific knowledge of 
        aviation and cybersecurity.
  (d) Member Eligibility.--Prior to a member's appointment under 
subsection (c), the Administrator shall determine if there is cause for 
such member to be restricted from possessing sensitive security 
information. Upon a determination of no cause being found regarding the 
member, and upon the member voluntarily signing a nondisclosure 
agreement, the member may be granted access to sensitive security 
information that is relevant to the member's duties on the aviation 
rulemaking committee. The member shall protect the sensitive security 
information in accordance with part 1520 of title 49, Code of Federal 
Regulations.
  (e) Prohibition on Compensation.--The members of the aviation 
rulemaking committee convened under subsection (a) shall not receive 
pay, allowances, or benefits from the Government by reason of their 
service on such committee.
  (f) Considerations.--The Administrator shall direct such committee to 
consider--
          (1) existing cybersecurity standards, regulations, policies, 
        and guidance, including those from other Federal agencies;
          (2) threat- and risk-based security approaches used by the 
        aviation industry, including the assessment of the potential 
        costs and benefits of cybersecurity actions;
          (3) data gathered from cybersecurity reporting;
          (4) data gathered from safety reporting;
          (5) the diversity of operations and systems on aircraft and 
        amongst air carriers;
          (6) security of design data;
          (7) the need to harmonize or deconflict proposed and existing 
        standards, regulations, policies, and guidance with other 
        Federal standards, regulations, policies, and guidance;
          (8) design approval holder aircraft network security guidance 
        for operators;
          (9) the need for such standards, regulations, policies, and 
        guidance as applied to civil aircraft information, data, 
        networks, systems, services, operations, and technology;
          (10) Federal Aviation Administration services, aviation 
        industry services, and aircraft use of positioning, navigation, 
        and timing data in the context of Executive Order 13905, as in 
        effect on the date of enactment of this Act;
          (11) updates needed to airworthiness regulations and systems 
        safety assessment methods used to show compliance with 
        airworthiness requirements for design, function, installation, 
        and certification of civil aircraft, aeronautical products and 
        articles, and aircraft networks;
          (12) updates needed to air carrier operating and maintenance 
        regulations to ensure continued adherence with processes and 
        procedures established in airworthiness regulations to provide 
        cybersecurity protections for aircraft systems, including for 
        continued airworthiness;
          (13) policies and procedures to coordinate with other Federal 
        agencies, including intelligence agencies, and the aviation 
        industry in sharing information and analyses related to cyber 
        threats to civil aircraft information, data, networks, systems, 
        services, operations, and technology and aeronautical products 
        and articles;
          (14) the response of the Administrator and aviation industry 
        to, and recovery from, cyber incidents, including by 
        coordinating with other Federal agencies, including 
        intelligence agencies;
          (15) processes for members of the aviation industry to 
        voluntarily report to the Federal Aviation Administration cyber 
        incidents that may affect aviation safety in a manner that 
        protects trade secrets and confidential business information;
          (16) the unique nature of the aviation industry, including 
        aircraft networks, aircraft systems, and aeronautical products, 
        and the interconnectedness of cybersecurity and aviation 
        safety;
          (17) appropriate cybersecurity controls for aircraft 
        networks, aircraft systems, and aeronautical products and 
        articles to protect aviation safety, including airworthiness;
          (18) appropriate cybersecurity controls for airports relative 
        to the size and nature of airside operations of such airports 
        to ensure aviation safety;
          (19) minimum standards for protecting civil aircraft, 
        aeronautical products and articles, aviation networks, aviation 
        systems, services, and operations from cyber threats and cyber 
        incidents;
          (20) international collaboration, where appropriate and 
        consistent with the interests of aviation safety in air 
        commerce and national security, with other civil aviation 
        authorities, international aviation and standards 
        organizations, and any other appropriate entities to protect 
        civil aviation from cyber incidents and cyber threats;
          (21) the recommendations and implementation of the Aircraft 
        System Information Security/Protection report of the aviation 
        rulemaking advisory committee submitted on August 22, 2016; and
          (22) any other matter the Administrator determines 
        appropriate.
  (g) Definitions.--The definitions set forth in section 40132 of title 
49, United States Code (as added by this subtitle), shall apply to this 
section.

                     TITLE VI--AEROSPACE INNOVATION

                 Subtitle A--Unmanned Aircraft Systems

SEC. 601. DEFINITIONS.

  (a) Definition.--Section 44801(1) of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``and'' at the end;
          (2) in subparagraph (C) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting a semicolon; and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
                  ``(D) is able to maintain safe flight control in the 
                event of a power or flight control failure during 
                flight; and
                  ``(E) is programmed to initiate a controlled landing 
                in the event of a tether separation.''.

SEC. 602. UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM TEST RANGES.

  (a) In General.--Section 44803 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended to read as follows:

``Sec. 44803. Unmanned aircraft system test ranges

  ``(a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall carry out and update, as appropriate, a program to 
enable a broad variety of testing and evaluation activities at unmanned 
aircraft system test ranges, as in effect on the day before the date of 
enactment of the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American 
Aviation Act, to the extent consistent with aviation safety and 
efficiency, and for purposes of the safe integration of unmanned 
aircraft systems into the national airspace system.
  ``(b) Airspace Requirements.--In carrying out the program under 
subsection (a)--
          ``(1) the Administrator may establish nonregulatory special 
        use airspace areas upon the request of a test range sponsor 
        selected by the Administrator under subsection (a), for 
        purposes of accommodating hazardous testing and evaluation 
        activities to inform the safe integration of unmanned aircraft 
        systems into the national airspace system, or for purposes of 
        other activities authorized by the Administrator under 
        subsection (g);
          ``(2) each selected test range sponsor for a designated test 
        range shall be considered the using agency for purposes of the 
        respective nonregulatory special use airspace areas established 
        by the Administrator under this section; and
          ``(3) the Administrator may require that each selected test 
        range sponsor for a designated test range provide a draft 
        environmental review consistent with the National Environmental 
        Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), subject to the 
        supervision and adoption of the Administrator, with respect to 
        any request for the establishment of a nonregulatory special 
        use airspace area under this section.
  ``(c) Program Requirement.--In carrying out the program under 
subsection (a), the Administrator--
          ``(1) may develop operational standards and air traffic 
        requirements for flight operations at test ranges;
          ``(2) shall coordinate with, and leverage the resources of, 
        other Federal agencies, as the Administrator considers 
        appropriate;
          ``(3) shall address both civil and public aircraft 
        operations;
          ``(4) shall provide for verification of the safety of flight 
        systems and related navigation procedures as it relates to 
        continued development of standards for integration into the 
        national airspace system;
          ``(5) shall engage test range sponsors, as necessary and 
        within available resources, in projects for testing and 
        evaluation of flight systems to facilitate the validation of 
        standards by the Administration for the safe integration of 
        unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace system, 
        which may include solutions for--
                  ``(A) developing and enforcing geographic and 
                altitude limitations;
                  ``(B) providing for alerts regarding any hazards or 
                limitations on flight, including prohibitions on 
                flight;
                  ``(C) sense and avoid capabilities;
                  ``(D) technology to support communications, 
                navigation, and surveillance;
                  ``(E) unmanned aircraft system operations beyond 
                visual line of sight, at nighttime, or over people;
                  ``(F) operation of multiple unmanned aircraft systems 
                by a single remote pilot;
                  ``(G) unmanned aircraft systems traffic management 
                capabilities or services;
                  ``(H) counter unmanned aircraft system capabilities;
                  ``(I) improving privacy protections through the use 
                of advances in unmanned aircraft systems; and
                  ``(J) other critical priority areas for which testing 
                and evaluation is needed.
          ``(6) shall coordinate periodically with all test range 
        sponsors to ensure test range sponsors know which data should 
        be collected, how data can be de-identified to flow more 
        readily to the Administration, what procedures should be 
        followed, and what testing and evaluations would advance 
        efforts to safely integrate unmanned aircraft systems into the 
        national airspace system; and
          ``(7) shall allow test range sponsors to receive Federal 
        funding, other than from the Federal Aviation Administration, 
        including in-kind contributions, from test range participants 
        in the furtherance of testing and evaluation objectives.
  ``(d) Exemption.--Except as provided in subsection (g), the 
requirements of section 44711, including related implementing 
regulations, shall not apply to persons approved by the test range 
sponsor for operation at a designated test range under this section.
  ``(e) Responsibilities of Test Range Sponsor.--The sponsor of each 
test range under subsection (a) shall--
          ``(1) provide access to all interested private and public 
        entities seeking to carry out testing and evaluation activities 
        at the test range designated pursuant to this section, to the 
        greatest extent practicable, consistent with safety and any 
        operating procedures established by the test range sponsor, 
        including access by small business concerns (as that term is 
        described in section 3(a) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 
        632(a));
          ``(2) ensure all activities remain within the geographical 
        boundaries and altitude limitations established for the 
        nonregulatory special use airspace area covering the test 
        range;
          ``(3) ensure no activity is conducted at the designated test 
        range in a careless or reckless manner;
          ``(4) establish safe operating procedures for all operators 
        approved for activities at the test range, including provisions 
        for maintaining operational control and ensuring protection of 
        persons and property on the ground, subject to approval by the 
        Administrator;
          ``(5) exercise direct oversight of all operations conducted 
        at the test range;
          ``(6) consult with the Administrator on the nature of planned 
        activities at the test range and whether temporary segregation 
        through the use of a nonregulatory special use airspace area is 
        required to contain such activities is consistent with aviation 
        safety;
          ``(7) protect proprietary technology, sensitive data, or 
        sensitive research of any civil or private entity when using 
        the test range;
          ``(8) maintain detailed records of all ongoing and completed 
        testing and evaluation activities conducted at the test range 
        and all operators conducting such activities, for inspection 
        by, and reporting to, the Administrator, as required by 
        agreement between the Administrator and the test range sponsor;
          ``(9) make all original records available for inspection upon 
        request by the Administrator; and
          ``(10) provide recommendations to the Administrator to 
        further enable public and private testing and evaluation 
        activities at the test ranges that contribute to the safe 
        integration of unmanned aircraft systems by the Administration 
        into the national airspace system, on a quarterly basis until 
        the program terminates.
  ``(f) Testing.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Administrator may authorize a sponsor 
        of a test range designated under subsection (a) to host testing 
        and evaluation activities other than those directly related to 
        the integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the national 
        airspace system, provided that the activity is necessary to 
        inform the development of standards or policy for integrating 
        new types of flight systems into the national airspace system.
          ``(2) Waiver.--In carrying out this subsection, the 
        Administrator may waive the requirements of section 44711, 
        including related regulations, to the extent consistent with 
        aviation safety.
  ``(g) Agreements.--The Administrator may use the transaction 
authority under section 106(l)(6) to enter into appropriate agreements 
to direct testing and evaluation activities related to unmanned 
aircraft systems at any test range designated under subsection (a).
  ``(h) Termination.--The program under this section shall terminate on 
September 30, 2028.''.
  (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 44801(10) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking ``any of the 6 test ranges'' and 
all that follows through ``January 1, 2009'' and inserting ``the test 
ranges established by the Administrator under section 44803''.

SEC. 603. UNMANNED AIRCRAFT IN THE ARCTIC.

  (a) In General.--Section 44804 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) in section heading by striking ``Small unmanned'' and 
        inserting ``Unmanned''; and
          (2) by striking ``small'' each place it appears.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 448 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to section 
44804 and insert the following:

``44804. Unmanned aircraft in the Arctic.''.

SEC. 604. PUBLIC SAFETY USE OF TETHERED UAS.

  (a) In General.--Section 44806 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) in the section heading by inserting ``and public safety 
        use of unmanned aircraft systems'' after ``systems'';
          (2) in subsection (c)--
                  (A) in the subsection heading by inserting ``Safety 
                Use of'' after ``Public''; and
                  (B) in paragraph (1)--
                          (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph 
                        (A)--
                                  (I) by striking ``Not later than 180 
                                days after the date of enactment of 
                                this Act, the'' and inserting ``The'';
                                  (II) by striking ``permit the use 
                                of'' and inserting ``permit'';
                                  (III) by striking ``public''; and
                                  (IV) by inserting ``by a public 
                                safety organization for such systems'' 
                                after ``systems'';
                          (ii) by striking subparagraph (A) and 
                        inserting the following:
                  ``(A) operated--
                          ``(i) at or below an altitude of 150 feet 
                        above ground level within class B, C, D, E, or 
                        G airspace, but not at a greater altitude than 
                        the ceiling depicted on the UAS facility maps 
                        published by the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration, where applicable;
                          ``(ii) within zero-grid airspaces as depicted 
                        on such UAS facility maps, only if operated in 
                        life-saving or emergency situations and with 
                        prior notification to the Administration in a 
                        manner determined by the Administrator; or
                          ``(iii) above 150 feet above ground level 
                        within class B, C, D, E, or G airspace only 
                        with prior authorization from the 
                        Administrator;'';
                          (iii) by striking subparagraph (B); and
                          (iv) by redesignating subparagraphs (C), (D), 
                        and (E) as subparagraphs (B), (C), and (D), 
                        respectively; and
                  (C) in paragraph (3) by striking ``Public actively'' 
                and inserting ``Actively''; and
          (3) by adding at the end, the following:
  ``(e) Definition.--In this section, the term `public safety 
organization' means an entity that primarily engages in activities 
related to the safety and well-being of the general public, including 
law enforcement, fire departments, emergency medical services, and 
other organizations that protect and serve the public in matters of 
safety and security.''.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 448 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to section 
44806 and inserting the following:

``44806. Public unmanned aircraft systems and public safety use of 
unmanned aircraft systems.''.

SEC. 605. SPECIAL AUTHORITY FOR UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS.

  Section 44807 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) by inserting ``or chapter 447'' after ``this 
                chapter'';
                  (B) by striking ``the Secretary of Transportation'' 
                and inserting ``the Administrator of the Federal 
                Aviation Administration''; and
                  (C) by striking ``if certain'' and inserting ``how'';
          (2) in subsection (b)--
                  (A) by striking ``the Secretary'' and inserting ``the 
                Administrator''; and
                  (B) in paragraph (1)--
                          (i) by striking ``which types of unmanned 
                        aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their 
                        size'' and inserting ``how the unmanned 
                        aircraft, as a result of such aircraft's 
                        size''; and
                          (ii) by striking ``do not create'' and 
                        inserting ``does not create'';
          (3) in subsection (c) to read as follows:
  ``(c) Requirements for Safe Operation.--
          ``(1) In general.--For unmanned aircraft systems that the 
        Administrator determines under this section may operate safely 
        in the national airspace system, the Administrator shall 
        establish risk-based requirements, or a process to accept risk-
        based proposed requirements, for the safe operation of such 
        aircraft systems in the national airspace system, including 
        operation related to testing and evaluation of proprietary 
        systems.
          ``(2) Treatment of mitigation measures.--To the extent that a 
        proposed operation will be conducted exclusively within the 
        airspace of a Mode C Veil during the entirety of the operation, 
        such operation shall be treated as satisfying the requirements 
        of section 91.113(b) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        so long as the operation employs--
                  ``(A) ADS-B In-based detect and avoid capabilities;
                  ``(B) air traffic control communication and 
                coordination; and
                  ``(C) aeronautical information management systems to 
                notify other aircraft operators of such operations.
          ``(3) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection shall 
        be construed to give an unmanned aircraft operating pursuant to 
        this section the right of way over a manned aircraft.'';
          (4) in subsection (d) by striking ``2023'' and inserting 
        ``2033''; and
          (5) by adding at the end the following:
  ``(e) Limitation.--In making determinations under this section, the 
Administrator may not consider unmanned aircraft systems to the extent 
that such systems may meet the requirements of established regulations 
applicable to the proposed operation of a system.
  ``(f) Exemption.--The Administrator may exercise the authorities 
described in this section without requiring a rulemaking or imposing 
the requirements of part 11 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
to the extent consistent with aviation safety.''.

SEC. 606. RECREATIONAL OPERATIONS OF DRONE SYSTEMS.

  (a) Specified Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of 
Unmanned Aircraft.--Section 44809 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) in subsection (a) by striking paragraph (6) and inserting 
        the following:
          ``(6) Except for circumstances when the Administrator 
        establishes alternative altitude ceilings or as otherwise 
        authorized in section (c), in Class G airspace, the aircraft is 
        flown from the surface to not more than 400 feet above ground 
        level and complies with all airspace and flight restrictions 
        and prohibitions established under this subtitle, such as 
        special use airspace designations and temporary flight 
        restrictions.'';
          (2) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:
  ``(c) Operations at Fixed Sites.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Administrator shall establish a 
        process to approve, and publicly disseminate the location of, 
        fixed sites at which a person may carry out recreational 
        unmanned aircraft system operations.
          ``(2) Operating procedures.--
                  ``(A) Controlled airspace.--Persons operating 
                unmanned aircraft under paragraph (1) from a fixed site 
                within Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace or within 
                the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E 
                airspace designated for an airport, or a community-
                based organization sponsoring operations within such 
                airspace, shall make the location of the fixed site 
                known to the Administrator and shall establish a 
                mutually agreed upon operating procedure with the air 
                traffic control facility.
                  ``(B) Altitude.--The Administrator, in coordination 
                with community-based organizations sponsoring 
                operations at fixed sites, shall develop a process to 
                approve requests for recreational unmanned aircraft 
                systems operations at fixed sites that exceed the 
                maximum altitude contained in a UAS Facility Map.
                  ``(C) Class g airspace.--Subject to compliance with 
                all airspace and flight restrictions and prohibitions 
                established under this subtitle, such as special use 
                airspace designations and temporary flight 
                restrictions, persons operating drones under paragraph 
                (1) from a fixed site at which the operations are 
                sponsored by a community-based organization may operate 
                within Class G airspace--
                          ``(i) up to 400 feet above ground level, 
                        without prior authorization from the 
                        Administrator; and
                          ``(ii) above 400 feet above ground level, 
                        with prior authorization from the 
                        Administrator.
          ``(3) Unmanned aircraft weighing 55 pounds or greater.--A 
        person may operate an unmanned aircraft weighing 55 pounds or 
        greater, including the weight of anything attached to or 
        carried by the aircraft, under paragraph (1) if--
                  ``(A) the unmanned aircraft complies with standards 
                and limitations developed by a community-based 
                organization and approved by the Administrator; and
                  ``(B) the aircraft is operated from a fixed site as 
                described in paragraph (1).
          ``(4) FAA-recognized identification areas.--In implementing 
        subpart C of part 89 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        the Administrator shall prioritize the review and adjudication 
        of requests to establish FAA Recognized Identification Areas at 
        fixed sites established under this section.'';
          (3) in subsection (d) by striking the subsection heading and 
        all that follows through ``(3) Savings clause.--'' and 
        inserting ``(d) Savings clause.--'';
          (4) in subsection (d) by striking ``subsection (a) of'';
          (5) in subsection (f)(1) by striking ``updates to'';
          (6) by striking subsection (g)(1) and inserting the 
        following:
          ``(1) In general.--The Administrator, in consultation with 
        manufacturers of unmanned aircraft systems, community-based 
        organizations, and other industry stakeholders, shall develop, 
        maintain, and update, as necessary, an aeronautical knowledge 
        and safety test. Such test shall be administered electronically 
        by the Administrator or a person designated by the 
        Administrator.''; and
          (7) in subsection (h)--
                  (A) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through (6) as 
                paragraphs (2) through (7), respectively; and
                  (B) by inserting before paragraph (2) (as so 
                redesignated) the following:
          ``(1) is recognized by the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration;''.
  (b) Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems for Educational Purposes.--
Section 350 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44809 
note) is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as 
                paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively; and
                  (B) by inserting before paragraph (3) (as so 
                redesignated) the following:
          ``(2) operated by an elementary school or secondary school 
        for educational or research purposes;''; and
          (2) in subsection (d)--
                  (A) in paragraph (2) by inserting ``an elementary 
                school, or a secondary school,'' after ``with respect 
                to the operation of an unmanned aircraft system by an 
                institution of higher education,''; and
                  (B) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
          ``(3) Elementary school.--The term `elementary school' has 
        the meaning given to that term by section 8101 of the 
        Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 
        7801(19)).
          ``(4) Secondary school.--The term `secondary school' has the 
        meaning given to that term by section 8101 of the Elementary 
        and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801(45)).''.

SEC. 607. AIRPORT SAFETY AND AIRSPACE HAZARD MITIGATION AND 
                    ENFORCEMENT.

  Section 44810(h) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``2023'' and inserting ``2028''.

SEC. 608. APPLICATIONS FOR DESIGNATION.

  Section 2209 of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 
(Public Law 114-190) is further amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) by inserting ``, including temporarily,'' after 
                ``restrict''; and
                  (B) by inserting ``or eligible outdoor gathering'' 
                after ``fixed site facility'';
          (2) in subsection (b)(1)(C)--
                  (A) in clause (iv), by striking ``Other locations 
                that warrant such restrictions'' and inserting ``State 
                correctional facilities''; and
                  (B) by adding at the end the following:
                          ``(v) Eligible outdoor gatherings.''; and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
  ``(f) Eligible Outdoor Gathering Defined.--In this section, the term 
`eligible outdoor gathering' means an event that--
          ``(1) is primarily outdoors;
          ``(2) has an estimated daily attendance of 20,000 or greater 
        in at least 1 of the preceding 3 years;
          ``(3) has defined and static geographical boundaries; and
          ``(4) is advertised in the public domain.
  ``(f) Deadlines.--
          ``(1) Not later than March 1, 2024, the Administrator shall 
        publish a notice of proposed rulemaking to carry out the 
        requirements of this section.
          ``(2) Not later than 16 months after publishing the notice of 
        proposed rulemaking under paragraph (1), the Administrator 
        shall issue a final rule.''.

SEC. 609. BEYOND VISUAL LINE OF SIGHT RULEMAKING.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 4 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall issue a notice of proposed rulemaking establishing performance-
based airworthiness criteria and risk-based operational regulations for 
unmanned aircraft systems operated beyond visual line of sight that are 
intended to operate primarily at or below 400 feet above ground level.
  (b) Contents.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator 
shall--
          (1) establish a means to accept proposed--
                  (A) airworthiness standards for unmanned aircraft;
                  (B) standards for associated elements of unmanned 
                aircraft; and
                  (C) qualification standards for remote pilots 
                operating unmanned aircraft beyond visual line of 
                sight;
          (2) enable the ability for unmanned aircraft to be operated 
        for agricultural purposes;
          (3) establish a process by which the Administrator may 
        approve or accept third party compliance services in support of 
        the safe integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the 
        national airspace system; and
          (4) establish protocols, as appropriate, for networked 
        information exchange, including network-based remote 
        identification in support of beyond visual line of sight 
        operations.
  (c) Considerations.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator may leverage previously gathered data, information, and 
efforts of the Administration to finalize rulemaking as required under 
this section.
  (d) Unmanned Aircraft Airworthiness Standards.--In carrying out 
subsection (b)(1)(A), the Administrator shall--
          (1) define the operational environments for which 
        airworthiness is needed to ensure aviation safety;
          (2) establish an airworthiness category or categories for 
        unmanned aircraft to be eligible for a special airworthiness 
        certificate; and
          (3) establish a process to approve standards, means of 
        compliance, and declarations of compliance.
  (e) Unmanned Aircraft Associated Elements Standards.--
          (1) In general.--In carrying out subsection (b)(1)(B), the 
        Administrator shall establish a process to accept or approve 
        the associated elements of an unmanned aircraft that, when 
        considered collectively with other associated elements and an 
        unmanned aircraft, meet an acceptable performance-based safety 
        standard.
          (2) Considerations.--In establishing the process under 
        paragraph (1), the Administrator shall consider the ways 
        associated elements of an unmanned aircraft system interact 
        with other associated elements and unmanned aircraft.
  (f) Remote Pilot Qualifications.--
          (1) In general.--In carrying out subsection (b)(1)(C), the 
        Administrator shall establish qualifications and standards, or 
        a means to accept proposed qualifications and standards, for 
        remote pilots operating unmanned aircraft systems.
          (2) Considerations.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator shall account for the varying levels of 
        automation of unmanned aircraft systems.
          (3) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection may be 
        construed to allow for the establishment of type-ratings that 
        apply specifically and exclusively to an aircraft manufactured 
        by 1 manufacturer.
  (g) Interim Approvals.--Before the date on which the Administrator 
issues a final rule under this section, the Administrator shall use the 
process described in section 44807 of title 49, United States Code, to 
authorize unmanned aircraft system operations conducted beyond visual 
line of sight.
  (h) Final Rule.--Not later than 16 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator shall issue a final rule establishing 
the regulations required under this section.
  (i) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Associated elements.--The term ``associated elements'' 
        means any component of an unmanned aircraft system, not 
        permanently affixed to the unmanned aircraft, required for the 
        remote pilot to operate such aircraft safely and efficiently in 
        the national airspace system.
          (2) Beyond visual line of sight.--The term ``beyond visual 
        line of sight'' means a distance at which the remote pilot in 
        command of an unmanned aircraft system cannot see the unmanned 
        aircraft with vision unaided by any device other than 
        corrective lenses.
          (3) Unmanned aircraft; unmanned aircraft system.--The terms 
        ``unmanned aircraft'' and ``unmanned aircraft system'' have the 
        meaning given such terms in section 44801 of title 49, United 
        States Code.

SEC. 610. UAS TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may 
enter into agreements for purposes of--
          (1) testing and refining UTM capabilities and services to 
        inform the development of UTM standards in subsection (b);
          (2) authorizing UTM service providers that meet the 
        requirements described in subsection (b) to provide UTM 
        services to better enable advanced unmanned aircraft systems 
        operations, including--
                  (A) beyond visual line of sight operations;
                  (B) aircraft-to-aircraft communications; and
                  (C) operations in which an individual acts as remote 
                pilot in command of more than 1 unmanned aircraft at 
                the same time; and
          (3) fostering the safe integration of unmanned aircraft 
        systems using UTM capabilities and services within the national 
        airspace system.
  (b) Standardization.--
          (1) In general.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
        Administrator shall publish requirements or guidance associated 
        with UTM, including--
                  (A) the types of operations requiring, or benefitting 
                from, the use of UTM capabilities and services 
                described in subsection (a), including beyond visual 
                line of sight operations;
                  (B) areas of operation or categories of airspace 
                requiring, or benefitting from, the use of UTM 
                capabilities and services;
                  (C) performance-based technical standards for UAS 
                operations using UTM capabilities and services; and
                  (D) application program interfaces that enable UTM 
                service suppliers to integrate UTM capabilities and 
                services into other systems for use by users of the 
                national airspace system, including unmanned aircraft 
                system operators.
          (2) International harmonization.--In carrying out paragraph 
        (1), the Administrator shall seek to harmonize, to the extent 
        practicable and advisable, UTM standards with standards 
        produced by recognized industry standards organizations or 
        other peer civil aviation authorities.
          (3) Feedback of concept of operations.--Not later than 90 
        days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 
        shall solicit feedback from stakeholders on the most recently 
        published UTM concept of operations of the Administration.
          (4) Finalization of concept of operations.--Not later than 1 
        year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 
        shall publish a final version of the UTM concept of operations 
        of the Administration.
  (c) Stakeholder Partnerships.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall establish a means by which the Administrator can 
enter into cooperative agreements, contracts, other transaction 
agreements, and other appropriate mechanisms with appropriate persons, 
partnerships, and consortia to enable qualified third-parties to 
design, build, develop, fund, and manage UTM.
  (d) Rules of Construction.--
          (1) Beyond visual line of sight operations.--Nothing in this 
        section shall be construed to prevent or prohibit beyond visual 
        line of sight operations through the use of technologies other 
        than UTM capabilities and services.
          (2) Airspace.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to 
        alter the authority under section 40103 of title 49, United 
        States Code.
  (e) Briefing.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, and annually thereafter, the Administrator shall brief the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate on progress made by the Administration 
detailing the implementation and requirements of this section and any 
applicable timelines to completion.
  (f) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Appropriate persons.--The term ``appropriate persons'' 
        means a Federal, State, local, Tribal, or territorial 
        governmental entity, or a person.
          (2) UTM.--The term ``UTM'' means the manner in which the 
        Administration will support operations for unmanned aircraft 
        systems operating in low-altitude airspace.

SEC. 611. RADAR DATA PILOT PROGRAM.

  (a) Sensitive Radar Data Feed Pilot Program.--Not later than 180 days 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration, in coordination with the Secretary of 
Defense, and other heads of relevant Federal agencies, shall establish 
a pilot program to make airspace data feeds containing classified or 
controlled unclassified information available to qualified users, in 
conjunction with subsection (b).
  (b) Authorization.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator 
and the heads of other relevant Federal agencies and in coordination 
with the Secretary of Defense, shall establish a process to authorize 
qualified entities to receive airspace data feeds containing classified 
information related to air traffic within the national airspace system 
and use such information in an agreed upon manner to--
          (1) provide--
                  (A) air traffic management services; and
                  (B) unmanned aircraft system traffic management 
                services; or
          (2) to test technologies that may enable or enhance the 
        provision of the services described in paragraph (1).
  (c) Briefing.--Not later than 90 days after establishing the pilot 
program under subsection (a), and annually thereafter, the 
Administrator shall brief the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the findings of 
the Administrator related to the pilot program established under this 
section.
  (d) Sunset.--This section shall cease to be effective on October 1, 
2028.
  (e) Definition of Qualified User.--In this section, the term 
``qualified user'' means an entity authorized to receive airspace data 
feeds containing classified or controlled unclassified information 
pursuant to subsection (b).

SEC. 612. ELECTRONIC CONSPICUITY STUDY.

  (a) In General.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall 
conduct a study of technologies and methods that may be used by 
operators of unmanned aircraft systems to detect and avoid manned 
aircraft that may lawfully operate below 500 feet above ground level 
and that are--
          (1) not equipped with a transponder or automatic dependent 
        surveillance-broadcast out equipment; or
          (2) otherwise not electronically conspicuous.
  (b) Consultation.--In conducting the study required under subsection 
(a), the Comptroller General shall consult with--
          (1) representatives from--
                  (A) unmanned aircraft systems manufacturers and 
                operators;
                  (B) general aviation operators;
                  (C) aerial applicators; and
                  (D) helicopter operators, including State and local 
                governments; and
          (2) any other person the Comptroller General determines 
        appropriate.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the 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 describing the results of such study.

SEC. 613. REMOTE IDENTIFICATION ALTERNATIVE MEANS OF COMPLIANCE.

  (a) Study.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall review and evaluate the final rule titled ``Remote Identification 
of Unmanned Aircraft'', issued on January 15, 2021, to determine the 
feasibility and advisability of whether unmanned aircraft manufacturers 
and operators can meet the intent of such final rule through 
alternative means of compliance, including through network-based remote 
identification.
  (b) 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 on the results of the study under subsection (a).

SEC. 614. PART 107 WAIVER IMPROVEMENTS.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall adopt a performance- and risk-based approach in 
reviewing requests for certificates of waiver under section 107.200 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  (b) Standardization of Waiver Application.--
          (1) In general.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
        Administrator shall improve the process established to submit 
        requests for certificates of waiver described in subsection 
        (a).
          (2) Format.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the Administrator 
        may not require the use of open-ended descriptive prompts that 
        are required to be filled out by an applicant, except to 
        provide applicants the ability to provide the Administration 
        with information for an unusual or irregular operation.
          (3) Data.--
                  (A) In general.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
                Administrator shall leverage data gathered from 
                previous requests for certificates of waivers.
                  (B) Considerations.--In carrying out subparagraph 
                (A), the Administrator shall safely use--
                          (i) big data analytics; and
                          (ii) machine learning.
  (c) Consideration of Property Ownership Interest.--
          (1) In general.--In determining whether to issue a 
        certificate of waiver under section 107.200 of title 14, Code 
        of Federal Regulations, the Administrator shall--
                  (A) consider whether the waiver applicant has control 
                over access to all real property on the ground within 
                the area of operation; and
                  (B) recognize and account for the safety enhancements 
                of such controlled access.
          (2) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection shall 
        be construed to direct the Administrator to consider the lack 
        of control over access to all real property on the ground 
        within an area of operation, or a lack of property interest in 
        such area of operation, as negatively affecting the safety of 
        the operation intended to be conducted under such certificate 
        of waiver.
  (d) Public Availability of Waivers.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall publish all 
        certificates of waiver issued under section 107.200 of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations, on the website of the 
        Administration, including, with respect to each issued 
        certificate of waiver--
                  (A) the terms, conditions, and limitations; and
                  (B) the class of airspace and any restrictions 
                related to operating near airports or heliports.
          (2) Publication.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator shall ensure that published information is made 
        available in a manner that prevents inappropriate disclosure of 
        proprietary information.
  (e) Precedential Use of Previously Approved Waivers.--
          (1) Waiver approval precedent.--Except as provided in 
        paragraph (3), if the Administrator determines, using criteria 
        for a particular waiver, that an application for a certificate 
        of waiver issued under section 107.200 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, is substantially similar (or is comprised 
        of elements that are substantially similar) to an application 
        for a certificate of waiver that the Administrator has 
        previously approved, the Administrator may streamline, as 
        appropriate, the approval of applications with substantially 
        similar conditions and limitations as a previously approved 
        application.
          (2) Rule of construction.--Nothing in paragraph (1) shall be 
        construed to preclude an applicant for a certificate of waiver 
        from applying to modify a condition, or remove a limitation of, 
        such certificate.
  (f) Modification of Waivers.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall establish an 
        expedited review process for a request to modify or renew 
        certificates of waiver previously issued under section 107.200 
        of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, as appropriate.
          (2) Use of review process.--The review process established 
        under paragraph (1) shall be used to review certificates of 
        waiver that cover operations that are substantially similar in 
        all material facts to operations covered under a subsequently 
        issued certificate of waiver.

SEC. 615. ACCEPTABLE LEVELS OF RISK AND RISK ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall establish acceptable levels of risk, and develop a risk 
assessment methodology associated with such levels of risk, to enable 
unmanned aircraft system operations conducted--
          (1) under waivers issued to part 107 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations;
          (2) pursuant to section 44807 of title 49, United States 
        Code; or
          (3) pursuant to future regulations promulgated by the 
        Administrator, as appropriate.
  (b) Acceptable Levels of Risk.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall establish acceptable levels of risk for unmanned 
aircraft system operations in the national airspace system and a method 
for assessing the operational risk of a proposed operation in 
accordance with such acceptable level.
  (c) Risk Assessment Methodology.--In carrying out subsections (a) and 
(b), the Administrator shall develop a risk assessment methodology to 
allow remote pilots in command operating unmanned aircraft systems 
pursuant to subsection (a) to determine the risk associated with a 
specific operation, and mitigate such a risk, as necessary.
  (d) Risk Assessment Methodology Considerations.--In establishing the 
risk assessment methodology described under this section, the 
Administrator shall consider--
          (1) the time of day of the operation;
          (2) the population density of the area of operation;
          (3) the class of airspace and such requirements necessary for 
        airspace users to legally operate in each class of airspace;
          (4) the proximity to infrastructure, to the extent that 
        proximity mitigates risk to other operators of the national 
        airspace system;
          (5) the nature of the detect and avoid mitigation measures of 
        an unmanned aircraft system; and
          (6) the attributes and characteristics of the unmanned 
        aircraft of the unmanned aircraft system, including the--
                  (A) size;
                  (B) visibility;
                  (C) maximum takeoff weight;
                  (D) maximum indicated airspeed; and
                  (E) payload.
  (e) Publication.--The Administrator shall make the risk assessment 
methodology established under this section available to the public on 
an appropriate website of the Administration.
  (f) Definitions of Unmanned Aircraft and Unmanned Aircraft System.--
In this section, the terms ``unmanned aircraft'' and ``unmanned 
aircraft system'' have the meanings given such terms in section 44801 
of title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 616. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW.

  (a) Guidance Updates.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall publish unmanned aircraft system-specific guidance 
and implementation procedures. Such guidance and implementation 
procedures shall--
          (1) provide guidance to streamline environmental assessments 
        at a programmatic level, as the Administrator considers 
        appropriate, for an unmanned aircraft system operator's network 
        of operations within a defined geographical region, including 
        within and over approved commercial or industrial sites closed 
        or restricted to the public;
          (2) provide guidance for nationwide programmatic approaches 
        for large scale distributed unmanned aircraft system operations 
        whereby a Programmatic Environmental Assessment or 
        Environmental Impact Statement can be leveraged for subsequent 
        related actions to ensure efficient environmental review;
          (3) consider additional Categorical Exclusions based on 
        previously prepared and finalized Environmental Assessments or 
        in consultation with the Council on Environmental Quality;
          (4) prioritize proposed projects or activities that may--
                  (A) offset or limit the impacts of non-zero emission 
                activities;
                  (B) offset or limit the release of environmental 
                pollutants to soil or water; or
                  (C) demonstrate other factors to the benefit of the 
                environment as determined by the Administrator;
          (5) contain intra-agency process improvements to avoid 
        providing conflicting safety and environmental feedback to 
        operators;
          (6) contain standards and criteria for engaging specialized 
        third parties to support the Administration's preparation and 
        review of documentation relating to the requirements of the 
        National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et 
        seq.) to ensure streamlined timelines for complex reviews; and
          (7) any other modifications the Administrator considers 
        necessary within the stated environmental objectives of the 
        National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et 
        seq.) and the Federal priority to maintain global leadership in 
        aviation innovation.
  (b) Briefing.--No later than 90 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall brief the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the plan of the 
Administration to implement subsection (b), including each of the 
considerations specified in the subsection, and an explanation for any 
consideration the Administrator does not intend to implement.
  (c) Concurrent Reviews.--If the Administrator determines that the 
review of an unmanned aircraft system's design, construction, 
maintenance and operational sustainability, airworthiness approval, or 
operational approval requires environmental assessment, including 
requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 
U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), the Administrator shall, to the maximum extent 
practicable, conduct such reviews and analyses concurrent with one 
another.
  (d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be construed 
as prohibiting, restricting or otherwise limiting the authority of the 
Secretary of Transportation or the Administrator from implementing or 
complying with the requirements of the National Environmental Policy 
Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and any related requirements to 
ensure the protection of the environment and aviation safety.
  (e) Associated UAS Certification Standards.--
          (1) Option to suspend noise certification requirement pending 
        standards development.--Notwithstanding the requirements of 
        section 44715 of title 49, United States Code, the 
        Administrator may waive the determination of compliance with 
        part 36 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, for an 
        applicant seeking an unmanned aircraft system type and 
        airworthiness certification, provided the Administrator has 
        developed appropriate noise measurement procedures for such 
        systems and the Administrator has received the noise 
        measurements results based on such procedures from the 
        applicant.
          (2) Development of criteria.--Not later than 90 days after 
        the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall 
        develop and establish substantive criteria and standards 
        metrics used by the Administrator to determine whether to 
        approve or disapprove the airworthiness of an unmanned aircraft 
        pursuant to part 36 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (3) Substantive criteria and standards metrics.--In 
        establishing the substantive criteria and standards metrics as 
        required under paragraph (2), the Administrator shall include 
        such criteria and metrics related to the airworthiness of 
        unmanned aircraft for the following:
                  (A) Noise impacts.
                  (B) Visual impacts.
          (4) Publication.--The Administrator shall publish in the 
        Federal Register and post on a website of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration the criteria and metrics established pursuant to 
        paragraph (2).
  (f) Definition of Unmanned Aircraft System.--In this section, the 
term ``unmanned aircraft system'' has the meaning given such term in 
section 44801 of title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 617. CARRIAGE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.

  (a) Near-term Approvals.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall coordinate with the Administrator of the Pipeline 
and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration to revise processes in 
effect on the date of enactment of this Act for the carriage of 
hazardous materials by unmanned aircraft systems to provide that--
          (1) special conditions, waivers, or other requirements 
        necessary to enable the carriage of hazardous materials shall 
        be incorporated into the existing regulatory and operator 
        certification processes of the Federal Aviation Administration 
        for unmanned aircraft operations in which the aircraft--
                  (A) weighs less than 100 pounds; and
                  (B) is capable of carrying less than 10 pounds gross 
                weight of limited quantity cargo; and
          (2) the existing special permitting process or other existing 
        processes carried out by the Administrator of the Pipeline and 
        Hazardous Materials Safety Administration shall be initiated as 
        early as practicable, and in conjunction with the existing 
        regulatory and operator certification processes of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration, for unmanned aircraft operations in 
        which the unmanned aircraft--
                  (A) weighs 100 pounds or more; or
                  (B) is capable of carrying 10 pounds or more gross 
                weight of limited quantity cargo.
  (b) Rulemaking.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall 
        revise requirements, guidance, standards, or other policy 
        materials governing the carriage of hazardous materials to 
        allow for the carriage of a de minimis amount of hazardous 
        materials by an unmanned aircraft.
          (2) Considerations.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator shall consider--
                  (A) whether a hazardous material is a consumer 
                commodity;
                  (B) requirements for common carriage and private 
                carriage;
                  (C) whether the transportation of a de minimis 
                volume, weight, or amount of a hazardous material would 
                pose an unreasonable risk to health and safety or 
                property;
                  (D) whether the volume, weight, or amount of a 
                hazardous material is large enough to permit the 
                transportation of a commercially meaningful volume, 
                weight, or amount; and
                  (E) the altitude at which unmanned aircraft 
                operations are conducted.
          (3) Implementation.--
                  (A) Petition.--The Secretary shall establish a 
                process for a person to petition to establish or revise 
                a de minimis amount or a hazardous material.
                  (B) Periodic updates.--The Secretary shall--
                          (i) periodically review, as necessary, de 
                        minimis amounts of hazardous materials 
                        established under paragraph (1);
                          (ii) determine whether such amounts of 
                        Hazardous materials should be revised, based on 
                        operational and safety data or other factors; 
                        and
                          (iii) assess whether to establish a de 
                        minimis amount for a hazardous material for 
                        which a de minimis volume, weight, or amount 
                        has previously not been established.
  (c) Saving Clause.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to--
          (1) limit the authority of the Secretary, the Administrator 
        of the Federal Aviation Administration, or the Administrator of 
        the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration from 
        implementing requirements under existing authorities to ensure 
        the safe carriage of hazardous materials by aircraft; and
          (2) confer upon the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration the authorities of the Administrator of the 
        Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, as 
        described in part 175 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        and chapter 51 of title 49, United States Code.
  (d) Exemption.--The authorities of the Administrator related to the 
transportation, packaging, marking, or description of hazardous 
materials in section 106(g)(1) of title 49, United States Code, shall 
not apply to the extent necessary to enact the requirements of this 
section.
  (e) Definitions.--In the section:
          (1) Unmanned aircraft system.--The term ``unmanned aircraft 
        system'' has the meaning given the term in section 44801 of 
        title 49, United States Code.
          (2) Consumer commodity.--The term ``consumer commodity'' has 
        the meaning given such term in section 171.8 of title 49, Code 
        of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 618. UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM USE IN WILDFIRE RESPONSE.

  (a) Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Wildfire Response.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration, in coordination with the United States 
        Forest Service and any other Federal entity or contracted 
        operator the Administrator considers appropriate, shall develop 
        a plan on the use of unmanned aircraft systems by public 
        entities in wildfire response efforts, including wildfire 
        detection, mitigation, and suppression.
          (2) Plan contents.--The plan under subsection (a) shall 
        provide recommendations to--
                  (A) identify and designate areas of public land with 
                high potential for wildfires in which public entities 
                may conduct unmanned aircraft system beyond visual line 
                of sight operations as part of wildfire response 
                efforts, including wildfire detection, mitigation, and 
                suppression;
                  (B) develop a process to facilitate the safe and 
                efficient operation of unmanned aircraft systems beyond 
                the visual line of sight in wildfire response efforts 
                in areas designated under paragraph (A), including the 
                waiver process under section 91.113 or section 107.31 
                of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, for public 
                entities that use unmanned aircraft systems for aerial 
                wildfire detection, mitigation, and suppression; and
                  (C) improve coordination between the relevant Federal 
                agencies and public entities on the use of unmanned 
                aircraft systems in wildfire response efforts.
          (3) Plan submission.--Upon completion of the plan under 
        subsection (a), the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration shall submit such plan to, and provide a 
        briefing for, the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
        Senates.
          (4) Publication.--Upon submission of the plan under 
        subsection (a), the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration shall publish such plan on a publicly available 
        website of the Administration.
  (b) Applicability.--This section shall only apply to unmanned 
aircraft systems that are--
          (1) operated by, or on behalf of, a public entity;
          (2) operated in airspace covered by a wildfire-related 
        temporary flight restriction under section 91.137 of title 14, 
        Code of Federal Regulations; and
          (3) under the operational control of, or otherwise are being 
        operationally coordinated by, an authorized aviation 
        coordinator responsible for coordinating disaster relief 
        aircraft within the airspace covered by such temporary flight 
        restriction.
  (c) Interagency Coordination.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall seek to enter into 
the necessary agreements to provide a liaison of the Administration to 
the National Interagency Fire Center to facilitate the use of manned 
and unmanned aircraft in wildfire response efforts, including wildfire 
detection, mitigation, and suppression.
  (d) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this Act shall be construed to confer 
upon the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration the 
authorities of the Administration of the Federal Emergency Management 
Agency on wildfire response under section 611 of the Robert T. Stafford 
Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5196).
  (e) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Public entity.--The term ``public entity'' means--
                  (A) a Federal agency;
                  (B) a State government;
                  (C) a local government;
                  (D) a Tribal government; and
                  (E) a territorial government.
          (2) Public land.--The term ``public land'' has the meaning 
        given such term in section 205 of the Sikes Act (16 U.S.C. 
        670k).
          (3) Unmanned aircraft system.--The term ``unmanned aircraft 
        system'' has the meaning given such term in section 44801 of 
        title 49, United States Code.
          (4) Wildfire.--The term ``wildfire'' has the meaning given 
        that term in section 2 of the Emergency Wildfire Suppression 
        Act (42 U.S.C. 1856m).

SEC. 619. PILOT PROGRAM FOR UAS INSPECTIONS OF FAA INFRASTRUCTURE.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish and 
initiate a pilot program to supplement appropriate inspection and 
oversight activities of the department with unmanned aircraft systems 
for the purposes of increasing employee safety, enhancing data 
collection, increasing the accuracy of inspections, reducing costs, and 
other purposes the Secretary considers to be in the broader interests 
of good government.
  (b) Ground-based Aviation Infrastructure.--Under the program required 
in subsection (a), the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall evaluate the use of unmanned aircraft systems to 
inspect ground-based aviation infrastructure that may require visual 
inspection in hard-to-reach areas, including--
          (1) navigational aids;
          (2) air traffic control towers;
          (3) radar facilities;
          (4) communication facilities; and
          (5) other air traffic control facilities.
  (c) Coordination.--In carrying out the pilot program established 
under subsection (a), the Secretary shall consult with the labor union 
certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code, to 
represent personnel responsible for the inspection of the ground-based 
aviation infrastructure described in subsection (b).
  (d) Covered Foreign Unmanned Aircraft System.--The Secretary may not 
carry out an inspection under this section using an unmanned aircraft 
system manufactured by--
          (1) an entity included on the Consolidated Screening list or 
        Entity List as designated by the Secretary of Commerce;
          (2) an entity domiciled in the People's Republic of China or 
        the Russian Federation; or
          (3) an entity, or a subsidiary or affiliate of an entity, 
        that is subject to influence or control by--
                  (A) the Government of the People's Republic of China;
                  (B) the Chinese Communist Party; or
                  (C) the Russian Federation.
  (e) Briefing.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, and annually thereafter until the termination of the pilot 
program under this section, the Secretary shall provide to the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a briefing on the status and results of 
the pilot program established under subsection (a), including--
          (1) cost saving;
          (2) a description of how unmanned aircraft systems were used 
        to supplement existing inspection, data collection, or 
        oversight activities of Department employees, including the 
        number of operations and types of activities performed;
          (3) efficiency or safety improvements, if any, associated 
        with the use of unmanned aircraft systems to supplement 
        conventional inspection, data collection, or oversight 
        activities;
          (4) the fleet of unmanned aircraft systems maintained by the 
        Department of Transportation for the program, or an overview of 
        the services used as part of the pilot program; and
          (5) recommendations for improving the use or efficacy of 
        unmanned aircraft systems to supplement the Department's 
        conventional inspection, data collection, or oversight 
        activities.
  (f) Sunset and Incorporation Into Standard Practice.--
          (1) Sunset.--The pilot program established under subsection 
        (a) and the reporting requirement under subsection (f) shall 
        terminate on the date that is 50 months after the date of 
        enactment of this Act.
          (2) Incorporation into standard practice.--Upon termination 
        of the pilot program, the Secretary shall assess the results of 
        the pilot program under this section and determine whether to 
        permanently incorporate the use of unmanned aircraft systems 
        into the regular inspection, data collection, and oversight 
        activities of the Department.
          (3) Report to congress.--Not later than 3 months after the 
        termination of the pilot program under paragraph (1), 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 final results of the pilot program and 
        the actions taken by the Administrator pursuant to paragraph 
        (2).

SEC. 620. DRONE INFRASTRUCTURE INSPECTION GRANT PROGRAM.

  (a) Authority.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish a drone 
infrastructure inspection grant program to make grants to governmental 
entities to facilitate the use of eligible small unmanned aircraft 
systems to support more efficient inspection, operation, construction, 
maintenance, modernization, and repair of an element of critical 
infrastructure to improve worker safety related to critical 
infrastructure projects.
  (b) Use of Grant Amounts.--A governmental entity may use a grant 
provided under this section to--
          (1) purchase or lease eligible small unmanned aircraft 
        systems;
          (2) support operational capabilities of eligible small 
        unmanned aircraft systems by the governmental entity;
          (3) contract for services performed using an eligible small 
        unmanned aircraft system in circumstances in which the 
        governmental entity does not have the resources or expertise to 
        safely carry out or assist in carrying out the activities 
        described under subsection (a); and
          (4) support the program management capability of the 
        governmental entity to use an eligible small unmanned aircraft 
        system.
  (c) Eligibility.--To be eligible to receive a grant under this 
section, a governmental entity shall submit an application to the 
Secretary at such time, in such form, and containing such information 
as the Secretary may require, including an assurance that the 
governmental entity or any contractor of the governmental entity, will 
comply with relevant Federal regulations.
  (d) Selection of Applicants.--In awarding a grant under this section, 
the Secretary shall prioritize applications that propose to--
          (1) carry out a critical infrastructure project in a variety 
        of communities, including urban, suburban, rural, tribal, or 
        any other type of community; and
          (2) address a safety risk in the inspection, operation, 
        construction, maintenance, or repair of an element of critical 
        infrastructure.
  (e) Limitation.--Nothing in this section shall be construed as to 
interfere with an agreement between a governmental entity and a labor 
union, including requirements under section 5333(b) of title 49, United 
States Code.
  (f) Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the first grant 
is provided under this section, 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 that evaluates the program 
carried out under this section, including--
          (1) a description of the number of grants awarded;
          (2) the amount of each grant;
          (3) the activities funded under this section; and
          (4) the effectiveness of such funded activities in meeting 
        the objectives described in subsection (a).
  (g) Funding.--
          (1) Federal share.--
                  (A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph 
                (B), the Federal share of the cost of a project carried 
                out using a grant under this section shall not exceed 
                50 percent of the total project cost.
                  (B) Waiver.--The Secretary may increase the Federal 
                share requirement under subparagraph (A) to up to 75 
                percent for a project carried out using a grant under 
                this section by a governmental entity if such entity--
                          (i) submits a written application to the 
                        Secretary requesting an increase in the Federal 
                        share; and
                          (ii) demonstrates that the additional 
                        assistance is necessary to facilitate the 
                        acceptance and full use of a grant under this 
                        section, such as alleviating economic hardship, 
                        meeting additional workforce needs, or such 
                        other uses that the Secretary determines to be 
                        appropriate.
          (2) Authorization of appropriations.--Out of amounts 
        authorized to be appropriated under section 106(k) of title 49, 
        United States Code, the Secretary shall make available to carry 
        out this section--
                  (A) $2,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
                  (B) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
                  (C) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
                  (D) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
                  (E) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.
  (h) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Covered foreign entity.--The term ``covered foreign 
        entity'' means an entity--
                  (A) included on the Consolidated Screening List or 
                Entity List as designated by the Secretary of Commerce;
                  (B) domiciled in the People's Republic of China or 
                the Russian Federation;
                  (C) subject to influence or control by the government 
                of the People's Republic of China or by the Russian 
                Federation; or
                  (D) is a subsidiary or affiliate of an entity 
                described in subparagraphs (A) through (C).
          (2) Critical infrastructure.--The term ``critical 
        infrastructure'' has the meaning given such term in subsection 
        (e) of the Critical Infrastructures Protection Act of 2001 (42 
        U.S.C. 5195c(e)).
          (3) Element of critical infrastructure.--The term ``element 
        of critical infrastructure'' means a critical infrastructure 
        facility or asset, including public bridges, tunnels, roads, 
        highways, dams, electric grid, water infrastructure, 
        communication systems, pipelines, or other related facilities 
        or assets, as determined by the Secretary.
          (4) Eligible small unmanned aircraft system.--The term 
        ``eligible small unmanned aircraft system'' means a small 
        unmanned aircraft system manufactured or assembled by a company 
        that is domiciled in the United States and is not a covered 
        foreign entity.
          (5) Eligible small unmanned aircraft system technology.--The 
        term ``eligible small unmanned aircraft system technology'' 
        means--
                  (A) an eligible small unmanned aircraft system; or
                  (B) a major component of such a system that is not 
                manufactured by or procured from a covered foreign 
                entity.
          (6) Governmental entity.--The term ``governmental entity'' 
        means--
                  (A) a State, the District of Columbia, the 
                Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, a territory of the United 
                States, or a political subdivision thereof;
                  (B) a unit of local government;
                  (C) a Tribal Government;
                  (D) a metropolitan planning organization; or
                  (E) a consortia of more than 1 of the entities 
                described in subparagraphs (A) through (D).
          (7) Project.--The term ``project'' means a project for the 
        inspection, operation, maintenance, repair, modernization, or 
        construction of an element of critical infrastructure, 
        including mitigating environmental hazards to such 
        infrastructure.
          (8) Small unmanned aircraft; unmanned aircraft system.--The 
        terms ``small unmanned aircraft'' and ``unmanned aircraft 
        system'' have the meanings given such terms in section 44801 of 
        title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 621. DRONE EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE TRAINING GRANT PROGRAM.

  (a) Authority.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish a drone 
education and training grant program to make grants to educational 
institutions for workforce training for eligible small unmanned 
aircraft system technology.
  (b) Use of Grant Amounts.--Amounts from a grant under this section 
shall be used in furtherance of activities authorized under sections 
631 and 632 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 
note).
  (c) Eligibility.--To be eligible to receive a grant under this 
section, an educational institution shall submit an application to the 
Secretary at such time, in such form, and containing such information 
as the Secretary may require.
  (d) Authorization of Appropriations.--Out of amounts authorized to be 
appropriated under section 106(k) of title 49, United States Code, the 
Secretary shall make available to carry out this section--
          (1) $2,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
          (2) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
          (3) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
          (4) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
          (5) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.
  (e) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Covered foreign entity.--The term ``covered foreign 
        entity'' means an entity--
                  (A) included on the Consolidated Screening List or 
                Entity List as designated by the Secretary of Commerce;
                  (B) domiciled in the People's Republic of China or 
                the Russian Federation;
                  (C) subject to influence or control by the government 
                of the People's Republic of China or by the Russian 
                Federation; or
                  (D) is a subsidiary or affiliate of an entity 
                described in subparagraphs (A) through (C).
          (2) Educational institution.--The term ``educational 
        institution'' means an institution of higher education (as 
        defined in section 101 of the High Education Act of 1965 (20 
        U.S.C. 1001)) that participates in a program authorized under 
        sections 631 and 632 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 
        U.S.C. 40101 note).
          (3) Eligible small unmanned aircraft system.--The term 
        ``eligible small unmanned aircraft system'' means a small 
        unmanned aircraft system manufactured or assembled by a company 
        that is domiciled in the United States and is not a covered 
        foreign entity.
          (4) Small unmanned aircraft; unmanned aircraft system.--The 
        terms ``small unmanned aircraft'' and ``unmanned aircraft 
        system'' have the meanings given such terms in section 44801 of 
        title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 622. DRONE WORKFORCE TRAINING PROGRAM STUDY.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall initiate a 
study of the effectiveness of the Collegiate Training Initiative 
Program for Unmanned Aircraft Systems, established pursuant to section 
632 of the FAA Reauthorization Act 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note).
  (b) Report.--Upon completion of the study under subsection (a), 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 
describing--
          (1) the findings of the study; and
          (2) any recommendations to improve and expand the Collegiate 
        Training Initiative Program for Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

SEC. 623. UAS INTEGRATION OFFICE.

  The Executive Director of the UAS Integration Office of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall--
          (1) support, and provide substantive recommendations for, 
        rulemaking proceedings, in coordination with other relevant 
        services and offices and the Assistant Administrator of 
        Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement, regarding the 
        integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the national 
        airspace system;
          (2) support, and make substantive recommendations to inform, 
        the review and adjudication of submissions under the processes 
        established under section 44807 of title 49, United States 
        Code, as amended by section 605;
          (3) support, and make substantive recommendations to inform, 
        the development, modification, and acceptance or approval of 
        relevant consensus standards, means of compliance, and 
        declarations of compliance related to unmanned aircraft 
        systems;
          (4) ensure the timely consideration of airworthiness and 
        operational determinations related to unmanned aircraft systems 
        by relevant offices of the Administration;
          (5) consult, advise, coordinate with, and make substantive 
        recommendations to relevant lines of business and staff offices 
        of the Administration to support the activities of the 
        Administration and efficiently carry out the duties described 
        in this section;
          (6) hire full-time equivalent employees, as necessary, to 
        build expertise within the UAS Integration Office to assess 
        unmanned aviation technologies and related operational risk 
        mitigation; and
          (7) engage in any other activities determined necessary by 
        the Executive Director or the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration, to fulfill the duties described in 
        this section.

SEC. 624. TERMINATION OF ADVANCED AVIATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

  The Secretary of Transportation may not renew the charter of the 
Advanced Aviation Advisory Committee (chartered by the Secretary on 
June 10, 2022).

SEC. 625. UNMANNED AND AUTONOMOUS FLIGHT ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the termination of the 
Advanced Aviation Advisory Committee pursuant to section 624, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall establish an 
Unmanned and Autonomous Flight Advisory Committee (in this section 
referred to as the ``Advisory Committee'').
  (b) Duties.--The Advisory Committee shall provide the Administrator 
advice on policy- and technical-level issues related to unmanned and 
autonomous aviation operations and activities, including, at a minimum, 
the following:
          (1) The safe integration of unmanned aircraft systems and 
        autonomous flight operations into the national airspace system, 
        including feedback on--
                  (A) the certification and operational standards of 
                highly automated aircraft, unmanned aircraft, and 
                associated elements of such aircraft;
                  (B) coordination of procedures for operations in 
                controlled airspace; and
                  (C) communication protocols.
          (2) The use cases of unmanned aircraft systems, including 
        evaluating and assessing the potential benefits of using 
        unmanned aircraft systems.
          (3) The development of processes and methodologies to address 
        safety concerns related to the operation of unmanned aircraft 
        systems, including risk assessments and mitigation strategies.
          (4) Unmanned aircraft system training, education, and 
        workforce development programs, including evaluating 
        aeronautical knowledge gaps in the unmanned aircraft system 
        workforce, assessing the workforce needs of unmanned aircraft 
        system operations, and establishing a strong pipeline to ensure 
        a robust unmanned aircraft system workforce.
          (5) The analysis of unmanned aircraft system data and trends.
          (6) Unmanned aircraft system infrastructure, including the 
        use of existing aviation infrastructure and the development of 
        necessary infrastructure.
  (c) Membership.--
          (1) In general.--The Advisory Committee shall be composed of 
        not more than 12 members.
          (2) Representatives.--The Advisory Committee shall include at 
        least 1 representative of each of the following:
                  (A) Small unmanned aircraft system commercial 
                operators.
                  (B) Small unmanned aircraft system manufacturers.
                  (C) Manufacturers of unmanned aircraft weighing 55 
                pounds or more pursuing or holding a certificate for 
                design or production of such unmanned aircraft.
                  (D) Counter-unmanned aircraft system manufacturers.
                  (E) Federal Aviation Administration approved unmanned 
                aircraft system service suppliers.
                  (F) Unmanned aircraft system test sites under section 
                44803 of title 49, United States Code.
                  (G) An unmanned aircraft system physical 
                infrastructure network provider.
                  (H) Community advocates.
                  (I) Certified labor organizations representing 
                commercial airline pilots, air traffic control 
                specialists employed by the Administration, certified 
                aircraft maintenance technicians, certified aircraft 
                dispatchers, and aviation safety inspectors.
  (d) Reporting.--
          (1) In general.--The Advisory Committee shall submit to the 
        Secretary an annual report of the activities, findings, and 
        recommendations of the Committee.
          (2) Congressional reporting.--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 the reports required under 
        paragraph (1).
  (e) Definition of Unmanned Aircraft.--In this section, the term 
``unmanned aircraft'' has the meaning given such term in section 44801 
of title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 626. NEXTGEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP EXPANSION.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall take such actions as 
may be necessary to expand the membership of the NextGen Advisory 
Committee chartered by the Secretary on June 15, 2022, and any 
subsequent chartered committees, to include a representative from the 
unmanned aircraft system industry and a representative from the 
powered-lift industry.
  (b) Qualifications.--The representatives required under subsection 
(a) shall have the following qualifications, as applicable:
          (1) Demonstrated expertise in the design, manufacture, and 
        operation of unmanned aircraft systems.
          (2) Demonstrated experience in the development or 
        implementation of unmanned aircraft systems policies and 
        procedures.
          (3) Demonstrated commitment to advancing the safe integration 
        of unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace system.

SEC. 627. TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTION INTEGRITY.

  (a) In General.--Section 40103(b) of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following:
  ``(5)(A) In issuing a temporary flight restriction, the Administrator 
shall--
          ``(i) ensure there is a specific and articulable safety or 
        security basis for the size, scope, and duration of such 
        restriction;
          ``(ii) immediately distribute a notice of the temporary 
        flight restriction via the Notice to Air Missions system; and
          ``(iii) detail in the notice required under clause (ii)--
                  ``(I) the safety basis for the restriction; and
                  ``(II) how a covered person may lawfully and 
                expeditiously operate an aircraft within the 
                restriction.
  ``(B) In this paragraph, the term `covered person' means--
          ``(i) a public safety agency;
          ``(ii) a first responder;
          ``(iii) an accredited news representative; or
          ``(iv) any other person as determined appropriate by the 
        Administrator.''.

SEC. 628. INTERAGENCY COORDINATION.

  (a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
          (1) the purpose of the joint Department of Defense-Federal 
        Aviation Administration executive committee (referred to in 
        this subsection as ``Executive Committee'') on conflict and 
        dispute resolution as described in Section 1036(b) of the 
        Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
        Year 2009 (Public Law 110-417) is to resolve disputes on the 
        matters of policy and procedures between the Department of 
        Defense and the Federal Aviation Administration relating to 
        airspace, aircraft certifications, aircrew training, and other 
        issues, including the access of unmanned aerial systems of the 
        Department of Defense to the national airspace system;
          (2) by mutual agreement of Executive Committee leadership, 
        operating with the best of intentions, the current scope of 
        activities and membership of the Executive Committee has 
        exceeded the original intent of, and tasking to, the Executive 
        Committee; and
          (3) the expansion described in paragraph (2) has resulted in 
        an imbalance in the oversight of certain Federal entities in 
        matters concerning civil aviation safety and security.
  (b) In General.--
          (1) Charter revision.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
        of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall seek to revise the charter of the 
        Executive Committee to reflect the scope, objectives, 
        membership, and activities described in such section 1036(b) in 
        order to achieve the increasing, and ultimately routine, access 
        of unmanned aircraft systems (as defined in section 44801 of 
        title 49, United States Code) into the national airspace 
        system.
          (2) Sunset.--Not earlier than 2 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall seek to sunset 
        Executive Committee activities by joint agreement of the 
        Administrator and the Secretary of Defense.

SEC. 629. REVIEW OF REGULATIONS TO ENABLE UNESCORTED UAS OPERATIONS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, conduct a review 
of requirements necessary to permit an unmanned aircraft systems 
(excluding small unmanned aircraft systems) operated by a Federal 
agency or an armed service to be operated in the national airspace 
system, including outside of restricted airspace, without being 
escorted by a manned aircraft.
  (b) 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 the results of the review, including findings and 
recommendations on regulatory and statutory changes that can be made to 
enable the operations described under subsection (a).
  (c) Definitions.--The definitions under section 44801 of title 49, 
United States Code, shall apply to this section.

SEC. 630. UAS OPERATIONS OVER HIGH SEAS.

  (a) In General.--An unmanned aircraft system operation that begins 
and ends within the United States or the territorial waters of the 
United States, shall not be considered international flight regardless 
of whether the unmanned aircraft system enters international airspace.
  (b) Definition of Unmanned Aircraft System.--In this section, the 
term ``unmanned aircraft system'' has the meaning given such term in 
section 44801 of title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 631. BEYOND BEYOND.

  (a) FAA BEYOND Program Extension.--The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall extend the BEYOND program of the 
Administration as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of 
this Act (referred to in this section as the ``Program'') and the 
existing agreements with State, local, and Tribal governments entered 
into under the Program until such date, as specified in subsection (b).
  (b) FAA BEYOND Program Expansion.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall expand the 
        Program to additional locations and test the use of new and 
        emerging aviation concepts and technologies, including concepts 
        and technologies unrelated to unmanned aircraft systems, to 
        evaluate and inform Administration policies, rulemaking, and 
        guidance related to the safe integration of such concepts and 
        technologies into the national airspace system.
          (2) Scope.--In expanding the Program under this subsection, 
        the Administrator shall address additional factors, including--
                  (A) increasing automation in civil aircraft, 
                including unmanned aircraft systems and new or emerging 
                aviation technologies;
                  (B) operations of such systems and technologies, 
                including beyond visual line of sight; and
                  (C) the social and economic impacts of such 
                operations.
          (3) Continuation.--The Administrator shall carry out the 
        expanded Program required under this subsection until such time 
        that the Administrator determines the Program is no longer 
        necessary or useful.

SEC. 632. UAS INTEGRATION STRATEGY.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall implement the recommendations made by--
          (1) the Comptroller General of the United States to the 
        Secretary of Transportation contained in the report titled 
        ``Drones: FAA Should Improve Its Approach to Integrating Drones 
        into the National Airspace System'' issued in January 2023 
        (GAO-23-105189); and
          (2) the inspector general of the Department of Transportation 
        to the Administrator contained in the audit report titled ``FAA 
        Made Progress Through Its UAS Integration Pilot Program, but 
        FAA and Industry Challenges Remain To Achieve Full UAS 
        Integration'' issued in April 2022 (Project ID: AV2022027).
  (b) Briefing.--Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator shall provide a briefing to the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate annually on the status of the activities 
described in subsection (a).

SEC. 633. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR KNOW BEFORE YOU FLY 
                    CAMPAIGN.

  There is authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator 
$1,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2024 through 2028, out of funds 
made available under section 106(k) of title 49, United States Code, 
for the Know Before You Fly educational campaign or similar public 
informational efforts intended to broaden unmanned aircraft systems 
safety awareness.

SEC. 634. PUBLIC AIRCRAFT DEFINITION.

  Section 40125(a)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking the first instance of ``or''; and
          (2) by inserting ``(including data collection on civil 
        aviation systems undergoing research, development, test, or 
        evaluation at a test range (as such term is defined in section 
        44801)), infrastructure inspections, or any other activity 
        undertaken by a governmental entity that the Administrator 
        determines is inherently governmental'' after ``biological or 
        geological resource management''.

                   Subtitle B--Advanced Air Mobility

SEC. 651. DEFINITION.

  In this subtitle, the term ``powered-lift aircraft'' has the meaning 
given the term ``powered-lift'' in section 1.1 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations.

SEC. 652. POWERED-LIFT AIRCRAFT RULEMAKINGS.

  (a) Final Rulemaking.--Not later than 13 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall publish a final rule for a special Federal 
aviation regulation establishing procedures for certifying powered-lift 
pilots and providing operational rules for powered-lift aircraft.
  (b) Future Rulemaking.--Not later than 5 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall initiate a rulemaking 
activity providing for a permanent pathway for the--
          (1) performance-based certification of powered-lift aircraft;
          (2) certification of powered-lift airmen; and
          (3) operation of powered-lift aircraft in commercial service 
        and air transportation.
  (c) Rulemaking Considerations.--
          (1) Contents of rulemakings.--In the development of the 
        rulemakings required under subsections (a) and (b), the 
        Administrator shall--
                  (A) provide for any aircraft type certificated by the 
                Administrator--
                          (i) a practical pathway for pilot 
                        qualification and operations; and
                          (ii) performance-based requirements for 
                        energy reserves and other range- and endurance-
                        related requirements that reflect the 
                        capabilities and intended operations of the 
                        aircraft;
                  (B) provide for a combination of pilot training 
                requirements, including simulators, to ensure the safe 
                operation of powered-lift aircraft;
                  (C) grant an individual with an existing commercial 
                airplane (single- or multi-engine) or helicopter pilot 
                certificate the authority to serve as pilot-in-command 
                of a powered-lift aircraft in commercial operation 
                following the completion of a Federal Aviation 
                Administration-approved pilot type rating for such type 
                of aircraft;
                  (D) to the maximum extent practicable, align powered-
                lift pilot qualifications with section 2.1.1.4 of the 
                International Civil Aviation Organization's Annex 1; 
                and
                  (E) consider the adoption of the recommendations 
                contained in document 10103 of the International Civil 
                Aviation Organization for powered-lift operations, as 
                appropriate.
          (2) Considerations for future rulemakings.--In the 
        development of the rulemakings required under subsection (b), 
        the Administrator shall--
                  (A) consider and plan for unmanned and remotely 
                piloted powered-lift aircraft systems, and the 
                associated elements of such aircraft, through the 
                promulgation of performance-based regulations;
                  (B) consider and plan for alternative fuel types and 
                propulsion methods, including reviewing the 
                performance-based nature of parts 33 and 35 of title 
                14, Code of Federal Regulations; and
                  (C) work to harmonize the certification and 
                operational requirements of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration with the certification and operational 
                requirements of civil aviation authorities with 
                bilateral safety agreements in place with the United 
                States, to the extent harmonization does not negatively 
                impact domestic manufacturers and operators.
  (d) Interim Application of Rules and Privileges in Lieu of 
Rulemaking.--Beginning 21 months after the date of enactment of this 
Act, if a final rule has not been published pursuant to subsection 
(a)--
          (1) rules in effect on such date that apply to the operation 
        and the operator of rotorcraft or fixed-wing aircraft under 
        subchapters F, G, H, and I of chapter 1 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, shall be--
                  (A) deemed to apply to--
                          (i) the operation of a powered-lift aircraft 
                        in the national airspace system; and
                          (ii) the operator of such a powered-lift 
                        aircraft; and
                  (B) applicable as determined by the operator of an 
                airworthy powered-lift aircraft in consultation with 
                the Administrator and consistent with sections 91.3 and 
                91.13 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; and
          (2) upon the completion of a type rating for a specific 
        powered-lift aircraft, airmen that hold a pilot or instructor 
        certification with airplane category ratings in any class or 
        rotorcraft category ratings in the helicopter class shall be 
        deemed to have privileges of a powered-lift rating for that 
        aircraft.
  (e) Termination of Interim Rules and Privileges.--Subsection (d) 
shall cease to have effect 1 month after the effective date of a final 
rule issued pursuant to subsection (a).

SEC. 653. POWERED-LIFT AIRCRAFT ENTRY INTO SERVICE.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall, in consultation with exclusive bargaining 
representatives of air traffic controllers certified under section 7111 
of title 5, United States Code, take such actions as may be necessary 
to safely integrate powered-lift aircraft into the national airspace 
system, including in controlled airspace, and learn from any efforts to 
adopt and update related policy and guidance.
  (b) Air Traffic Policies for Entry Into Service.--Not later than 24 
months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall 
update air traffic orders and policies, to the extent necessary, and 
address air traffic control system challenges in order to allow for--
          (1) the use of existing air traffic procedures, where safe, 
        by powered-lift aircraft; and
          (2) the approval of letters of agreement between air traffic 
        control system facilities and powered-lift operators and 
        infrastructure operators to minimize the amount of active 
        coordination required for safe recurring powered-lift aircraft 
        operations.
  (c) Long-term Air Traffic Policies.--Based on the implementation of 
subsection (b), the Administrator shall--
          (1) continue to update air traffic orders and policies;
          (2) to the extent necessary, develop powered-lift specific 
        procedures for airports, heliports, and vertiports;
          (3) evaluate the human factors impacts on controllers 
        associated with managing powered-lift aircraft operations, 
        consider the impact of additional operations on air traffic 
        controller staffing, and make necessary changes to staffing, 
        procedures, regulations, and orders; and
          (4) consider the use of third-party service providers to 
        manage increased operations in controlled airspace to support 
        and supplement the work of air traffic controllers.

SEC. 654. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON PREPARATION FOR ENTRY INTO SERVICE OF 
                    POWERED-LIFT AIRCRAFT.

  It is the sense of Congress that the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration should work with manufacturers, prospective 
operators of powered-lift aircraft, and other stakeholders, to enable 
the safe entry of such aircraft into commercial service following the 
publication of the final special Federal Aviation Administration 
rulemaking titled ``Integration of Powered-Lift: Pilot Certification 
and Operations; Miscellaneous Amendments Related to Rotorcraft and 
Airplanes'', including by reviewing and providing feedback to such 
manufacturers and operators on draft pilot training, operations, and 
maintenance manuals after the publication of the draft special Federal 
Aviation Administration rulemaking and prior to the publication of a 
final rule, as appropriate.

SEC. 655. INFRASTRUCTURE SUPPORTING VERTICAL FLIGHT.

  (a) Updates to Regulations for Consistency.--The Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall update part 1 and part 157 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and other regulations as 
necessary to implement the amendments made by section 401.
  (b) Update to Heliport Design Standards.--The Administrator shall 
update the version of Advisory Circular 150/5390-2, titled ``Heliport 
Design'' in effect on the date of enactment of this Act, to--
          (1) increase the inclusion of performance-based guidance, 
        including around aircraft fuel type and propulsion method;
          (2) update guidance to consider risk mitigations and hazards 
        associated with different aircraft fuel types and propulsion 
        methods;
          (3) affirm the general permissibility of any vertical takeoff 
        and landing capable aircraft to use heliports that can safely 
        accommodate the physical and operating characteristics of such 
        aircraft; and
          (4) include vertiport as a subclass of heliport.
  (c) Engineering Brief on Vertiport Design.--The Administrator may 
update the version of Engineering Brief 105, titled ``Vertiport 
Design'' in effect on the date of enactment of this Act, prior to 
issuing an update to Advisory Circular 150/5390-2, as required under 
subsection (b).
  (d) Engineering Brief Sunset.--The Administrator shall revoke 
Engineering Brief 105, titled ``Vertiport Design'', on the earlier of--
          (1) the date on which Advisory Circular 150/5390-2 is updated 
        under subsection (b); or
          (2) 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act.
  (e) Guidance, Forms, and Planning.--The Administrator shall--
          (1) ensure airport district offices of the Administration 
        have sufficient guidance and policy direction regarding the 
        Administration's heliport and vertiport design guidance not 
        later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act 
        and update such guidance routinely;
          (2) determine if updates to Administration Form 7460 and Form 
        7480 are necessary and take such actions, as appropriate; and
          (3) ensure that the methodology and underlying data sources 
        of the Administration's Terminal Area Forecast include 
        commercial operations conducted by aircraft regardless of 
        propulsion type or fuel type.

SEC. 656. CHARTING OF AVIATION INFRASTRUCTURE.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall increase efforts to update and keep current the 
Airport Master Record of the Administration, including by establishing 
a streamlined process by which the owners and operators of public and 
private aviation facilities with nontemporary, nonintermittent 
operations are encouraged to keep the information on such facilities 
current.
  (b) Briefing.--The Administrator shall brief the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on 
the plans of the Administrator to update and keep current the Airport 
Master Record for private and public airports, heliports, and 
vertiports.

SEC. 657. ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY WORKING GROUP.

  Section 2 of the Advanced Air Mobility Coordination and Leadership 
Act (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended--
          (1) in subsection (b) by striking ``, particularly passenger-
        carrying aircraft,'';
          (2) in subsection (d)(1) by striking subparagraph (D) and 
        inserting the following:
                  ``(D) operators of airports, heliports, and 
                vertiports, and fixed-base operators;'';
          (3) in subsection (e)--
                  (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by striking 
                ``1 year'' and inserting ``18 months'';
                  (B) in paragraph (3) by inserting ``or that may 
                impede maturation'' after ``AAM industry'';
                  (C) in paragraph (7) by striking ``and'' at the end;
                  (D) in paragraph (8) by striking the period at the 
                end and inserting ``; and''; and
                  (E) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(9) processes and programs that can be leveraged to improve 
        the efficiency of Federal reviews required for infrastructure 
        development, including for electrical capacity projects.'';
          (4) in subsection (f)(1) by striking ``necessary to support 
        the evolution of early'' and inserting the following: ``that 
        would allow for--
                  ``(A) the timely entry into service of AAM after 
                aircraft and operator certification; and
                  ``(B) the evolution of early'';
          (5) in subsection (g)--
                  (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by striking 
                ``working group'' and inserting ``Secretary of 
                Transportation'';
                  (B) in paragraph (1) by striking ``and'' at the end;
                  (C) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (3); 
                and
                  (D) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
          ``(2) summarizing any dissenting views and opinions of a 
        participant of the working group described in subsection 
        (c)(3); and'';
          (6) in subsection (i)--
                  (A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``that transports 
                people and property by air between two points in the 
                United States using aircraft with advanced 
                technologies, including electric aircraft or electric 
                vertical take-off and landing aircraft,'' and inserting 
                ``comprised of urban air mobility and regional air 
                mobility using manned or unmanned aircraft'';
                  (B) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (7);
                  (C) by redesignating paragraph (6) as paragraph (9);
                  (D) by inserting after paragraph (4) the following:
          ``(5) Powered-lift aircraft.--The term `powered-lift 
        aircraft' has the meaning given the term `powered-lift' in 
        section 1.1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          ``(6) Regional air mobility.--The term `regional air 
        mobility' means the movement of people or property by air 
        between 2 points using an airworthy aircraft that--
                  ``(A) has advanced technologies, such as distributed 
                propulsion, vertical take-off and landing, powered-
                lift, non-traditional power systems, or autonomous 
                technologies;
                  ``(B) has a maximum takeoff weight of greater than 
                1,320 pounds; and
                  ``(C) is not urban air mobility.'';
                  (E) by inserting after paragraph (7), as so 
                redesignated, the following:
          ``(8) Urban air mobility.--The term `urban air mobility' 
        means the movement of people or property by air between 2 
        intracity or intercity points using an airworthy aircraft 
        that--
                  ``(A) advanced technologies, such as distributed 
                propulsion, vertical take-off and landing, powered-
                lift, nontraditional power systems, or autonomous 
                technologies; and
                  ``(B) a maximum takeoff weight of greater than 1,320 
                pounds.''; and
                  (F) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(10) Vertiport.--The term `vertiport' has the meaning given 
        such term in section 47102 of title 49, United States Code.'';
          (7) by redesignating subsection (i) as subsection (j); and
          (8) by inserting after subsection (h) the following:
  ``(i) Considerations for Termination of Working Group.--In deciding 
whether to terminate the working group under subsection (h), the 
Secretary and the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall consider other interagency coordination activities associated 
with AAM, or other new or novel users of the national airspace system, 
that could benefit from continued wider interagency coordination.''.

SEC. 658. ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY INFRASTRUCTURE PILOT PROGRAM EXTENSION.

  Section 101 of division Q of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 
2023 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended--
          (1) in subsection (b)--
                  (A) in paragraph (2)--
                          (i) in subparagraph (A) by inserting ``, as 
                        well as the use of existing airport and 
                        heliport infrastructure that may require 
                        modifications to safely accommodate AAM 
                        operations,'' after ``vertiport 
                        infrastructure''; and
                          (ii) in subparagraph (B)--
                                  (I) in clause (iii) by striking 
                                ``vertiport'' and inserting ``locations 
                                for'';
                                  (II) in clause (iv) by inserting 
                                ``and guidance'' after ``any 
                                standards'';
                                  (III) in clause (v) by striking 
                                ``vertiport infrastructure'' and 
                                inserting ``urban air mobility and 
                                regional air mobility operations''; and
                                  (IV) in clause (x) by inserting ``or 
                                the modification of existing aviation 
                                infrastructure'' after ``operation of a 
                                vertiport''; and
                  (B) in paragraph (6)(B)--
                          (i) in clause (i) by striking ``and'' at the 
                        end;
                          (ii) in clause (ii) by striking the period at 
                        the end and inserting ``; and''; and
                          (iii) by adding at the end the following:
                          ``(iii) a description of--
                                  ``(I) initial community engagement 
                                efforts and responses from the public 
                                on the planning and development efforts 
                                of eligible entities related to urban 
                                air mobility and regional air mobility 
                                operations;
                                  ``(II) how eligible entities are 
                                planning for and encouraging early 
                                adoption of urban air mobility and 
                                regional air mobility operations;
                                  ``(III) what role each level of 
                                government plays in the process; and
                                  ``(IV) whether such entities 
                                recommend specific regulatory or 
                                guidance actions be taken by the 
                                Secretary of Transportation or other 
                                Federal agencies in order to support 
                                such early adoption.'';
          (2) in subsection (c)(1)--
                  (A) by striking ``years 2023 and 2024'' and inserting 
                ``years 2023 through 2026''; and
                  (B) by inserting before the period ``out of funds 
                made available under section 106(k) of title 49, United 
                States Code'';
          (3) in subsection (d) by striking ``2024'' and inserting 
        ``2026'' each place it appears; and
          (4) in subsection (e)--
                  (A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the 
                following:
          ``(1) Advanced air mobility; aam; regional air mobility; 
        urban air mobility; vertiport.--The terms `advanced air 
        mobility', `AAM', `regional air mobility', `urban air 
        mobility', and `vertiport' have the meaning given such terms in 
        section 2(j) of the Advanced Air Mobility Coordination and 
        Leadership Act (49 U.S.C. 40101 note).''; and
                  (B) by striking paragraphs (9) and (10).

                      Subtitle C--Other Provisions

SEC. 681. REPORT ON NATIONAL SPACEPORTS POLICY.

  Section 580(c)(3) of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 
115-254) is amended by striking ``2024'' and inserting ``2028''.

SEC. 682. INTERMODAL TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT PILOT 
                    PROGRAM.

  (a) In General.--The Secretary shall establish a pilot program to 
issue grants to operators of launch and reentry sites for projects to 
construct, repair, maintain, or improve transportation infrastructure 
and facilities at such sites.
  (b) Pilot Program Qualifications.--The Secretary may enter into 
agreements under this section to issue a grant to an operator only if 
the operator--
          (1) has submitted an application to the Secretary in such 
        form, at such time, and containing such information as 
        prescribed by the Secretary;
          (2) demonstrates to the Secretary's satisfaction that the 
        project for which the application has been submitted is for an 
        eligible purpose under subsection (c); and
          (3) agrees to maintain such records relating to the grant as 
        the Secretary may require and to make such records available to 
        the Secretary or the Comptroller General of the United States 
        upon request.
  (c) Permitted Use of Pilot Program Grants.--An operator may use a 
grant provided under this subsection for a project to construct, 
repair, maintain, or improve infrastructure and facilities that--
          (1) are located at, or adjacent to, a launch or reentry site; 
        and
          (2) directly enable or support transportation safety or 
        covered transportation activities.
  (d) Pilot Program Grants.--
          (1) Grant formula.--At the beginning of each fiscal year 
        after fiscal year 2024, the Secretary shall issue a grant to an 
        operator that qualifies for the pilot program under subsection 
        (b) an amount equal to the sum of--
                  (A) $250,000 for each licensed launch or reentry 
                operation conducted from the applicable launch or 
                reentry site or at any adjacent Federal launch range in 
                the previous fiscal year; and
                  (B) $100,000 for each launch or reentry operation 
                conducted under a permit from the applicable launch or 
                reentry site or at any adjacent Federal launch range in 
                the previous fiscal year.
          (2) Maximum grant.--Except as provided in subsection (e)(5), 
        a grant issued to an operator under this subsection shall not 
        exceed $2,500,000 for a fiscal year.
          (3) Adjacency.--
                  (A) In general.--In issuing a grant to an operator 
                under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall determine 
                whether a launch or reentry site is adjacent to a 
                Federal launch range.
                  (B) Limitation.--Only 1 operator may receive an 
                amount under paragraph (1) for each licensed or 
                permitted launch or reentry operation described in such 
                subparagraph.
                  (C) Multiple launch or reentry sites operated by 1 
                operator.--If an operator holds a license to operate 
                more than 1 launch site or more than 1 reentry site 
                that are adjacent to a Federal launch range, the 
                Secretary shall consider such launch or reentry sites 
                as 1 launch or reentry site for purposes of 
                subparagraph (A).
  (e) Supplemental Grants in Support of State, Local, or Private 
Matching.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary may issue a supplemental grant 
        to an operator, subject to the requirements of this paragraph.
          (2) Dollar-for-dollar matching.--If a qualified entity 
        provides an operator an amount equal to or greater than the 
        amount of a grant provided in a fiscal year under subsection 
        (d) (for the explicit purpose of matching such grant), the 
        Secretary may issue a supplemental grant to the operator that 
        is equal to 25 percent of such grant in the following fiscal 
        year.
          (3) Additional non-federal matching.--If a qualified entity 
        provides an operator an amount equal to or greater than two 
        times the amount of a grant provided in a fiscal year to the 
        operator under subsection (d) (for the explicit purpose of 
        matching such grant), the Secretary may issue a supplemental 
        grant to the operator that is equal to 50 percent of such grant 
        in the following fiscal year.
          (4) Supplemental grant limitations.--
                  (A) Match timing.--The Secretary may issue a 
                supplemental grant under paragraph (2) or (3) only if 
                an amount provided by a qualified entity is provided to 
                the operator in the same fiscal year as the grant 
                issued under subsection (d).
                  (B) Non-duplication of matching grants.--If the 
                Secretary issues a supplemental grant to the operator 
                of a launch site under paragraph (3), the Secretary may 
                not issue a supplemental grant under paragraph (2) to 
                the same operator in the same fiscal year.
          (5) Non-application of grant ceiling.--The limitation on a 
        grant amount under subsection (d)(2) shall not apply to 
        supplemental grants issued under this subsection.
  (f) Funding.--
          (1) Pilot program grant funds.--The grants issued under this 
        section shall be issued from funds made available out of 
        amounts available under section 106(k) of title 49, United 
        States Code.
          (2) Maximum annual limit on pilot program.--
                  (A) In general.--The total amount of all grants 
                issued under this section shall not exceed $20,000,000 
                in any fiscal year.
                  (B) Grant reduction.--In complying with subparagraph 
                (A), the Secretary--
                          (i) may proportionally reduce the amount of, 
                        or decline to issue, a supplemental grant under 
                        subsection (e); and
                          (ii) if the reduction under clause (i) is 
                        insufficient, shall proportionally reduce 
                        grants issued under subsection (d).
  (g) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Covered transportation activity.--The term ``covered 
        transportation activity'' means the movement of people or 
        property to, from, or within a launch site and the necessary or 
        incidental activities associated with such movement, including 
        through the use of--
                  (A) a vehicle;
                  (B) a vessel;
                  (C) a railroad (as defined in section 20102 of title 
                49, United States Code);
                  (D) an aircraft (as defined in section 40102 of title 
                49, United States Code);
                  (E) a pipeline facility (as defined in section 60101 
                of title 49, United States Code); or
                  (F) a launch vehicle or reentry vehicle.
          (2) Launch; launch site; launch vehicle; reentry site; 
        reentry vehicle.--The terms ``launch'', ``launch site'', 
        ``launch vehicle'', ``reentry site'', and ``reentry vehicle'' 
        have the meanings given those terms in section 50902 of title 
        51, United States Code.
          (3) Operator.--The term ``operator'' means a person licensed 
        by the Secretary to operate a launch or reentry site.
          (4) Qualified entity.--The term ``qualified entity'' means a 
        State, local, territorial, or Tribal government or private 
        sector entity, or any combination thereof.
  (h) Pilot Program Sunset.--This section shall cease to be effective 
on October 1, 2028.

SEC. 683. AIRSPACE ACCESS FOR HIGH-SPEED AIRCRAFT.

  (a) High-speed Aircraft Testing.--Not later than 2 years after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration, in coordination with any other Federal agency 
the Administrator determines appropriate, shall ensure that there is a 
process in which manufacturers and operators of high-speed aircraft can 
engage in flight testing of such high-speed aircraft, which may include 
the establishment of high speed testing corridors in the national 
airspace system.
  (b) Study on High-speed Aircraft Operations.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration shall, after consultation with aircraft 
        manufacturers, institutions of higher learning, the 
        Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space 
        Administration, the Secretary of Defense, and any other 
        agencies the Administrator determines appropriate, conduct a 
        study to assess actions necessary to facilitate the safe 
        operation and integration of high-speed aircraft into the 
        national airspace system.
          (2) Contents.--In carrying out the study under paragraph (1), 
        the Administrator shall--
                  (A) assess various altitudes and operating conditions 
                of high-speed aircraft in Class E airspace above the 
                upper boundary of Class A airspace and the resulting 
                aircraft noise levels at the surface;
                  (B) include the development of a framework and 
                timeline to establish the appropriate regulatory 
                requirements to conducting high-speed aircraft flights;
                  (C) identify the data required to develop 
                certification, flight standards, and air traffic 
                requirements for the deployment and integration of 
                high-speed aircraft;
                  (D) assess cross-agency equities related to high-
                speed aircraft technologies and flight; and
                  (E) survey global high-speed aircraft-related 
                regulatory and testing developments or activities.
          (3) Recommendations.--As part of the study under paragraph 
        (1), the Administrator shall issue recommendations to update, 
        if feasible, regulations for certification, flight standards 
        and air traffic management.
  (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 the results of the study conducted under subsection (a), 
including the recommendations under subsection (b)(3), to facilitate 
the safe operation and integration of high-speed aircraft in the 
national airspace system.
  (d) Study and Rulemaking on High Altitude Class E Airspace Flight 
Operations.--
          (1) Consultation.--Not later than 12 months after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with 
        the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space 
        Administration and relevant stakeholders, including industry 
        and academia, shall identify the minimum altitude above the 
        upper boundary of Class A airspace at or above which flights 
        operating with speeds above Mach 1 generate sonic booms that 
        are inaudible at the surface under prevailing atmospheric 
        conditions.
          (2) Rulemaking.--Not later than 2 years after the date on 
        which the Administrator identifies the minimum altitude 
        described in paragraph (1), the Administrator shall publish in 
        the Federal Register a notice of proposed rulemaking to amend 
        sections 91.817 and 91.818 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, and such other regulations as appropriate, to 
        permit flight operations with speeds above Mach 1 at or above 
        the minimum altitude identified under paragraph (1) without 
        specific authorizations, provided that such flight operations--
                  (A) show compliance with airworthiness requirements;
                  (B) do not cause a measurable sonic boom over 
                pressure to reach the surface; and
                  (C) have ordinary instrument flight rules clearances 
                necessary to operate in controlled airspace.
  (e) Definition.--In this section, the term ``high-speed aircraft'' 
means an aircraft operating at speeds in excess of Mach 1, which shall 
include supersonic and hypersonic aircraft.

SEC. 684. ICAO ACTIVITIES ON NEW TECHNOLOGIES.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall prioritize engagement with the International Civil 
Aviation Organization and contribute to or lead the development of 
international standards and recommended practices to improve aviation 
safety and support the entry-into-service of new forms of aviation.
  (b) Particular Activities.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall contribute to or lead International Civil Aviation 
Organization efforts with respect to the development of landing and 
take-off noise standards for supersonic aircraft.

SEC. 685. AIP ELIGIBILITY FOR CERTAIN SPACEPORT INFRASTRUCTURE.

  (a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the 
Secretary of Transportation may make a grant under subchapter I of 
chapter 471 of title 49, United States Code, to an airport sponsor to 
reconstruct, repave, or rehabilitate the full length and width of a 
runway existing on the date of enactment of this Act if--
          (1) the runway is at an airport that is also a launch site or 
        reentry site operated by a person certified under section 50905 
        of title 51, United States Code;
          (2) the runway is greater than 12,000 feet long and not less 
        than 200 feet wide; and
          (3) the airport sponsor certifies to the Secretary that the 
        full length and width of the runway is required to support 
        activities at the launch site.
  (b) Sunset.--This section shall cease to be effective on September 
30, 2028.

SEC. 686. COMMERCIAL SPACE TRANSPORTATION STATISTICS.

  Section 329(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (2) by striking ``aeronautical'' and 
        inserting ``aerospace'';
          (2) in paragraph (3) by striking ``civil aeronautics'' and 
        inserting ``civil aerospace'';
          (3) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as paragraphs (3) 
        and (4), respectively; and
          (4) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
          ``(2) collect and disseminate information on commercial space 
        transportation operations (other than that collected and 
        disseminated by the National Transportation Safety Board under 
        chapter 11) including, at a minimum, information on the number 
        of launches or reentries licensed by the Secretary, the number 
        of space flight participants, the number of payloads, and the 
        mass of payloads, organized by class of orbit;''.

SEC. 687. REPORT ON CERTAIN INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS.

  Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Secretary 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 on the infrastructure needs at Federal Aviation Administration-
licensed horizontal and vertical launch sites located in rural 
communities.

SEC. 688. AIRSPACE INTEGRATION FOR SPACE LAUNCH AND REENTRY.

  (a) Sense of Congress.--It is the Sense of Congress that--
          (1) a safe and efficient national airspace system that 
        successfully supports existing users and integrates new 
        entrants is of the utmost importance;
          (2) both commercial aviation and space launch and reentry 
        operations are vital to United States global leadership, 
        national security, and economic opportunity;
          (3) aircraft hazard areas are necessary during space launch 
        and reentry operations to ensure public safety; and
          (4) the Administrator of Federal Aviation Administration 
        should prioritize the development and deployment of 
        technologies to improve visibility of space launch and reentry 
        operations within Administration computer systems and minimize 
        operational workload to air traffic controllers associated with 
        routing traffic during spaceflight launch and reentry 
        operations.
  (b) Space Launch and Reentry Airspace Integration Technology.--There 
is authorized to be appropriated $10,000,000 for each of the fiscal 
years 2024 through 2028, or until such time as the Administrator 
determines that the project has reached an operational status, for the 
Administrator to expedite the development, acquisition, and deployment 
of technologies or capabilities to aid in space launch and reentry 
integration, which may include technologies recommended by the Airspace 
Access Priorities Aviation Rulemaking Committee in 2019, systems to 
enable the integration of launch and reentry data directly onto air 
traffic controller displays, and automated systems to enable near real-
time planning and dynamic rerouting of commercial aircraft during and 
following commercial space launch and reentry operations, with the 
objective of operational readiness not later than December 31, 2026.

              TITLE VII--PASSENGER EXPERIENCE IMPROVEMENTS

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

SEC. 701. ADVERTISEMENTS AND SOLICITATIONS FOR PASSENGER AIR 
                    TRANSPORTATION.

  (a) Full Fare Advertising.--Section 41712 of title 49, United States 
Code, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
  ``(e) Full Fare Advertising.--
          ``(1) In general.--It shall not be an unfair or deceptive 
        practice under subsection (a) for a covered entity to state in 
        an advertisement or solicitation for passenger air 
        transportation the base airfare for such air transportation if 
        the covered entity clearly and separately discloses--
                  ``(A) the government-imposed taxes and fees 
                associated with the air transportation; and
                  ``(B) the total cost of the air transportation.
          ``(2) Form of disclosure.--
                  ``(A) In general.--For purposes of paragraph (1), the 
                information described in paragraphs (1)(A) and (1)(B) 
                shall be disclosed in the advertisement or solicitation 
                in a manner that clearly presents the information to 
                the consumer.
                  ``(B) Internet advertisements and solicitations.--For 
                purposes of paragraph (1), with respect to an 
                advertisement or solicitation for passenger air 
                transportation that appears on a website, the 
                information described in paragraphs (1)(A) and (1)(B) 
                may be disclosed through a link or pop-up, as such 
                terms may be defined by the Secretary, in a manner that 
                is easily accessible and viewable by the consumer.
          ``(3) Definitions.--In this subsection:
                  ``(A) Base airfare.--The term `base airfare' means 
                the cost of passenger air transportation, excluding 
                government-imposed taxes and fees.
                  ``(B) Covered entity.--The term `covered entity' 
                means an air carrier, including an indirect air 
                carrier, foreign carrier, ticket agent, or other person 
                offering to sell tickets for passenger air 
                transportation or a tour, or tour component, that must 
                be purchased with air transportation.''.
  (b) Limitation on Statutory Construction.--Nothing in the amendment 
made by subsection (b) may be construed to affect any obligation of a 
person that sells passenger air transportation to disclose the total 
cost of such air transportation, including government-imposed taxes and 
fees, prior to purchase of such air transportation.
  (c) Regulations.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue final 
regulations to carry out the amendment made by subsection (a).
  (d) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this section may be construed 
to limit or otherwise affect the authority of the Secretary to regulate 
the disclosure of air carrier-imposed fees, or alter the requirements 
under part 399 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, as such part 
relates to air carrier-imposed fees.
  (e) Effective Date.--This section, and the amendment made by this 
section, shall take effect on the date that is 180 days after the date 
of enactment of this Act.

SEC. 702. MODERNIZATION OF CONSUMER COMPLAINT SUBMISSIONS.

  Section 42302 of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as 
follows:

``Sec. 42302. Consumer complaints

  ``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall--
          ``(1) maintain an accessible website through the Office of 
        Aviation Consumer Protection to accept the submission of 
        complaints from airline passengers regarding air travel service 
        problems; and
          ``(2) take appropriate actions to notify the public of such 
        accessible website.
  ``(b) Notice to Passengers on the Internet.--An air carrier or 
foreign air carrier providing scheduled air transportation using any 
aircraft that as originally designed has a passenger capacity of 30 or 
more passenger seats shall include on the accessible website of the 
carrier--
          ``(1) the accessible website, e-mail address, or telephone 
        number of the air carrier for the submission of complaints by 
        passengers about air travel service problems; and
          ``(2) the accessible website maintained pursuant to 
        subsection (a).
  ``(c) Use of Additional or Alternative Technologies.--The Secretary 
shall periodically evaluate the benefits of using mobile phone 
applications or other widely used technologies to--
          ``(1) provide additional or alternative means for air 
        passengers to submit complaints; and
          ``(2) provide such additional or alternative means as the 
        Secretary determines appropriate.
  ``(d) Air Ambulance Providers.--Each air ambulance provider shall 
include the accessible website, or a link to such accessible website, 
maintained pursuant to subsection (a) and the contact information for 
the Aviation Consumer Advocate established by section 424 of the FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 42302 note) on--
          ``(1) any invoice, bill, or other communication provided to a 
        passenger or customer of such provider; and
          ``(2) the accessible website and any related mobile device 
        application of such provider.''.

SEC. 703. CODIFICATION OF CONSUMER PROTECTION PROVISIONS.

  (a) Passenger Rights.--Subchapter I of chapter 417 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 41727. Passenger rights

  ``(a) Guidelines.--The Secretary of Transportation shall require each 
air carrier and foreign air carrier to submit a summarized 1-page 
document that describes the rights of passengers in air transportation, 
including guidelines for the following:
          ``(1) Compensation (regarding rebooking options, refunds, 
        meals, and lodging) for flight delays of various lengths.
          ``(2) Compensation (regarding rebooking options, refunds, 
        meals, and lodging) for flight diversions.
          ``(3) Compensation (regarding rebooking options, refunds, 
        meals, and lodging) for flight cancellations.
          ``(4) Compensation for mishandled baggage, wheelchairs, 
        mobility aids and other assistive devices, including delayed, 
        damaged, pilfered, or lost baggage, wheelchairs, mobility aids 
        and other assistive devices.
          ``(5) Voluntary relinquishment of a ticketed seat due to 
        overbooking or priority of other passengers.
          ``(6) Involuntary denial of boarding and forced removal for 
        whatever reason, including for safety and security reasons.
  ``(b) Filing of Summarized Guidelines.--Not later than 90 days after 
each air carrier and foreign air carrier submits the 1-page document to 
the Secretary under subsection (a), each such air carrier and foreign 
air carrier shall make available such 1-page document in a prominent 
location on its website.''.
  (b) Airline Passengers With Disabilities Bill of Rights.--Subchapter 
I of chapter 417 of title 49, United States Code, is further amended by 
adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 41728. Airline passengers with disabilities bill of rights

  ``(a) Airline Passengers With Disabilities Bill of Rights.--The 
Secretary of Transportation shall develop a document, to be known as 
the `Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights', using plain 
language to describe the basic protections and responsibilities of air 
carriers and foreign air carriers, their employees and contractors, and 
people with disabilities under section 41705.
  ``(b) Content.--In developing the Airline Passengers with 
Disabilities Bill of Rights under subsection (a), the Secretary shall 
include, at a minimum, plain language descriptions of protections and 
responsibilities provided in law related to the following:
          ``(1) The right of passengers with disabilities to be treated 
        with dignity and respect.
          ``(2) The right of passengers with disabilities to receive 
        timely assistance, if requested, from properly trained air 
        carrier, foreign air carrier, and contractor personnel.
          ``(3) The right of passengers with disabilities to travel 
        with wheelchairs, mobility aids, and other assistive devices, 
        including necessary medications and medical supplies, including 
        stowage of such wheelchairs, aids, and devices.
          ``(4) The right of passengers with disabilities to receive 
        seating accommodations, if requested, to accommodate a 
        disability
          ``(5) The right of passengers with disabilities to receive 
        announcements in an accessible format.
          ``(6) The right of passengers with disabilities to speak with 
        a complaint resolution officer or to file a complaint with an 
        air carrier, a foreign air carrier, or the Department of 
        Transportation.
  ``(c) Rule of Construction.--The development of the Airline 
Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights under subsections (a) and 
(b) shall not be construed as expanding or restricting the rights 
available to passengers with disabilities on the day before the date of 
the enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-
254) pursuant to any statute or regulation.
  ``(d) Consultations.--In developing the Airline Passengers with 
Disabilities Bill of Rights under subsection (a), the Secretary shall 
consult with stakeholders, including disability organizations and air 
carriers, foreign air carriers, and their contractors.
  ``(e) Display.--Each air carrier and foreign air carrier shall 
include the Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights--
          ``(1) on a publicly available internet website of the 
        carrier; and
          ``(2) in any pre-flight notifications or communications 
        provided to passengers who alert the carrier in advance of the 
        need for accommodations relating to a disability.
  ``(f) Training.--
          ``(1) In general.--Air carriers, foreign air carriers, and 
        contractors of such carriers shall submit to the Secretary 
        plans that ensure that employees of such carriers and their 
        contractors receive training on the protections and 
        responsibilities described in the Airline Passengers with 
        Disabilities Bill of Rights.
          ``(2) Review.--The Secretary shall review such plans to 
        ensure the plans address the matters described in subsection 
        (b).''.
  (c) Conforming Amendments.--The analysis for chapter 417 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to 
section 41726 the following:

``41727. Passenger rights.
``41728. Airline passengers with disabilities bill of rights.''.

  (d) Conforming Repeals.--Sections 429 and 434 of the FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 42301 note; 41705 note) and the 
item relating to such sections in the table of contents in section 1(b) 
of such Act are repealed.

SEC. 704. EXTENSION OF AVIATION CONSUMER PROTECTION ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

  Section 411 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 
U.S.C. 42301 note) is amended--
          (1) in subsection (b)--
                  (A) by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as 
                paragraphs (4) and (5), respectively; and
                  (B) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
          ``(3) ticket agents and travel management companies;''; and
          (2) in subsection (h) by striking ``2023'' and inserting 
        ``2028''; and

SEC. 705. REMOVAL OF OUTDATED REFERENCES TO PASSENGERS WITH 
                    DISABILITIES.

  (a) Sovereignty and Use of Airspace.--Section 40103(a)(2) of title 
49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``handicapped 
individuals'' and inserting ``individuals with disabilities''.
  (b) Special Prices for Foreign Air Transportation.--Section 
41511(b)(4) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking 
``handicap'' and inserting ``disability''.
  (c) Discrimination Against Individuals With Disabilities.--Section 
41705 of title 49, United States Code, is amended in the heading by 
striking ``handicapped individuals'' and inserting ``individuals with 
disabilities''.
  (d) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 417 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to section 
41705 and inserting the following:

``41705. Discrimination against individuals with disabilities.''.

SEC. 706. EXTENSION OF AVIATION CONSUMER ADVOCATE REPORTING 
                    REQUIREMENT.

  Section 424(e) of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 
42302 note) is amended by striking ``2023'' and inserting ``2028''.

SEC. 707. AIR CARRIER ACCESS ACT ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

  (a) In General.--Section 439 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 
(49 U.S.C. 41705 note) is amended--
          (1) in the section heading by striking ``advisory committee 
        on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities'' and 
        inserting ``air carrier access act advisory committee'';
          (2) in subsection (c)(1) by striking subparagraph (G) and 
        inserting the following:
                  ``(G) Manufacturers of wheelchairs, including powered 
                wheelchairs, and other mobility aids.''; and
          (3) in subsection (g) by striking ``2023'' and inserting 
        ``2028''.
  (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 1(b) of the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254) is amended by striking the item 
relating to section 439 and inserting the following:

``Sec. 439. Air Carrier Access Act advisory committee.''.

SEC. 708. PASSENGER EXPERIENCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

  (a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall establish an 
advisory committee to advise the Secretary and the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration in carrying out activities relating to 
the improvement of the passenger experience in air transportation 
customer service.
  (b) Membership.--The Secretary shall appoint the members of the 
advisory committee, which shall be comprised of at least 1 
representative of each of--
          (1) mainline air carriers;
          (2) air carriers with a low-cost or ultra-low-cost business 
        model;
          (3) regional air carriers;
          (4) large hub airport sponsors and operators;
          (5) medium hub airport sponsors and operators;
          (6) small hub airport sponsors and operators;
          (7) nonhub airport sponsors and operators;
          (8) ticket agents;
          (9) representatives of intermodal transportation companies 
        that operate at airports;
          (10) airport concessionaires;
          (11) nonprofit public interest groups with expertise in 
        consumer protection matters;
          (12) senior managers of the Administration's Air Traffic 
        Organization;
          (13) aircraft manufacturers;
          (14) entities representing individuals with disabilities;
          (15) certified labor organizations representing aviation 
        workers, including--
                  (A) Federal Aviation Administration employees;
                  (B) airline pilots working for air carriers operating 
                under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations;
                  (C) flight attendants working for air carriers 
                operating under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations; and
                  (D) other customer facing airline and airport 
                workers;
          (16) other organizations or industry segments as determined 
        by the Secretary; and
          (17) other Federal agencies that directly interface with 
        passengers at airports.
  (c) Vacancies.--A vacancy in the advisory committee under this 
section shall be filled in a manner consistent with subsection (b).
  (d) Travel Expenses.--Members of the advisory committee under this 
section shall serve without pay but shall receive travel expenses, 
including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in accordance with 
subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code.
  (e) Chair.--The Secretary shall designate an individual among the 
individuals appointed under subsection (b) to serve as Chair of the 
advisory committee.
  (f) Duties.--The duties of the advisory committee shall include--
          (1) evaluating ways to improve the comprehensive passenger 
        experience, including--
                  (A) transportation between airport terminals and 
                facilities;
                  (B) baggage handling;
                  (C) wayfinding;
                  (D) the security screening process; and
                  (E) the communication of flight delays and 
                cancellations;
          (2) evaluating ways to improve efficiency in the national 
        airspace system affecting passengers;
          (3) evaluating ways to improve the cooperation and 
        coordination between the Department of Transportation and other 
        Federal agencies that directly interface with aviation 
        passengers at airports;
          (4) responding to other taskings determined by the Secretary; 
        and
          (5) providing recommendations to the Secretary and the 
        Administrator, if determined necessary during the evaluations 
        considered in paragraphs (1) through (4).
  (g) Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, and every 2 years thereafter, the Secretary 
shall submit to Congress a report containing--
          (1) consensus recommendations made by the advisory committee 
        since such date of enactment or the previous report, as 
        appropriate; and
          (2) an explanation of how the Secretary has implemented such 
        recommendations and, for such recommendations not implemented, 
        the Secretary's reason for not implementing such 
        recommendation.
  (h) Definition.--The definitions in section 40102 of title 49, United 
States Code, shall apply to this section.
  (i) Sunset.--This section shall cease to be effective on October 1, 
2028.
  (j) Termination of DOT ACCESS Advisory Committee.--The ACCESS 
Advisory Committee of the Department of Transportation shall terminate 
on the date of enactment of this Act.

SEC. 709. STREAMLINING OF OFFLINE TICKET DISCLOSURES.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall take such action as 
may be necessary to update the process by which an air carrier or 
ticket agent is required to fulfill disclosure obligations in ticketing 
transactions for air transportation not completed through a website.
  (b) Requirements.--The process updated under subsection (a) shall--
          (1) include means of referral to the applicable air carrier 
        website with respect to disclosures related to air carrier 
        optional fees and policies;
          (2) include a means of referral to the website of the 
        Department of Transportation with respect to any other required 
        disclosures to air transportation passengers;
          (3) make no changes to air carrier or ticket agent 
        obligations with respect to--
                  (A) section 41712(c) of title 49, United States Code; 
                or
                  (B) subsections (a) and (b) of section 399.84 of 
                title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor 
                regulations); and
          (4) require disclosures referred to in paragraphs (1) and (2) 
        to be made in the manner existing prior to the date of 
        enactment of this Act upon passenger request.
  (c) Air Carrier Defined.--In this section, the term ``air carrier'' 
has the meaning given such term in section 40102(a) of title 49, United 
States Code.

SEC. 710. TICKET AGENT REFUND OBLIGATIONS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue a final rule 
to revise section 399.80 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to 
clarify the refund obligations of ticket agents.
  (b) Conditions.--In issuing the final rule under subsection (a), the 
Secretary shall clarify that a ticket agent shall provide a refund only 
when such ticket agent possesses, or has access to, the funds of a 
passenger.
  (c) Definitions.--In this section, the term ``ticket agent'' has the 
meaning given such term in section 40102(a) of title 49, United States 
Code.

SEC. 711. UPDATING PASSENGER INFORMATION REQUIREMENT REGULATIONS.

  (a) ARAC Tasking.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall task the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee with--
          (1) reviewing passenger information requirement regulations 
        under section 121.317 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulation, 
        and such other related regulations as the Administrator 
        determines appropriate; and
          (2) making recommendations to update and improve such 
        regulations.
  (b) Final Regulation.--Not later than 6 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall issue a final regulation revising section 121.317 
of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and such other related 
regulations as the Administrator determines appropriate, to--
          (1) update such section and regulations to incorporate 
        exemptions commonly issued by the Administrator;
          (2) reflect civil penalty inflation adjustments; and
          (3) incorporate such updates and improvements recommended by 
        the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee that the 
        Administrator determines appropriate.

SEC. 712. MOBILITY AIDS ON BOARD IMPROVE LIVES AND EMPOWER ALL.

  (a) Publication of Cargo Hold Dimensions.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall 
        require air carriers to publish on a prominent and easily 
        accessible place on the public website of the air carrier, 
        information describing the relevant dimensions and other 
        characteristics of the cargo holds of all aircraft types 
        operated by the air carrier, including the dimensions of the 
        cargo hold entry, that would limit the size, weight, and 
        allowable type of cargo available.
          (2) Proprietary information.--The Secretary shall allow an 
        air carrier to protect the confidentiality of any trade secret 
        or proprietary information submitted in accordance with 
        paragraph (1), as appropriate.
  (b) Refund Required for Individual Traveling With Wheelchair.--In the 
case of a qualified individual with a disability traveling with a 
wheelchair who has purchased a ticket for a flight from an air carrier, 
but who cannot travel on the aircraft for such flight because the 
wheelchair of such qualified individual cannot be physically 
accommodated in the cargo hold of the aircraft, the Secretary shall 
require such air carrier to offer a refund to such qualified individual 
of any previously paid fares, fees, and taxes applicable to such 
flight.
  (c) Evaluation of Data Regarding Damaged Wheelchairs.--Not later than 
12 months after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually 
thereafter, the Secretary shall--
          (1) evaluate data regarding the type and frequency of 
        incidents of the mishandling of wheelchairs on aircraft and 
        delineate such data by--
                  (A) types of wheelchairs involved in such incidents; 
                and
                  (B) the ways in which wheelchairs are mishandled, 
                including the type of damage to wheelchairs (such as 
                broken drive wheels or casters, bent or broken frames, 
                damage to electrical connectors or wires, control input 
                devices, joysticks, upholstery or other components, 
                loss, or delay of return);
          (2) determine whether there are trends with respect to the 
        data evaluated under paragraph (1); and
          (3) make available on the public website of the Department of 
        Transportation, in an accessible manner, a report containing 
        the results of the evaluation of data and determination made 
        under paragraphs (1) and (2) and a description of how the 
        Secretary plans to address such results.
  (d) Feasibility of In-cabin Wheelchair Restraint Systems.--
          (1) Roadmap.--Not later than 1 year 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 publicly available strategic 
        roadmap that describes how the Department of Transportation and 
        the United States Access Board, respectively, shall, in 
        accordance with the recommendations from the National Academies 
        of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics Transportation 
        Research Board Special Report 341--
                  (A) establish a program of research, in collaboration 
                with the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive 
                Technology Society of North America, the assistive 
                technology industry, air carriers, original equipment 
                manufacturers, national disability and disabled 
                veterans organizations, and any other relevant 
                stakeholders, to test and evaluate an appropriate 
                selection of WC19-compliant wheelchairs and accessories 
                in accordance with applicable Federal Aviation 
                Administration crashworthiness and safety performance 
                criteria, including the issues and considerations set 
                forth in such Special Report 341; and
                  (B) sponsor studies that assess issues and 
                considerations, including those set forth in such 
                Special Report 341, such as--
                          (i) the likely demand for air travel by 
                        individuals who are nonambulatory if such 
                        individuals could remain seated in their 
                        personal wheelchairs in flight; and
                          (ii) the feasibility of implementing seating 
                        arrangements that would accommodate passengers 
                        in wheelchairs in the main cabin in flight.
          (2) Study.--If determined to be technically feasible by the 
        Secretary, not later than 2 years after making such 
        determination, the Secretary shall commence a study to assess 
        the economic and financial feasibility of air carriers and 
        foreign air carriers implementing seating arrangements that 
        accommodate passengers with wheelchairs (including power 
        wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, and scooters) in the main 
        cabin during flight. Such study shall include an assessment 
        of--
                  (A) the cost of such seating arrangements, equipment, 
                and installation;
                  (B) the demand for such seating arrangements;
                  (C) the impact of such seating arrangements on 
                passenger seating and safety on aircraft;
                  (D) the impact of such seating arrangements on the 
                cost of operations and airfare; and
                  (E) any other information determined appropriate by 
                the Secretary.
          (3) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which 
        the study under paragraph (2) is completed, 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 publicly available 
        report describing the results of the study conducted under 
        paragraph (2), together with any recommendations the Secretary 
        determines appropriate.
  (e) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Air carrier.--The term ``air carrier'' has the meaning 
        given such term in section 40102 of title 49, United States 
        Code.
          (2) Disability; qualified individual with a disability.--The 
        terms ``disability'' and ``qualified individual with a 
        disability'' have the meanings given such terms in section 
        382.3 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on 
        date of enactment of this Act).
          (3) Wheelchair.--The term ``wheelchair'' has the meaning 
        given such term in section 37.3 of title 49, Code of Federal 
        Regulations (as in effect on date of enactment of this Act), 
        including power wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, and scooters.

SEC. 713. PRIORITIZING ACCOUNTABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY FOR AVIATION 
                    CONSUMERS.

  (a) Annual Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of Transportation 
shall provide 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 disability-related 
aviation consumer complaints filed with the Department of 
Transportation, and shall make each annual report publicly available.
  (b) Scope of Report.--In each report required under subsection (a), 
the Secretary shall include, at minimum, a description of the 
following:
          (1) The number of disability-related aviation consumer 
        complaints filed with the Department of Transportation during 
        the calendar year preceding the year in which such report is 
        submitted.
          (2) The nature of such complaints, such as reported issues 
        with--
                  (A) an air carrier;
                  (B) mishandling of passengers with a disability, 
                including mishandling of a wheelchair, mobility aid, or 
                other accessibility equipment of a passenger by an air 
                carrier;
                  (C) the condition or availability of accessibility 
                equipment or materials operated by an air carrier;
                  (D) the accessibility of in-flight services, 
                including accessing and utilizing onboard lavatories, 
                for passengers with a disability;
                  (E) difficulties experienced by passengers with a 
                disability in communicating with an air carrier 
                employee;
                  (F) difficulties experienced by passengers with a 
                disability in being moved, handled, or otherwise 
                assisted;
                  (G) an air carrier changing the flight itinerary of a 
                passenger with a disability without the consent of such 
                passenger;
                  (H) difficulties experienced by passengers with a 
                disability traveling with a service animal; and
                  (I) any other issues the Secretary of Transportation 
                determines appropriate.
          (3) The review process for such complaints.
          (4) The average amount of days before the Department 
        initiated a formal review of such complaints.
          (5) The average amount of days until such complaints were 
        resolved by the Department.
          (6) The number of such complaints that resulted in dismissal, 
        a civil monetary penalty, or other injunctive relief.
          (7) Of the complaints that were found to violate section 
        41705 of title 49, United States Code--
                  (A) the number of such complaints for which a formal 
                enforcement order was issued; and
                  (B) the number of such complaints for which a formal 
                enforcement order was not issued.
          (8) The number of disability-related aviation consumer 
        complaints filed with the Department of Transportation 
        involving airport staff or other matters under the jurisdiction 
        of the Federal Aviation Administration that were referred to 
        the Federal Aviation Administration.
          (9) The number of disability-related aviation consumer 
        complaints filed with the Department of Transportation 
        involving Transportation Security Administration staff that 
        were referred to the Transportation Security Administration or 
        the Department of Homeland Security.
  (c) Report to Congress.--The Secretary shall submit annually to the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate the report required under subsection (a).
  (d) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) In general.--Except as otherwise provided, the terms used 
        in this section have the meanings given such terms in section 
        40102 of title 49, United States Code, or section 382.3 of 
        title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, as applicable.
          (2) Air carrier.--The term ``air carrier'' means an air 
        carrier conducting passenger operations under part 121 of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (3) Passenger with a disability.--The term ``passenger with a 
        disability'' has the meaning given the term ``qualified 
        individual with a disability'' in section 382.3 of title 14, 
        Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 714. AIRCRAFT ACCESSIBILITY.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall initiate a program 
to study and evaluate improvements to transport category aircraft 
accessibility, including--
          (1) determining whether and, if so, how personal wheelchairs, 
        including manual and powered wheelchairs, can be safely secured 
        in the passenger seating areas of an aircraft certificated 
        under part 25 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations;
          (2) considering the safe evacuation processes for such 
        aircraft, including individuals who use manual and powered 
        wheelchairs; and
          (3) determining how various types or aircraft described in 
        paragraph (1) can safely and efficiently be retrofit for 
        accessible lavatories.
  (b) Report and Recommendations.--Not later than 2 years after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall provide 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 study and 
evaluation described in subsection (a) and recommendations to address 
the findings of such study and evaluation.

SEC. 715. ACCESSIBILITY OF WEBSITES, SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS, AND KIOSKS 
                    FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES.

  Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Secretary of Transportation shall, in direct consultation with the 
United States Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance 
Board, prescribe regulations setting forth minimum standards to ensure 
that individuals with disabilities are able to access kiosks, software 
applications, and websites in a manner that is equally as effective as 
individuals without disabilities, with a substantially equivalent ease 
of use. Such standards shall be consistent with the standards set forth 
in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 Level AA of the Web 
Accessibility Initiative of the World Wide Web Consortium or any 
subsequent version.

SEC. 716. REVIEW OF METHODS TO REPORT FLIGHT DELAY AND CANCELLATION 
                    STATISTICS.

  (a) In General.--No later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, shall conduct a 
review of the means of reporting flight delay and cancellation 
statistics to the Secretary and the accuracy of such data.
  (b) Coordination Requirement.--In conducting the review required in 
paragraph (1), the Secretary shall coordinate and collaborate with air 
carriers (as such term is defined in section 40102 of title 49, United 
States Code) to assist in conducting the review and providing 
recommendations on improving the means of reporting flight delay and 
cancellation statistics to the Secretary and the accuracy of such data.

SEC. 717. REIMBURSEMENT FOR INCURRED COSTS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall direct all air carriers 
providing scheduled passenger interstate or intrastate air 
transportation to establish policies regarding reimbursement for 
lodging, transportation between such lodging and the airport, and meal 
costs incurred due to a flight cancellation or significant delay 
directly attributable to the air carrier.
  (b) Definition of Significantly Delayed.--In this section, the term 
``significantly delayed'' means, with respect to air transportation, 
the departure or arrival at the originally ticketed destination 
associated with such transportation has changed--
          (1) in the case of air transportation within the United 
        States, by 3 or more hours; or
          (2) in the case of air transportation to or from a location 
        outside the United States, by 6 or more hours.

SEC. 718. AIRLINE OPERATIONAL RESILIENCY PLANS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall require a covered 
carrier to develop and regularly update an operational resiliency 
strategy to prevent or limit the impact of future flight disruptions on 
passengers.
  (b) Operational Resiliency Strategy.--In each operational resiliency 
strategy developed under subsection (a), a covered carrier shall 
include a description of--
          (1) the potential impact of severe weather and other 
        reasonably anticipated disruptive events on the operations of 
        the carrier and how the carrier seeks to prevent or limit the 
        impact of such events on passengers;
          (2) the potential impact of severe weather events and other 
        reasonably anticipated disruptive events on--
                  (A) staffing models and the preparedness of the 
                current workforce of the carrier to address such 
                conditions; and
                  (B) the current information and technology systems of 
                the carrier, including crew scheduling systems, and the 
                preparedness of such systems to continue operations 
                after such an event or disruption;
          (3) the preparedness of the carrier to maintain operations 
        and limit or prevent the impact of other potential disruptive 
        events identified by the carrier;
          (4) the extent to which the carrier addresses known 
        cybersecurity risks to prevent potential flight disruptions; 
        and
          (5) any other issues the Secretary determines appropriate to 
        protect consumers and maintain the operational stability of the 
        airline industry.
  (c) Proprietary Information.--The Secretary shall develop a method to 
protect the confidentiality of any trade secret or proprietary 
information submitted in an operational resiliency strategy under 
subsection (b).
  (d) Evaluation.--
          (1) Audit.--Not later than 3 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United 
        States shall initiate an audit to evaluate the effectiveness of 
        the operational resiliency strategies developed under this 
        section by covered air carriers.
          (2) Report.--Not later than 1 year after completion of the 
        audit conducted under paragraph (1), 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 findings of the audit.
  (e) Covered Carrier.--In this section, the term ``covered carrier'' 
has the meaning given such term in section 259.3 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations (or successor regulations).

SEC. 719. FAMILY SEATING.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue a notice of 
proposed rulemaking to establish a policy directing air carriers that 
assign seats, or allow individuals to select seats in advance of the 
date of departure of a flight, to sit each young child adjacent to an 
accompanying adult, to the greatest extent practicable, if adjacent 
seat assignments are available at any time after the ticket is issued 
for each young child and before the first passenger boards the flight.
  (b) Prohibition on Fees.--The notice of proposed rulemaking described 
in subsection (a) shall include a provision that prohibits an air 
carrier from charging a fee, or imposing an additional cost beyond the 
ticket price of the additional seat, to seat each young child adjacent 
to an accompanying adult within the same class of service.
  (c) Rule of Construction.--Notwithstanding the requirement in 
subsection (a), nothing in this section may be construed to allow the 
Secretary to impose a change in the overall seating or boarding policy 
of an air carrier that has an open or flexible seating policy in place 
that generally allows adjacent family seating as described under this 
section.
  (d) Young Child.--In this section, the term ``young child'' means an 
individual who has not attained 14 years of age.

SEC. 720. SEAT DIMENSIONS.

  Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall--
          (1) initiate a rulemaking activity based on the regulation 
        described in section 577 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 
        (49 U.S.C. 42301 note); and
          (2) if the Administrator decides not to pursue the rulemaking 
        described in paragraph (1), the Administrator shall brief the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate on the justification of such 
        decision.

SEC. 721. IMPROVED TRAINING STANDARDS FOR ASSISTING PASSENGERS WHO USE 
                    WHEELCHAIRS.

  (a) Rulemaking.--Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue a notice of 
proposed rulemaking to develop requirements for minimum training 
standards for airline personnel or contractors who assist wheelchair 
users who must board or deplane using an aisle chair or other boarding 
device.
  (b) Requirements.--The training standards developed under subsection 
(a) shall require, at a minimum, that airline personnel or contractors 
who assist passengers who use wheelchairs who must board or deplane 
using an aisle chair or other boarding device--
          (1) complete refresher training within 18 months and be 
        recertified on the job within 18 months by a superior in order 
        to remain qualified for providing aisle chair assistance; and
          (2) be able to successfully demonstrate each of following 
        skills in hands-on training sessions before being allowed to 
        board or deplane a passenger using an aisle chair or other 
        boarding device:
                  (A) How to safely use the aisle chair, or other 
                boarding device, including the use of all straps, 
                brakes, and other safety features.
                  (B) How to assist in the transfer of passengers to 
                and from their wheelchair, the aisle chair, and the 
                aircraft's passenger seat, either by physically lifting 
                the passenger or deploying a mechanical device for the 
                lift or transfer.
                  (C) How to effectively communicate with, and take 
                instruction from, the passenger.
  (c) Considerations.--In conducting the rulemaking under subsection 
(a), the Secretary shall consider, at a minimum--
          (1) whether to require air carriers and foreign air carriers 
        to partner with national disability organizations and disabled 
        veterans organizations representing individuals with 
        disabilities who use wheelchairs and scooters in developing and 
        reviewing training; and
          (2) whether individuals able to provide boarding and 
        deplaning assistance for passengers with limited or no mobility 
        should receive training incorporating procedures from medical 
        professionals on how to properly lift these passengers.
  (d) Final Rule.--Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a final rule pursuant to the 
rulemaking conducted under this section.
  (e) Penalties.--The Secretary may assess a civil penalty in 
accordance with section 46301 of title 49, United States Code, to any 
air carrier or foreign air carrier who fails to meet the requirements 
established under the final rule under subsection (d).

SEC. 722. TRAINING STANDARDS FOR STOWAGE OF WHEELCHAIRS AND SCOOTERS.

  (a) Rulemaking.--Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue a notice of 
proposed rulemaking to develop minimum training standards related to 
stowage of wheelchairs and scooters used by passengers with 
disabilities on aircraft.
  (b) Requirements.--The training standards developed under subsection 
(a) shall require, at a minimum, that personnel and contractors of air 
carriers and foreign air carriers who stow wheelchairs and scooters on 
aircraft--
          (1) complete refresher training within 18 months and be 
        recertified on the job within 18 months by a superior in order 
        to remain qualified for handling and stowing wheelchairs and 
        scooters; and
          (2) be able to successfully demonstrate the each of following 
        skills in hands-on training sessions before being allowed to 
        handle or stow a wheelchair or scooter:
                  (A) How to properly handle and configure, at a 
                minimum on a common design for power and manual 
                wheelchairs and scooters for stowage on each aircraft 
                type operated by the air carrier or foreign air 
                carrier.
                  (B) How to properly review any wheelchair or scooter 
                information provided by the passenger or the wheelchair 
                or scooter manufacturer.
                  (C) How to properly load, secure, and unload 
                wheelchairs and scooters, including how to use any 
                specialized equipment for loading or unloading, on each 
                aircraft type operated by the air carrier or foreign 
                air carrier.
  (c) Considerations.--In conducting the rulemaking under subsection 
(a), the Secretary shall consider, at a minimum whether to require air 
carriers and foreign air carriers to partner with wheelchair or scooter 
manufacturers, national disability and disabled veterans organizations 
representing individuals who use wheelchairs and scooters, and aircraft 
manufacturers, in developing training.
  (d) Final Rule.--Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a final rule pursuant to the 
rulemaking conducted under this section.
  (e) Penalties.--The Secretary may assess a civil penalty in 
accordance with section 46301 of title 49, United States Code, to any 
air carrier or foreign air carrier who fails to meet the requirements 
established under the final rule under subsection (d).

SEC. 723. INVESTIGATION OF COMPLAINTS.

  Section 41705(c) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking paragraph (1), and inserting the following:
          ``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall--
                  ``(A) not later than 120 days after the receipt of 
                any complaint of a violation of this section or a 
                regulation prescribed under this section, investigate 
                such complaint; and
                  ``(B) provide, in writing, to the individual that 
                filed the complaint and the air carrier or foreign air 
                carrier alleged to have violated this section or a 
                regulation prescribed under this section, the 
                determination of the Secretary with respect to--
                          ``(i) whether the air carrier or foreign air 
                        carrier violated this section or a regulation 
                        prescribed under this section;
                          ``(ii) the facts underlying the complaint; 
                        and
                          ``(iii) any action the Secretary is taking in 
                        response to the complaint.''.

SEC. 724. STANDARDS.

  (a) Aircraft Access Standards.--
          (1) Standards.--
                  (A) Advance notice of proposed rulemaking.--Not later 
                than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, 
                the Secretary of Transportation shall issue an advanced 
                notice of proposed rulemaking regarding standards to 
                ensure that the aircraft boarding and deplaning process 
                is accessible, in terms of design for, transportation 
                of, and communication with, individuals with 
                disabilities, including individuals who use 
                wheelchairs.
                  (B) Notice of proposed rulemaking.--Not later than 1 
                year after the date on which the advanced notice of 
                proposed rulemaking under subparagraph (A) is 
                completed, the Secretary shall issue a notice of 
                proposed rulemaking regarding standards addressed in 
                subparagraph (A).
                  (C) Final rule.--Not later than 1 year after the date 
                on which the notice of proposed rulemaking under 
                subparagraph (B) is completed, the Secretary shall 
                issue a final rule.
          (2) Covered airport, equipment, and features.--The standards 
        prescribed under paragraph (1)(A) shall address, at a minimum--
                  (A) boarding and deplaning equipment;
                  (B) improved procedures to ensure the priority cabin 
                stowage for manual assistive devices pursuant to 
                section 382.67 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations; and
                  (C) improved cargo hold storage to prevent damage to 
                assistive devices.
          (3) Consultation.--For purposes of the rulemaking under this 
        subsection, the Secretary shall consult with the Access Board 
        and any other relevant department or agency to determine 
        appropriate accessibility standards.
  (b) In-flight Entertainment Rulemaking.--Not later than 1 year after 
the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a 
notice of proposed rulemaking in accordance with the November 22, 2016, 
resolution of the Department of Transportation ACCESS Committee and the 
consensus recommendation set forth in the Term Sheet Reflecting 
Agreement of the Access Committee Regarding In-Flight Entertainment.
  (c) Negotiated Rulemaking on In-cabin Wheelchair Restraint Systems 
and Enplaning and Deplaning Standards.--
          (1) Timing.--
                  (A) In general.--Not later than 1 year after 
                completion of the report required by section 712(d)(3), 
                and if such report finds economic and financial 
                feasibility of air carriers and foreign air carriers 
                implementing seating arrangements that accommodate 
                individuals with disabilities using wheelchairs 
                (including power wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, and 
                scooters) in the main cabin during flight, the 
                Secretary shall conduct a negotiated rulemaking on new 
                type certificated aircraft standards for seating 
                arrangements that accommodate such individuals in the 
                main cabin during flight or an accessible route to a 
                minimum of 2 aircraft passenger seats for passengers to 
                access from personal assistive devices of such 
                individuals.
                  (B) Requirement.--The negotiated rulemaking under 
                subparagraph (A) shall include participation of 
                representatives of--
                          (i) air carriers;
                          (ii) aircraft manufacturers;
                          (iii) national disability organizations;
                          (iv) aviation safety experts; and
                          (v) mobility aid manufacturers.
          (2) Notice of proposed rulemaking.--Not later than 1 year 
        after the completion of the negotiated rulemaking required 
        under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall issue a notice of 
        proposed rulemaking regarding the standards described in 
        paragraph (1).
          (3) Final rule.--Not later than 1 year after the date on 
        which the notice of proposed rulemaking under paragraph (2) is 
        completed, the Secretary shall issue a final rule regarding the 
        standards described in paragraph (1).
          (4) Considerations.--In the negotiated rulemaking and 
        rulemaking required under this subsection, the Secretary shall 
        consider--
                  (A) a reasonable period for the design, 
                certification, and construction of aircraft that meet 
                the requirements;
                  (B) the safety of all persons on-board the aircraft, 
                including necessary wheelchair standards and wheelchair 
                compliance with Federal Aviation Administration 
                crashworthiness and safety performance criteria; and
                  (C) the costs of design, installation, equipage, and 
                aircraft capacity impacts, including partial fleet 
                equipage and fare impacts.
  (d) Visual and Tactilely Accessible Announcements.--The Advisory 
Committee established under section 439(g) of the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 41705 note) shall examine technical solutions 
and the feasibility of visually and tactilely accessible announcements 
on-board aircraft.
  (e) Airport Facilities.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall, in direct consultation with 
the Access Board, prescribe regulations setting forth minimum standards 
under section 41705 of title 49, United States Code, that ensure all 
gates (including counters), ticketing areas, and customer service desks 
covered under such section at airports are accessible to and usable by 
all individuals with disabilities, including through the provision of 
visually and tactilely accessible announcements and full and equal 
access to aural communications.
  (f) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Access board.--The term ``Access board'' means the 
        Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board.
          (2) Air carrier.--The term ``air carrier'' has the meaning 
        given such term in section 40102 of title 49, United States 
        Code.
          (3) Individual with a disability.--The term ``individual with 
        a disability'' has the meaning given such term in section 382.3 
        of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (4) Foreign air carrier.--The term ``foreign air carrier'' 
        has the meaning given such term in section 40102 of title 49, 
        United States Code.

                        Subtitle B--Air Traffic

SEC. 741. TRANSFERS OF AIR TRAFFIC SYSTEMS ACQUIRED WITH AIP.

  Section 44502(e) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``in a noncontiguous 
        State'' after ``An airport'';
          (2) in paragraph (3)--
                  (A) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``or'' at the 
                end;
                  (B) in subparagraph (C) by striking the period at the 
                end and inserting ``; or''; and
                  (C) by adding at the end the following:
                  ``(D) a Medium Intensity Approach Lighting System 
                with Runway Alignment Indicator Lights.''; and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(4) Exception.--The requirement under paragraph (1) that an 
        eligible air traffic system or equipment be purchased in part 
        using a Government airport aid program, airport development aid 
        program, or airport improvement project grant shall not apply 
        if the system or equipment is installed at an airport that is 
        categorized as a basic or local general aviation airport under 
        the most recently published national plan of integrated airport 
        systems under section 47103.''.

SEC. 742. NEXTGEN PROGRAMS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, and periodically thereafter as the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration determines appropriate, the 
Administrator shall convene Administration officials to evaluate and 
expedite the implementation of NextGen programs and capabilities.
  (b) Nextgen Program Prioritization.--In allocating amounts 
appropriated pursuant to section 48101(a) of title 49, United States 
Code, the Secretary of Transportation shall give priority to the 
following activities:
          (1) Performance-based navigation.
          (2) Data communications.
          (3) Terminal flight data manager.
          (4) Aeronautical information management.
  (c) Performance-based Navigation.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 3 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall fully implement 
        performance-based navigation procedures for all terminal and 
        enroute routes, including approach and departure procedures for 
        covered airports.
          (2) Specific procedures.--Pursuant to paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator shall prioritize the following performance-based 
        navigation procedures:
                  (A) Trajectory-based operations.
                  (B) Optimized profile descents.
                  (C) Multiple airport route separation.
                  (D) Established on required navigation performance.
                  (E) Converging runway display aids.
          (3) Performance-based navigation baseline equipage 
        requirements.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the Administrator 
        shall issue such regulations as may be required, and publish 
        applicable advisory circulars, to establish the equipage 
        baseline appropriate for aircraft to safely use performance-
        based navigation procedures.
  (d) Data Communications.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall fully implement 
        the use of data communications.
          (2) Specific capabilities.--In carrying out subsection (a) 
        and this subsection, the Administrator shall prioritize the 
        following data communications capabilities:
                  (A) Ground-to-ground message exchange for surface 
                aircraft operations and runway safety at airports.
                  (B) Automated message generation and receipt.
                  (C) Message routing and transmission.
                  (D) Direct communications with aircraft avionics.
                  (E) Implementation of data communications at all Air 
                Route Traffic Control Centers.
                  (F) The Future Air Navigation System.
  (e) Terminal Flight Data Manager.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 4 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall replace the 
        traffic flow management system with the flow data management 
        system at covered airports.
          (2) Electronic flight strips.--In carrying out paragraph (1), 
        the Administrator shall implement electronic flight strips, at 
        a minimum, at the air traffic control towers of covered 
        airports and all terminal radar approach control and air route 
        traffic control centers.
  (f) Aeronautical Information Management Systems.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 3 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall fully modernize 
        the aeronautical information management systems of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration to improve the functionality, 
        useability, durability, and reliability of such systems used in 
        the national airspace system.
          (2) Requirements.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator shall--
                  (A) improve the distribution of critical safety 
                information to pilots, air traffic control, and other 
                relevant aviation stakeholders;
                  (B) fully develop and implement the Enterprise 
                Information Display System; and
                  (C) notwithstanding a centralized aeronautical 
                information management system, restructure the back-up 
                systems of aeronautical information management systems 
                to be independent and self-sufficient from one another.
  (g) Effect of Failure to Meet Deadline.--
          (1) Notification of congress.--If the Administrator 
        determines that the Administration has not or will not meet a 
        deadline established under subsection (a), (c), (d), or (e), 
        the Administrator shall, not later than 30 days after such 
        determination, notify the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
        Senate about the failure to meet the target deadlines.
          (2) Contents of notification.--A notification under paragraph 
        (1) shall be accompanied by the following:
                  (A) An explanation as to why the agency will not or 
                did not meet the target deadlines described in such 
                paragraph.
                  (B) A description of the actions the Administration 
                plans to take to meet the target deadlines described in 
                such paragraph.
          (3) Briefing.--If the Administrator is required to provide 
        notice under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall provide the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate bimonthly, in-person briefings as 
        to the progress made by the Administration regarding 
        implementation under the respective subsection for which the 
        target deadline will not or was not met until such time as the 
        Administrator has completed the required work under such 
        subsection.
  (h) Nextgen Advisory Committee Consultation.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall consult and task the 
        NextGen Advisory Committee with providing recommendations on 
        ways to expedite, prioritize, and fully implement NextGen 
        programs to realize the operational benefits of such programs.
          (2) Considerations.--In providing recommendations under 
        paragraph (1), the NextGen Advisory Committee shall consider--
                  (A) air traffic throughput of the national airspace 
                system;
                  (B) daily operational performance, including delays 
                and cancellations; and
                  (C) the potential need for performance-based 
                operational metrics related to NextGen programs.
  (i) Sunset of NextGen Brand.--
          (1) In general.-- Not later than 3 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall terminate the 
        use of the term ``Next Generation Air Transportation System'' 
        or ``NextGen'' to describe any air traffic control 
        modernization program of the Administration.
          (2) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection shall 
        be construed to--
                  (A) terminate any program of the Administration, 
                including a program that has previously been 
                represented as being a component of the Next Generation 
                Air Transportation System or NextGen in budgetary 
                submission or document of the Administration; or
                  (B) prohibit the Administrator from maintaining 
                materials that relate to or reference programs that 
                have previously been represented as being a component 
                of the Next Generation Air Transportation System or 
                NextGen.
  (j) Covered Airports Defined.--In this section, the term ``covered 
airports'' means the 40 airports in the United States with the highest 
number of annual aircraft operations, as of the date of enactment of 
this Act.

SEC. 743. AIRSPACE ACCESS.

  (a) Coalescing Airspace.--
          (1) Review of national airspace system.--Not later than 3 
        years after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
        Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, in 
        coordination with the Secretary of Defense, shall conduct a 
        comprehensive review of the airspace of the national airspace 
        system, including special use airspace.
          (2) Streamlining and expediting access.--In carrying out 
        paragraph (1), the Administrator shall identify methods to 
        streamline, expedite, and provide greater flexibility of access 
        to certain categories of airspace for users of the national 
        airspace system who may not regularly have access to such 
        airspace.
  (b) Report.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 3 months after the completion 
        of review the 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 describing 
        the findings of such review and any recommendations and 
        proposed actions to improve access to airspace of the national 
        airspace system for the users of such system.
          (2) Contents.--In the report submitted under paragraph (1), 
        the Administrator shall include, at a minimum, the following:
                  (A) An identification of current challenges and 
                barriers faced by airspace users in accessing certain 
                categories of airspace, including special use airspace.
                  (B) An evaluation of existing procedures, 
                regulations, and requirements that may impede or delay 
                access to certain categories of airspace for certain 
                users of the national airspace system.
                  (C) Recommendations for streamlining and expediting 
                the airspace access process, including potential 
                regulatory changes, technological advancements, and 
                enhanced coordination among relevant stakeholders and 
                Federal agencies.
                  (D) A proposal for implementing a flexible framework 
                that allows for temporary access to certain categories 
                of airspace, including special use airspace, by users 
                of the national airspace system who do not have regular 
                access to such airspace.
                  (E) An assessment of the impact airspace access 
                improvements may have on safety, efficiency, and 
                economic opportunities for airspace users, including--
                          (i) military operators;
                          (ii) commercial operators; and
                          (iii) general aviation operators.
          (3) Implementation and follow-up.--
                  (A) Action plan.--Based on the findings, 
                recommendations, and proposals submitted in the report 
                under this subsection, the Administrator shall develop 
                an action plan for implementing any recommendations and 
                proposals necessary to improve airspace access.
                  (B) Coordination and collaboration.--In developing 
                the action plan under subparagraph (A), the 
                Administrator shall coordinate with relevant 
                stakeholders, including airspace users and the 
                Secretary of Defense, to ensure--
                          (i) effective implementation of the action 
                        plan; and
                          (ii) ongoing collaboration in addressing 
                        airspace access challenges.
                  (C) Progress reports.--The Administrator shall 
                provide to the Committee on Transportation and 
                Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
                Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
                the Senate periodic progress reports in the form of 
                briefings on the implementation of the action plan 
                developed under this paragraph, including updates on 
                the adoption of streamlined procedures, technological 
                enhancements, and any regulatory changes necessary to 
                improve airspace access and flexibility.

SEC. 744. AIRSPACE TRANSITION COMPLETION.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall ensure that responsibility for the Newark, New Jersey radar 
sector is moved to the Philadelphia terminal radar approach control 
facility.
  (b) Staffing.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator may 
not--
          (1) require the temporary or permanent movement of any 
        personnel from the New York terminal radar approach control 
        facility to the Philadelphia terminal radar approach control 
        facility, but may solicit such personnel to volunteer to 
        temporarily or permanently facilitate the move required under 
        subsection (a); or
          (2) reduce the target staffing level of the New York terminal 
        radar approach control facility.
  (c) Congressional Briefings.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
of enactment of this Act and every 60 days thereafter, the 
Administrator and the head of the collective bargaining unit 
representing air traffic controllers shall brief the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on 
the status of the move required under subsection (a) until such time as 
the Newark, New Jersey radar sector is under the full responsibility of 
the Philadelphia terminal radar approach control facility.

SEC. 745. FAA CONTRACT TOWERS.

  (a) Operational Readiness Inspections.--Not later than 180 days after 
the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall update applicable regulations, standards, 
and guidance on operational readiness inspections related to the 
Federal Aviation Administration Contract Tower program to provide 
airport sponsors acting in good faith with 7 years to complete such 
inspections after receiving a benefit-to-cost ratio of air traffic 
control services for an airport.
  (b) FCT Controller Airspace Awareness.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall authorize the 
        use of advanced technology at Federal Aviation Administration 
        contract towers to enhance air traffic controller situational 
        awareness.
          (2) Equipment standards.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator shall establish standards and criteria identical 
        to such standards and criteria applicable to Federal Aviation 
        Administration air traffic controllers for the use of advanced 
        technology in air traffic control towers.
          (3) Recurrency training.--In carrying out this subsection, 
        the Administrator, in coordination with Federal Aviation 
        Administration contract tower contractors, shall establish an 
        appropriate training program to periodically train air traffic 
        controllers employed by such contractors to ensure proper 
        integration and use of advanced technologies at Federal 
        Aviation Administration contract towers.
  (c) Liability Insurance.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation 
with industry experts including Federal Aviation Administration 
contract tower contractors and aviation insurance providers, shall--
          (1) assess existing liability limits for contract tower 
        contractors established by the Secretary; and
          (2) determine whether such limits should be updated.

SEC. 746. FAA CONTRACT TOWER WORKFORCE AUDIT.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the inspector general of the Department of Transportation 
shall initiate an audit of the workforce needs of the Federal Aviation 
Administration Contract Tower Program.
  (b) Contents.--In conducting the audit required under subsection (a), 
the inspector general shall, at a minimum--
          (1) review the assumptions and methodologies used in 
        assessing the source of Federal Aviation Administration 
        contract towers staffing to determine the adequacy of staffing 
        levels at such towers;
          (2) determine whether there is a need to establish an air 
        traffic controller training program to allow Federal Aviation 
        Administration contract tower contractors to conduct--
                  (A) initial training of air traffic controllers 
                employed by such contractors; or
                  (B) on-the-job training of such controllers; and
          (3) assess whether establishing pathways to allow Federal 
        Aviation Administration contract tower contractors to use the 
        air traffic technical training academy of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration, or other means such as higher educational 
        institutions, to provide initial technical training for air 
        traffic controllers employed by such contractors could help 
        address the workforce needs of the FAA contract tower program.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 90 days after the completion of the audit 
under subsection (a), 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 findings of such audit and 
any recommendations as a result of such audit.

SEC. 747. AVIATION INFRASTRUCTURE SUSTAINMENT.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall develop performance metrics with which the Administrator can 
assess the operation of safety-critical communication, navigation, and 
surveillance aviation infrastructure within the national airspace 
system.
  (b) Performance Metrics Necessary to Remain in Service.--
          (1) In general.--After developing the performance metrics 
        under subsection (a), the Administrator shall carry out an 
        assessment to determine which applicable aviation 
        infrastructure are to remain in operational service.
          (2) Considerations.--In making an assessment under paragraph 
        (1), the Administrator shall take into consideration the 
        following:
                  (A) The expected lifespan of such aviation 
                infrastructure.
                  (B) The number and type of mechanical failures of 
                such aviation infrastructure.
                  (C) The average annual costs of maintaining such 
                aviation infrastructure over a 5-year timespan and 
                whether such costs exceed the amount to replace such 
                aviation infrastructure.
                  (D) The availability of replacement parts or labor 
                capable of maintaining such aviation infrastructure.
                  (E) Any other factors the Administrator determines 
                are necessary.
  (c) Publication.--The Administrator shall make the performance 
metrics established under subsection (b) available to the public 
through the website of the Administration, or other appropriate methods 
of publication, and shall ensure that any information made available to 
the public under this subsection is made available in a manner that--
          (1) does not provide identifying information regarding an 
        individual or entity;
          (2) prevents inappropriate disclosure of proprietary 
        information; and
          (3) does not disclose information that may pose a 
        cybersecurity risk.

SEC. 748. AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL TOWER SAFETY.

  In designing, adopting a design, or constructing an air traffic 
control tower based on a previously adopted design, the Administrator 
of the Federal Aviation Administration shall ensure that the safety of 
the national airspace system, the safety of employees of the 
Administration, the operational reliability of air traffic control 
towers, and the costs of such towers are the primary consideration in 
such design, adoption, or construction.

SEC. 749. AIR TRAFFIC SERVICES DATA REPORTS.

  Section 45303(g) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (2)(A) by striking ``8 years'' and inserting 
        ``14 years''; and
          (2) in paragraph (3)(A) by adding at the end the following:
                          ``(xvi) Operators of commercial space 
                        transportation launch and reentry vehicles.''.

SEC. 750. CONSIDERATION OF SMALL HUB CONTROL TOWERS.

  In selecting projects for the replacement of federally owned air 
traffic control towers from funds made available pursuant to title VIII 
of division J of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 
117-58) under the heading ``Federal Aviation Administration--Facilities 
and Equipment'', the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall consider selecting projects at small hub 
commercial service airports with control towers that are at least 50 
years old.

SEC. 751. AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL TOWER REPLACEMENT PROCESS REPORT.

  (a) Report Required.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall submit to Congress a report on the process by 
which air traffic control tower facilities are chosen for replacement.
  (b) Contents.--The report required under subsection (a) shall 
contain--
          (1) the process by which air traffic control tower facilities 
        are chosen for replacement, including which divisions of the 
        Administration control or are involved in the replacement 
        decision making process;
          (2) the criteria the Administrator uses to determine which 
        air traffic control tower facilities to replace, including--
                  (A) the relative importance of each such criteria;
                  (B) why the Administrator uses each such criteria; 
                and
                  (C) the reasons for the relative importance of each 
                such criteria;
          (3) what types of investigation the Administrator carries out 
        to determine if an air traffic control tower facility should be 
        replaced;
          (4) a timeline of the replacement process for an individual 
        air traffic control tower facility replacement;
          (5) the list of facilities established under subsection (c), 
        including the reason for selecting each such facility; and
          (6) any other information the Administrator considers 
        relevant.
  (c) List of Replaced Air Traffic Control Tower Facilities.--The 
Administrator shall establish, maintain, and publish on the website of 
the Federal Aviation Administration a list of the following:
          (1) All air traffic control tower facilities replaced within 
        the previous 10-year period.
          (2) Any such facilities in the process of being replaced.

SEC. 752. FAA CONTRACT TOWER PILOT PROGRAM.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall establish a pilot program to convert up to 3 high-activity 
contract towers under the Federal Aviation Administration Contract 
Tower Program under section 47124 of title 49, United States Code, to 
visual flight rule towers staffed by the Administration.
  (b) Priority.--In selecting facilities to participate in the pilot 
program under subsection (a), the Administrator shall give priority to 
towers that--
          (1) had over 200,000 in annual tower operations in calendar 
        year 2022 or a small hub airport with more than 900,000 
        passenger enplanements in calendar year 2021;
          (2) have controls towers that are either owned by the 
        Administration or are constructed to Administration standards; 
        and
          (3) operate within a complex air space, including space used 
        by air carriers, for general aviation, and by military 
        aircraft.
  (c) Controller Retention.--The Administrator shall appoint to the 
position of air traffic controller all air traffic controllers employed 
as a Federal contract tower operator and assigned to the air traffic 
control tower pilot program as of the date of enactment of this Act so 
long as such operator--
          (1) meets the qualifications contained in section 
        44506(f)(1)(A) of title 49, United States Code; and
          (2) has all other pre-employment qualifications required by 
        law.

                Subtitle C--Small Community Air Service

SEC. 771. ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE REFORMS.

  (a) Reduction in Subsidy Cap.--Section 41731(a)(1)(C) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
                  ``(C) had an average subsidy per passenger--
                          ``(i) of less than $1,000 during the most 
                        recent fiscal year beginning before October 1, 
                        2026, as determined in subparagraph (D) by the 
                        Secretary; or
                          ``(ii) of $500 or less during the most recent 
                        fiscal year beginning on or after October 1, 
                        2026; and''.
  (b) Restriction on Length of Routes.--
          (1) In general.--Section 41732(a)(1) of title 49, United 
        States Code, is amended by inserting ``less than 650 miles from 
        an eligible place (unless such airport or eligible place are 
        located in a non-contiguous State)'' after ``hub airport''.
          (2) Exception.--The amendment made by paragraph (1) shall not 
        apply to any contract or renewal of such contract with an air 
        carrier for essential air service compensation under subchapter 
        II of chapter 417 of title 49, that was--
                  (A) entered into before the date of enactment of this 
                Act; and
                  (B) still in effect on the date of enactment of this 
                Act.
          (3) Sunset.--Paragraph (2) shall cease to have effect after 
        September 30, 2028.
  (c) Applicant Selection Considerations.--Section 41733(c)(1) of title 
49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking ``giving substantial weight to'' and 
        inserting ``including'';
          (2) in subparagraph (E) by striking ``and'' at the end;
          (3) in subparagraph (F) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting ``; and''; and
          (4) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(G) the total compensation proposed by the air carrier for 
        providing scheduled air service under this section.''.
  (d) Cost Share.--
          (1) Section 41737.--Section 41737(a)(1) of title 49, United 
        States Code, is amended--
                  (A) in subparagraph (D) by striking ``and'' at the 
                end;
                  (B) in subparagraph (E) by striking the period at the 
                end and inserting ``; and''; and
                  (C) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(F) require that, for a contract to provide air service 
        that is entered into or renewed under this subchapter after 
        September 30, 2026, the Government's share of the compensation 
        is 95 percent.''.
          (2) Section 41731.--Section 41731 of title 49, United States 
        Code, is amended--
                  (A) in subsection (c) by inserting ``and section 
                41737(a)(1)(F)'' after ``subsection (a)(1)''; and
                  (B) in subsection (d) by inserting ``and section 
                41737(a)(1)(F)'' after ``Subsection (a)(1)(B)''.

SEC. 772. ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE AUTHORIZATION.

  Section 41742(a)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``$155,000,000 for fiscal year 2018'' an all that follows 
through ``$172,000,000 for fiscal year 2023'' and inserting 
``$332,000,000 for fiscal year 2024, $312,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, 
$300,000,000 for fiscal year 2026, $265,000,000 for fiscal year 2027, 
and $252,000,000 for fiscal year 2028''.

SEC. 773. SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM REFORM AND 
                    AUTHORIZATION.

  (a) Same Projects Limit.--Section 41743(c)(4)(B) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking ``10-year'' and inserting ``6-
year''.
  (b) Priorities.--Section 41743(c)(5) of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended--
          (1) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (G) as 
        subparagraphs (C) through (H), respectively; and
          (2) by adding after subparagraph (A) the following--
                  ``(B) the community has demonstrated support from at 
                least 1 air carrier to provide service;''.
  (c) Authorization.--Section 41743(e)(2) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by striking ``2023'' and inserting ``2028''.

SEC. 774. GAO STUDY ON INCREASED COSTS OF ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE.

  (a) Study.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall 
conduct a study of the change in costs of the essential air service 
program under sections 41731 through 41742 of title 49, United States 
Code.
  (b) Contents.--In conducting the study required under subsection (a), 
the Comptroller General shall--
          (1) assess trends in costs of the essential air service 
        program under sections 41731 through 41742 of title 49, United 
        States Code, over the 10-year period ending on the date of 
        enactment of this Act;
          (2) review potential causes for the increased cost of the 
        essential air service program, including--
                  (A) labor costs;
                  (B) fuel costs;
                  (C) aging aircraft costs;
                  (D) air carrier opportunity costs; and
                  (E) airport costs; and
          (3) assess the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the costs 
        of the essential air service program under sections 41731 
        through 41742 of title 49, United States Code.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 18 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 
to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate 
a report on the results of the study conducted under subsection (a).

                       TITLE VIII--MISCELLANEOUS

SEC. 801. DIGITALIZATION OF FAA PROCESSES.

  (a) Identification.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall identify and catalog programs, activities, or 
processes that require paper-based information exchange between--
          (1) external entities and the Administration; or
          (2) offices within the Administration.
  (b) Digitalization.--On an ongoing basis, and as appropriate, the 
Administrator shall transition the paper-based processes identified 
under subsection (a) to processes that support secure digital 
information submission, exchange, collaboration, and approval.
  (c) Briefing.--Not later than 60 days after completing the required 
identification and catalog in subsection (a), the Administrator shall 
brief the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate on the programs, activities, and processes 
identified under subsection (a) and such programs, activities, and 
processes that have been identified for transition under subsection 
(b).

SEC. 802. FAA TELEWORK.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration--
          (1) may establish telework policies for employees that allow 
        for the Administration to reduce the office footprint and 
        associated expenses of the Administration, increase workforce 
        retention, and provide flexibilities that the Administrator 
        believes increases efficiency and effectiveness of the 
        Administration, while requiring that any such policy--
                  (A) does not adversely impact the mission of the 
                Administration;
                  (B) does not reduce the safety and efficiency of the 
                national airspace system;
                  (C) for any employee that is designated as an officer 
                or executive in the Federal Aviation Administration 
                Executive System or a political appointee (as such term 
                is defined in section 106 of title 49, United States 
                Code)--
                          (i) maximizes time at a duty station for such 
                        employee, excluding official travel; and
                          (ii) may include telework provisions as 
                        determined appropriate by the Administrator, 
                        commensurate with official duties for such 
                        employee;
                  (D) provides for on-the-job training opportunities 
                for Administration personnel that are not less than 
                such opportunities available in 2019;
                  (E) reflects the appropriate work status of employees 
                based on the job functions of such employee;
                  (F) optimizes the work status of inspectors, 
                investigators, and other personnel performing safety-
                related functions to ensure timely completion of safety 
                oversight activities;
                  (G) provides for personnel, including such personnel 
                performing work related to aircraft certification and 
                flight standards, who are responsible for actively 
                working with regulated entities, external stakeholders, 
                or other members of the public to be--
                          (i) routinely available on a predictable 
                        basis for in-person and virtual communications 
                        with external persons; and
                          (ii) not hindered from meeting with, 
                        visiting, auditing, or inspecting facilities or 
                        projects of regulated persons due to any 
                        telework policy; and
                  (H) provides offices of the Administration 
                opportunities for in-person dialogue, collaboration, 
                and ideation for all employees;
          (2) ensures that locality pay for an employee of the 
        Administrator accurately reflects the telework status and duty 
        station of such employee;
          (3) may not establish a telework policy for an employee of 
        the Administration unless such employee will be provided with 
        secure network capacity, communications tools, necessary and 
        secure access to appropriate agency data assets and Federal 
        records, and equipment sufficient to enable such employee to be 
        fully productive; and
          (4) not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
        this Act, shall evaluate and address any telework policies in 
        effect on the day before such date of enactment to ensure that 
        such policies meet the requirements of paragraph (1).
  (b) Congressional Update.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, and 1 year thereafter, the Administrator shall 
brief the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate on any telework policies currently in 
place, the implementation of such policies, and the benefits of such 
policies.
  (c) Consultation.--If the Administrator determines that telework 
agreements must be updated to implement the requirements of subsection 
(a), the Administrator shall, prior to updating such agreements, 
consult with--
          (1) exclusive bargaining representatives of air traffic 
        controllers certified under section 7111 of title 5, United 
        States Code; and
          (2) labor organizations certified under such section as the 
        exclusive bargaining representative of airway transportation 
        systems specialists and aviation safety inspectors of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration.

SEC. 803. REVIEW OF OFFICE SPACE.

  (a) FAA Review.--
          (1) Initiation of review.--Not later than 30 months after the 
        date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation 
        shall initiate an inventory review of the domestic office 
        footprint of the Department of Transportation.
          (2) Completion of review.--Not later than 40 months after the 
        date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall complete the 
        inventory review required under paragraph (1).
  (b) Contents of Review.--In completing the review under subsection 
(a), the Secretary shall--
          (1) delineate the domestic office footprint into units of 
        property, as determined appropriate by the Secretary;
          (2) determine unit adequacy related to--
                  (A) the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 
                4151 et seq.) and the corresponding accessibility 
                guidelines established under part 1191 of title 36, 
                Code of Federal Regulations; and
                  (B) the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 
                U.S.C. 12101 et seq.);
          (3) determine the feasible occupancy of each such unit, and 
        provide the methodology used to make the determination;
          (4) determine the number of individuals who are full-time 
        equivalent employees, other employees, or contractors that have 
        each such unit as a duty station and determine how telework 
        policies will impact the usage of each such unit;
          (5) calculate the amount of available, unused, or 
        underutilized space in each such unit;
          (6) consider any lease terms for leased units contained in 
        the domestic office footprint, including cost and effective 
        dates for each such leased unit; and
          (7) based on the findings in paragraphs (2) through (6), and 
        any other metrics the Secretary determines relevant, provide 
        recommendations for optimizing the use of units of property 
        across the Department in consultation with appropriate employee 
        labor representatives.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 2 months after completing the review 
under subsection (a), 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 
final report that proposes opportunities to optimize the domestic 
office footprint of the Administration (and associated costs). In 
compiling such final report, the Secretary shall describe opportunities 
for--
          (1) consolidation of offices within a reasonable distance 
        from one another;
          (2) the collocation of regional or satellite offices of 
        separate modes of the Department, including the cost benefits 
        of shared amenities; and
          (3) the use of coworking spaces instead of permanent offices.
  (d) Definition of Domestic Office Footprint.--In this section, the 
term ``domestic office footprint'' means buildings, offices, 
facilities, and other real property rented, owned, or occupied by the 
Administration or Department--
          (1) in which employees report for permanent or temporary duty 
        that are not being used for active operations of the air 
        traffic control system; and
          (2) which are located within the United States.

SEC. 804. AIRCRAFT WEIGHT REDUCTION TASK FORCE.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall establish a task force to identify ways to safely reduce covered 
aircraft weight for purposes of reducing fuel burn.
  (b) Composition.--The task force established under subsection (a) 
shall consist of not more than 20 individuals and shall include 
representatives of--
          (1) the Federal Aviation Administration;
          (2) other Federal agencies as the Administrator determines 
        appropriate;
          (3) air carriers;
          (4) certified labor organizations representing flight 
        attendants at air carriers operating under part 121 of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations;
          (5) certified labor organizations representing aircraft 
        maintenance technicians;
          (6) certified labor organizations representing other aviation 
        workers, as appropriate; and
          (7) aerospace manufacturers.
  (c) Review.--The task force established under subsection (a) shall 
review and evaluate--
          (1) regulations, requirements, advisory circulars, orders, or 
        other such directives of the Administration related to covered 
        aircraft or covered aircraft operations that may inhibit 
        certification of new materials, manufacturing processes, 
        components, or technologies that could reduce aircraft weight 
        or increase fuel efficiency without decreasing safety;
          (2) aspects of covered aircraft design that are outdated or 
        underutilized on the date of enactment of this Act that may 
        unnecessarily increase covered aircraft weight or reduce 
        aircraft fuel efficiency that are not necessary for the safe 
        operation of such aircraft;
          (3) novel technologies and manufacturing processes, including 
        the use of advanced materials, that can safely be used in the 
        construction or modification of covered aircraft, including a 
        component or the interior of such aircraft, to reduce weight or 
        improve fuel efficiency; and
          (4) nonproprietary methods that air carriers have used to 
        safely decrease covered aircraft weight or improve fuel 
        efficiency.
  (d) Report.--
          (1) Task force report.--
                  (A) In general.--Not later than 3 years after the 
                establishment of the task force under subsection (a), 
                the task force shall submit a report on the findings 
                and results of the review and evaluation conducted 
                under subsection (c) to the Administrator.
                  (B) Recommendations.--In submitting the report 
                required under subparagraph (A), the task force shall 
                include recommendations--
                          (i) on actions the Administrator may take to 
                        updated regulations, processes, advisory 
                        circulars, orders, or other such directions of 
                        the Administration to enable the certification 
                        of new materials, components, manufacturing 
                        processes, or technologies that may allow for 
                        the safe reduction of covered aircraft weight 
                        or the improvement of fuel efficiency; and
                          (ii) on best practices for air carriers and 
                        aerospace manufacturers to certify such 
                        materials, components, manufacturing processes, 
                        or technologies.
                  (C) Approximation of benefits.--For each 
                recommendation made under subparagraph (B), the task 
                force shall approximate the fuel savings that could be 
                expected if such recommendation was adopted.
                  (D) Submission to congress.--Not later than 3 days 
                after receipt of the report required under subparagraph 
                (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 the report and 
                recommendations.
          (2) FAA report.--Not later than 120 days after submission of 
        the report under paragraph (1), 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--
                  (A) describing the recommendations of the task force 
                with which the Administrator fully concurs, partially 
                concurs, or does not concur;
                  (B) detailing, for the recommendations with which the 
                Administrator fully or partially concurs--
                          (i) a timeline for implementing such 
                        recommendations; and
                          (ii) possible benefits of using new 
                        materials, manufacturing processes, components, 
                        or technologies, including fuel savings, 
                        increased capacity, or other benefits as 
                        determined reasonable by the task force; and
                  (C) explaining, for the recommendations with which 
                the Administrator does not concur, the reason for which 
                the Administrator will not implement such 
                recommendations.
  (e) Sunset.--
          (1) In general.--The task force established under subsection 
        (a) shall terminate upon submission of the report required 
        under subsection (d)(1)(A).
          (2) Exception.--The Administrator may choose to extend such 
        task force after the submission of the report required under 
        subsection (d)(1)(A), if the Administrator determines that such 
        an extension would be in the public interest.
  (f) Definition.--In this section:
          (1) Air carrier.--The term ``air carrier'' means an air 
        carrier (as such term is defined in section 40102 of title 49, 
        United States Code) that holds a certificate issued under part 
        121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (2) Aircraft weight.--The term ``aircraft weight'' means the 
        gross weight of a covered aircraft in operation.
          (3) Covered aircraft.--The term ``covered aircraft'' means an 
        aircraft that is operated by an air carrier that is operating 
        pursuant to a certificate issued under part 121 of title 14, 
        Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 805. AUDIT OF TECHNICAL WRITING RESOURCES AND CAPABILITIES.

  (a) Audit by Inspector General.--Not later than 90 days after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the inspector general of the Department 
of Transportation shall initiate an audit of the technical writing 
resources and capabilities of the Federal Aviation Administration as 
such resources and capabilities relate to producing rulemaking, policy, 
and guidance, to--
          (1) determine if such resources and capabilities are 
        adequate; and
          (2) make recommendations for improvement of such resources 
        and capabilities.
  (b) Review.--In conducting the review required under subsection (a), 
the inspector general shall evaluate the technical writing resources 
and capabilities of the Administration in each line of business of the 
Administration, the Office of Policy, International Affairs, and 
Environment, and the Office of the Chief Counsel, including by 
reviewing--
          (1) the process and resources required to produce initial 
        drafts of rulemaking, policy, and guidance documents;
          (2) the quality of such initial drafts;
          (3) the amount of edits that are required throughout the 
        production of rulemaking, policy, and guidance documents;
          (4) writing support and education tools provided to 
        engineers, managers, and other technical staff of the 
        Administration involved in writing or editing such documents; 
        and
          (5) whether--
                  (A) the Administration has and adheres to best 
                practices for the drafting of rulemaking, policy, and 
                guidance documents; and
                  (B) such best practices are--
                          (i) easily accessible and understandable by 
                        employees of the Administration; and
                          (ii) reflect modern writing conventions.
  (c) Recommendations.--In making the recommendations required under 
subsection (a)(2), the inspector general shall make recommendations to 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration on how to 
improve the quality of written rulemaking, policy, and guidance 
documents and the speed at which such documents can be produced, 
internally reviewed, and approved.
  (d) Deconflicting Scope.--The inspector general shall ensure that the 
audit required under subsection (a) does not duplicate the evaluation 
required under section 125, except to the extent that duplication is 
necessary to fully evaluate the technical writing resources and 
capabilities of the Administration.
  (e) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the inspector general 
initiates the audit under subsection (a), 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, 
including findings and recommendations.

SEC. 806. FAA PARTICIPATION IN INDUSTRY STANDARDS ORGANIZATIONS.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall ensure the participation of employees of the 
Administration in the activities of recognized industry standards 
organizations to advance the adoption, reference, and acceptance rate 
of standards and means of compliance developed by such organizations by 
the Administrator.
  (b) Participation.--An employee directed by the Administrator to 
participate in a working group, task group, committee, or similar body 
of a recognized industry standards organization shall--
          (1) actively participate in the discussions and work of such 
        organization;
          (2) accurately represent the position of the Administration 
        on the subject matter of such discussions and work;
          (3) contribute to the development of work products of such 
        organization, unless determined to be inappropriate by such 
        organization;
          (4) make reasonable efforts to identify and make any concerns 
        of the Administration relating to such work products known to 
        such organization, including through providing formal comments, 
        as may be allowed for under the procedures of such 
        organization;
          (5) provide regular updates to other Administration employees 
        and management on the progress of such work products; and
          (6) seek advice and input from other Administration employees 
        and management, as needed.
  (c) Invitations.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator may accept an invitation 
        to participate in and contribute to the work of a recognized 
        industry standards organization as described in subsection (b).
          (2) Declination of invitation.--If the Administrator declines 
        an invitation described in paragraph (1), the Administrator 
        shall provide--
                  (A) the recognized industry standards organization a 
                written response to the invitation that articulates the 
                reasons for declining the invitation; and
                  (B) a copy of such written response to the Committee 
                on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
                Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
                and Transportation of the Senate not later than 5 days 
                after providing the response to such organization under 
                subparagraph (A).
  (d) Recognized Industry Standards Organization Defined.--In this 
section, the term ``recognized industry standards organization'' means 
a domestic or international organization that--
          (1) uses agreed upon procedures to develop aerospace-related 
        industry standards or means of compliance, particularly 
        standards or means of compliance that satisfy Administration 
        requirements or guidance;
          (2) is comprised of members of the public, including subject 
        matter experts, industry representatives, academics and 
        researchers, and government employees; and
          (3) has had at least one standard or means of compliance 
        accepted by the Administrator or referenced in guidance 
        material or a regulation issued by the Federal Aviation 
        Administration after the date of enactment of the Vision 100--
        Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act (Public Law 108-176).

SEC. 807. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON USE OF VOLUNTARY CONSENSUS STANDARDS.

  It is the sense of Congress that the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration should make every effort to abide by the 
policies set forth in the Office of Management and Budget Circular A-
119, titled ``Federal Participation in the Development and Use of 
Voluntary Consensus Standards and Conformity Assessment Activities''.

SEC. 808. REQUIRED DESIGNATION.

  The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
designate any aviation rulemaking committee convened under this Act 
pursuant to section 106(p)(5) of title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 809. SENSITIVE SECURITY INFORMATION.

  (a) In General.--Chapter 401 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by inserting after section 40118 the following:

``Sec. 40119. Sensitive security information

  ``(a) In General.--Notwithstanding section 552 of title 5, the 
Secretary of Transportation shall issue regulations prohibiting the 
disclosure of information obtained or developed in the process of 
ensuring security under this title if the Secretary determines that 
disclosing the information would--
          ``(1) be an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy;
          ``(2) reveal a trade secret or privileged or confidential 
        commercial or financial information; or
          ``(3) be detrimental to transportation safety.
  ``(b) Withheld Information.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Secretary shall ensure that the prohibitions described in such 
subsection do not apply to any information provided to a committee of 
Congress authorized to have such information, including the Committee 
on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives 
and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
Senate.
  ``(c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in subsection (a) shall be 
construed to authorize the designation of information as sensitive 
security information (as defined in section 15.5 of title 49, Code of 
Federal Regulations) to--
          ``(1) conceal--
                  ``(A) a violation of law;
                  ``(B) inefficiency; or
                  ``(C) an administrative error;
          ``(2) prevent embarrassment to a person, organization, or 
        governmental agency;
          ``(3) restrain competition; or
          ``(4) prevent or delay the release of information that does 
        not require protection in the interest of transportation 
        security, including basic scientific research information not 
        clearly related to transportation security.
  ``(d) Nondisclosure.--Section 552a of title 5 shall not apply to 
disclosures that the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration may make from the systems of records of the 
Administration to any Federal law enforcement, intelligence, protective 
service, immigration, or national security official in order to assist 
the official receiving the information in the performance of official 
duties.''.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 401 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking the item related to section 
40119 and inserting the following:

``40119. Sensitive security information.''.

SEC. 810. PRESERVING OPEN SKIES WHILE ENSURING FAIR SKIES.

  (a) Addition of Labor Standards.--Section 40101 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(17) preventing the undermining of labor standards.''; and
          (2) in subsection (e) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(11) preventing the undermining of labor standards.''.
  (b) Update to Foreign Air Carrier Permits.--Section 41302(2)(B) of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``the foreign air 
transportation'' and inserting ``after considering the totality of the 
circumstances, including the matters described in section 40101(a), the 
foreign air transportation''.
  (c) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section, or the amendments made 
by this section, shall be construed to affect the validity of a foreign 
air carrier permit held, or air transport agreement in place, on the 
date of enactment of this Act.

SEC. 811. COMMERCIAL PREFERENCE.

  Section 40110(d) of title 49, United States Code, is further 
amended--
          (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``and implement'' and 
        inserting ``, implement, and periodically update'';
          (2) in paragraph (2) by striking ``the new acquisition 
        management system developed and implemented'' and inserting 
        ``the acquisition management system developed, implemented, and 
        periodically updated'' each place it appears;
          (3) in paragraph (3)--
                  (A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)--
                          (i) by striking ``new''; and
                          (ii) by striking ``and implemented'' and 
                        inserting ``, implemented, and periodically 
                        updated''; and
                  (B) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``Within'' and 
                all that follows through ``the Administrator'' and 
                inserting ``The Administrator'';
          (4) by redesignating paragraph (4) as paragraph (5); and
          (5) by inserting after paragraph (3) the following:
          ``(4) Commercial products and services.--In implementing and 
        updating the acquisition management system pursuant to 
        paragraph (1), the Administrator shall, whenever possible--
                  ``(A) describe the requirements with respect to a 
                solicitation for the procurement of supplies or 
                services in terms of--
                          ``(i) functions to be performed;
                          ``(ii) performance required; or
                          ``(iii) essential physical and system 
                        characteristics;
                  ``(B) ensure that commercial services or commercial 
                products may be procured to fulfill such solicitation, 
                or to the extent that commercial products suitable to 
                meet the needs of the Administration are not available, 
                ensure that nondevelopmental items other than 
                commercial products may be procured to fulfill such 
                solicitation;
                  ``(C) provide offerors of commercial services, 
                commercial products, and nondevelopmental items other 
                than commercial products an opportunity to compete in 
                any solicitation for the procurement of supplies or 
                services;
                  ``(D) revise the procurement policies, practices, and 
                procedures of the Administration to reduce any 
                impediments to the acquisition of commercial products 
                and commercial services; and
                  ``(E) ensure that procurement officials--
                          ``(i) acquire commercial services, commercial 
                        products, or nondevelopmental items other than 
                        commercial products to meet the needs of the 
                        Administration;
                          ``(ii) in a solicitation for the procurement 
                        of supplies or services, state the 
                        specifications for such supplies or services in 
                        terms that enable and encourage bidders and 
                        offerors to supply commercial services or 
                        commercial products, or to the extent that 
                        commercial products suitable to meet the needs 
                        of the Administration are not available, to 
                        supply nondevelopmental items other than 
                        commercial products;
                          ``(iii) require that prime contractors and 
                        subcontractors at all levels under contracts 
                        with the Administration incorporate commercial 
                        services, commercial products, or 
                        nondevelopmental items other than commercial 
                        products as components of items supplied to the 
                        Administration;
                          ``(iv) modify procurement requirements in 
                        appropriate circumstances to ensure that such 
                        requirements can be met by commercial services 
                        or commercial products, or to the extent that 
                        commercial products suitable to meet the needs 
                        of the Administration are not available, 
                        nondevelopmental items other than commercial 
                        products; and
                          ``(v) require training of appropriate 
                        personnel in the acquisition of commercial 
                        products and commercial services.''.

SEC. 812. CONSIDERATION OF THIRD-PARTY SERVICES.

  (a) Plans and Policy.--Section 44501 of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a) by striking ``development and location 
        of air navigation facilities'' and inserting ``development of 
        air navigation facilities and services''; and
          (2) in subsection (b)--
                  (A) by striking ``and development'' and inserting 
                ``procurement, and development'' each place it appears;
                  (B) by striking ``facilities and equipment'' and 
                inserting ``facilities, services, and equipment'';
                  (C) by striking ``first and 2d years'' and inserting 
                ``first and second years'';
                  (D) by striking ``subclauses (A) and (B) of this 
                clause'' and inserting ``subparagraphs (A) and (B)'';
                  (E) by striking ``the 3d, 4th, and 5th'' and 
                inserting ``the third, fourth, and fifth'';
                  (F) by striking ``systems and facilities'' and 
                inserting ``systems, services, and facilities''; and
                  (G) by striking ``growth of aviation'' and inserting 
                ``growth of the aerospace industry''.
  (b) Systems, Procedures, Facilities, and Devices.--Section 44505 of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) by striking ``develop, alter'' and inserting 
                ``develop when necessary, alter''; and
                  (B) by striking ``and devices'' and inserting 
                ``services, and devices'' each place it appears; and
          (2) in subsection (b) by striking ``develop dynamic 
        simulation models'' and inserting ``develop or procure dynamic 
        simulation models and tools'' each place it appears.

SEC. 813. CERTIFICATES OF AUTHORIZATION OR WAIVER.

  (a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the 
Secretary of Transportation, acting through the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration, may issue a certificate of 
authorization or waiver to a person to operate an aircraft within an 
area covered by a temporary flight restriction under such conditions as 
the Administrator may prescribe, except for airspace that is subject to 
a permanent, continuous flight restriction, unless the authorization or 
waiver is issued to, or with the concurrence of, the entity for which 
the flight restriction was created.
  (b) Special Considerations.--If a temporary flight restriction is 
related to a sporting event and issued pursuant to section 352 of the 
Consolidated Appropriations Resolution, 2003 (Public Law 108-7), the 
conditions prescribed by the Administrator under subsection (a) shall 
include the following:
          (1) A minimum distance from the center of the temporary 
        flight restriction, which shall not be greater than 0.75 
        nautical miles, unless the Administrator determines, on a case 
        by case basis, that such mileage is insufficient to maintain 
        public safety.
          (2) The person may not operate an aircraft (except for a 
        purpose described under section 352(a)(3) of the Consolidated 
        Appropriations Resolution, 2003 (Public Law 108-7)) for a 
        purpose that the Secretary determines is directly related to 
        the event for which the temporary flight restriction is active.
  (c) Exception.--Subsection (b)(1) shall not apply to aircraft 
operations associated with an aviation event or airshow for which the 
Administrator has granted a certificate of authorization or waiver.
  (d) Briefing.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary shall brief the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the 
implementation of this section, including the number and nature of 
certificates of authorization or waiver that have been issued under 
subsection (a) subject to restrictions under subsection (b).
  (e) Operational Purposes.--Section 352(a)(3)(B) of Consolidated 
Appropriations Resolution, 2003 (Public Law 108-7) is amended by 
inserting ``(or attendees approved by)'' after ``guests''.
  (f) Sunset.--Subsection (b) shall cease to have effect on October 1, 
2028.

SEC. 814. WING-IN-GROUND-EFFECT CRAFT.

  (a) Memorandum of Understanding.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 24 months after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration and the Commandant of the Coast Guard 
        shall execute a memorandum of understanding governing the 
        specific roles, delineations of responsibilities, resources, 
        and commitments of the Federal Aviation Administration and the 
        Coast Guard, respectively, pertaining to wing-in-ground-effect 
        craft that are--
                  (A) only capable of operating either in water or in 
                ground effect over water; and
                  (B) operated exclusively over waters subject to the 
                jurisdiction of the United States.
          (2) Contents.--The memorandum of understanding described in 
        paragraph (1) shall--
                  (A) cover the processes the Federal Aviation 
                Administration and the United States Coast Guard will 
                follow to promote communications, efficiency, and 
                nonduplication of effort in carrying out such 
                memorandum of understanding;
                  (B) account for the special rule in accordance with 
                subsection (b); and
                  (C) provide procedures for, at a minimum, the 
                following:
                          (i) Approval of wing-in-ground-effect craft 
                        designs.
                          (ii) Operations of wing-in-ground-effect 
                        craft.
                          (iii) Pilotage of wing-in-ground-effect 
                        craft.
                          (iv) Inspections of wing-in-ground-effect 
                        craft.
                          (v) Maintenance of wing-in-ground-effect 
                        craft.
  (b) Special Rule Prohibiting Secretary From Regulating Certain WIG 
Craft Operators as Air Carriers.--Notwithstanding any other provision 
of law or regulation, the Secretary of Transportation may not regulate 
an operator of a wing-in-ground-effect craft as an air carrier (as such 
term is defined in section 40102(a) of title 49, United States Code).
  (c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be construed 
to--
          (1) limit the authority of the Secretary or the Administrator 
        to regulate aircraft that are not wing-in-ground-effect craft, 
        including aircraft that are--
                  (A) capable of the operations described in subsection 
                (d); and
                  (B) capable of sustained flight out of ground effect;
          (2) confer upon the Commandant the authority to determine the 
        impact of any civil aircraft operation on the safety or 
        efficiency of the National Airspace System; or
          (3) confer upon the Administrator the authority to issue a 
        certificate of documentation, with or without a registry, 
        fishery or coastwise endorsement, for, or inspect any vessel as 
        that term is defined in section 115 of title 46, United States 
        Code.
  (d) Wing-in-ground-effect Craft Defined.--In this section, the term 
``wing-in-ground-effect craft'' means a craft that is capable of 
operating completely above the surface of the water on a dynamic air 
cushion created by aerodynamic lift due to the ground effect between 
the craft and the surface of the water.

SEC. 815. QUASQUICENTENNIAL OF AVIATION.

  (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
          (1) December 17, 2028, is the 125th anniversary of the first 
        successful manned, free, controlled, and sustained flight by an 
        aircraft.
          (2) The first flight by Orville and Wilbur Wright in Kitty 
        Hawk, North Carolina, is a defining moment in the history of 
        the United States and the world.
          (3) The Wright brothers' achievement is a testament to their 
        ingenuity, perseverance, and commitment to innovation, which 
        has inspired generations of aviators and scientists alike.
          (4) The advent of aviation and the air transportation 
        industry has fundamentally transformed the United States and 
        the world for the better.
          (5) The 125th anniversary of the Wright brothers' first 
        flight is worthy of recognition and celebration to honor their 
        legacy and to inspire a new generation of Americans as aviation 
        reaches an inflection point of innovation and change.
  (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the 
Secretary of Transportation, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration, and the heads of other appropriate Federal agencies 
should facilitate and participate in local, national, and international 
observances and activities that commemorate and celebrate the 125th 
anniversary of powered flight.

SEC. 816. FEDERAL CONTRACT TOWER WAGE DETERMINATIONS AND POSITIONS.

  The Secretary of Transportation shall request that the Secretary of 
Labor--
          (1) review and update, as necessary, including to account for 
        cost-of-living adjustments, the basis for the wage 
        determination for air traffic controllers who are employed at 
        air traffic control towers operated under the Contract Tower 
        Program established under section 47124 of title 49, United 
        States Code;
          (2) create a new wage determination category or occupation 
        code for managers of air traffic controllers who are employed 
        at air traffic control towers in the Contract Tower Program; 
        and
          (3) consult with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration in carrying out the requirements of paragraphs 
        (1) and (2).

SEC. 817. INTERNAL PROCESS IMPROVEMENTS REVIEW.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the inspector general of the Department of Transportation 
shall review the coordination and approval processes of non-regulatory 
materials produced by the Federal Aviation Administration to improve 
the timeliness, transparency, development, and issuance of such 
materials.
  (b) Contents of Review.--In conducting the review under subsection 
(a), the inspector general shall--
          (1) provide recommendations for improving processes and 
        eliminating nonvalue-added reviews of non-regulatory materials 
        within the Federal Aviation Administration and Department of 
        Transportation, in consideration of the authority of the 
        Administrator under section 106 of title 49, United States 
        Code, and other applicable laws;
          (2) consider, with respect to each office within the Federal 
        Aviation Administration and the Department of Transportation 
        that reviews non-regulatory materials--
                  (A) the timeline assigned to each such office to 
                complete the review of such materials;
                  (B) the actual time spent for such review; and
                  (C) opportunities to reduce the actual time spent for 
                such review;
          (3) describe any organizational changes and additional 
        resources that the Administration needs, if necessary, to 
        reduce delays in the development and publication of proposed 
        non-regulatory materials;
          (4) consider to what extent reporting mechanisms and 
        templates could be used to provide the public with more 
        consistent information on the development status of non-
        regulatory materials;
          (5) consider changes to the application of rules governing ex 
        parte communications by the Administrator to provide 
        flexibility for employees of the Administration to discuss non-
        regulatory materials with aviation stakeholders and foreign 
        aviation authorities to promote United States aviation 
        leadership;
          (6) recommend methods by which the Administration can 
        incorporate standards set by recognized industry standards 
        organizations, as such term is defined in section 806, into 
        non-regulatory materials to keep pace with rapid changes in 
        aerospace technology and processes; and
          (7) evaluate the processes and best practices other civil 
        aviation authorities and other Federal departments and agencies 
        use to produce non-regulatory materials, particularly the 
        processes of entities that produce such materials in an 
        expedited fashion to respond to safety risks, incidents, or new 
        technology adoption.
  (c) Consultation.--In conducting the review under subsection (a), the 
inspector general may, as appropriate, consult with industry 
stakeholders, academia, and other individuals with relevant background 
or expertise in improving the efficiency of Federal non-regulatory 
material production.
  (d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the inspector general 
initiates the review under subsection (a), the inspector general shall 
submit to the Administrator a report on such review.
  (e) Action Plan.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall develop an action 
        plan to implement the recommendations contained in the report 
        submitted under subsection (d).
          (2) Briefing.--Not later than 90 days after receiving the 
        report under subsection (d), the Administrator shall brief the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate on such plan.
  (f) Non-regulatory Materials Defined.--In this section, the term 
``non-regulatory materials'' means orders, advisory circulars, 
statements of policy, guidance, technical standards, and other 
materials related to aviation safety, training, and operation of 
aeronautical products.

SEC. 818. ACCEPTANCE OF DIGITAL DRIVER'S LICENSE AND IDENTIFICATION 
                    CARDS.

  The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall take 
such actions as may be necessary to accept, in any instance where an 
individual is required to submit government-issued identification to 
the Administrator, a digital or mobile driver's license or 
identification card issued to such individual by a State.

SEC. 819. BUCKEYE 940 RELEASE OF DEED RESTRICTIONS.

  (a) Purpose.--The purpose of this section is to authorize the 
Secretary to issue a Deed of Release from all terms, conditions, 
reservations, restrictions, and obligations contained in the Quitclaim 
Deed and permit the State of Arizona to deposit all proceeds of the 
disposition of Buckeye 940 in the appropriate fund for the benefit of 
the beneficiaries of the Arizona State Land Trust.
  (b) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Buckeye 940.--The term ``Buckeye 940'' means all of 
        section 12, T.1 N., R.3 W. and all of adjoining fractional 
        section 7, T.1 N., R.2 W., Gila and Salt River Meridian, 
        Arizona, which property was the subject of the Quitclaim Deed 
        between the United States and the State of Arizona, dated July 
        11, 1949, and which is currently owned by the State of Arizona 
        and held in trust for the beneficiaries of the Arizona State 
        Land Trust.
          (2) Quitclaim deed.--The term ``Quitclaim Deed'' means the 
        Quitclaim Deed between the United States and the State of 
        Arizona, dated July 11, 1949.
          (3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of 
        Transportation.
  (c) Release of Any and All Interest in Buckeye 940.--
          (1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, 
        the United States, acting through the Secretary, shall issue to 
        the State of Arizona a Deed of Release to release all terms, 
        conditions, reservations, restrictions, and obligations 
        contained in the Quitclaim Deed, including any and all 
        reversionary interest of the United States in Buckeye 940.
          (2) Terms and conditions.--The Deed of Release described in 
        paragraph (1) shall be subject to such additional terms and 
        conditions, consistent with such paragraph, as the Secretary 
        considers appropriate to protect the interests of the United 
        States.
          (3) No restriction on use of proceeds.--Notwithstanding any 
        other provision of law, the State of Arizona may dispose of 
        Buckeye 940 and any proceeds thereof, including proceeds 
        already collected by the State and held in a suspense account, 
        without regard to any restriction imposed by the Quitclaim Deed 
        or by section 155.7 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (4) Mineral reservation.--The Deed of Release described in 
        paragraph (1) shall include the release of all interests of the 
        United States to the mineral rights on Buckeye 940 included in 
        the Quitclaim Deed.

SEC. 820. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SYSTEM 
                    INTEGRITY.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall initiate a review to identify and address aging information 
technology systems within the Administration.
  (b) Contents.--The review required under subsection (a) shall--
          (1) identify and inventory critical software and hardware 
        systems of the Administration;
          (2) assess the vulnerabilities of such systems to 
        degradation, errors (including human errors), and malicious 
        attacks (including cyber attacks); and
          (3) identify upgrades to, or replacements for, such systems 
        that are necessary to mitigate such vulnerabilities.
  (c) Mitigation.--The Administrator shall take such action as may be 
necessary to mitigate the vulnerabilities identified under the review 
conducted under subsection (a).
  (d) Leveraging External Expertise.--To the maximum extent 
practicable, the actions carried out pursuant to this section shall--
          (1) be consistent with the acquisition management system 
        established and updated pursuant to section 40110(d) of title 
        49, United States Code;
          (2) incorporate input from industry, academia, or other 
        external experts on information technology; and
          (3) identify technologies in existence or in development 
        that, with or without adaptation, are expected to be suitable 
        to meet the technical information technology needs of the 
        Administration.
  (e) 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 detailing the results of the review required under subsection 
(a).
  (f) Inspector General Review.--
          (1) In general.--After the Administrator completes the review 
        under subsection (a), the inspector general of the Department 
        of Transportation shall conduct an audit of the integrity of 
        the information technology systems of the Administration and 
        assess the efforts of the Administration to address the 
        Administration's aging information technology systems.
          (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 results of the 
        audit carried out under this subsection.

SEC. 821. BRIEFING ON RADIO COMMUNICATIONS COVERAGE AROUND MOUNTAINOUS 
                    TERRAIN.

  (a) Briefing Requirement.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall provide to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a briefing on the 
radio communications coverage within the airspace surrounding the Mena 
Intermountain Municipal Airport in Mena, Arkansas.
  (b) Briefing Contents.--The briefing required under subsection (a) 
shall include the following:
          (1) The radio communications coverage within the airspace 
        surrounding the Mena Intermountain Municipal Airport with the 
        applicable Air Route Traffic Control Center.
          (2) The altitudes at which radio communications capabilities 
        are lost within such airspace.
          (3) Recommendations on changes that may increase radio 
        communications coverage below 4,000 feet above ground level 
        within such airspace.

SEC. 822. STUDY ON CONGESTED AIRSPACE.

  (a) Study.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall initiate a 
study on the efficiency and efficacy of scheduled commercial air 
service transiting congested airspace.
  (b) Contents.--In carrying out the study required under subsection 
(a), the Comptroller General shall examine--
          (1) various regions of congested airspace and the differing 
        factors of such regions;
          (2) commercial air service;
          (3) military flight activity;
          (4) emergency response activity;
          (5) commercial space transportation activities;
          (6) weather; and
          (7) air traffic controller staffing.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 18 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 study and recommendations to reduce the 
impacts to scheduled air service transiting congested airspace.

SEC. 823. ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES FRANCHISE FUND.

  Title I of the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies 
Appropriations Act, 1997 (49 U.S.C. 40113 note) is amended under the 
heading ``Administrative Services Franchise Fund'' by striking ``shall 
be paid in advance'' and inserting ``may be reimbursed after 
performance or paid in advance''.

SEC. 824. USE OF BIOGRAPHICAL ASSESSMENTS.

  Section 44506(f)(2)(A) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``paragraph (1)(B)(ii)'' and inserting ``paragraph (1)(B)''.

SEC. 825. WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION ENFORCEMENT.

  Section 42121(b)(5) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to 
read as follows:
          ``(5) Enforcement of order.--Whenever any person has failed 
        to comply with an order issued under paragraph (3), the 
        Secretary of Labor and the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall consult with each other to 
        determine the most appropriate action to be taken, in which--
                  ``(A) the Secretary of Labor may file a civil action 
                in the United States district court for the district in 
                which the violation was found to occur to enforce such 
                order, for which, in actions brought under this 
                paragraph, the district courts shall have jurisdiction 
                to grant all appropriate relief including, injunctive 
                relief and compensatory damages; and
                  ``(B) the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration may assess a civil penalty pursuant to 
                section 46301.''.

SEC. 826. FINAL RULEMAKING ON CERTAIN MANUFACTURING STANDARDS.

  Not later than December 16, 2023, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall issue a final rule for the notice of 
proposed rulemaking titled ``Airplane Fuel Efficiency Certification'' 
and published June 15, 2022 (RIN 2120-AL54).

SEC. 827. REMOTE DISPATCH.

  (a) In General.--Section 44711(a) of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) in paragraph (9) by striking ``or'' at the end;
          (2) in paragraph (10) by striking the period and inserting 
        ``; or''; and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(11) work as an aircraft dispatcher outside of a physical 
        location designated as a dispatching center or flight following 
        center of an air carrier, except as provided under section 
        44747.''.
  (b) Aircraft Dispatching.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United States 
Code, is further amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 44747. Aircraft dispatching

  ``(a) Aircraft Dispatching Certificate.--No person may serve as an 
aircraft dispatcher for an air carrier unless that person holds the 
appropriate aircraft dispatcher certificate issued by the Administrator 
of the Federal Aviation Administration.
  ``(b) Proof of Certificate.--Upon the request of the Administrator or 
an authorized representative of the National Transportation Safety 
Board, or other appropriate Federal agency, a person who holds such a 
certificate, and is performing dispatching shall present the 
certificate for inspection.
  ``(c) Dispatch Centers and Flight Following Centers.--
          ``(1) Establishment.--Air carriers shall establish and 
        maintain sufficient dispatch centers and flight following 
        centers necessary to maintain operational control of each 
        flight at all times.
          ``(2) Requirements.--Air carrier dispatch centers and flight 
        following centers shall--
                  ``(A) have a sufficient number of aircraft 
                dispatchers at dispatch centers and flight following 
                centers to ensure proper operational control of each 
                flight at all times;
                  ``(B) have the equipment necessary and in good repair 
                to maintain proper operational control of each flight 
                at all times; and
                  ``(C) include appropriate physical and cybersecurity 
                protections, as determined by the Administrator.
          ``(3) Location limitation.--No air carrier may dispatch 
        aircraft from any location other than the designated dispatch 
        centers or flight following centers of such air carrier.
  ``(d) Emergency Authority for Remote Dispatching.--Notwithstanding 
subsection (c), an air carrier may dispatch aircraft from locations 
other than from designated dispatch centers or flight following centers 
for a limited period of time in the event of an emergency or other 
event that renders a center inoperable. An air carrier may not dispatch 
aircraft under the emergency authority under this subsection for longer 
than 30 consecutive days without the approval of the Administrator.''.
  (c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 447 of title 49, 
United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end the 
following:

``44747. Aircraft dispatching.''.

SEC. 828. EMPLOYEE ASSAULT PREVENTION AND RESPONSE PLANS AMENDMENT.

  Section 551 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44903 
note) is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) by striking ``Not later than 90 days after the 
                date of enactment of this Act,'' and inserting ``The 
                Administrator shall require''; and
                  (B) by striking ``shall submit to the Administrator'' 
                and inserting ``to submit''; and
          (2) in subsection (c) by striking ``A part 121 air carrier 
        shall'' and inserting ``The Administrator shall require a part 
        121 air carrier to''.

SEC. 829. CREW MEMBER SELF-DEFENSE TRAINING.

  Section 44918(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (4) by striking ``Neither'' and inserting 
        ``Except as provided in paragraph (8), neither''; and
          (2) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(8) Air carrier accommodation.--An air carrier with a crew 
        member participating in the training program under this 
        subsection shall provide a process through which each such crew 
        member may obtain reasonable accommodations.''.

SEC. 830. FORMAL SEXUAL ASSAULT AND HARASSMENT POLICIES ON AIR CARRIERS 
                    AND FOREIGN AIR CARRIERS.

  (a) In General.--Chapter 417 of title 49, United States Code, is 
further amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 41729. Formal sexual assault and harassment policies

  ``(a) Requirement.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, each air carrier and foreign air carrier 
transporting passengers for compensation shall issue, in consultation 
with labor unions representing personnel of the air carrier or foreign 
air carrier, a formal policy with respect to transportation sexual 
assault or harassment incidents.
  ``(b) Contents.--The policy required under subsection (a) shall 
include--
          ``(1) a statement indicating that no transportation sexual 
        assault or harassment incident is acceptable under any 
        circumstance;
          ``(2) procedures that facilitate the reporting of a 
        transportation sexual assault or harassment incident, 
        including--
                  ``(A) appropriate public outreach activities; and
                  ``(B) confidential phone and internet-based 
                opportunities for reporting;
          ``(3) procedures that personnel should follow upon the 
        reporting of a transportation sexual assault or harassment 
        incident, including actions to protect affected individuals 
        from continued sexual assault or harassment and to notify law 
        enforcement when appropriate;
          ``(4) procedures that may limit or prohibit, to the extent 
        practicable, future travel with the air carrier or foreign air 
        carrier by any passenger who causes a transportation sexual 
        assault or harassment incident; and
          ``(5) training that is required for all appropriate personnel 
        with respect to the policy required under subsection (a), 
        including--
                  ``(A) specific training for personnel who may receive 
                reports of transportation sexual assault or harassment 
                incidents; and
                  ``(B) recognizing and responding to potential human 
                trafficking victims, in the same manner as required 
                under section 44734(a)(4).
  ``(c) Passenger Information.--An air carrier or foreign air carrier 
described in subsection (a) shall prominently display, on the internet 
website of the air carrier or foreign air carrier and through the use 
of appropriate signage, a written statement that informs passengers and 
personnel of the procedure for reporting a transportation sexual 
assault or harassment incident.
  ``(d) Standard of Care.--Compliance with the requirements of this 
section, and any policy issued thereunder, shall not determine whether 
the air carrier or foreign air carrier described in subsection (a) has 
acted with any requisite standard of care.
  ``(e) Definitions.--In this section:
          ``(1) Personnel.--The term `personnel' means an employee or 
        contractor of an air carrier or foreign air carrier.
          ``(2) Sexual assault.--The term `sexual assault' means the 
        occurrence of an act that constitutes any nonconsensual sexual 
        act proscribed by Federal, tribal, or State law, including when 
        the victim lacks capacity to consent.
          ``(3) Transportation sexual assault or harassment incident.--
        The term `transportation sexual assault or harassment incident' 
        means the occurrence, or reasonably suspected occurrence, of an 
        act that--
                  ``(A) constitutes sexual assault or sexual 
                harassment; and
                  ``(B) is committed--
                          ``(i) by a passenger or member of personnel 
                        of an air carrier or foreign air carrier 
                        against another passenger or member of 
                        personnel of an air carrier or foreign air 
                        carrier; and
                          ``(ii) within an aircraft or in an area in 
                        which passengers are entering or exiting an 
                        aircraft.''.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 417 of title 49, 
United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end the 
following:

``41729. Formal sexual assault and harassment policies.''.

SEC. 831. INTERFERENCE WITH SECURITY SCREENING PERSONNEL.

  Section 46503 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking ``An individual'' and inserting the 
        following:
  ``(a) In General.--An individual''; and
          (2) by adding at the end the following:
  ``(b) Airport and Air Carrier Employees.--For purposes of this 
section, an airport or air carrier employee who has security duties 
within the airport includes an airport or air carrier employee 
performing ticketing, check-in, baggage claim, or boarding 
functions.''.

SEC. 832. MECHANISMS TO REDUCE HELICOPTER NOISE.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall initiate a 
study to examine ways in which a State, territorial, or local 
government may mitigate the negative impacts of commercial helicopter 
noise.
  (b) Considerations.--In conducting the study under subsection (a), 
the Comptroller General shall consider--
          (1) the varying degree of commercial helicopter operations in 
        different communities; and
          (2) actions that State, and local governments have taken, and 
        authorities such governments have used, to reduce the impact of 
        commercial helicopter noise and the success of such actions.
  (c) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General shall provide to the Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration, 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 study conducted under subsection (a).

SEC. 833. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.

  (a) Title 49 Analysis.--The analysis for title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by striking the item relating to subtitle IX and 
inserting the following:

``IX. MULTIMODAL FREIGHT 
TRANSPORTATION............................................. 70101''.

  (b) Subtitle I Analysis.--The analysis for subtitle I of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to chapter 
7.
  (c) Subtitle VII Analysis.--The analysis for subtitle VII of title 
49, United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to 
chapter 448 and inserting the following:

``448. Unmanned Aircraft 
Systems................................................... 44801''.

  (d) Authority to Exempt.--Section 40109(b) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by striking ``sections 40103(b)(1) and (2) of this 
title'' and inserting ``paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 40103(b)''.
  (e) General Procurement Authority.--Section 40110(d)(3) of title 49, 
United States Code, is further amended--
          (1) in subparagraph (B) by inserting ``, as in effect on 
        October 9, 1996'' after ``Policy Act'';
          (2) in subparagraph (C) by striking ``the Office of Federal 
        Procurement Policy Act'' and inserting ``division B of subtitle 
        I of title 41''; and
          (3) in subparagraph (D) by striking ``section 27(e)(3)(A)(iv) 
        of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act'' and inserting 
        ``section 2105(c)(1)(D) of title 41''.
  (f) Government-Financed Air Transportation.--Section 40118(g)(1) of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``detection and 
reporting of potential human trafficking (as described in paragraphs 
(9) and (10)'' and inserting ``detection and reporting of potential 
severe forms of trafficking in persons and sex trafficking (as such 
terms are defined in paragraphs (11) and (12)''.
  (g) FAA Authority To Conduct Criminal History Record Checks.--Section 
40130(a)(1)(A) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking 
``(42 U.S.C. 14616)'' and inserting ``(34 U.S.C. 40316)''.
  (h) Submissions of Plans.--Section 41313(c)(16) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking ``will consult'' and inserting 
``the foreign air carrier shall consult''.
  (i) Plans and Policy.--Section 44501(c) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended--
          (1) in paragraph (2)(B)(i), by striking ``40119,''; and
          (2) in paragraph (3) by striking ``Subject to section 
        40119(b) of this title and regulations prescribed under section 
        40119(b),'' and inserting ``Subject to section 44912(d)(2) and 
        regulations prescribed under such section,''.
  (j) Use and Limitation of Amounts.--Section 44508 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking ``40119,'' each place it appears.
  (k) Structures Interfering With Air Commerce or National Security.--
Section 44718(h) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as 
follows:
  ``(h) Definitions.--In this section, the terms `adverse impact on 
military operations and readiness' and `unacceptable risk to the 
national security of the United States' have the meaning given those 
terms in section 183a(h) of title 10.''.
  (l) Meteorological Services.--Section 44720(b)(2) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking ``the Administrator to persons'' and 
        inserting ``the Administrator, to persons''; and
          (2) by striking ``the Administrator and to'' and inserting 
        ``the Administrator, and to''.
  (m) Aeronautical Charts.--Section 44721(c)(1) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking ``1947,'' and inserting ``1947''.
  (n) Flight Attendant Certification.--Section 44728(c) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking ``Regulation,'' and 
inserting ``Regulations,''.
  (o) Manual Surcharge.--The analysis for chapter 453 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``45306. Manual surcharge.''.

  (p) Schedule of Fees.--Section 45301(a) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by striking ``The Administrator shall establish'' and 
inserting ``The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall establish''.
  (q) Judicial Review.--Section 46110(a) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by striking ``subsection (l) or (s) of section 114'' 
and inserting ``subsection (l) or (r) of section 114''.
  (r) Civil Penalties.--Section 46301(a) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended--
          (1) in the heading for paragraph (6), by striking ``Failure 
        to collect airport security badges'' and inserting ``Failure to 
        collect airport security badges''; and
          (2) in paragraph (7), by striking ``Penalties relating to 
        harm to passengers with disabilities'' in the paragraph heading 
        and inserting ``Penalties relating to harm to passengers with 
        disabilities''.
  (s) Payments Under Project Grant Agreements.--Section 47111(e) of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``fee'' and 
inserting ``charge''.
  (t) Agreements for State and Local Operation of Airport Facilities.--
Section 47124(b)(1)(B)(ii) of title 49, United States Code, is amended 
by striking the second period at the end.
  (u) Use of Funds for Repairs for Runway Safety Repairs.--Section 
47144(b)(4) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking 
``(42 U.S.C. 4121 et seq.)'' and inserting ``(42 U.S.C. 5121 et 
seq.)''.
  (v) Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority.--Section 49106 of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subsection (a)(1)(B) by striking ``and section 49108 
        of this title''; and
          (2) in subsection (c)(6)(C) by inserting ``the'' before 
        ``jurisdiction''.
  (w) Separability and Effect of Judicial Order.--Section 49112(b) of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by striking paragraph (1); and
          (2) by striking ``(2) Any action'' and inserting ``Any 
        action''.

SEC. 834. TRANSPORTATION OF ORGANS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, shall convene a 
working group (in this section referred to as the ``working group'') to 
assist in developing best practices for transportation of an organ in 
the cabin of an aircraft operating under part 121 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations, and to identify regulations that hinder such 
transportation, if applicable.
  (b) Composition.--The working group shall be comprised of 
representatives from the following:
          (1) Air carriers operating under part 121 of title 14, Code 
        of Federal Regulations.
          (2) Organ procurement organizations.
          (3) Organ transplant hospitals.
          (4) Flight attendants.
          (5) Other relevant Federal agencies involved in organ 
        transportation or air travel.
  (c) Considerations.--In establishing the best practices described in 
subsection (a), the working group shall consider--
          (1) a safe, standardized process for acceptance, handling, 
        management, and transportation of an organ in the cabin of such 
        aircraft; and
          (2) protocols to ensure the safe and timely transport of an 
        organ in the cabin of such aircraft, including through 
        connecting flights.
  (d) Recommendations.--Not later than 1 year after the convening of 
the working group, such working group shall submit to the Secretary a 
report containing recommendations for the best practices described in 
subsection (a).
  (e) Definition of Organ.--In this section, the term ``organ''--
          (1) has the meaning given such term in section 121.2 of title 
        42, Code of Federal Regulations; and
          (2) includes organ-related tissue.

SEC. 835. REPORT ON APPLICATION APPROVAL TIMING.

  Not later than 120 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 report detailing the amount of time the 
application approval process takes for agricultural aircraft operations 
under part 137 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 836. STUDY ON AIR CARGO OPERATIONS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall 
initiate a study on the sustainability of air cargo operations.
  (b) Contents.--In conducting the study required under subsection (a), 
the Comptroller General shall address the following:
          (1) Airport and cargo development strategies, including the 
        pursuit of new air carriers and plans for physical expansion.
          (2) Key historical statistics for passenger, cargo volumes, 
        including freight, express, and mail cargo, and operations, 
        including statistics distinguishing between passenger and 
        freight operations.
          (3) A description of air cargo facilities, including the age 
        and condition of such facilities and the square footage and 
        configuration of the landside and airside infrastructure of 
        such facilities, and cargo buildings.
          (4) The projected square footage deficit of the cargo 
        facilities and infrastructure described in paragraph (3).
          (5) The projected requirements and square footage deficit for 
        air cargo support facilities.
          (6) The general physical and operating issues and constraints 
        associated with air cargo operations.
          (7) A description of delays in truck bays associated with the 
        infrastructure and critical landside issues, including truck 
        maneuvering and queuing and parking for employees and 
        customers.
          (8) The estimated cost of developing new cargo facilities and 
        infrastructure, including the identification of percentages for 
        development with a return on investment and without a return on 
        investment.
          (9) The projected leasing costs to tenants per square foot 
        with and without Federal funding of the non-return on 
        investment allocation.
          (10) A description of customs and general staffing issues 
        associated with air cargo operations and the impacts of such 
        issues on service.
          (11) An assessment of the impact, cost, and estimated cost 
        savings of using modern comprehensive communications and 
        technology systems in air cargo operations.
          (12) A description of the impact of Federal regulations and 
        local enforcement of interdiction and facilitation policies on 
        throughput.
  (c) Report.--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 
the results of the study carried out under this section.

SEC. 837. NEXT GENERATION RADIO ALTIMETERS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, 
in coordination with industry and other relevant government 
stakeholders, shall carry out an accelerated program to assist with the 
development, testing, and certification of the standards and technology 
necessary to ensure industry and the Administration can certify, 
produce and meet the installation requirements for next generation 
radio altimeters across all necessary aircraft by January 1, 2028.
  (b) Grant Program.--The Administrator may award grants for the 
purposes of research and development, testing, and other activities 
necessary to ensure that next generation radio altimeter technology is 
developed, tested, certified, and installed on necessary aircraft by 
2028, including through public-private partnership grants (which shall 
include protections for necessary intellectual property with respect to 
any private sector entity testing, certifying, or producing next 
generation radio altimeters under the program carried out under this 
section) with industry to ensure the accelerated production and 
installation by January 1, 2028.
  (c) Review and Report.--Not later than 180 days after the 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 steps the Administrator has taken as of the date on which 
such report is submitted and any actions the Administrator plans to 
take, including as part of the program carried out under this section, 
to ensure that next generation radio altimeter technology is developed, 
tested, certified, and installed by 2028.

SEC. 838. SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING SAFETY AND SECURITY OF AVIATION 
                    INFRASTRUCTURE.

  It is the sense of Congress that aviation provides essential services 
critical to the United States economy and that it is important to 
ensure the safety and security of aviation infrastructure and protect 
such infrastructure from unlawful breaches with appropriate legal 
safeguards.

SEC. 839. RESTRICTED CATEGORY AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONS.

  Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall have sole jurisdiction over the 
maintenance and operations of aircraft owned by civilian operators and 
type-certificated in the restricted category under section 21.25 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 840. REPORT ON TELEWORK.

  Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, 
the Secretary of Transportation shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, the 
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and 
the Committees on Appropriations of the Senate and the House of 
Representatives a detailed report on any direct and indirect costs and 
inefficiencies associated with COVID-era telework policies at the 
Federal Aviation Administration.

SEC. 841. CREWMEMBER PUMPING GUIDANCE.

  (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 guidance to part 121 air carriers relating to the 
expression of milk by crewmembers on an aircraft during noncritical 
phases of flight, consistent with the performance of the crewmember's 
duties aboard the aircraft. The guidance shall be equally applicable to 
any lactating crewmember. In developing the guidance, the Administrator 
shall--
          (1) consider multiple methods of expressing breast milk that 
        could be used by crewmembers, including the use of wearable 
        lactation technology; and
          (2) ensure the guidance will not require an air carrier or 
        foreign air carrier to incur significant expense, such as 
        through--
                  (A) the addition of an extra crewmember in response 
                to providing a break;
                  (B) removal or retrofitting of seats on the aircraft; 
                or
                  (C) modification or retrofitting of an aircraft.
  (b) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Crewmember.--The term ``crewmember'' has the meaning 
        given such term in section 1.1 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations.
          (2) Critical phases of flight.--The term ``critical phases of 
        flight'' has the meaning given such term in section 121.542 of 
        title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (3) Part 121.--The term ``part 121'' means part 121 of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  (c) Aviation Safety.--Nothing in this section shall limit the 
authority of the Administrator relating to aviation safety under 
subtitle VII of title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 842. AIRCRAFT INTERCHANGE AGREEMENT LIMITATIONS.

  (a) Study.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of Federal Aviation Administration shall 
conduct a study of foreign interchange agreements.
  (b) Contents.--In carrying out the study required under subsection 
(a), the Administrator shall address the following:
          (1) Methods for updating regulations under part 121.569 of 
        title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, for foreign interchange 
        agreements.
          (2) Time limits for foreign aircraft interchange agreements.
          (3) Minimum breaks between foreign aircraft interchange 
        agreements.
          (4) Limits for no more than 1 foreign aircraft interchange 
        agreement between 2 airlines.
          (5) Limits for no more than 2 foreign aircraft on the 
        interchange agreement.

SEC. 843. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION ACADEMY AND FACILITY 
                    EXPANSION PLAN.

  (a) Plan.--
          (1) In general.--No later than 90 days after the date of 
        enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall initiate the development of a 
        plan to--
                  (A) expand overall Federal Aviation Administration 
                capacity relating to facilities, instruction, 
                equipment, and training resources to grow the number of 
                developmental air traffic controllers enrolled per 
                fiscal year and support increases in FAA air controller 
                staffing to advance the safety of the national airspace 
                system; and
                  (B) establish a second FAA Academy.
          (2) Considerations.--In developing the plan under paragraph 
        (1), the Administrator shall consider--
                  (A) the resources needed to support an increase in 
                the total number of developmental air traffic 
                controllers enrolled at the FAA Academies;
                  (B) the resources needed to lessen FAA Academy 
                attrition per fiscal year;
                  (C) how to modernize the education and training of 
                developmental air traffic controllers, including 
                through the use of new techniques and technologies to 
                support instruction, and whether field training can be 
                administered more flexibly, such as at other Federal 
                Aviation Administration locations across the country;
                  (D) the equipment needed to support expanded 
                instruction, including air traffic control simulation 
                systems, virtual reality, and other virtual training 
                platforms;
                  (E) projected staffing needs associated with FAA 
                Academy expansion and the operation of virtual 
                education platforms, including the number of on-the-job 
                instructors needed to educate and train additional 
                developmental air traffic controllers;
                  (F) the use of existing Federal Aviation 
                Administration-owned facilities and classroom space and 
                identifying potential opportunities for new 
                construction;
                  (G) the costs of--
                          (i) expanding Federal Aviation Administration 
                        capacity (as described in paragraph (1)(A)); 
                        and
                          (ii) establishing a second FAA Academy (as 
                        described in paragraph (1)(B));
                  (H) soliciting input from, and coordinating with, 
                relevant stakeholders as appropriate, including the 
                exclusive bargaining representative of air traffic 
                control specialists of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration certified under section 7111 of title 5, 
                United States Code; and
                  (I) other logistical and financial considerations as 
                determined by appropriate the Administrator.
  (b) 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 
the plan developed under subsection (a).
  (c) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the submission of the 
plan under subsection (b), the Administrator shall brief the Committee 
on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives 
and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
Senate on the plan, including the implementation of the plan.

 TITLE IX--NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD AMENDMENTS ACT OF 2023

SEC. 901. SHORT TITLE.

  This title may be cited as the ``National Transportation Safety Board 
Amendments Act of 2023''.

SEC. 902. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

  Section 1118(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read 
as follows:
  ``(a) In General.--There are authorized to be appropriated for the 
purposes of this chapter $142,000,000 for fiscal year 2024, 
$145,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, $150,000,000 for fiscal year 2026, 
$155,000,000 for fiscal year 2027, and $161,000,000 for fiscal year 
2028. Such sums shall remain available until expended.''.

SEC. 903. CLARIFICATION OF TREATMENT OF TERRITORIES.

  Section 1101 of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as 
follows:

``Sec. 1101. Definitions

  ``(a) In General.--In this chapter:
          ``(1) Accident.--The term `accident' includes damage to or 
        destruction of vehicles in surface or air transportation or 
        pipelines, regardless of whether the initiating event is 
        accidental or otherwise.
          ``(2) State.--The term `State' means a State of the United 
        States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin 
        Islands, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, and 
        Guam.
  ``(b) Applicability of Other Definitions.--Section 2101(23) of title 
46 and section 40102(a) shall apply to this chapter.''.

SEC. 904. ADDITIONAL WORKFORCE TRAINING.

  (a) Training on Emerging Transportation Technologies.--Section 
1113(b)(1) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in subparagraph (I) by striking ``; and'' and inserting a 
        semicolon;
          (2) in subparagraph (J) by striking the period and inserting 
        ``; and''; and
          (3) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(K) notwithstanding section 3301 of title 41, acquire 
        training on emerging transportation technologies.''.
  (b) Additional Training Needs.--Section 1115(d) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by inserting ``and in those subjects furthering 
the personnel and workforce development needs set forth in the 
strategic workforce plan of the Board as required under section 
1113(h)'' after ``of accident investigation''.

SEC. 905. ACQUIRING MISSION-ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS.

  Section 1113(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
  ``(3) Direct Hire Authority.--
          ``(A) In general.--Notwithstanding section 3304 and sections 
        3309 through 3318 of title 5, the Chairman may, on a 
        determination that there is a severe shortage of candidates or 
        a critical hiring need for particular positions, recruit and 
        directly appoint into the competitive service highly qualified 
        personnel with specialized knowledge important to the function 
        of the Board.
          ``(B) Limitation.--The authority granted under subparagraph 
        (A) shall terminate on the date that is 5 years after the date 
        of the enactment of this paragraph.
          ``(C) Exception.--The authority granted under subparagraph 
        (A) shall not apply to positions in the excepted service or the 
        Senior Executive Service.
          ``(D) Requirements.--In exercising the authority granted 
        under subparagraph (A), the Board shall ensure that any action 
        taken by the Board--
                  ``(i) is consistent with the merit principles of 
                section 2301 of title 5; and
                  ``(ii) complies with the public notice requirements 
                of section 3327 of title 5.''.

SEC. 906. OVERTIME ANNUAL REPORT TERMINATION.

   Section 1113(g)(5) of title 49, United States Code, is repealed.

SEC. 907. STRATEGIC WORKFORCE PLAN.

  Section 1113 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at 
the end the following:
  ``(h) Strategic Workforce Plan.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Board shall develop a strategic 
        workforce plan that addresses the immediate and long-term 
        workforce needs of the Board with respect to carrying out the 
        authorities and duties of the Board under this chapter.
          ``(2) Aligning the workforce to strategic goals.--In 
        developing the strategic workforce plan under paragraph (1), 
        the Board shall take into consideration--
                  ``(A) the current state and capabilities of the 
                Board, including a high-level review of mission 
                requirements, structure, workforce, and performance of 
                the Board;
                  ``(B) the significant workforce trends, needs, 
                issues, and challenges with respect to the Board and 
                the transportation industry;
                  ``(C) the workforce policies, strategies, performance 
                measures, and interventions to mitigate succession 
                risks that guide the workforce investment decisions of 
                the Board;
                  ``(D) a workforce planning strategy that identifies 
                workforce needs, including the knowledge, skills, and 
                abilities needed to recruit and retain skilled 
                employees at the Board;
                  ``(E) a workforce management strategy that is aligned 
                with the mission, goals, and organizational objectives 
                of the Board;
                  ``(F) an implementation system for workforce goals 
                focused on addressing continuity of leadership and 
                knowledge sharing across the Board;
                  ``(G) an implementation system that addresses 
                workforce competency gaps, particularly in mission-
                critical occupations; and
                  ``(H) a system for analyzing and evaluating the 
                performance of the Board's workforce management 
                policies, programs, and activities.
          ``(3) Planning period.--The strategic workforce plan 
        developed under paragraph (1) shall address a 5-year forecast 
        period, but may include planning for longer periods based on 
        information about trends in the transportation sector.
          ``(4) Plan updates.--The Board shall update the strategic 
        workforce plan developed under paragraph (1) not less than once 
        every 5 years.
          ``(5) Relationship to strategic plan.--The strategic 
        workforce plan developed under paragraph (1) may be developed 
        separately from, or incorporated into, the strategic plan 
        required under section 306 of title 5.
          ``(6) Availability.--The strategic workforce plan under 
        paragraph (1) and the strategic plan required under section 306 
        of title 5 shall be--
                  ``(A) submitted to the Committee on Transportation 
                and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
                the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation 
                of the Senate; and
                  ``(B) made available to the public on a website of 
                the Board.''.

SEC. 908. TRAVEL BUDGETS.

  (a) In General.--Section 1113 of title 49, United States Code, is 
further amended by adding at the end the following:
  ``(i) Nonaccident Related Travel Budget.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Board shall establish annual fiscal 
        year budgets for non accident-related travel expenditures for 
        each Board member which shall be incorporated into the annual 
        budget request of the Board.
          ``(2) Notification.--The Board shall notify the Committee on 
        Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate of any non accident-related travel 
        budget overrun for any Board member not later than 30 days of 
        such overrun becoming known to the Board.''.
  (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 9 of the National Transportation 
Safety Board Amendments Act of 2000 (49 U.S.C. 1113 note) is repealed.

SEC. 909. RETENTION OF RECORDS.

  Section 1113 of title 49, United States Code, is further amended by 
adding at the end the following:
  ``(j) Retention of Records.--Notwithstanding chapters 21, 29, 31, and 
33 of title 44, the Board may retain investigative records for such 
periods as determined by the Board.''.

SEC. 910. NONDISCLOSURE OF INTERVIEW RECORDINGS.

  (a) In General.--Section 1114 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) in subsection (b)--
                  (A) in the subsection heading by striking ``Trade 
                Secrets'' and inserting ``Certain Confidential 
                Information''; and
                  (B) in paragraph (1)--
                          (i) by striking ``The Board'' and inserting 
                        ``In general.--The Board''; and
                          (ii) by striking ``information related to a 
                        trade secret referred to in section 1905 of 
                        title 18'' and inserting ``confidential 
                        information described in section 1905 of title 
                        18, including trade secrets,''; and
          (2) by adding at the end the following:
  ``(h) Interview Recordings.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Board may not publicly disclose any 
        part of any audio or video recording of an interview of 
        participants in, or witnesses to, an accident or incident 
        investigated by the Board.
          ``(2) Savings provision.--Paragraph (1) shall not be 
        construed to apply to transcripts or summaries of such 
        interviews.''.
  (b) Aviation Enforcement.--Section 1151 of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
  ``(d) Notification to Congress.--If the Board or Attorney General 
carry out such civil actions described in subsection (a) or (b) of this 
section against an airman employed at the time of the accident or 
incident by an air carrier operating under part 121 of title 14, Code 
of Federal Regulations, the Board shall immediately notify the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate of such civil actions, including--
          ``(1) the labor union representing the airman involved, if 
        applicable;
          ``(2) the air carrier at which the airman is employed;
          ``(3) the docket information of the incident or accident in 
        which the airman was involved;
          ``(4) the date of such civil actions taken by the Board or 
        Attorney General; and
          ``(5) a description of why such civil actions were taken by 
        the Board or Attorney General.
  ``(e) Subsequent Notification to Congress.--Not later than 15 days 
after the notification described in subsection (d), the Board shall 
submit a report to or brief the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate describing the 
status of compliance with the civil actions taken.''.

SEC. 911. CLOSED UNACCEPTABLE RECOMMENDATIONS.

  Section 1116(c) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) by redesignating paragraphs (3) through (6) as paragraphs 
        (4) through (7), respectively; and
          (2) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
          ``(3) a list of each recommendation made by the Board to the 
        Secretary of Transportation or the Commandant of the Coast 
        Guard that was closed in an unacceptable status in the 
        preceding 12 months;''.

SEC. 912. ESTABLISHMENT OF OFFICE OF OVERSIGHT, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND 
                    QUALITY ASSURANCE.

  (a) In General.--Subchapter II of chapter 11 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec. 1120. Office of Oversight, Accountability, and Quality Assurance

  ``(a) Establishment.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Board shall establish in the National 
Transportation Safety Board an Office of Oversight, Accountability, and 
Quality Assurance to provide oversight of the duties and 
responsibilities of the Board.
  ``(b) Director.--
          ``(1) Appointment.--The head of the Office of Oversight, 
        Accountability, and Quality Assurance shall be the Director, 
        who shall be appointed by the Chairman of the Board and shall 
        be approved by the Board.
          ``(2) Qualifications.--The Director shall have demonstrated 
        ability in investigations.
          ``(3) Term.--The Director shall be appointed for a term of 5 
        years.
          ``(4) Vacancies.--Any individual approved to fill a vacancy 
        in the position of the Director occurring before the expiration 
        of the term for which the predecessor of the individual was 
        approved shall be approved for the remainder of the term or for 
        a new term.
  ``(c) Duties.--The Director shall--
          ``(1) establish and ensure policies that promote integrity, 
        efficiency, and effectiveness;
          ``(2) prevent and detect waste, fraud, and abuse in programs 
        and operations;
          ``(3) provide policy direction related to the conduct, 
        supervision, and coordination of audits and investigations 
        relating to the activities of the Board;
          ``(4) identify trends and systemic issues within the agency 
        and create strategies and recommendations to address such 
        issues;
          ``(5) conduct impartial information gathering about 
        complaints or concerns, and ensure the Board is meeting any 
        quality and timeliness standards; and
          ``(6) not conduct any of the duties under this subsection in 
        a manner that interferes with an ongoing safety investigation 
        of the Board.
  ``(d) Reporting Criminal Violations to Department of Justice.--If the 
Director has reasonable grounds to believe that there has been a 
violation of Federal criminal law, the Director shall refer the matter 
to the Department of Justice.
  ``(e) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to 
interfere or give the Office jurisdiction over any active investigation 
by the Board or the content of products approved by a vote of the 
Board.
  ``(f) Annual Report.--
          ``(1) In general.--The Director shall submit to the Board, 
        the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
        of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate an annual report on the 
        activities, investigations, findings, and recommendations of 
        the Director.
          ``(2) Sunset.--This subsection shall cease to have effect on 
        October 1, 2028.''.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 11 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding after the item relating to 
section 1119 the following:

``1120. Office of Oversight, Accountability, and Quality Assurance.''.

  (c) Peer Review.--Not earlier than 3 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act and not later than 5 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Oversight, 
Accountability, and Quality Assurance of the National Transportation 
Safety Board shall enter into the necessary arrangements with an 
inspector general, or similar Federal entity, to perform a peer review 
of the Office.

SEC. 913. MISCELLANEOUS INVESTIGATIVE AUTHORITIES.

  (a) Highway Investigations.--Section 1131(a)(1)(B) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking ``selects in cooperation 
with a State'' and inserting ``selects, concurrent with any State 
investigation''.
  (b) Rail Investigations.--Section 1131(a)(1)(C) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking ``accident in which there is a 
fatality or substantial property damage, or that involves a passenger 
train'' and inserting ``accident, including a railroad grade crossing 
or trespasser accident that the Board selects, or in which there is 
otherwise a fatality or substantial property damage, or that involves a 
passenger train''.

SEC. 914. PUBLIC AVAILABILITY OF ACCIDENT REPORTS.

  Section 1131(e) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``public at reasonable cost.'' and inserting the following: 
``public
          ``(1) in printed form at reasonable cost; and
          ``(2) in electronic form at no cost in a publicly accessible 
        database on a website of the Board.''.

SEC. 915. ENSURING ACCOUNTABILITY FOR TIMELINESS OF REPORTS.

  Section 1131 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at 
the end the following:
  ``(f) Timeliness of Reports.--If any accident report under subsection 
(e) is not completed within 2 years from the date of the accident, the 
Board 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 
identifying such accident report and the reasons for which such report 
has not been completed. The Board shall report progress toward 
completion of the accident report to each such Committees every 90 days 
thereafter, until such time as the accident report is completed.''.

SEC. 916. ENSURING ACCESS TO DATA.

  Section 1134 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at 
the end the following:
  ``(g) Recorders and Data.--In investigating an accident under this 
chapter, the Board may--
          ``(1) obtain any recorder or recorded information pertinent 
        to the accident;
          ``(2) require a manufacturer or the vendors, suppliers, or 
        affiliates of such manufacturer, to provide to the Board, 
        without delay, information the Board determines necessary to 
        enable the Board to read and interpret any recording device or 
        recorded information pertinent to the accident; and
          ``(3) require a manufacturer or the vendors, suppliers, or 
        affiliates of such manufacturer, to provide to the Board, 
        without delay, data and other intellectual property the Board 
        determines necessary to enable the Board to perform independent 
        physics-based simulations and analyses of the accident 
        situation.''.

SEC. 917. PUBLIC AVAILABILITY OF SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS.

  Section 1135(c) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``public at reasonable cost.'' and inserting the following: 
``public--
          ``(1) in printed form at reasonable cost; and
          ``(2) in electronic form in a publicly accessible database on 
        a website of the Board at no cost.''.

SEC. 918. IMPROVING DELIVERY OF FAMILY ASSISTANCE.

  (a) Aircraft Accidents.--Section 1136 of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended--
          (1) in the heading by striking ``to families of passengers 
        involved in aircraft accidents'' and inserting ``to passengers 
        involved in aircraft accidents and families of such 
        passengers'';
          (2) in subsection (a)--
                  (A) by inserting ``within United States airspace or 
                airspace delegated to the United States'' after 
                ``aircraft accident'';
                  (B) by striking ``National Transportation Safety 
                Board shall'' and inserting ``Board shall''; and
                  (C) in paragraph (2)--
                          (i) by striking ``emotional care and 
                        support'' and inserting ``emotional, 
                        psychological, and spiritual care and support 
                        services''; and
                          (ii) by striking ``the families of passengers 
                        involved in the accident'' and inserting 
                        ``passengers involved in the accident and the 
                        families of such passengers'';
          (3) in subsection (c)--
                  (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by 
                striking ``the families of passengers involved in the 
                accident'' and inserting ``passengers involved in the 
                accident and the families of such passengers'';
                  (B) in paragraph (1) by striking ``mental health and 
                counseling services'' and inserting ``emotional, 
                psychological, and spiritual care and support 
                services'';
                  (C) in paragraph (3)--
                          (i) by striking ``the families who have 
                        traveled to the location of the accident'' and 
                        inserting ``passengers involved in the accident 
                        and the families of such passengers who have 
                        traveled to the location of the accident''; and
                          (ii) by inserting ``passengers and'' before 
                        ``affected families''; and
                  (D) in paragraph (4), by inserting ``passengers and'' 
                before ``families'';
          (4) by amending subsection (d) to read as follows:
  ``(d) Passenger Lists.--
          ``(1) Requests for passenger lists by the director of family 
        services.--
                  ``(A) Requests by director of family support 
                services.--It shall be the responsibility of the 
                director of family support services designated for an 
                accident under subsection (a)(1) to request, as soon as 
                practicable, from the air carrier or foreign air 
                carrier involved in the accident a passenger list, 
                which is based on the best available information at the 
                time of the request.
                  ``(B) Use of information.--The director of family 
                support services may not release to any person 
                information on a list obtained under subparagraph (A), 
                except that the director may, to the extent the 
                director considers appropriate, provide information on 
                the list about a passenger to--
                          ``(i) the family of the passenger; or
                          ``(ii) a local, State, or Federal agency 
                        responsible for determining the whereabouts or 
                        welfare of a passenger.
          ``(2) Requests for passenger lists by designated 
        organization.--
                  ``(A) Requests by designated organization.--The 
                organization designated for an accident under 
                subsection (a)(2) may request from the air carrier or 
                foreign air carrier involved in the accident a 
                passenger list.
                  ``(B) Use of information.--The designated 
                organization may not release to any person information 
                on a passenger list but may provide information on the 
                list about a passenger to the family of the passenger 
                to the extent the organization considers 
                appropriate.'';
          (5) in subsection (g)(1) by striking ``the families of 
        passengers involved in the accident'' and inserting 
        ``passengers involved in the accident and the families of such 
        passengers'';
          (6) in subsection (g)(3)--
                  (A) in the paragraph heading by striking ``prevent 
                mental health and counseling'' and inserting ``prevent 
                certain care and support'';
                  (B) by striking ``providing mental health and 
                counseling services'' and inserting ``providing 
                emotional, psychological, and spiritual care and 
                support''; and
                  (C) by inserting ``passengers and'' before 
                ``families'';
          (7) in subsection (h)--
                  (A) by striking ``National Transportation Safety''; 
                and
                  (B) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(3) Passenger list.--The term `passenger list' means a list 
        based on the best available information at the time of a 
        request, of the name of each passenger aboard the aircraft 
        involved in the accident.''; and
          (8) in subsection (i) by striking ``the families of 
        passengers involved in an aircraft accident'' and inserting 
        ``passengers involved in the aircraft accident and the families 
        of such passengers''.
  (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 11 of title 49, 
United States Code, is further amended by striking the item relating to 
section 1136 and inserting the following:

``1136. Assistance to passengers involved in aircraft accidents and 
families of such passengers.''.

  (c) Rail Accidents.--Section 1139 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
          (1) in the heading by striking ``to families of passengers 
        involved in rail passenger accidents'' and inserting ``to 
        passengers involved in rail passenger accidents and families of 
        such passengers'';
          (2) in subsection (a) by striking ``National Transportation 
        Safety Board shall'' and inserting ``Board shall'';
          (3) in subsection (a)(2)--
                  (A) by striking ``emotional care and support'' and 
                inserting ``emotional, psychological and spiritual care 
                and support services''; and
                  (B) by striking ``the families of passengers involved 
                in the accident'' and inserting ``passengers involved 
                in the accident and the families of such passengers'';
          (4) in subsection (c)--
                  (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by striking 
                ``the families of passengers involved in the accident'' 
                and inserting ``passengers involved in the accident and 
                the families of such passengers'';
                  (B) in paragraph (1) by striking ``mental health and 
                counseling services'' and inserting ``emotional, 
                psychological, and spiritual care and support 
                services'';
                  (C) in paragraph (3)--
                          (i) by striking ``the families who have 
                        traveled to the location of the accident'' and 
                        inserting ``passengers involved in the accident 
                        and the families of such passengers who have 
                        traveled to the location of the accident''; and
                          (ii) by inserting ``passengers and'' before 
                        ``affected families''; and
                  (D) in paragraph (4), by inserting ``passengers and'' 
                before ``families'';
          (5) by amending subsection (d) to read as follows:
  ``(d) Passenger Lists.--
          ``(1) Requests for passenger lists by the director of family 
        services.--
                  ``(A) Requests by director of family support 
                services.--It shall be the responsibility of the 
                director of family support services designated for an 
                accident under subsection (a)(1) to request, as soon as 
                practicable, from the rail passenger carrier involved 
                in the accident a passenger list, which is based on the 
                best available information at the time of the request.
                  ``(B) Use of information.--The director of family 
                support services may not release to any person 
                information on a list obtained under subparagraph (A), 
                except that the director may, to the extent the 
                director considers appropriate, provide information on 
                the list about a passenger to--
                          ``(i) the family of the passenger; or
                          ``(ii) a local, State, or Federal agency 
                        responsible for determining the whereabouts or 
                        welfare of a passenger.
          ``(2) Requests for passenger lists by designated 
        organization.--
                  ``(A) Requests by designated organization.--The 
                organization designated for an accident under 
                subsection (a)(2) may request from the rail passenger 
                carrier involved in the accident a passenger list.
                  ``(B) Use of information.--The designated 
                organization may not release to any person information 
                on a passenger list but may provide information on the 
                list about a passenger to the family of the passenger 
                to the extent the organization considers 
                appropriate.'';
          (6) in subsection (g)(1), by striking ``the families of 
        passengers involved in the accident'' and inserting 
        ``passengers involved in the accident and the families of such 
        passengers'';
          (7) in subsection (g)(3)--
                  (A) in the paragraph heading, by striking ``prevent 
                mental health and counseling'' and inserting ``prevent 
                certain care and support'';
                  (B) by striking ``providing mental health and 
                counseling services'' and inserting ``providing 
                emotional, psychological, and spiritual care and 
                support''; and
                  (C) by inserting ``passengers and'' before 
                ``families''; and
          (8) in subsection (h)--
                  (A) by striking ``National Transportation Safety''; 
                and
                  (B) by adding at the end the following:
          ``(4) Passenger list.--The term `passenger list' means a list 
        based on the best available information at the time of the 
        request, of the name of each passenger aboard the rail 
        passenger carrier's train involved in the accident. A rail 
        passenger carrier shall use reasonable efforts, with respect to 
        its unreserved trains, and passengers not holding reservations 
        on its other trains, to ascertain the names of passengers 
        aboard a train involved in an accident.''.
  (d) Plans To Address Needs of Families of Passengers Involved in Rail 
Passenger Accidents.--Section 24316(a) of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended by striking ``a major'' and inserting ``any''.
  (e) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 11 of title 49, 
United States Code, is further amended by striking the item relating to 
section 1139 and inserting the following:

``1139. Assistance to passengers involved in rail passenger accidents 
and families of such passengers.''.

SEC. 919. UPDATING CIVIL PENALTY AUTHORITY.

  Section 1155 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
          (1) in the heading, by striking ``Aviation penalties'' and 
        inserting ``Penalties''; and
          (2) in subsection (a), by striking ``or section 1136(g) 
        (related to an aircraft accident)'' and inserting ``section 
        1136(g), or 1139(g)''.

SEC. 920. ELECTRONIC AVAILABILITY OF PUBLIC DOCKET RECORDS.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 24 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the National Transportation Safety Board shall make all 
records included in the public docket of an accident or incident 
investigation conducted by the Board (or the public docket of a study, 
report, or other product issued by the Board) electronically available 
in a publicly accessible database on a website of the Board, regardless 
of the date on which such public docket or record was created.
  (b) Database.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Board may utilize 
the multimodal accident database management system established pursuant 
to section 1108 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 1119 
note) or such other publicly available database as the Board determines 
appropriate.
  (c) Briefings.--The Board shall provide the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate an 
annual briefing on the implementation of this section until 
requirements of subsection (a) are fulfilled. Such briefings shall 
include--
          (1) the number of public dockets that have been made 
        electronically available pursuant to this section; and
          (2) the number of public dockets that were unable to be made 
        electronically available, including all reasons for such 
        inability.
  (d) Definitions.--In this section, the terms ``public docket'' and 
``record'' have the same meanings given such terms in section 801.3 of 
title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on the date of 
enactment of this Act.

SEC. 921. DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE.

  Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
National Transportation Safety Board shall implement a drug testing 
program applicable to Board employees, including employees in safety or 
security sensitive positions, in accordance with Executive Order 12564 
(51 Fed. Reg. 32889).

SEC. 922. ACCESSIBILITY IN WORKPLACE.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the National Transportation Safety Board shall conduct an 
assessment of the headquarters and regional offices of the Board to 
determine barriers to accessibility to facilities.
  (b) Contents.--In conducting the assessment under subsection (a), the 
Board shall consider--
          (1) compliance with--
                  (A) the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 
                4151 et seq.) and the corresponding accessibility 
                guidelines established under part 1191 of title 36, 
                Code of Federal Regulations; and
                  (B) the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 
                U.S.C. 12101 et seq.); and
          (2) the best accessibility practices that exceed the 
        requirements and recommendations of the Acts and guidelines 
        described in paragraph (1).

SEC. 923. MOST WANTED LIST.

  (a) Termination of Publication.--Not later than 90 days after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Chairman of the National 
Transportation Safety Board shall terminate publication of the Most 
Wanted List and any activities associated with production of any future 
Most Wanted List.
  (b) Rules of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed to prohibit the Board from--
          (1) conducting advocacy activities unrelated to the Most 
        Wanted List that the Board had the authority to conduct prior 
        to the date of enactment of this Act; and
          (2) maintaining materials related to previously issued Most 
        Wanted Lists.
  (c) Most Wanted List Defined.--In this section, the term ``Most 
Wanted List'' has the meaning given such term in section 1102 of the 
FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 1101 note).

SEC. 924. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.

  (a) Evaluation and Audit of National Transportation Safety Board.--
Section 1138(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking 
``expenditures of the National Transportation Safety'' and inserting 
``expenditures of the''.
  (b) Organization and Administrative.--The analysis for chapter 11 of 
title 49, United States Code, is further amended--
          (1) by striking the items relating to sections 117 and 1117; 
        and
          (2) by inserting after the item relating to section 1116 the 
        following:

``1117. Methodology.''.

  (c) Surface Transportation Board.--The analysis for subtitle II of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item 
relating to chapter 11 the following:

``13. Surface Transportation Board.''.

                  TITLE X--FREEDOM TO FLY ACT OF 2023

SECTION 1001. SHORT TITLE.

  This title may be cited as the ``Freedom to Fly Act of 2023''.

SEC. 1002. PROHIBITION ON IMPLEMENTATION OF VACCINATION MANDATE.

  The Administrator may not implement or enforce any requirement that 
employees of air carriers be vaccinated against COVID-19.

SEC. 1003. PROHIBITION ON VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR FAA CONTRACTORS.

  The Administrator may not require any contractor to mandate that 
employees of such contractor obtain a COVID-19 vaccine or enforce any 
condition regarding COVID-19 vaccination status of employees of a 
contractor.

SEC. 1004. PROHIBITION ON VACCINE MANDATE FOR FAA EMPLOYEES.

  The Administrator may not implement or enforce any requirement that 
employees of the Administration be vaccinated against COVID-19.

SEC. 1005. PROHIBITION ON VACCINE MANDATE FOR PASSENGERS OF AIR 
                    CARRIERS.

  The Administrator may not implement or enforce any requirement that 
passengers of air carriers be vaccinated against COVID-19.

SEC. 1006. PROHIBITION ON IMPLEMENTATION OF A MASK MANDATE.

  The Administrator may not implement or enforce any requirement that 
employee of air carriers wear a mask.

SEC. 1007. PROHIBITION ON MASK MANDATES FOR FAA CONTRACTORS.

  The Administrator may not require any contractor to mandate that 
employees of such contractor wear a mask.

SEC. 1008. PROHIBITION ON MASK MANDATE FOR FAA EMPLOYEES.

  The Administrator may not implement or enforce any requirement that 
employees of the Administration wear a mask.

SEC. 1009. PROHIBITION ON MASK MANDATE FOR PASSENGERS OF AIR CARRIERS.

  The Administrator may not implement or enforce any requirement that 
passengers of air carriers wear a mask.

SEC. 1010. DEFINITIONS.

  In this title:
          (1) Administrator.--The term ``Administration'' means the 
        Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.
          (2) Air carrier.--The term ``air carrier'' has the meaning 
        given such term in section 40102 of title 49, United States 
        Code.

                         Purpose of Legislation

    The purpose of H.R. 3935 is to amend title 49, United 
States Code, to reauthorize and improve the Federal Aviation 
Administration and other civil aviation programs, and for other 
purposes.

                  Background and Need for Legislation

    Aviation is a significant driver of economic growth and a 
major component of the national transportation system in the 
United States. Since the invention of aviation by the Wright 
Brothers in 1903, the United States has led the world in 
aviation safety and innovation. However, the United States' 
leadership status is being threatened by increasing global 
competition, rapid developments in technology, aviation 
workforce challenges, and outdated processes and systems within 
the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The aviation 
industry is still working to fully recover from the detrimental 
effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, while striving to meet 
surging consumer demand. It is critical to the long-term 
success of American aviation that the FAA has the necessary 
tools and resources to keep pace with the rapidly advancing 
aviation sector, and serve all regulated entities in a safe, 
timely and efficient manner.

               SECURING GROWTH AND ROBUST LEADERSHIP IN 
                         AMERICAN AVIATION ACT

    H.R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in 
American Aviation (SGRLAA) Act, is a comprehensive, bipartisan 
FAA reauthorization bill that will provide long-term stability 
across the Nation's aviation system; restructure the FAA to 
improve efficiency; strengthen the United States' general 
aviation community; encourage growth in the aviation workforce; 
make targeted investment in airport infrastructure across the 
country; ensure America continues to set the world's ``Gold 
Standard'' in aviation safety; foster the development and safe 
integration of aviation innovations into the airspace; and 
improve the aviation experience for the travelling public.

i. FAA Organizational Reform

    The FAA's growing responsibilities and activities are 
managed by a group of executives, most of whom manage offices 
of staff to perform such work. The effective cooperation and 
organization of this executive team ultimately determine the 
success of the agency. It is important that each executive has 
clear authority and responsibility over certain aspects of the 
FAA's mission, the work of each executive office is unique, and 
work products and decision-making flow throughout the 
organization without unnecessary delays. It is also important 
that in the absence of confirmed leadership, the agency retains 
the ability to meet its mission workload, minimizes 
consequential impacts to its employees, and retains critical 
institutional knowledge.
    The SGRLAA Act addresses these concerns by making targeted 
organizational reforms to provide additional leadership in core 
areas, while removing positions and requirements within the 
agency that are no longer necessary or are a poor use of FAA 
resources. The Act increases the scrutiny and support provided 
to important tasks such as rulemaking, innovation, and 
providing support for regulated entities, while increasing the 
overall focus on aerospace safety.

ii. General Aviation

    General aviation is a critical component of the aviation 
system and is an important part of our National economy. 
General aviation activities include training of new pilots and 
pilots interested in additional ratings or certifications, 
aerial firefighting, air tourism, crop dusting and surveying, 
movement of heavy loads by helicopter, experimental and sport 
flying, flying for personal or business reasons, and emergency 
medical services. This bill includes the first standalone title 
of any FAA reauthorization bill dedicated to addressing long-
standing general aviation issues, as well as makes targeted 
changes in the general aviation ecosystem to improve the 
efficiency and outlook for the American aviation industry's 
long-term success.

iii. Aviation Workforce

    Aviation contributes significantly to domestic and 
international economies. A recent FAA report notes that in 
2019, civil aviation contributed 4.9 percent of the United 
States gross domestic product, generated $1.9 trillion in total 
economic activity, and supported nearly 10.4 million American 
jobs.\1\ Domestic air carrier passenger growth is forecasted to 
average 4.7 percent per year over the next 20 years.\2\ This 
average projected growth includes double digit growth in 2022 
and 2023, prompting some aviation stakeholders to raise 
concerns about whether there will be sufficient workers to meet 
both present-day and future demand. Although the air 
transportation sector faced an unparalleled need for talent, 
especially for pilots, before the COVID-19 pandemic, the 
workforce challenges facing the industry today remain acute 
across the board. This bill addresses challenges facing the 
aerospace workforce by growing the talent pipeline and making 
key investments in workforce training and retention to ensure 
the aerospace workforce is capable of meeting demand for 
decades to come.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    \1\FAA, The Economic Impact of U.S. Civil Aviation: 2020 (Aug. 
2022), available at https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/2022-08/
2022-APL-038%202022_economic%20impact_report.pdf.
    \2\FAA, FAA Aerospace Forecast Fiscal Years 2022-2042 at 2 (June 
28, 2022), available at https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/2022-
06/FY2022_42_FAA_Aerospace_Forecast.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

iv. Airport Infrastructure

    Federal investment in our Nation's commercial service and 
general aviation airport infrastructure is vital to ensuring 
the safety and economic success of the aviation industry. For 
too long, funding for the primary Federal airport capital 
program, the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), has remained 
stagnant while increasing program administrative burdens and 
growing airport infrastructure needs reduced the program's 
effectiveness. The SGRLAA Act will revitalize AIP by increasing 
its funding to $4 billion annually and removing many outdated 
and unnecessary restrictions that have made it difficult for 
some airports to plan and build the facilities they need. The 
bill also contains the first comprehensive aviation 
environmental streamlining provisions in the last two decades, 
ensuring that necessary airport projects are completed in an 
efficient manner, while ensuring that all Federal environmental 
requirements are adhered to. Furthermore, the bill 
significantly bolsters an airports' ability to invest in 
critical environmental projects by creating AIP eligibility for 
environmental resiliency projects, expanding the Voluntary 
Airport Low Emission (VALE) program to all commercial airports, 
and increasing other environmental project funding under AIP.

v. Safety

    The primary mission of the FAA is ensuring civil aviation 
safety. Through this mission, the United States has set the 
``Gold Standard'' for aviation safety around the world. The FAA 
has the responsibility to certify, monitor and regulate the 
safety of the civil aviation sector, including airlines, 
general aviation, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), airports, 
commercial space transportation, repair stations, and aircraft 
manufacturers, as well as to establish licensing and training 
requirements for pilots and other aviation related 
professionals.
    Aviation safety in the United States has greatly improved 
over the last decade. Since 2012, there have been three 
passenger fatalities on scheduled domestic passenger air 
carriers, compared to the decade prior, which saw 140 passenger 
fatalities.\3\ General aviation has also become safer, with the 
number of fatal and nonfatal accidents trending downward since 
2000, though improvements can still be made.\4\ Despite these 
marked advancements, recent runway safety events demonstrate 
that consistent attention and improvements are needed to 
maintain the Nation's consistent safety standards. The SGRLAA 
Act accomplishes this by requiring a proactive management 
strategy to mitigate surface safety risks, improving the FAA's 
certification processes, enhancing aviation safety data 
sharing, and addressing operational and cybersecurity risks.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    \3\NTSB, U.S. Civil Aviation Statistics (2021), available at 
https://www.ntsb.gov/safety/Pages/research.aspx, (last visited Jan. 31, 
2023).
    \4\Bureau of Transp. Statistics, U.S. General Aviation Safety Data, 
available at https://www.bts.gov/content/us-general-aviationa-safety-
data (last visited Jan. 31, 2023).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

vi. Unmanned Aircraft Systems

    Aviation innovation has played a vital role in the 
aerospace sector and has contributed to the improvement of 
aviation safety as a whole. Significant advancements in 
emerging technologies, like unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), 
have the potential to benefit the general public and continue 
improving aviation safety. The advanced operations of unmanned 
aircraft systems, particularly beyond visual line of sight 
operations, are poised to revolutionize people's daily lives, 
whether it's through expanding healthcare services, bolstering 
public safety efforts, or expediting emergency response. 
Moreover, UAS operations hold promise by offering safer and 
more cost-effective methods for inspecting infrastructure and 
delivering consumer goods.
    Ultimately, fostering the development of advanced UAS 
operations aims to assist a wide range of individuals, and this 
bill seeks to achieve that objective. Among its provisions, the 
SGRLAA Act requires the appropriate regulatory framework to 
allow UAS to safely operate in our airspace--providing 
regulatory certainty to this growing sector. This bill also 
ensures that the important voices of local communities and 
current airspace users are heard as new entrants emerge in 
United States airspace.

vii. Advanced Air Mobility

    American innovation in aviation is not limited to the 
introduction of unmanned aircraft. The aviation industry is 
beginning to leverage alternative fuel types, improvements in 
battery density and chemistry, advanced materials, and new 
methods of propulsion in order to design revolutionary 
aircraft. However, these aircraft are straining the processes 
the FAA uses to determine airworthiness and operational safety, 
and may likely challenge some of the conventional ways the FAA 
manages the airspace. These new aircraft types will require 
investments in infrastructure and a different method of 
supporting services.
    The SGRLAA Act ensures the FAA develops and implements the 
rules needed to allow for the safe introduction of powered-lift 
aircraft into service and the processes and guidance necessary 
to support these operations. The Act then requires the FAA to 
pivot towards long-term planning (in coordination with other 
relevant Federal agencies) and establish permanent regulations 
governing powered-lift aircraft. Furthermore, this bill extends 
grants for state and local governments to plan for the 
deployment of infrastructure that supports AAM operations in 
communities.

viii. Passenger Experience

    For most commercial airline passengers, the air 
transportation journey often begins at the curb of the 
departure airport and ends at their destination. A passenger's 
unique air travel experience is affected by a myriad of factors 
including airlines, airports, airport contractors and vendors, 
and air traffic management systems and operations. The COVID-19 
pandemic caused major difficulties for the entire U.S. aviation 
sector. For instance, from January 2020 to April 2020, airline 
revenue passenger miles fell by 96 percent.\5\ As COVID-19 
restrictions began to lift, air carriers experienced a greater 
than anticipated increase in demand for air travel, leading to 
capacity and staffing constraints and posing significant 
operational challenges, which subsequently increased air travel 
consumer complaints.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    \5\Air Passenger Revenue Miles, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, 
available at https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/AIRRPMTSID11.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    The Committee recognizes the multifaceted role the aviation 
system plays in a passengers' air travel journey. The SGRLAA 
Act makes improvements to the comprehensive passenger 
experience by codifying consumer protection provisions of the 
Department of Transportation (DOT), modernizing the consumer 
complaint submission process, and streamlining offline ticket 
price and fee disclosures. Furthermore, the SGRLAA Act mandates 
a review of methods to report flight delay and cancellation 
statistics, requires airline operational resiliency plans, 
ensures children ages 13 and under can sit next to a parent on 
a flight at no additional cost, and makes key improvements to 
the flying experience for passengers with disabilities.

ix. Small Community Air Service

    The Essential Air Service Program (EAS) and the Small 
Community Air Service Development Program (SCASDP) play an 
important role in connecting rural communities to the rest of 
the country and the world. However, the Committee remains 
concerned about the increased cost of the EAS program and the 
efficacy of the SCASDP. The SGRLAA Act makes targeted reforms 
to reduce EAS program costs and ensure the future viability of 
the program without a drastic impact to existing services. It 
also makes modest reforms to the SCASDP to improve its 
effectiveness.

x. Air Traffic Management

    Air traffic management (ATM) is a critical element of 
aviation and has a substantial impact on air travel and the 
passenger experience. A well-functioning national airspace 
system not only stimulates the economy but also improves the 
overall experience for all airspace users. However, the current 
state of the air traffic control system is strained, with 
limited access to airspace for users, particularly emerging new 
airspace users, and insufficient progress in projects to 
increase air traffic efficiency. This bill aims to tackle these 
challenges by directing the FAA's attention towards key 
objectives including streamlining access to special use 
airspace and prioritizing air traffic management projects to 
enhance efficiency. This bill also includes a comprehensive 
review of the national airspace system, with a focus on 
improving the efficiency of key processes and operations, 
addressing air traffic controller staffing challenges, and 
increasing flexibility to all airspace users.

xi. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)

    The NTSB is an independent Federal investigator of 
transportation accidents, including all aircraft incidents and 
accidents. The NTSB makes safety recommendations to the 
Secretary of Transportation and others based on the findings of 
these investigations. Furthermore, the NTSB oversees pilot 
certification appeals and fulfills the important role of 
providing assistance to victims of transportation accidents and 
their families. The SGRLAA Act ensures the NTSB can continue 
its important mission by addressing the workforce needs of the 
agency, ensuring timely access of investigation reports, and 
improving delivery of family assistance.

                                Hearings

    For the purposes of rule XIII, clause 3(c)(6)(A) of the 
118th Congress the following hearings were used to develop or 
consider H.R. 3935:
    On February 7, 2023, the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure held a hearing entitled ``FAA Reauthorization: 
Enhancing America's Gold Standard in Aviation Safety.'' The 
Committee received testimony from Mr. David Boulter, Acting 
Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety, Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA); the Hon. Jennifer Homendy, Chair, 
National Transportation Safety Board; Capt. Jason Ambrosi, 
President, Air Line Pilots Association, International; Mr. Pete 
Bunce, President and Chief Executive Officer, General Aviation 
Manufacturers Association; Mr. Ed Bolen, President and Chief 
Executive Officer, National Business Aviation Association; and, 
Dr. Kerry Buckley, Vice President, Center for Advanced Aviation 
System Development, MITRE Corporation. This hearing focused on 
improving safety across the National Airspace System in advance 
of Congress acting to reauthorize the FAA's statutory 
authorities.
    On Thursday, March 9, 2023, the Subcommittee on Aviation 
held a hearing entitled ``FAA Reauthorization: Securing the 
Future of General Aviation.'' At the hearing Members received 
testimony from Mark Baker, President and Chief Executive 
Officer, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA); Jack 
Pelton, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, 
Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA); Rick Crider, Executive 
Vice President of Airport/Railport & Military Relations, Port 
San Antonio, on behalf of the American Association of Airport 
Executives (AAAE); and Curt Castagna, President and Chief 
Executive Officer, National Air Transportation Association 
(NATA). This hearing examined challenges facing the general 
aviation community in advance of Congress acting to reauthorize 
the FAA's statutory authorities. Members heard from 
stakeholders of the general aviation community on issues and 
potential legislative solutions prior to the introduction of 
the FAA reauthorization bill.
    On Thursday, March 23, 2023, the Subcommittee on Aviation 
held a hearing entitled ``FAA Reauthorization: Navigating the 
Comprehensive Passenger Experience.'' At the hearing, Members 
received testimony from Ms. Sharon Pinkerton, Senior Vice 
President, Legislative and Regulatory Policy, Airlines for 
America (A4A); Mr. Kevin Dolliole, Director of Aviation, Louis 
Armstrong New Orleans International Airport on behalf of 
Airports Council International-North America (ACI NA); Mr. Rich 
Santa, President, the National Air Traffic Controllers 
Association (NATCA); and Dr. Lee Page, Senior Associate 
Director of Advocacy, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA). The 
hearing focused on a comprehensive assessment of the airline 
passenger experience--analyzing the air transportation system, 
from the time a passenger arrives at the departure airport to 
the time the passenger departs from the destination airport.
    On Thursday, March 30, 2023, the Subcommittee on Aviation 
held a hearing entitled ``FAA Reauthorization: Harnessing the 
Evolution of Flight to Deliver for the American People.'' At 
the hearing, Members received testimony from two panels of 
witnesses. The first panel comprised of Mr. Adam Woodworth, 
Chief Executive Officer, Wing; Dr. Catherine Cahill, Ph.D., 
Director, Alaska Center for UAS Integration, University of 
Alaska Fairbanks; Ms. Roxana Kennedy, Chief of Police, Chula 
Vista Police Department; and Dr. Stuart Ginn, M.D., Medical 
Director for WakeMed Health and Hospitals. This panel focused 
on the certification, operations, and safe integration of new 
entrants into the National Airspace System (NAS) in advance of 
Congress acting to reauthorize the Federal Aviation 
Administration's (FAA) statutory authorities. Members heard 
from stakeholders within the healthcare, law enforcement, 
consumer delivery, and test and evaluation industries and the 
potential legislative solutions for integrating UAS into the 
NAS.
    The second panel comprised of Mr. Kyle Clark, Founder & 
CEO, Beta Technologies; Mr. JoeBen Bevirt, Founder & CEO, Joby 
Aviation; Mr. Christopher Bradshaw, CEO, Bristow Group on 
behalf of the Helicopter Association International; and Mr. 
Clint Harper, advanced air mobility expert and community 
advocate. The second panel's testimony focused on the 
introduction of electric and powered-lift aircraft into the 
NAS. Witnesses provided testimony on the work the FAA needs to 
complete ahead of entry-into-service of these aircraft and the 
apparent lack of concrete requirements and standards from the 
agency related to certification and operations. The panelists 
also provided an overview of efforts the industry and other 
levels of government are taking to build, permit, and prepare 
the necessary infrastructure to support the introduction of 
electric aircraft.
    On Wednesday, April 19, 2023, the Subcommittee held a 
hearing entitled ``FAA Reauthorization: Examining the Current 
and Future Challenges Facing the Aerospace Workforce.'' At the 
hearing, Members received testimony from Ms. Faye Malarkey 
Black, President and Chief Executive Officer, Regional Airline 
Association (RAA); Dr. Sharon B. DeVivo, President, Vaughn 
College of Aeronautics and Technology; Mr. Brad Thress, 
President and Chief Executive Officer, FlightSafety 
International (FSI); Ms. Heather Krause, Director, Physical 
Infrastructure, Government and Accountability Office (GAO); and 
Captain Jason Ambrosi, President, Air Line Pilots Association, 
International. The hearing examined the current state of the 
United States' aerospace workforce, challenges facing future 
industry needs, implementation of the workforce-related 
provisions in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 and proposed 
solutions.

                 Legislative History and Consideration

    H.R. 3935, the ``Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in 
American Aviation Act'', was introduced in the United States 
House of Representatives on June 9, 2023, by Rep. Sam Graves 
(R-MO), Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA), Rep. Garret Graves (R-LA), and 
Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN) and referred to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure. Within the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure, H.R. 3935 was referred to 
the Subcommittee on Aviation. The Subcommittee on Aviation was 
discharged from further consideration of H.R. 3935 on June 13, 
2023.
    The Committee considered H.R. 3935 on June 13, 2023, and 
June 14, 2023, and ordered the measure to be reported to the 
House with a favorable recommendation, with amendment, by 
recorded vote of 63 yeas to 0 nays on June 14, 2023.

    The following amendments were offered:

    An Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to H.R. 3935, 
offered by Mr. Graves of Missouri was AGREED TO, as amended, by 
voice vote.

    Manager's Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a 
Substitute to H.R. 3935, offered by Mr. Graves of Missouri (ANS 
1) was AGREED TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Ms. Norton (Norton 058) (ANS 2); Page 346, 
line 24, strike ``and''. Page 347, line 2, strike the period at 
the end and insert ``; and''. Page 347, after line 2, insert 
the following: (4) the head of any agency or department of the 
Federal Government, including the President or the Vice 
President, that travels by rotorcraft over the District of 
Columbia.; was NOT AGREED TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Perry (Perry 208) (ANS 3); At the end 
of title VII, add the following: SEC.__. REPEAL OF ESSENTIAL 
AIR SERVICE PROGRAM. Subchapter II of chapter 417 of title 49, 
United States Code, and the item relating to such subchapter in 
the analysis for chapter 417 of title 49, United States Code, 
are repealed.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mrs. Napolitano (Napolitano 012) (ANS 4); 
At the end of subtitle A of title IV, add the following: SEC. 
11. AVIATION EXCISE FUEL TAX. (a) IN GENERAL.--Section 47107(b) 
of title 49, United States Code, is amended--(1) in paragraph 
(1) by striking ``local taxes'' and inserting ``State and local 
excise taxes''; and (2) by adding at the end the following: 
``(4) This subsection shall not apply to State or local general 
sales taxes nor to State or local generally applicable sales 
taxes.''. (b) REVENUES.--Section 47133 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended--(1) in subsection (a) by striking 
``Local taxes'' and inserting ``State and local excise taxes''; 
and (2) by adding at the end the following: ``(d) LIMITATION ON 
APPLICABILITY.--This subsection shall not apply to--``(1) State 
or local general sales taxes; or ``(2) State or local generally 
applicable sales taxes.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Babin (Babin 031) (ANS 5); Page 726, 
strike line 22.; was NOT AGREED TO by voice vote.

    En Bloc amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a 
Substitute to H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Babin (Babin 017) (ANS 6 
En Bloc); At the end of title VIII of the bill, add the 
following: SEC. 834. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION. Nothing in this Act 
shall be construed to--(1) prevent airports from engaging in 
curb management practices, including determining and assigning 
curb designations, regulations, and to install and maintain 
upon any of the roadways or parts of roadways as many curb 
zones as necessary to aid in the regulation, control, and 
inspection of passenger loading and unloading; or (2) prevent 
airports from enforcing curb zones using sensor, camera, 
automated license plate recognition, and software technologies 
and issuing citations by mail to the registered owner of the 
vehicle.; (Babin 020) (ANS 6 En Bloc); Page 579, line 12, 
strike ``2 years'' and insert ``1 year''. Page 579, line 22, 
strike ``2 years'' and insert ``1 year''.; (Babin 025) (ANS 6 
En Bloc); Strike section 381.; (Babin 026) (ANS 6 En Bloc); 
Strike section 122.; (Babin 027) (ANS 6 En Bloc); Strike 
section 683.; (Babin 028) (ANS 6 En Bloc); Strike section 687.; 
(Babin 029) (ANS 6 En Bloc); Strike section 126.; (Babin 032) 
(ANS 6 En Bloc); Page 180, line 24, strike ``commercial space 
transportation'' and insert ``commercial space launch and 
reentry''. Page 382, line 15, strike ``commercial space 
transportation'' and insert ``commercial space launch and 
reentry''. Page 618, line 20, strike ``COMMERCIAL SPACE 
TRANSPORTATION'' and insert ``COMMERCIAL SPACE LAUNCH AND 
REENTRY''. Page 619, line 8, strike ``commercial space 
transportation'' and insert ``commercial space launch and 
reentry''. Page 666, line 15, strike ``commercial space 
transportation'' and insert ``commercial space launch and 
reentry''. Page 726, line 22, strike ``commercial space 
transportation'' and insert ``commercial space launch and 
reentry''. Page 756, line 1, strike ``COMMERCIAL SPACE 
TRANSPORTATION'' and insert ``COMMERCIAL SPACE LAUNCH AND 
REENTRY''. Page 756, line 11, strike ``commercial space 
transportation'' and insert ``commercial space launch and 
reentry''. Page 756, line 26, strike ``commercial space 
transportation'' and insert ``commercial space launch and 
reentry''. Page 757, line 1, strike ``commercial space 
transportation'' and insert ``commercial space launch and 
reentry''. Page 757, line 4, strike ``commercial space 
transportation'' and insert ``commercial space launch and 
reentry''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Garamendi (Garamendi 059) (ANS 7); At 
the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__. ELIGIBLE 
PROJECTS UNDER TIFIA. (a) DEFINITION OF PROJECT.--Section 
601(a)(12)(G) of title 23, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``an eligible airport-related project (as defined in 
section 40117(a) of title 49) for which, not later than 
September 30, 2025,'' and inserting ``eligible project costs 
for a project at a commercial service airport (as defined in 
section 47102) for which, not later than September 30, 2028,''. 
(b) DETERMINATION OF ELIGIBILITY AND PROJECT SELECTION.--
Section 602(c)(1) of title 23, United States Code, is amended 
by striking ``airport-related projects'' and inserting 
``projects at commercial service airports (as defined in 
section 47102 of title 49)''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Bost (Bost 31) (ANS 8); At the end of 
title VIII, add the following: SEC. 8__. LIMITATIONS ON 
ADDITIONAL SLOT EXEMPTIONS. Section 41718 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: 
``(i) LIMITATIONS ON ADDITIONAL SLOT EXEMPTIONS.--Additional 
exemptions from the requirements of sections 49104(a)(5), 
49109, and 41714 and subparts K, S, and T of part 93 of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations, to air carriers to operate 
limited frequencies and aircraft on routes to and from Ronald 
Reagan Washington National Airport, may only be granted if the 
Secretary finds that the exemptions will not--``(1) reduce air 
transportation in areas within the perimeter described in 
section 49109; ``(2) decrease competition in multiple markets; 
``(3) reduce air travel options for communities served by small 
hub airports and medium hub airports both beyond and within the 
perimeter described in section 49109; ``(4) strain current 
landside and airside capacity at Ronald Reagan Washington 
National Airport; ``(5) adversely impact public health in 
communities surrounding Ronald Reagan Washington National 
Airport; ``(6) pose additional risks to national security, 
national defense, and national intelligence, including risk to 
the security or protection of people and critical facilities or 
assets; ``(7) pose a risk to the safety of the national 
airspace system; ``(8) stress the aviation workforce, including 
air traffic controllers and pilots; ``(9) increase air and 
noise pollution in communities surrounding Ronald Reagan 
Washington National Airport; ``(10) result in the 
underutilization of the federally funded surface transportation 
assets, including the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit 
Authority's Silver Line to Washington Dulles International 
Airport; ``(11) increase roadway traffic in communities 
surrounding Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport; ``(12) 
result in meaningfully increased travel delays; ``(13) 
adversely impact operational performance at Ronald Reagan 
Washington National Airport; and ``(14) adversely impact 
passenger experience.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Johnson of Georgia (Johnson GA 017) 
(ANS 9); At the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC. 11. 
HYDROGEN POWERED AIRCRAFT. (a) FAA AND DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY 
LEADERSHIP ON USING HYDROGEN TO INCREASE AVIATION 
DECARBONIZATION.--(1) IN GENERAL.--The Secretary of 
Transportation, acting primarily through the Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration, and jointly with the 
Secretary of Energy, shall exercise leadership in the creation 
of Federal and international policies, and shall conduct 
studies, relating to the safe and efficient use of hydrogen to 
increase aviation decarbonization and reduce air and noise 
pollution. (2) EXERCISE OF LEADERSHIP.--In carrying out 
paragraph (1), the Secretary of Transportation, the 
Administrator, and the Secretary of Energy shall--(A) establish 
positions and goals for the use of hydrogen to increase 
aviation decarbonization; (B) through grant, contract, or 
interagency agreements, study the contribution the use of 
hydrogen would have on aviation decarbonization, including 
hydrogen as an input for conventional jet fuel, sustainable 
aviation fuel, and power to liquids or synthetic fuel, and on 
air pollution and noise pollution, and study ways of 
accelerating introduction of hydrogen-powered aircraft; (C) 
review grant eligibility requirements and other policies and 
requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration and the 
Department of Energy to identify ways to increase the use of 
hydrogen; (D) consider the needs of the aerospace industry, 
aviation suppliers, hydrogen producers, airlines, and other 
stakeholders when creating policies that enable the safe 
commercial deployment of hydrogen in aviation; (E) obtain input 
from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the 
aerospace industry, aviation suppliers, hydrogen producers, 
airlines, airport sponsors, fixed base operators, and other 
stakeholders regarding--(i) the efficient use of hydrogen to 
decarbonize aviation within United States airspace, including--
(I) updating or modifying existing policies on such use; (II) 
barriers to, and benefits of, the introduction of aircraft 
powered with hydrogen; (III) the operational differences 
between aircraft powered with hydrogen and aircraft powered 
with other types of fuels; (IV) impacts on aircraft emissions; 
and (V) public, economic, and noise benefits of the operation 
of aircraft powered with hydrogen and associated aerospace 
industry activity; and (ii) other issues identified by the 
Secretary of Transportation, the Administrator, the Secretary 
of Energy, or the advisory committee established under 
subparagraph (F) that must be addressed to enable the safe and 
expeditious commercial deployment and safe and efficient 
operation of aircraft powered with hydrogen; and (F) establish 
an advisory committee composed of representatives of the 
National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the aerospace 
industry, aviation suppliers, hydrogen producers, airlines, 
airport sponsors, fixed base operators, and other stakeholders 
to advise the Secretary of Transportation, the Administrator, 
and the Secretary of Energy on the activities carried out under 
this section and subsection (b). (3) INTERNATIONAL 
LEADERSHIP.--The Secretary of Transportation, the 
Administrator, and the Secretary of Energy, in the appropriate 
international forums, shall take actions that--(A) demonstrate 
global leadership in carrying out the activities required by 
paragraphs (1) and (2); (B) address the needs of the aerospace 
industry, aviation suppliers, hydrogen producers, airlines, 
airport sponsors, fixed base operators, and other stakeholders 
identified under paragraph (2); and (C) preserve the United 
States aviation competitiveness. (4) REPORT TO CONGRESS.--Not 
later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section, 
the Secretary of Transportation, acting primarily through the 
Administrator, and jointly with the Secretary of Energy, shall 
submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report 
detailing--(A) the Secretary of Transportation's, 
Administrator's, and Secretary of Energy's actions to exercise 
leadership in the creation of Federal and international 
policies, and of studies conducted, relating to the safe and 
efficient use of hydrogen to increase aviation decarbonization 
and improve air and noise pollution; (B) planned, proposed, and 
anticipated actions to update or modify existing policies 
related to hydrogen in the aviation sector, including those 
identified as a result of consultation with, and feedback from, 
the aerospace industry, aviation suppliers, hydrogen producers, 
airlines, airport sponsors, fixed base operators, and other 
stakeholders; and (C) a timeline for any actions to be taken to 
update or modify existing policies related to hydrogen. (b) FAA 
LEADERSHIP ON THE CERTIFICATION OF HYDROGEN POWERED AIRCRAFT TO 
INCREASE AVIATION DECARBONIZATION.--(1) IN GENERAL.--The 
Administrator shall exercise leadership in the creation of 
Federal regulations, standards, and guidance relating to the 
safe and efficient use of hydrogen to increase aviation 
decarbonization, and reduce air and noise pollution. (2) 
EXERCISE OF LEADERSHIP.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
Administrator shall--(A) establish a viable path for the 
certification of hydrogen-powered aircraft that considers 
existing frameworks; (B) review certification regulations and 
other requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration to 
identify ways to facilitate the use of hydrogen; (C) consider 
the needs of the aerospace industry, aviation suppliers, 
hydrogen producers, airlines, airport sponsors, fixed base 
operators, and other stakeholders when creating regulations and 
standards that enable the safe commercial deployment of 
hydrogen in aviation; (D) obtain the input of the aerospace 
industry, aviation suppliers, hydrogen producers, airlines, 
airport sponsors, fixed base operators, and other stakeholders 
regarding--(i) the appropriate regulatory framework and 
timeline for permitting the safe and efficient use of hydrogen 
within United States airspace, including updating or modifying 
existing regulations on such use; (ii) how to accelerate the 
resolution of issues related to standards and regulations for 
the type certification and safe operation of aircraft powered 
with hydrogen; and (iii) other issues identified by the 
Administrator or the advisory committee established under 
subsection (a)(2)(F) that must be addressed to enable the safe 
and expeditious commercial deployment and safe and efficient 
operation of aircraft powered with hydrogen. (c) AIRPORT 
IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM USE OF FUNDS.--Section 47102 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended--(1) in paragraph (3), by adding 
at the end the following: ``(W) acquiring land for, or work 
necessary for constructing, reconstructing, repairing, or 
improving, or otherwise modifying an airport or airport 
facilities, or property adjacent to, or in the vicinity of, an 
airport but intended to support the airport to store and 
distribute hydrogen, sustainable aviation fuel, or 
electrification to power aircraft.''; and (2) in paragraph (13) 
(as redesignated by section 401), by inserting ``, including 
hydrogen and electrification,'' after ``alternative fuels''. 
(d) CLEEN ENGINE AND AIRFRAME TECHNOLOGY PARTNERSHIP.--Section 
47511(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``jet fuels for civil subsonic airplanes'' and 
inserting ``jet fuels, hydrogen, and batteries for aircraft''. 
(e) CENTER OF EXCELLENCE FOR ALTERNATIVE JET FUELS AND 
ENVIRONMENT (ASCENT).--(1) IN GENERAL.--The Center of 
Excellence for Alternative Jet Fuels and Environment (ASCENT) 
shall conduct research on hydrogen to increase aviation 
decarbonization. Such research shall be in addition to any 
other research authorized to be carried out by the Center, 
including other research relating to hydrogen. (2) NATIONAL 
AVIATION RESEARCH PLAN.--Beginning with the first National 
Aviation Research Plan published after the date of enactment of 
this section, as required under section 44501(c) of title 49, 
United States Code, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall include research on hydrogen to increase 
aviation decarbonization in such plan.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Ms. Titus (Titus 045) (ANS 10); Page 147, 
line 9, add ``and'' at the end. Page 147, strike `` `; and' '' 
and insert ``a semicolon''. Page 147, line 19, strike the first 
period and all that follows through the second period and 
insert the following: ``(F) shall consider the economic 
viability of commercial air tour operations that would result 
from an air tour management plan.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Ms. Brownley (Brownley 050) (ANS 11); At 
the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__. HELICOPTER 
RECORDERS. (a) IN GENERAL.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: 
``Sec. 44744. Helicopter recorders ``It shall be unlawful for 
any air carrier to operate a single or multiengine, turbine-
powered helicopter with 1 or more passenger seats and 1 or more 
pilots without a flight data recorder and cockpit voice 
recorder that meet the requirements of section 91.609 of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations.''. (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.--
The analysis for chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended by adding at the end the following: ``44744. 
Helicopter recorders.''. (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.--The amendments 
made by this section shall take effect on the date that is 1 
year after the date of enactment of this Act.; was NOT AGREED 
TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. DeSaulnier (DeSaulnier 020) (ANS 12); 
At the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__. SENSE OF 
CONGRESS ON TRANSPARENCY IN AVIATION INDUSTRY. It is the sense 
of Congress that the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration should take such actions as are necessary to 
ensure that air carriers and other persons providing air 
transportation are prohibited from hiding information 
determined to be important by the Administrator in any 
investigation regarding aircraft incidents, including incidents 
that result in death or injury.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Carbajal (Carbajal 026) (ANS 13); At 
the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC. 834. PFAS 
REPLACEMENT PROGRAM FOR AIRPORTS. (a) IN GENERAL.--The 
Secretary of Transportation shall establish a new program, 
subject to terms, conditions, and assurances acceptable to the 
Secretary, to reimburse certificate holders under part 139 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, for the reasonable and 
appropriate costs associated with any of the following: (1) The 
one-time initial acquisition by operators of airports 
certificated under part 139 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations, of fluorine-free firefighting alternatives that 
satisfy the requirements of part 139 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations, the volume of which shall be limited to 
that required by part 139 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations. (2) The disposal of per- or polyfluoroalkyl 
products, including fluorinated aqueous film-forming agents, to 
the extent such disposal is necessary to facilitate the 
transition to an acceptable fluorine-free agent including 
aqueous film-forming agents currently in fire-fighting 
equipment, vehicles, and wastewater generated during the 
cleaning of firefighting equipment and vehicles. (3) Cleaning, 
decontamination, or disposal of existing equipment or 
components thereof, to the extent such cleaning, 
decontamination or disposal is necessary to facilitate the 
transition to an acceptable fluorine-free agent. (4) Any 
equipment or components thereof necessary to facilitate the 
transition to an acceptable fluorine-free agent. (5) Planning 
efforts to prepare for any environmental response actions or 
remediation actions associated with possible contamination of 
soil, groundwater, or sediments. (b) APPROPRIATIONS.--There is 
authorized to be appropriated $250,000,000 to carry out the 
program set forth in subsection (a) of this section, to remain 
available for 5 years after the date in which the Administrator 
of the Federal Aviation Administration approves a fluorine free 
firefighting agent acceptable under 139.319(l) of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations. (c) REQUIREMENTS.--(1) IN 
GENERAL.--The funding program established under subsection (a) 
shall be in addition to any other funding program previously 
established by law. (2) DETERMINATION OF ELIGIBILITY.--The 
Secretary shall determine the eligibility of costs payable 
under this program by taking into account all engineering, 
technical, and environmental protocols and generally accepted 
industry standards that are developed or established for 
fluorine free foams. (3) COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER LAWS.--All 
actions related to the acquisition, disposal and transition to 
fluorine free foams, including the cleaning, decontamination 
and disposal of equipment, must be conducted in full compliance 
will all applicable federal laws to be eligible for 
reimbursement under this section.; was NOT AGREED TO by voice 
vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Nehls (Nehls 037 Revised 3) (ANS 14); 
At the end of subtitle C of title III, add the following: SEC. 
330. AGE STANDARDS FOR PILOTS. Section 44729 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended--(1) in subsection (a)--(A) by 
striking ``Subject to the limitation in subsection (c), a'' and 
inserting ``A''; and (B) by striking ``65'' and inserting 
``67''; (2) in subsection (b)(1) by striking ``; or'' and 
inserting ``, unless the operation takes place in airspace 
where such operations are not permitted; or''; (3) by striking 
subsection (c) and redesignating subsections (d) through (h) as 
subsections (c) through (g), respectively; (4) in subsection 
(c), as so redesignated--(A) in the heading by striking ``60'' 
and inserting ``65''; (B) by striking ``the date of enactment 
of this section,'' and inserting ``the date of enactment of the 
Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation 
Act,''; (C) by striking ``section 121.383(c)'' and inserting 
``subsections (d) and (e) of section 121.383''; and (D) by 
inserting ``(or any successor regulations)'' after 
``regulations''; (5) in subsection (d) as so redesignated--(A) 
in paragraph (1)--(i) in the heading by striking 
``NONRETROACTIVITY'' and inserting ``RETROACTIVITY''; and (ii) 
by striking ``No person'' and all that follows through the 
period at the end and inserting ``A person who has attained 65 
years of age on or before the date of enactment of the Securing 
Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act may 
return to service as a pilot for an air carrier engaged in 
covered operations.''; and (B) in paragraph (2) by striking 
``section, taken in conformance with a regulation issued to 
carry out this section, or taken prior to the date of enactment 
of this section in conformance with section 121.383(c) of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect before such date 
of enactment), may'' and inserting ``section or taken in 
conformance with a regulation issued to carry out this section, 
may''; and (6) by adding at the end the following: ``(h) 
SAVINGS CLAUSE.--An air carrier engaged in covered operations 
described in subsection (b)(1) on or after the date of 
enactment of the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in 
American Aviation Act may not require employed pilots to serve 
in such covered operations after attaining 65 years of age.''.; 
was AGREED TO by a recorded vote of 32 yeas and 31 nays (Roll 
Call No. 018).

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Stanton (Stanton 025) (ANS 15); At the 
end of subtitle A of title VII, insert the following: SEC.__. 
SEATING ACCOMMODATIONS FOR QUALIFIED INDIVIDUALS WITH 
DISABILITIES. (a) IN GENERAL.--(1) ADVANCED NOTICE OF PROPOSED 
RULE5 MAKING.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Secretary shall issue an 
advanced notice of proposed rulemaking regarding seating 
accommodations for any qualified individual with a disability. 
(2) NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING.--Not later than 1 year after 
the date on which the advanced notice of proposed rulemaking 
under paragraph (1) is completed, the Secretary shall issue a 
notice of proposed rulemaking regarding seating accommodations 
for any qualified individual with a disability. (3) FINAL 
RULE.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which the notice 
of proposed rulemaking under paragraph (2) is completed, the 
Secretary shall issue a final rule regarding seating 
accommodations for any qualified individual with a disability. 
(b) REQUIREMENTS.--In carrying out any rulemaking under 
subsection (a), the Secretary shall consider the following: (1) 
The scope and anticipated number of qualified individuals with 
a disability who--(A) may need to be seated with a companion to 
receive assistance during a flight; or (B) should be afforded 
bulkhead seats or other seating considerations. (2) The types 
of disabilities that may need seating accommodations. (3) 
Whether such qualified individuals with a disability are unable 
to obtain, or have difficulty obtaining, such a seat. (4) The 
scope and anticipated number of individuals assisting a 
qualified individual with a disability who should be afforded 
an adjoining seat pursuant to section 382.81 of title 14, Code 
of Federal Regulations. (5) Any notification given to qualified 
individuals with a disability regarding available seating 
accommodations. (6) Any method that is adequate to identify 
fraudulent claims for seating accommodations. (7) Any other 
information determined appropriate by the Secretary. (c) PILOT 
PROGRAM.--(1) ESTABLISHMENT.--(A) IN GENERAL.--The Secretary 
shall establish a pilot program to allow approved program 
participants as known service animal users for the purpose of 
exemption from the documentation requirements under part 382 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, with respect to air 
travel with a service animal. (B) REQUIREMENTS.--The pilot 
program established under subparagraph (A) shall--(i) be 
optional; (ii) provide to applicants assistance, including 
over-the-phone assistance, throughout the application process 
for the program; (iii) with respect to any web-based components 
of the pilot program, meet or exceed the standards described in 
section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794d) 
and the regulations implementing that Act as set forth in part 
1194 of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations; and (iv) exempt 
participants of the pilot program from any documentation 
requirements under part 382 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations. (2) CONSULTATION.--In establishing the pilot 
program under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consult with--
(A) disability advocacy entities, including nonprofit 
organizations focused on ensuring that individuals with 
disabilities are able to live and participate in their 
communities; (B) air carriers and foreign air carriers; (C) 
accredited service animal training programs and authorized 
registrars, such as the International Guide Dog Federation, 
Assistance Dogs International, and other similar organizations 
and foreign and domestic governmental registrars of service 
animals; (D) other relevant departments or agencies of the 
Federal Government; and (E) other entities determined to be 
appropriate by the Secretary. (3) ELIGIBILITY.--To be eligible 
to participate in the pilot program under this subsection, an 
individual shall--(A) be a qualified individual with a 
disability; (B) require the use of a service animal because of 
a disability; and (C) submit an application to the Secretary at 
such time, in such manner, and containing such information as 
the Secretary may require. (4) CLARIFICATION.--The Secretary 
may award a grant or enter into a contract or cooperative 
agreement in order to carry out this subsection. (5) NOMINAL 
FEE.--The Secretary may require an applicant to pay a nominal 
fee (not to exceed $25) to participate in the pilot program. 
(6) REPORTS TO CONGRESS.--(A) PLANNING REPORT.--Not later than 
1 year after the date of enactment of this section, the 
Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of 
Congress a publicly available report describing the 
implementation plan for the pilot program under this 
subsection. (B) ANNUAL REPORT.--Not later than 1 year after the 
establishment of the pilot program under this subsection, and 
annually thereafter until the date described in paragraph (7), 
the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of 
Congress a publicly available report on the progress of the 
pilot program. (C) FINAL REPORT.--Not later than 5 years after 
the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary shall 
submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a publicly 
available final report that includes recommendations for the 
establishment and implementation of a permanent known service 
animal user travel program for the Federal Government. (7) 
SUNSET.--The pilot program shall terminate on the date that is 
5 years after the date of enactment of this section. (d) 
ACCREDITED SERVICE ANIMAL TRAINING PROGRAMS AND AUTHORIZED 
REGISTRARS.--Not later than 6 months after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Secretary shall publish on the 
website of the Department of Transportation and maintain a list 
of--(1) accredited programs that train service animals; and (2) 
authorized registrars that evaluate service animals. (e) REPORT 
TO CONGRESS ON SERVICE ANIMAL REQUESTS.--Not later than 1 year 
after the date of enactment of this section, and annually 
thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate 
committees of Congress a report on requests for air travel with 
service animals, including--(1) during the reporting period, 
how many requests to board an aircraft with a service animal 
were made; and (2) the number and percentage of such requests, 
categorized by type of request, that were reported by air 
carriers or foreign air carriers as--(A) granted; (B) denied; 
or (C) fraudulent. (f) TRAINING.--(1) IN GENERAL.--Not later 
than 180 days after the date of enactment of this section, the 
Secretary shall, in consultation with the Air Carrier Access 
Act Advisory Committee, issue guidance regarding improvements 
to training for airline personnel (including contractors) in 
recognizing when a qualified individual with a disability is 
traveling with a service animal. (2) REQUIREMENTS.--The 
guidance issued under paragraph (1) shall--(A) take into 
account respectful engagement with and assistance for 
individuals with a wide range of visible and non-visible 
disabilities; (B) provide information on--(i) service animal 
behavior and whether the service animal is appropriately 
harnessed, leashed, or otherwise tethered; and (ii) the various 
types of service animals, such as guide dogs, hearing or signal 
dogs, psychiatric service dogs, sensory or social signal dogs, 
and seizure response dogs; and (C) outline the rights and 
responsibilities of the handler of the service animal. (g) 
DEFINITIONS.--In this section, the following definitions apply: 
(1) AIR CARRIER.--The term ``air carrier'' has the meaning 
given that term in section 40102 of title 49, United States 
Code. (2) APPROPRIATE COMMITTEES OF CONGRESS.--The term 
``appropriate committees of Congress'' means the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives. (3) FOREIGN AIR CARRIER.--The term ``foreign 
air carrier'' has the meaning given that term in section 40102 
of title 49, United States Code. (4) QUALIFIED INDIVIDUAL WITH 
A DISABILITY.--The term ``qualified individual with a 
disability'' has the meaning given that term in section 382.3 
of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations. (5) SECRETARY.--The 
term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Transportation. (6) 
SERVICE ANIMAL.--The term ``service animal'' has the meaning 
given that term in section 382.3 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mrs. Gonzalez-Colon (Gonzalez-Colon 027) 
(ANS 16); At the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__. 
CARGO NAVIGATION IN PUERTO RICO. (a) IN GENERAL.--For the 
period of 5 years beginning on the date of enactment of this 
Act, section 41703(e) of title 49, United States Code, shall be 
deemed to apply to Puerto Rico in the same manner as such 
subsection applies to Alaska. (b) REPORT.--Not later than 1 
year after enactment of this Act, and each year thereafter 
during the 5-year period described in subsection (a), the 
Secretary of Transportation shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation a report that describes the effects of 
subsection (a). Such report shall include an analysis of data 
related to changes in air cargo operations, economic effect, 
stakeholder support, and any other factor the Secretary 
considers appropriate.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Garcia of Illinois (Garcia IL 037) 
(ANS 17); At the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__. 
STUDY ON AIRPORT SLOT PROCESSES. 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 study assessing the transparency 
of the slot processes applied to airports, focusing on such 
process with respect to competition.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Van Drew (Van Drew 038) (ANS 18); 
After section 140, insert the following: SEC. 141. OFFICE OF 
ADVANCED AVIATION TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION. Section 106 of 
title 49, United States Code, is further amended by adding at 
the end the following: ``(u) OFFICE OF THE ASSOCIATE 
ADMINISTRATOR FOR ADVANCED AVIATION TECHNOLOGY AND 
INNOVATION.--``(1) ESTABLISHMENT.--There is established in the 
Federal Aviation Administration the Office of Advanced Aviation 
Technology and Innovation (in this subsection referred to as 
the `Office'). ``(2) ASSOCIATE ADMINISTRATOR.--The Office shall 
be headed by an Associate Administrator, who shall--``(A) be 
appointed by the Administrator; and ``(B) report directly to 
the Administrator. ``(3) PURPOSES.--The purposes of the Office 
are to--``(A) serve as an entry point for stakeholders to share 
information with the Federal Aviation Administration on 
advanced aviation technologies; ``(B) examine the potential 
impact of advanced aviation technologies on the national 
airspace system, and methods to safely integrate into the 
national airspace system; ``(C) work collaboratively with 
subject matter experts from all lines of business and staff 
offices to examine advanced aviation technologies and concepts 
for integration into the national airspace system in an 
expeditious manner that takes into account acceptable levels of 
risk; ``(D) lead cross-U.S. government collaborative efforts to 
develop integrated approaches for the acceleration and 
deployment of Advanced Technologies; ``(E) provide leadership 
with regard to internal collaboration, industry engagement, and 
collaboration with international partners; ``(F) lead cross-FAA 
integration, planning, coordination, and collaboration in 
support of the integration of advanced aviation technologies; 
``(G) support the development of safety cases for advanced 
aviation technologies in coordination with the operational 
approval office; and ``(H) coordinate and review approval of 
advanced aviation technologies, including support to and 
approval of any required rulemakings, exemptions, waivers, or 
other types of authorizations, as appropriate. ``(4) DUTIES.--
The Associate Administrator shall--``(A) establish, manage, and 
oversee the Office of Advanced Aviation Technology and In16 
novation; ``(B) develop and maintain a comprehensive strategy 
and action plan for fully integrating advanced aviation 
technologies into the national aviation ecosystem and providing 
full authorization for operations at scale for each of these 
technologies; ``(C) collaborate with Federal Aviation 
Administration organizations to identify and develop specific 
recommendations to address skills gaps in the existing engineer 
and inspector workforce involved in the certification and 
operational approval of safety technology; ``(D) coordinate and 
review, as appropriate, rulemaking activities related to 
advanced aviation technologies, including by scoping complex 
regulatory issues, evaluating internal processes, and 
positioning the Federal Aviation Administration to support 
aerospace innovation; ``(E) coordinate and review, as 
appropriate, applications for type, production, or 
airworthiness certificates, or alternatives to airworthiness 
certificates, operating and pilot certification, and airspace 
authorizations, among others, related to advanced aviation 
technologies; ``(F) coordinate and review, as appropriate, 
applications for waivers, exemptions and other operational 
authorizations; ``(G) coordinate and review the implementation 
of the process required by section 2209 of the FAA Extension, 
Safety, and Security Act of 2016 (as amended) (49 U.S.C. 40101 
note); ``(H) coordinate with the Chief Operating Officer of the 
Air Traffic Organization and other agency leaders to develop 
policies to address airspace integration issues at all levels 
of uncontrolled and controlled airspace; ``(I) implement the 
BEYOND program and the UAS Test Site Program, among others, and 
develop other pilot programs in partnership with industry 
stakeholders and State, local, and Tribal Governments to enable 
highly automated and autonomous operations of Advanced 
Technologies unmanned aircraft systems, AAM, and other 
innovative aviation technologies at scale by providing the data 
necessary to support rulemakings and other approval processes; 
``(J) serve as the designated Federal officer to the Advanced 
Aviation Technology and Innovation Steering Committee; and 
``(K) serve as the Federal Aviation Administration lead for the 
Drone Safety Team. ``(5) CONGRESSIONAL BRIEFINGS.--Not later 
than 60 days after establishing the position in paragraph (1), 
and on a quarterly basis thereafter, the Administrator shall 
brief the appropriate committees of Congress on the status of--
``(A) implementing the comprehensive strategy and action plan 
for fully integrating aviation technologies into the national 
aviation ecosystem and providing full authorization for 
operations at scale for each of these technologies; ``(B) 
rulemakings, major guidance documents, and other agency pilot 
programs or initiatives supporting the comprehensive strategy 
and action plan; ``(C) implementing recommendations from the 
Advanced Aviation Technology and Innovation Steering Committee; 
and ``(D) engagement with international aviation regulators to 
develop global standards for advanced aviation technologies. 
``(6) UAS INTEGRATION OFFICE.--Not later than 90 days after the 
date of enactment of this subsection, the functions, duties and 
responsibilities of the UAS Integration Office shall be 
incorporated into the Office. ``(7) DEFINITIONS.--In this 
subsection: ``(A) AAM.--The term `AAM' has the meaning given 
the term `advanced air mobility' in section 2(i)(1) of the 
Advanced Air Mobility Coordination and Leadership Act (49 
U.S.C. 40101 note). ``(B) ADVANCED AVIATION TECHNOLOGIES.--The 
term `advanced aviation technologies'' means technologies for 
which introduction has potential safety implications and shall 
include unmanned aircraft systems, powered-lift aircraft, 
electric propulsion, and super- and hypersonic aircraft.''.; 
was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Carter of Louisiana (Carter LA WORD1) 
(ANS 19); ``Requiring the FAA to establish additional test 
sites dedicated to over 55lbs L-UAS and AAM aircraft including 
over the Gulf of Mexico, a region of strategic national 
importance.''; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Owens (Owens 013) (ANS 20); At the end 
of subtitle A of title IV, add the following: SEC.__. 
ADDITIONAL WITHIN AND BEYOND PERIMETER SLOT EXEMPTIONS AT 
RONALD REAGAN WASHINGTON NATIONAL AIRPORT. (a) INCREASE IN 
NUMBER OF SLOT EXEMPTIONS.--Section 41718 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new 
subsection: ``(i) ADDITIONAL SLOT EXEMPTIONS.--``(1) INITIAL 
INCREASE IN SLOT EXEMPTIONS.--Not later than 90 days after the 
date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall 
grant, by order, 28 exemptions from--``(A) the application of 
sections 49104(a)(5), 49109, and 41714 to air carriers to 
operate limited frequencies and aircraft on routes between 
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and airports located 
within or beyond the perimeter described in section 49109; and 
``(B) the requirements of subparts K, S, and T of part 93, Code 
of Federal Regulations. ``(2) INCREMENTAL DCA SLOT 
ALLOCATIONS.--Of the 28 initial slot exemptions made available 
under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall make 20 available to 
incumbent air carriers qualifying for status as a non-limited 
incumbent carrier and 8 available to incumbent carriers 
qualifying for status as a limited incumbent carrier at Ronald 
Reagan Washington National Airport as of the date of enactment 
of this subsection. Each such air carrier--``(A) may operate up 
to a maximum of 4 of the newly authorized slot exemptions; 
``(B) shall have sole discretion concerning the use of an 
exemption made available under paragraph (1), including the 
initial or any subsequent within or beyond perimeter 
destinations to be served; and ``(C) shall file a notice of 
intent with the Secretary and subsequent notices of intent, 
when appropriate, to inform the Secretary of any change in 
circumstances concerning the use of any exemption made 
available under paragraph (1). ``(3)(A) SUBSEQUENT INCREASE IN 
SLOT EXEMPTIONS.--Not later than 180 days following the 
Secretary's grant of the 28 initial slot exemptions under 
paragraph (1), the Secretary shall grant, by order, an 
additional 28 slot exemptions, 20 of which shall be made 
available to incumbent air carriers qualifying for status as a 
non-limited incumbent carrier, and 8 of which shall be made 
available to incumbent carriers qualifying for status as a 
limited incumbent carrier at Ronald Reagan Washington National 
Airport as of the date of enactment of this subsection. ``(B) 
CONDITIONS.--These additional 28 slot exemptions shall be 
subject to the same terms and conditions specified under 
paragraph (2). ``(C) EXCEPTION.--These additional 28 slot 
exemptions shall not be allocated to air carriers by the 
Secretary if, prior to the expiration of the 180 day period 
referenced in this paragraph, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration publishes a report concluding 
definitively that Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport 
cannot accommodate 28 additional each-way flights on a 
representative day without materially and adversely impacting 
congestion in the national airspace system generally and flight 
delays and cancellations at DCA specifically. ``(D) NO IMPACT 
ON INITIAL 28 SLOT EXEMPTIONS.--Any adverse findings by the FAA 
under paragraph (3)(C) shall not have any impact on the initial 
28 slot exemptions granted under paragraph (1). ``(4) NOTICES 
OF INTENT.--Notices of intent under paragraph (2)(C) shall 
specify the within or beyond perimeter destinations to be 
served. ``(5) CONDITIONS.--Flight operations carried out by an 
air carrier using an exemption granted under this subsection 
shall be subject to the fol14 lowing conditions: ``(A) An air 
carrier granted an exemption under this subsection is 
prohibited from transferring the rights to its slot exemptions 
pursuant to section 41714(j). ``(B) The exemptions granted 
under paragraphs (2) and (3)--``(i) may not be for operations 
between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.; and ``(ii) may 
not increase the number of operations at Ronald Reagan 
Washington National Airport in any 1-hour period during the 
hours between 7:00 a.m. and 9:59 p.m. by more than 8 
operations.''. (b) PRESERVATION OF EXISTING WITHIN-PERIMETER 
AIR SERVICE.--In recognition of the importance of preserving 
existing air service between Ronald Reagan Washington National 
Airport and within-perimeter airports and communities, and for 
the avoidance of doubt, none of the provisions in this 
subsection shall be construed to authorize any limited 
incumbent or non-limited incumbent carrier holding slots or 
slot exemptions at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport as 
of the date of enactment of this subsection to use an existing 
within-perimeter slot to serve an airport beyond the perimeter 
described in section 49109. (c) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.--Section 
41718 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--(1) in 
subsection (c)(2)--(A) in subparagraph (A)--(i) in clause (i), 
by inserting ``or (i)(2) or (i)(3)'' after ``(g)(2)''; and (ii) 
in clause (ii), by striking ``and (g)'' and inserting ``(g), 
and (i)''; and (B) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``or 
(i)(2) or (i)(3)'' after ``(g)(3)''; and (2) in subsection 
(h)(1), by inserting ``or (i)'' after ``subsection (g)''.; was 
WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Ryan (Ryan 016) (ANS 21); Strike 
section 328 and insert the following: SEC.__. AVIATION MEDICAL 
INNOVATION AND MODERNIZATION WORKING GROUP. (a) IN GENERAL.--
Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this 
section, the Administrator shall establish the Aviation Medical 
Innovation and Modernization Working Group (in this section 
referred to as the ``Working Group'') and appoint members of 
the Working Group in accordance with subsection (b). (b) 
MEMBERSHIP.--(1) NUMBER.--The members of the Working Group 
shall not exceed 20 individuals. (2) COMPOSITION.--(A) FEDERAL 
AIR SURGEON.--The Federal Air Surgeon shall be a member of the 
Working Group and shall be the Chair of the Working Group. (B) 
SENIOR AVIATION MEDICAL EXAMINERS.--In addition to the Federal 
Air Surgeon, at least 8 members of the Working Group shall be 
individuals who are Senior Aviation Medical Examiners. (C) 
OTHER MEMBERS.--In addition to the Federal Air Surgeon and the 
members appointed under subparagraph (B), the remaining members 
shall be licensed medical physicians with substantial expertise 
in--(i) aerospace medicine; (ii) psychological medicine; (iii) 
neurological medicine; (iv) cardiovascular medicine; or (v) 
internal medicine. (D) PREFERENCE IN APPOINTMENTS.--The 
Administrator shall give preference to appointing members of 
the Working Group who are Aviation Medical Examiners or 
licensed medical physicians who have demonstrated research and 
expertise in aviation medical issues. (E) USE OF SUBGROUPS.--
The Working Group Administrator may use subgroups to develop 
the recommendations under subsection (e). (c) 
RECOMMENDATIONS.--The Working Group shall develop a report that 
includes recommendations with respect to the following areas: 
(1) Evaluation of the conditions an Aviation Medical Examiner 
can issue. (2) Improvements and reforms to the Special Issuance 
process, including whether, after initial medical certification 
by the FAA, renewals can be based on a medical evaluation and 
treatment plan by a pilot's treating medical specialist with 
concurrence from the pilot's Aviation Medical Examiner. (3) 
Development of an online medical portal administered by the FAA 
that--(A) adheres to cybersecurity protections and protocols; 
(B) authorizes Aviation Medical Examiners, pilots, or their 
designee, to securely share medical records; (C) provides 
timely updates for a pilot's medical application and improves 
return to flying timelines; (D) provides pilots with the 
ability to submit additional information requested from the 
FAA; (E) includes the method to contact the reviewing office; 
and (F) such other requirements as the Working Group may 
recommend. (4) The use of technologies to address forms of red-
green color blindness for pilots. (5) Improvements to 
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Attention Deficit 
Disorder protocols. (6) Improvements to neurology protocols, 
specifically, stroke, head injury, and known loss of 
consciousness. (7) Improvements to FAA mental health protocols, 
including, but not limited to, mental health conditions such as 
depression and anxiety, the use of medications for treating 
mental health conditions, and neurocognitive testing rules and 
applicability. (d) REPORT.--Not later than 1 year after the 
date on which the Working Group is established--(1) the Working 
Group shall submit the report developed in accordance with 
subsection (c) to the Administrator, along with recommendations 
for such legislation and administrative action as the Working 
Group determines appropriate; and (2) the Administrator shall 
submit such report and recommendations to the appropriate 
committees of Congress. (e) ACTIONS BY THE ADMINISTRATOR.--The 
Administrator may take such action as the Administrator 
determines appropriate to implement the recommendations in the 
report under submitted under subsection (d). (f) EXEMPTION FROM 
THE FEDERAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ACT.--Chapter 10 of title 5, 
United States Code, shall not apply to the Working Group. (g) 
SUNSET.--The Working Group shall terminate on the date on which 
the Working Group submits the report required by subsection 
(d). (h) PILOT MENTAL HEALTH TASK GROUP.--(1) ESTABLISHMENT.--
Not later than 120 days after the working group pursuant to 
subsection (a) is established, the co-chairs of such working 
groups shall establish a pilot mental health task group 
(referred to in this subsection as the ``task group'') to 
develop and provide recommendations related to supporting the 
mental health of aircraft pilots. (2) COMPOSITION.--The co-
chairs of such working group shall appoint-- (A) a Chair of the 
task group; and (B) members of the task group from among the 
members of the working group appointed by the Administrator 
under subsection (b)(1). (3) DUTIES.--The duties of the task 
group shall include--(A) carrying out the activities described 
in subsection (c)(11) and subsection (c)(12); (B) reviewing and 
evaluating guidance issued by the International Civil Aviation 
Organization on pilot mental health; and (C) providing 
recommendations for--(i) best practices for detecting, 
assessing, and reporting mental health conditions and treatment 
options as part of pilot aeromedical assessments; (ii) 
improving the training of aviation medical examiners to 
identify mental health conditions among pilots, including 
guidance on referrals to a mental health provider or other 
aeromedical resource; (iii) expanding and improving mental 
health outreach, education, and assistance programs for pilots; 
and (iv) reducing the stigma of assistance for mental health in 
the aviation industry. (4) REPORT.--Not later than 2 years 
after the date of the establishment of the task group, the task 
group 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 detailing--(A) the 
results of the review and evaluation under paragraph (3)(A); 
and (B) recommendations developed pursuant to paragraph 
(3)(C).; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Mast (Mast 048) (ANS 22); At the end 
of title VIII, add the following: SEC. 834. LIMITED REGULATION 
OF NON FEDERALLY SPONSORED PROPERTY. (a) IN GENERAL.--The 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
issue a final determination on the applicability of section 163 
of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 47107 note) 
not later than 40 days after receipt of a request from an 
airport sponsor for such determination. (b) FAILURE TO ACT.--If 
the Administrator fails to act within the time period described 
in subsection (a), the proposed land use for which a 
determination under such subsection was requested shall 
conclusively be deemed to be outside the jurisdiction pf the 
Federal Aviation Administration pursuant to section 163 of the 
FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 47107 note). (c) 
DETERMINATION.--If the Administrator determines that the 
Federal Aviation Administration retains jurisdiction over a 
proposed land use for which a determination under subsection 
(a) was requested under section 163 of the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 47107 note), and further determines that 
review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 
U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) is required for such proposed land use, 
the Administrator shall formally initiate the review process 
under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 
4321 et seq.) not later than 90 days after the issuance of the 
final determination of the Administrator.; was NOT AGREED TO by 
voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Menendez (Menendez 009) (ANS 23); Page 
731, line 12, insert ``(A) IN GENERAL.--'' before ``Section''. 
Page 731, line 17, insert ``of the Federal Aviation 
Administration and the Administrator of the Transportation 
Security Administration'' before ``shall require''. Page 731, 
strike line 18. Page 731, beginning on line 19, insert ``of the 
Federal Aviation Administration and the Administrator of the 
Transportation Security Administration'' after 
``Administrator''. Page 731, after line 23, insert the 
following: (b) NOTICE AND CURE.--Not later than 90 days after 
the date of enactment of this Act, air carriers described in 
subsection (a) of section 551 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 
2018 (49 U.S.C. 44903 note) shall comply with the requirements 
of such subsection with respect to submission to the 
Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration. 
(c) REPORT TO CONGRESS.--Not later than 90 days after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration, in consultation with the Administrator 
of the Transportation Security Administration, shall submit to 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
of the House of Representatives a report on all the Employee 
Assault Prevention and Response Plans submitted pursuant to 
section 551 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 USC 
44903 note), to date, listed by each air carrier described in 
subsection (a) of such section.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Burlison (Burlison 027_Revised) (ANS 
24); At the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC. 834. 
STUDY ON FLIGHT SIMULATOR USE. (a) IN GENERAL.--The 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
conduct a study that examines the benefits of the use of flight 
simulation training devices for a pilot to gain the 
aeronautical experience required to obtain--(1) a commercial 
pilot certificate pursuant to section 61.129 of title 14, Code 
of Federal Regulations; or (2) an airline transport pilot 
certificate pursuant to section 61.159 of such title. (b) 
CONTENTS.--In carrying out the study required under subsection 
(a), the Administrator shall examine the following: (1) The 
benefits of using flight simulation training devices to train 
pilots. (2) How flight simulation training devices have 
advanced since the implementation of the rule titled ``Pilot 
Certification and Qualification Requirements for Air Carrier 
Operations'' and published on July 15, 2013 (78 Fed. Reg. 
42324). (3) The effectiveness of flight simulation training 
devices in training pilots, including an analysis of--(A) how 
such devices are utilized by the armed forces (as such term is 
defined in section 101 of title 10, United States Code) to 
train military pilots; and (B) how such devices may improve 
pilot competency due to the replication, at a minimum, of--(i) 
a multi-crew environment; (ii) operations in complex or 
congested airspace; or (iii) freedom of motion. (4) The cost of 
acquiring flight simulation training devices and the 
availability of such devices, including identifying any supply 
chain issues. (5) The potential cost savings of using flight 
simulation training devices as compared to traditional aircraft 
for training. (6) Any other regulatory updates that can help 
safely train pilots in gaining the required aeronautical 
experience requirements to obtain the certificates described in 
subsection (a). (c) REPORT.--Not later than 180 days 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 study conducted under subsection (a). (d) FLIGHT 
SIMULATION TRAINING DEVICE DEFINED.--In this section, the term 
``flight simulation training device'' has the meaning given 
such term in part 1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
and appendix F to such title.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Ms. Hoyle of Oregon (Hoyle OR 011) (ANS 
25); At the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC._. 
EXPRESS CARRIER EMPLOYEE PROTECTION. (a) IN GENERAL.--Section 
201 of the Railway Labor Act (45 U.S.C. 181) is amended--(1) by 
striking ``All'' and inserting the following: ``(a) IN 
GENERAL.--All''; (2) by inserting ``and every express carrier'' 
after ``common carrier by air''; and (3) by adding at the end 
the following: ``(b) SPECIAL RULES FOR EXPRESS CARRIERS.--``(1) 
IN GENERAL.--An employee of an express carrier shall be covered 
by this Act only if that employee is in a position that is 
eligible for certification under part 61, 63, or 65 of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations, and only if that employee 
performs duties for the express carrier that are eligible for 
such certification. All other employees of an express carrier 
shall be covered by the provisions of the National Labor 
Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 151 et seq.). ``(2) AIR CARRIER 
STATUS.--Any person that is an express carrier shall be 
governed by paragraph (1) notwithstanding any finding that the 
person is also a common carrier by air. ``(3) EXPRESS CARRIER 
DEFINED.--In this section, the term `express carrier' means any 
person (or persons affiliated through common control or 
ownership) whose primary business is the express shipment of 
freight or packages through an integrated network of air and 
surface transportation.''. (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.--Section 1 
of the Railway Labor Act (45 U.S.C. 151) is amended by striking 
``, any express company that would have been subject to 
subtitle IV of title 49, United States Code, as of December 31, 
1995,''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Collins (Collins 009) (ANS 26); Page 
616, strike lines 11 through line 5 on page 617 and insert the 
following: (1) IN GENERAL.--The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall, after consultation with aircraft 
manufacturers, institutions of higher learning, the 
Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration, the Secretary of Defense, and any other 
agencies the Administrator determines appropriate, conduct a 
study to assess actions necessary to facilitate the safe 
operation and integration of hypersonic aircraft into the 
national airspace system. (2) CONTENTS.--In carrying out the 
study under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall--(A) assess 
various altitudes and operating conditions of high speed 
aircraft in Class E airspace above the upper boundary of Class 
A airspace and the resulting aircraft noise levels at the 
surface; (B) include the development of a framework and 
timeline to establish the appropriate regulatory requirements 
to conducting highspeed aircraft flights; (C) identify the data 
required to develop certification, flight standards, and air 
traffic requirements for the deployment and integration of 
high-speed aircraft; (D) assess cross-agency equities related 
to high-speed aircraft technologies and flight; and (E) survey 
global high-speed aircraft-related regulatory and testing 
developments or activities. (3) RECOMMENDATIONS.--As part of 
the study under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall issue 
recommendations to update, if feasible, regulations for 
certification, flight standards and air traffic management. 
Page 617, after line 5, insert the following (and redesignate 
the subsequent subsection accordingly): (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 the results of the study conducted under 
subsection (a), including the recommendations under subsection 
(b)(3), to facilitate the safe operation and integration of 
high-speed aircraft in the national airspace system. (d) STUDY 
AND RULEMAKING ON HIGH ALTITUDE CLASS E AIRSPACE FLIGHT 
OPERATIONS.--(1) CONSULTATION.--Not later than 12 months after 
the date of enactment of this section, the Administrator, in 
consultation with the Administrator of the National Aeronautics 
and Space Administration and relevant stakeholders, including 
industry and academia, shall identify the minimum altitude 
above the upper boundary of Class A airspace at or above which 
flights operating with speeds above Mach 1 generate sonic booms 
that are inaudible at the surface under prevailing atmospheric 
conditions. (2) RULEMAKING.--Not later than 2 years after the 
date on which the Administrator identifies the minimum altitude 
described in paragraph (1), the Administrator shall publish in 
the Federal Register a notice of proposed rulemaking to amend 
sections 91.817 and 91.818 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations, and such other regulations as appropriate, to 
permit flight operations with speeds above Mach 1 at or above 
the minimum altitude identified under paragraph (1) without 
specific authorizations, provided that such flight operations--
(A) show compliance with airworthiness requirements; (B) do not 
cause a measurable sonic boom over pressure to reach the 
surface; and (C) have ordinary instrument flight rules 
clearances necessary to operate in controlled airspace. Page 
617, line 8, strike ``may'' and insert ``shall''.; was AGREED 
TO by a recorded vote of 36 yeas and 28 nays (Roll Call No. 
019).

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Kean of New Jersey (Kean NJ 010) (ANS 
27); At the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC._. AIR 
STATISTIC REPORTS. Not later than 60 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall 
ensure that the Bureau of Transportation Statistics revises and 
maintains Technical Reporting Directive No. 31 (14 C.F.R. Part 
234) to provide that the following events are not included 
within the air carrier codes specified in such Directive: (1) 
Aircraft cleaning necessitated by such incidents as the death 
of a passenger, excessive bleeding, service animal (SVAN) 
soiling, and extensive debris left by customers. (2) Aircraft 
damage caused by extreme weather, bird strike, foreign object 
debris (FOD), sabotage, and other similar causes. (3) Awaiting 
the arrival of connecting passengers or crew due to weather or 
local or National Airspace System logistics. (4) Awaiting the 
results of an unexpected alcohol test of a crewmember caused by 
the suspicion or accusation of a customer. (5) Awaiting gate 
space due to congestion not within the carrier's control, 
including the utilization of common gates or uncontrollable 
gate returns resulting from constraints of the National 
Airspace System. (6) A baggage or cargo loading delay caused by 
an outage of a bag system not controlled by a carrier, 
including wind affecting ramp conditions, late connecting bags 
resulting from an air traffic controller delay, airport 
infrastructure failure, and similar causes. (7) Cabin servicing 
or catering delays due to weather or wind. (8) Vendor computer 
outages, cybersecurity attacks (provided that the carrier is in 
compliance with applicable cybersecurity regulations), or 
issues related to the use of airport-supplied communications 
equipment (such as common-use gates and terminals, power 
outage, and lighting). (9) Availability of crew related to 
hours flown, rest periods, and on-duty times not caused by a 
carrier, including a delay of a crew replacement or reserve 
necessitated by a non-controllable event, and pilot or flight 
attendant rest related to weather, air traffic controller, or 
local logistics. (10) An unscheduled engineering or safety 
inspection. (11) Public health issues. (12) Fueling delays 
related to weather or airport fueling infrastructure issues, 
including the inoperability of a fuel farm or unusable fuel 
which does not meet specified requirements at delivery to an 
airport due to contamination in the supply chain. (13) 
Government systems that are inoperable or otherwise unable to 
receive forms which have been properly completed by an air 
carrier. (14) Overheated brakes resulting from a safety 
incident, including those resulting from emergency procedures. 
(15) Mail from the U.S. Postal Service that was delayed in 
arrival. (16) Unscheduled maintenance, including airworthiness 
issues manifesting outside a scheduled maintenance program and 
that cannot be deferred or must be addressed before flight. 
(17) A medical emergency. (18) Positive passenger bag match 
flags that require removal of a bag in order to ensure 
security. (19) The removal of an unruly passenger. (20) Ramp 
service from a third-party contractor, including servicing of 
potable water, lavatory servicing, and shortage of third-party 
ramp equipment. (21) Snow removal or aircraft de-icing due to 
the occurrence of extreme weather despite adequate carrier 
resources, or the removal of snow on ramps. (22) An airport 
closure due to such factors as the presence of volcanic ash, 
wind or wind shear.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Yakym (Yakym 015) (ANS 28); At the end 
of title VIII, add the following: SEC._ ASSET CONCESSIONS PILOT 
PROGRAM. (a) IN GENERAL.--Subchapter I of chapter 471 of title 
49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
following: ``Sec. 47145. Asset concessions pilot program ``(a) 
ASSET CONCESSIONS PILOT PROGRAM.--``(1) DEFINITIONS.--In this 
section: ``(A) APPROVED INFRASTRUCTURE ASSET.--The term 
`approved infrastructure asset' means an airport or airports 
considered together in a single asset concession or long term 
lease to a private individual or entity by 1 or more eligible 
entities. ``(B) ASSET CONCESSION.--The term `asset concession' 
means a contract between an eligible entity and a private 
individual or entity under which--``(i) the eligible entity 
agrees to enter into a concession agreement or long-term lease 
with the individual or entity relating to an approved 
infrastructure asset owned, controlled, or maintained by the 
eligible entity; and ``(ii) as consideration for that agreement 
or lease, the individual or entity agrees to provide to the 
eligible entity 1 or more asset concession payments. ``(C) 
ASSET CONCESSION PAYMENT.--The term `asset concession payment' 
means a payment from a private individual or entity to an 
eligible entity that is--``(i) an upfront payment made at the 
financial close of an asset concession; or ``(ii) 1 of a series 
of payments scheduled to be made during the term of an asset 
concession. ``(D) ELIGIBLE ENTITY.--The term `eligible entity' 
means a unit of State or local government that owns, controls, 
or maintains an approved infrastructure asset. ``(E) QUALIFYING 
INFRASTRUCTURE COST.--The term `qualifying infrastructure cost' 
means the non-Federal share of the cost of--``(i) 1 or more 
projects for which a grant is provided under this section; 
``(ii) a project described in section 5026 of the Water 
Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 (33 U.S.C. 6 
3905); ``(iii) a project relating to the development or 
construction of an infrastructure asset to provide 
communication, broadband, or internet services; ``(iv) a road, 
bridge, or other surface transportation asset; ``(v) a highway; 
``(vi) a public transit facility; ``(vii) a port or port 
terminal; ``(viii) a publicly owned railroad facility; ``(ix) a 
wastewater conveyance and treatment facility; ``(x) a drinking 
water treatment and distribution facility; ``(xi) an intermodal 
facility; ``(xii) an intercity passenger bus facility; ``(xiii) 
an intercity passenger rail facility; or ``(xiv) an airport. 
``(2) ESTABLISHMENT.--``(A) IN GENERAL.--The Secretary shall 
establish a pilot program under which the Secretary shall 
provide grants to eligible entities in accordance with 
paragraph (3). ``(B) TREATMENT.--Notwithstanding any other 
provision of law, the Secretary may not prohibit or otherwise 
prevent an eligible entity from entering into, or receiving any 
asset concession payment under, an asset concession for an 
approved infrastructure asset owned, controlled, or maintained 
by the eligible entity. ``(3) RESERVATION.--Of the amount 
subject to apportionment under section 47114, the Secretary 
shall reserve for each of the next 5 fiscal years, 10 percent 
of such amount to provide grants for projects described in this 
section to eligible entities that--``(A) have entered, or will 
enter, into an asset concession; and ``(B) agree to use the 
full amount of the asset concession payment received by the 
eligible entity, less any amount paid for transaction costs 
relating to the asset concession, to pay qualifying 
infrastructure costs of the eligible entity. ``(4) 
APPLICATIONS.--To be eligible to receive a grant under this 
section, an eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary an 
application--``(A) at such time, in such manner, and containing 
such information as the Secretary may require; and ``(B) that 
includes a certification that the applicable portion of any 
applicable asset concession payment received by the eligible 
entity will be used in accordance with paragraph (3)(B). ``(5) 
GRANT AMOUNT.--A grant provided under this section shall not 
exceed an amount equal to the lesser of--``(A) as applicable--
``(i) 15 percent of the amount of the asset concession payment 
that is used to pay qualifying infrastructure costs under 
paragraph (3)(B); or ``(ii) in any case in which the eligible 
entity agrees under paragraph (3)(B) to pay the non-Federal 
share of the cost of 1 or more projects located in a rural area 
(as defined in section 117(i)(3) of title 23, United States 
Code), 20 percent of the amount of the asset concession payment 
that is used to pay qualifying infrastructure costs under 
paragraph (3)(B); and ``(B) $300,000,000. ``(6) EXCESS 
FUNDING.--``(A) GRANTS TO OFFSET ASSET CONCESSIONS.--Subject to 
subparagraph (B), amounts reserved under paragraph (3) for a 
fiscal year shall remain available for expenditure in 
accordance with that paragraph through September 30 of the 5th 
fiscal year that begins after the date of enactment of this 
section. ``(B) APPORTIONMENTS.--The Secretary shall use any 
amounts reserved under paragraph (3) for a fiscal year that 
remain unexpended as of October 1 of the 6th fiscal year that 
begins after the date of enactment of this section to provide 
other grants under section 47114. Amounts used for grants in 
accordance with this subparagraph shall remain available for 
expenditure through September 30 of the 7th fiscal year that 
begins after the date of enactment of this section.''. (b) 
CLERICAL AMENDMENT.--The analysis of subchapter I of chapter 
471 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting 
after the item relating to section 47144 the following: 
``47145. Asset concessions pilot program.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Bean of Florida (Bean FL 011) (ANS 
29); At the end of title VIII of the bill, add the following: 
SEC. 834. SAFETY ENHANCEMENTS FOR CERTIFICATION OF TRANSPORT 
CATEGORY CARGO AIRPLANES. (a) IN GENERAL.--The Secretary shall 
enhance the safety of cargo transport category airplane type 
certification by allowing, at the request of the applicant for 
certification, the testing of cargo airplanes with 
representative or actual cargo in cargo operation flights, and 
flown by representative aircrews of typical skill, which may be 
made for compensation, during function and reliability testing 
and prior to type design approval. (b) ESTABLISHMENT OF 
LIMITATIONS.--The Secretary may establish airplane appropriate 
operating limitations, during testing, for limited operations 
described in subsection (a).; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Gooden of TX (Gooden TX 033) (ANS 30); 
At the end of title VIII, add the following: SECTION 8__. 
PROHIBITION ON OPERATION OF AIRCRAFT OVER RUSSIAN AIRSPACE. (a) 
IN GENERAL.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the 
Secretary of Transportation shall take such actions as are 
necessary to ensure that no air carrier or foreign air carrier 
engaging in foreign air commerce taking off from or flying into 
an airport in the United States may operate an aircraft in the 
airspace over the territory of the Russian Federation. (b) 
DEFINITIONS.--The terms used in this section have the meanings 
given such terms in section 40102(a) of title 49, United States 
Code.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Garamendi (Garamendi 061) (ANS 31); At 
the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__. RULE OF 
CONSTRUCTION. A commercial service airport (as defined in 
section 47102 of title 49, United States Code) subject to 
emissions mitigation requirements under the laws of a State 
shall be eligible for the zero-emission vehicle and 
infrastructure program under section 47136 of title 49, United 
States Code, and the voluntary airport low emissions grant 
program described under sections 40117(a)(3)(G), 47102(3)(K), 
and 47102(3)(L) of title 49, United States Code, in order to 
complete electrification projects consistent with the goals of 
the programs described in this section.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Perry (Perry 202) (ANS 32); At the end 
of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__. PROHIBITIONS ON 
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS. (a) PROHIBITION.--(1) GENERAL RULE.--
The Secretary of Transportation, and any construction manager 
acting on behalf of the Secretary with respect to any 
construction contract awarded pursuant to this Act, or the 
amendments made by this Act, or obligation of funds pursuant to 
such a contract, shall not, in the contracts bid 
specifications, project agreements, or other controlling 
documents--(A) require or prohibit a bidder, offeror, 
contractor, or subcontractor from entering into, or adhering 
to, agreements with 1 or more labor organizations, with respect 
to that construction project or another related construction 
project; or (B) otherwise discriminate against or give 
preference to a bidder, offeror, contractor, or subcontractor 
because such bidder, contractor or subcontractor--(i) becomes a 
signatory, or otherwise adheres to, an agreement with 1 or more 
labor organizations with respect to that construction project 
or another related construction project; or (ii) refuses to 
become a signatory, or otherwise adhere to, an agreement with 1 
or more labor organizations with respect to that construction 
project or another related construction project. (2) RULE OF 
CONSTRUCTION.--Nothing in paragraph (1) shall be construed to 
prohibit a contractor or subcontractor from voluntarily 
entering into an agreement described in such paragraph. (b) 
RECIPIENTS OF GRANTS AND OTHER ASSISTANCE.--The Secretary shall 
not award grants, provide financial assistance, or enter into 
cooperative agreements for construction projects pursuant to 
this Act, until the Secretary ensures that--(1) the bid 
specifications, project agreements, or other controlling 
documents for such construction projects of a recipient of a 
grant or financial assistance, or by the parties to a 
cooperative agreement, do not contain any of the requirements 
or prohibitions described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of 
subsection (a)(1); or (2) the bid specifications, project 
agreements, or controlling documents for such construction 
projects of a construction manager acting on behalf of a 
recipient or party described in paragraph (1), do not contain 
any of the requirements or prohibitions described in 
subparagraph (A) or (B) of subsection (a)(1).; was NOT AGREED 
TO by a recorded vote of 22 yeas and 42 nays (Roll Call 020).

    En Bloc amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a 
Substitute to H.R. 3935 offered by Ms. Brownley (Brownley 048) 
(ANS 33 En Bloc); Page 264, line 16, insert ``, including 
sustainable aviation fuel'' after ``fuel''.; (Brownley 049) 
(ANS 33 En Bloc); At the end of title VIII of the bill, add the 
following: SEC. 834. GRANT PROGRAM. (a) IN GENERAL.--The 
Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the 
Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall 
carry out a competitive grant and cost-sharing agreement 
program for eligible entities to carry out projects located in 
the United States to produce, transport, blend, or store 
sustainable aviation fuel. (b) SELECTION.--In selecting an 
eligible entity to receive a grant or cost-share agreement 
under subsection (a), the Secretary shall consider--(1) the 
anticipated public benefits of a project proposed by the 
eligible entity; (2) the potential to increase the domestic 
production and deployment of sustainable aviation fuel; (3) the 
potential greenhouse gas emissions from such project; (4) the 
potential for creating new jobs in the United States; (5) the 
potential net greenhouse gas emissions impact of different 
feedstocks to produce sustainable aviation fuel on a lifecycle 
basis, which shall include potential direct and indirect 
greenhouse gas emissions (including resulting from changes in 
land use); and (6) the proposed utilization of non-Federal 
contributions by the eligible entity. (c) AUTHORIZATION OF 
APPROPRIATIONS.--There is authorized to be appropriated 
$200,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2024 through 2028 to 
carry out this section. (d) REPORT.--Not later than October 1, 
2029, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, 
Science, and Transportation and the Committee on Environment 
and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on Energy 
and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report 
describing the results of the grant program under this section. 
The report shall include the following: (1) A description of 
the entities and projects that received grants or other cost-
sharing agreements under this section. (2) A detailed 
explanation for why each entity received the type of funding 
disbursement such entity did. (3) A description of whether the 
program is leading to an increase in the production and 
deployment of sustainable aviation fuels and whether that 
increase is enough to keep the United States on track to 
achieve the goals described in section 2 of this Act. (4) A 
description of the economic impacts resulting from the funding 
to and operation of the project. (e) ELIGIBLE ENTITY DEFINED.--
In this section, the term ``eligible entity'' means-- (1) a 
State or local government other than an airport sponsor; (2) an 
air carrier; (3) an airport sponsor; and (4) a person or entity 
engaged in the production, transportation, blending or storage 
of sustainable aviation fuel in the United States or feedstocks 
in the United States that could be used to produce sustainable 
aviation fuel.; was NOT AGREED TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Rouzer (Rouzer 034) (ANS 34); Page 
742, after line 13, insert the following: SEC. 834. PROHIBITION 
ON PROCUREMENT OF FOREIGN MADE UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS. (a) 
IN GENERAL.--The Secretary of Transportation is prohibited from 
entering into a contract or awarding a grant for the 
procurement of a small unmanned aircraft system manufactured or 
assembled by a covered foreign entity. (b) EXEMPTION.--The 
Secretary is exempt from any restrictions under subsection (a) 
if the procurement is for the purposes of-- (1) counter-UAS 
testing, analysis, or training; or (2) aviation safety testing. 
(c) WAIVER.--The Secretary of Transportation (or the 
Secretary's designee) may waive any restrictions under 
subsection (a) on a case by case basis by certifying in writing 
not later than 15 days after exercising such waiver to the 
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
of the House of Representatives that the procurement is 
required in the national interest of the United States. (d) 
EFFECTIVE DATES.-- (1) IN GENERAL.--Beginning on the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary may not award a new grant 
for the procurement of an unmanned aircraft system manufactured 
by a covered foreign entity. (2) EXISTING GRANT.--This section 
shall not apply to grants awarded before the date of enactment 
of this Act. (e) DEFINITIONS.--In this section: (1) COVERED 
FOREIGN ENTITY.--The term ``covered foreign entity'' means an 
entity-- (A) included on the Consolidated Screening List or 
Entity List as designated by the Secretary of Commerce; (B) 
domiciled in the People's Republic of China or the Russian 
Federation; (C) subject to influence or control by the 
government of the People's Republic of China or by the Russian 
Federation; or (D) that is a subsidiary or affiliate of an 
entity described in subparagraphs (A) through (C). (2) SMALL 
UNMANNED AIRCRAFT; UNMANNED AIRCRAFT; UNMANNED AIRCRAFT 
SYSTEM.--The terms ``small unmanned aircraft'', ``unmanned 
aircraft'', and ``unmanned aircraft system'' have the meanings 
given such terms in section 44801 of title 49, United States 
Code.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Van Drew (Van Drew 039) (ANS 35); 
Strike page 295, line 2, and insert ``40102 of title 49, United 
States Code, and section 47102 of title 49, United States 
Code.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Garcia of Illinois (Garcia IL 040) 
(ANS 36); At the end of title VIII, add the following: 
SEC.__.REPORT ON PASSENGER FACILITY CHARGES. The Administrator 
of the Federal Aviation Administration shall annually 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 assessing the passenger 
facility charges provided for under section 40117 of title 49, 
United States Code, including recommendations for improvement 
to such section.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Babin (Babin 024) (ANS 37); Page 583, 
after line 21, insert the following: SEC. 635. ADVISORY 
CIRCULAR. Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment 
of this section, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue 
the advisory circular AS-20CAS that provides formal 
requirements and guidance based on SC-228 products to class 5 
UAS (as such term is defined in section 40102 of Title 49, 
United States Code) on publishing information and requirements 
related to certification under title 10, Code of Federal 
Regulations, of class 5 UAS Detect and Avoid capabilities for 
national airspace integration without requiring chase 
aircraft.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Mast (Mast 049) (ANS 38); At the end 
of title VIII, add the following: SEC. 834. ADMINISTRATIVE 
APPEAL PROCESS. (a) IN GENERAL.--Not later than 180 days after 
the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of 
Transportation shall establish an administrative appeal process 
whereby an affected airport sponsor may appeal an agency 
decision on the appropriate level of review under the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) 
required for a proposed Federal action. (b) APPEAL TIMELINE.--
The appeal process established under subsection (a) shall allow 
an appeal within 60 days of an agency decision described in 
such subsection and shall require a final agency decision by an 
Federal Aviation Administration headquarters official within 60 
days of such an appeal.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Stanton (Stanton 024) (ANS 39); At the 
end of subtitle A of title VII, insert the following: 
SEC.__.ON-BOARD WHEELCHAIRS. (a) REQUIREMENTS.--(1) IN 
GENERAL.--In the case an aircraft that is required to be 
equipped with an on-board wheelchair in accordance with section 
382.65 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, an air carrier 
and a foreign air carrier shall provide in a prominent place on 
a publicly available internet website of the carrier, and in 
any place where a passenger can make a reservation, information 
regarding the rights and responsibilities of both passengers on 
such aircraft and the air carrier or foreign air carrier, 
including--(A) that an air carrier or foreign air carrier is 
required to equip aircraft that have more than 60 passenger 
seats and that have an accessible lavatory (whether or not 
having such a lavatory is required by section 382.63 of such 
title 14) with an on-board wheelchair unless an exception 
described in such section 382.65 applies; (B) that a qualified 
individual with a disability may request an on-board wheelchair 
on aircraft with more than 60 passenger seats even if the 
lavatory is not accessible and that the basis of such request 
must be that the individual can use an inaccessible lavatory 
but cannot reach it from a seat without using an on10 board 
wheelchair; (C) that the air carrier or foreign air carrier may 
require the qualified individual with a disability to provide 
the advance notice specified in section 382.27 of such title 14 
in order for the individual to be provided with the on-board 
wheelchair; and (D) if the air carrier or foreign air carrier 
requires the advance notice described in subparagraph (C), 
information on how a qualified individual with a disability can 
make such a request. (2) ANNUAL TRAINING.--An air carrier and a 
foreign air carriers shall require that all personnel who 
regularly interact with the traveling public, including 
contractors, complete annual training regarding assisting 
qualified individual with a disability, including regarding the 
availability of accessible lavatories and on-board wheelchairs 
and such individual's right to request an on-board wheelchair. 
(3) PUBLIC AWARENESS CAMPAIGN.--The Secretary shall conduct a 
public awareness campaign on the rights of qualified 
individuals with a disability, including with respect to 
accessible lavatories and such individual's right to request an 
on-board wheelchair in accordance section 382.65 of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations. (4) QUALIFIED INDIVIDUAL WITH A 
DISABILITY DEFINED.--In this subsection, the term ``qualified 
individual with a disability'' has the meaning given such term 
in section 382.3 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations. (5) 
PENALTIES.--The Secretary may assess a civil penalty in 
accordance with section 46301 of title 49, United States Code, 
to any air carrier or foreign air carrier who fails to meet the 
requirements under paragraph (1) or (2). (b) INCREASED CIVIL 
PENALTIES.--(1) IN GENERAL.--Section 46301(a)(7) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended--(A) in the paragraph heading, 
by striking ``TO HARM'' ; and (B) in subparagraph (A)--(i) in 
the heading, by striking ``BODILY HARM OR DAMAGE TO WHEELCHAIR 
OR OTHER MOBILITY AID'' and inserting ``DAMAGE TO WHEELCHAIR OR 
OTHER MOBILITY AID, BODILY HARM, OR FAILURE TO EQUIP AIRCRAFT 
WITH A WHEELCHAIR''; and (ii) by striking ``or injury to a 
passenger with a disability'' and inserting ``, injury to a 
passenger with a disability, or a failure to equip an aircraft 
with an onboard wheelchair pursuant to section 382.65 of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation)''. 
(2) EFFECTIVE DATE.--The amendments made by paragraph (1) shall 
apply to flights occurring on or after the effective date of 
the revision described in subsection (a).; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Mann (Mann 024) (ANS 40); At the end 
of subtitle B of title III, add the following: 
SEC.__.APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM FOR PILOTS. (a) DEFINITIONS.--In 
this section: (1) APPRENTICE.--The term ``apprentice'' means a 
student enrolled at a flight school. (2) FLIGHT SCHOOL.--The 
term ``flight school'' means a flight academy certified under 
part 141 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations. (3) 
SECRETARY.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of 
Transportation. (b) ESTABLISHMENT.--The Secretary, in 
consultation with flight schools and other industry 
stakeholders, shall establish an apprenticeship program with 
flight schools to establish a pipeline of qualified and 
interested individuals to become commercial pilots. (c) 
SELECTION.--Under the apprenticeship program established under 
subsection (b), each flight school participating in the 
apprenticeship program established under subsection (b) may 
select up to 8 applicants to flight school to serve as 
apprentices each academic year. (d) CURRICULUM AND 
REQUIREMENTS.--(1) IN GENERAL.--To graduate from an 
apprenticeship program established under subsection (b), an 
apprentice shall satisfy any relevant requirements and minimum 
curriculum under part 141 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations (or successor regulations), including all 
curriculum under subpart C of such part. (2) MINIMUM 
REQUIREMENTS.--Nothing in this Act prevents a flight school 
from imposing additional requirements, such as modifying the 
terms of service of the apprenticeship program, on an 
apprentice taking part in an apprenticeship program established 
pursuant to this section. (e) OPTIONAL PROGRAM.--A flight 
school may choose not to participate in an apprenticeship 
program established under this section. (f) REGULATIONS.--Not 
later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Secretary shall issue such regulations as are necessary to 
implement this Act. (g) INCENTIVIZING RETIRED PILOTS.--The 
Secretary shall take such actions as may be appropriate to 
develop methods to incentivize pilots, including retired 
military pilots, retiring airline pilots, and graduates of the 
apprenticeship program established under this section, to 
become instructors at flight schools, including through the 
development of pathway programs for such pilots to gain initial 
qualification or concurrent qualification as certified flight 
instructors under part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Nehls (Nehls 089) (ANS 41); Page 571, 
after line 25, add the following: (8) ensure that the public 
phone line for the UAS Integration Office and the office of 
congressional affairs of the Administration is manned by a non-
teleworking individual and operational from the hours of 9 a.m. 
to 6 p.m.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Menendez (Menendez 008) (ANS 42); At 
the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__.PARK 
PROTECTION. Section 40128(b)(7) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended--(1) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``or the 
air traffic control system'' and inserting ``, the air traffic 
control system, or the well-being of communities overflown by 
aircraft involved in such commercial air tour operations'''; 
and (2) in subparagraph (C) by inserting ``any community whose 
lands are, or may be, and'' before ``any Indian tribe''.; was 
WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Yakym (Yakym 016) (ANS 43); Page 522, 
strike lines 9 through 25 and insert the following: ``(6) In 
Class G airspace, aircraft fling within the safety programming 
of a recognized community based organization can fly from the 
surface up to controlled airspace. Operators shall maintain 
visual line of sight of the aircraft and comply with all 
airspace restrictions and prohibitions. Flights into controlled 
airspace require specific authorization from the 
Administrator.''. (2) in subsection (c) by adding at the end 
the following: Page 524, strike lines 3 through 8 and insert 
the following: ``(i) from the surface up to controlled airspace 
without prior authorization from the Administrator; and ``(ii) 
into controlled airspace with prior authorization from the 
Administrator. Page 524, beginning on line 23, strike 
``prioritize the review'' and all that follows through 
``section'' and insert ``designate recognized community-based 
organizations to self-declare FRIAs to sponsored sites that 
meet criteria developed by the Administrator in coordination 
with community-based organizations''. Page 526, after line 2, 
insert the following: (C) by inserting after paragraph (7) the 
following: ``(8) is a designated Federal Aviation 
Administration Trust Administrator.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Ms. Hoyle of Oregon (Hoyle OR 012) (ANS 
44); Page 469, after line 15, insert the following: (d) 
TRAINING MATERIALS.--(1) IN GENERAL.--Not later than 1 year 
after the date of enactment of this section, the Administrator 
shall develop and publish training and related educational 
materials about aircraft engine ingestion and jet blast hazards 
for ground crews (including supervisory employees) that 
includes information on--(A) the specific dangers and 
consequences of entering engine ingestion or jet blast zones; 
(B) proper protocols to avoid entering an engine ingestion or 
jet blast zone; and (C) on-the-job, instructor-led training to 
physically demonstrate the engine ingestion zone boundaries and 
jet blast zones for each kind of aircraft the ground crew may 
encounter. (2) TRAINING REGULATIONS.--Not later than 180 days 
after the publication of the training and related educational 
materials described in paragraph (1), the Administrator shall 
promulgate regulations to require any new, transferred, or 
current (as of the date of enactment of this section) employee 
of the Federal Aviation Administration to receive the relevant 
engine ingestion and jet blast zone hazard training before such 
employee may perform work on the apron.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Gooden of Texas (Gooden TX 034) (ANS 
45); At the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC._.PILOT 
PROGRAM FOR FLIGHT TRAINING. (a) ESTABLISHMENT.--Not later than 
120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary 
of Transportation shall establish a pilot program (in this Act 
referred to as the ``Program'') to award grants to covered 
flight schools to provide flight training to eligible veterans. 
(b) ELIGIBLE USE.--A grant under section may be used to provide 
the training necessary for a veteran to earn the following 
certificates and ratings issued under part 141 of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations: (1) A private pilot certificate. 
(2) A commercial pilot certificate. (3) A certified flight 
instructor certificate. (4) A certified flight instructor 
instrument certificate. (5) An instrument rating. (6) A 
multiengine rating. (c) ELIGIBLE VETERANS.--(1) IN GENERAL.--To 
be eligible to receive flight training from a covered flight 
school under the Program, a veteran shall--(A) intend to pursue 
a career as a commercial pilot; (B) have a high school diploma 
or its equivalent; (C) be able to read, write, and speak 
English fluently; (D) hold a valid United States passport, or 
be qualified to obtain such a passport; (E) obtain a second 
class medical certificate; and (F) meet any other requirements 
for eligibility as determined appropriate by the Secretary. (2) 
INELIGIBLE VETERANS.--A veteran shall not be eligible to 
receive flight training from a covered flight school under the 
Program if such veteran--(A) has been convicted of a Federal 
felony offense; or (B) possesses a commercial pilot certificate 
on or before the date on which such veteran begins receiving 
flight training under the Program. (d) APPLICATIONS TO RECEIVE 
FLIGHT TRAINING.--A covered flight school receiving a grant 
under the Pro5 gram shall be responsible for--(1) soliciting 
applications for flight training from eligible veterans; (2) 
reviewing such applications; and (3) selecting veterans to 
receive flight training and enrolling such veterans in such 
flight school. (e) TERMINATION.--The Program shall terminate 18 
months after the date on which the Program is established under 
subsection (a). (f) REPORT.--Not later than 180 days after the 
Program terminates under subsection (e), the Secretary of 
Transportation, in consultation with the Secretary of Veterans 
Affairs, shall submit to the Committees on Education and Labor, 
Transportation and Infrastructure, and Veterans' Affairs of the 
House of Representatives, a report that includes a description 
of the following: (1) How the improvement of the consistency 
and eligibility for assistance under chapter 33 of title 38, 
United States Code, may used to provide flight training to 
veterans. (2) The costs associated with obtaining a commercial 
pilot certificate and ways in which such costs could be reduced 
for veterans seeking a commercial pilot certificate. (3) Ways 
to increase cooperation between the Department of 
Transportation, veterans service organizations, and air 
carriers to recruit, screen, and train veterans as commercial 
pilots. (4) Ways to improve the availability of Federal student 
loans to veterans to use for attending vocational flight 
school. (5) A model program under which States and domestic 
commercial airlines provide assistance to veterans to obtain 
the flight training necessary to obtain a commercial pilot 
certificate with a multiengine rating. (g) DEFINITIONS.--In 
this section: (1) COVERED FLIGHT SCHOOL.--The term ``covered 
flight school'' means a flight school that--(A) holds a pilot 
school certificate under part 141 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations; and (B) is approved to train pilots for a private 
pilot certificate, instrument rating, a commercial pilot 
certificate, and a flight instructor certificate. (2) 
VETERAN.--The term ``veteran'' means a person who served in the 
active military, naval, air, or space service, and who was 
discharged or released from such service with an honorable 
discharge; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Ms. Titus (Titus 053) (ANS 46); Page 447, 
strike line 6 and all that follows through page 449, line 24 
and insert the following: (a) IN GENERAL.--Chapter 447 of title 
49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
following: ``Sec.  44745. Cockpit recording device ``(a) IN 
GENERAL.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall complete a rulemaking proceeding to--``(1) 
require that, not later than 4 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, all applicable air craft are fitted with 
a cockpit voice recorder and a flight data recorder that are 
each capable of recording the most recent 25 hours of data; 
``(2) prohibit any person from deliberately erasing or 
tampering with any recording on such a cock pit voice recorder 
or flight data recorder following a National Transportation 
Safety Board reportable event under part 830 of title 49, Code 
of Federal Regulations, and provide for civil and criminal 
penalties for such deliberate erasing or tampering, which may 
be assessed in accordance with section of this title and 
section 32 of title 18; ``(3) require that such a cockpit voice 
recorder has the capability for an operator to use an erasure 
feature, such as an installed bulk erase function, consistent 
with applicable law and regulations; ``(4) require that, in the 
case of such a cockpit voice recorder or flight data recorder 
that uses a solid state recording medium in which activation of 
a bulk erase function assigns a random discrete code to the 
deleted recording, only the manufacturer of the recorder and 
National Transportation Safety Board have access to the 
software necessary to determine the code in order to extract 
the deleted recorded data; and ``(5) ensure that data on such a 
cockpit voice recorder or a flight data recorder, through 
technical means other than encryption (such as overwriting or 
the substitution of a blank recording medium before the 
recorder is returned to the owner) is not disclosed for use 
other than for accident or incident investigation purposes. 
``(b) PROHIBITED USE.--A cockpit voice recorder recording shall 
not be used by the Administrator or any employer for any 
certificate action, civil penalty, or disciplinary proceedings 
against flight crewmembers. ``(c) APPLICABLE AIRCRAFT 
DEFINED.--In this section, the term `applicable aircraft' means 
an aircraft that is--``(1) operated under part 121 of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations; and ``(2) required by regulation 
to have a cockpit voice recorder or a flight data recorder.''. 
(b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.--The analysis for chapter 447 of title 
49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item 
relating to section 44744 the following: ``44745. Cockpit 
recording device.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Bean of Florida (Bean FL 013) (ANS 
47); Page 125, after line 25, insert the following: (7) 
Ensuring to the maximum extent practicable that applicants can 
schedule airman practical tests in no more than 14 calendar 
days after such tests are requested.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Garamendi (Garamendi 055) (ANS 48); At 
the end of title VIII of the bill, add the following: SEC. 834. 
CIVIL AVIATION FACILITY PROGRAMS. (a) IN GENERAL.--Section 
50101 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--(1) in 
subsection (a) by striking ``steel and manufactured goods'' and 
inserting ``steel, iron, manufactured products, and 
construction materials''; and (2) in subsection (b)(2) by 
striking ``steel and goods'' and inserting ``steel, iron, 
manufactured products, and construction materials''.; was 
WITHDRAWN.

    En Bloc amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a 
Substitute to H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Rouzer (Rouzer 036) (ANS 
49 En Bloc); Page 501, line 8, strike ``information'' and 
insert ``informational and operational environments''. Page 
501, line 11, strike ``including'' and insert ``including, but 
not limited to, associated networks,''. Page 501, line 12, 
insert ``, including the onboard aircraft avionics'' after 
``computer systems''.; (Rouzer 037) (ANS 49 En Bloc); At the 
end of title VIII, add the following: SECTION II. SECURING 
AIRCRAFT AVIONIC SYSTEMS. Section 506(a) of the FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44704 note) is amended-- 
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1)--(A) by striking 
``consider'' and inserting ``revise''; and (B) by striking 
``revising'' and inserting ``existing''; (2) in paragraph (1) 
by striking ``and'' at the end; (3) in paragraph (2) by 
striking the period at the end and inserting ``; and''; and (4) 
by adding at the end the following: ``(3) to require that 
aircraft avionics serial networks used for flight guidance or 
aircraft control be monitored to verify they have not been 
compromised by unauthorized external and internal access.''. 
SEC.__.COMPTROLLER REVIEW AND REPORT OF CYBERSECURITY OF 
COMMERCIAL AVIATION AVIONICS. (a) IN GENERAL.--The Comptroller 
General of the United States shall conduct a review on the 
consideration, identification, and inclusion of aircraft 
cybersecurity into the strategic framework for aviation 
security and further as part of the Federal Aviation 
Administration's cybersecurity strategy. (b) CONTENTS OF 
REVIEW.--The review under subsection (a) shall assess--(1) how 
onboard aircraft cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities are 
defined and accounted for in the strategy aviation security 
framework, particularly in pillar 2 ``protect and defend FAA 
networks and systems to mitigate risks to FAA missions and 
service delivery''; (2) how onboard aircraft cybersecurity, 
particularly of the aircraft avionics, is considered, 
incorporated, and prioritized in the cybersecurity strategy 
pursuant to section 509 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 
(49 U.S.C. 44903 note); (3) how roles and responsibilities for 
aircraft and ground systems cybersecurity are differentiated 
and enforced between the Transportation Security Agency and 
Federal Aviation Administration; (4) how aircraft and ground 
systems cybersecurity vulnerabilities are being identified and 
prioritized for mitigation, particularly considering the 
commercial technology ecosystem; and (5) the budgets of the 
responsible parties, as identified in subsection (b)(1), to 
satisfy those mitigation requirements necessary to secure the 
aviation ecosystem from onboard cybersecurity vulnerabilities.; 
was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Garcia of Illinois (Garcia IL 045) 
(ANS 50); At the end of title VIII, add the following: 
SEC.__.IMPROVED ALL CARGO FLIGHT DECK INTEGRITY MEASURES. (a) 
IN GENERAL.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the fol5 lowing: ``Sec.  44741. 
All-cargo flight deck integrity measures ``(a) IN GENERAL.--It 
shall be unlawful for an air carrier to operate a covered 
aircraft after January 1, 2027 in a covered operation unless 
such aircraft is equipped with a cockpit door that--``(1) meets 
the requirements of section 25.795(a) of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations, with respect to intrusion resistance; and 
``(2) remains locked while the aircraft is in flight, as 
directed by the pilot in command of such aircraft. ``(b) EFFECT 
OF RULEMAKING.--The requirement of subsection (a) shall take 
effect on January 1, 2027, regardless of whether the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration has issued 
regulations to implement such requirement. ``(c) DEFINITIONS.--
In this section: ``(1) COVERED AIRCRAFT.--The term `covered 
aircraft' means an aircraft with a cockpit door under 
subsection (a)(1) on each new aircraft manufactured after 
January 1, 2027 for delivery used in all-cargo air 
transportation with a maximum certificated payload capacity 
that exceeds 6,500 pounds. ``(2) COVERED OPERATION.--The term 
`covered operation' means an operation in all-cargo air 
transportation under the provisions of part 121 of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations.''. (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.--The 
analysis for chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following: ``44741. All-cargo 
flight deck integrity measures.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Yakym (Yakym 019) (ANS 51); Page 528, 
beginning on line 19, strike ``establishing airworthiness and 
operational regulations'' and insert ``establishing 
performance-based airworthiness and risk-based operational 
regulations''. Page 529, line 2, insert ``, as described in 
Recommendations AS 2.1 and 2.9 final report of the UAS Beyond 
Visual Line of Sight Aviation Rulemaking Committee, which 
require a manufacturer's declaration of compliance to a Federal 
Aviation Administration accepted means of compliance and which 
shall not require type or production certification or the 
issuance of a special airworthiness certificate''. Page 529, 
line 6, insert ``as described in Recommendation OQ 2.2 of the 
UAS Beyond Visual Line of Sight Aviation Rulemaking 
Committee''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Garcia of Illinois (Garcia 046) (ANS 
52); At the end of title VIII, add the following: 
SEC.__.ESTABLISHMENT OF OFFICE OF AVIATION CONSUMER PROTECTION. 
Section 102 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--(1) in 
subsection (e)(1)--(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph 
(A), by striking ``7'' and inserting ``8''; and (B) in 
subparagraph (A), by striking ``and an Assistant Secretary for 
Transportation Policy'' and inserting ``an Assistant Secretary 
for Transportation Policy, and an Assistant Secretary for 
Aviation Consumer Protection''; and (2) by adding at the end 
the following: ``(j) OFFICE OF AVIATION CONSUMER PROTECTION.--
``(1) ESTABLISHMENT.--There is established in the Department an 
Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (referred to in this 
subsection as the `Office') to administer and enforce the 
aviation consumer protection and civil rights authorities 
provided to the Department by statute, including those under 
section 41712--``(A) to assist, educate, and protect 
passengers; ``(B) to monitor compliance with, conduct 
investigations relating to, and enforce, including by taking 
appropriate action to address violations of, aviation consumer 
protection, civil rights, and aviation economic requirements; 
and ``(C) to promulgate, as appropriate, aviation consumer 
protection and civil rights regulations. ``(2) LEADERSHIP.--The 
Office shall be headed by the Assistant Secretary for Aviation 
Consumer Protection (referred to in this subsection as the 
`Assistant Secretary'). ``(3) TRANSITION.--Not later than 180 
days after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Office 
of Aviation Consumer Protection that is a unit within the 
Office of the General Counsel of the Department which is headed 
by the Assistant General Counsel for Aviation Consumer 
Protection, shall cease to exist. The Department shall 
determine which employees are necessary to fulfill the 
responsibilities of the new Office of Aviation Consumer 
Protection and those employees shall be transferred from the 
Office of the General Counsel as appropriate to the newly 
established Office of Aviation Consumer Protection. To the 
extent the Office of the General Counsel retains any attorney 
or hires any new attorney to advise the newly established 
Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, those attorneys will be 
located in the remaining offices within the Office of the 
General Counsel. ``(4) COORDINATION.--The Assistant Secretary 
shall coordinate with the General Counsel appointed under 
subsection (e)(1)(E), in accordance with section 1.26 of title 
49, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation), on 
all legal matters relating to--``(A) aviation consumer 
protection; and ``(B) the duties and activities of the Office 
described in subparagraphs (A) through (C) of paragraph (1). 
``(5) ANNUAL REPORT.--The Assistant Secretary shall submit to 
the Secretary, who shall submit to Congress and make publicly 
available on the website of the Department, an annual report 
that, with respect to matters under the jurisdiction of the 
Department, or otherwise within the statutory authority of the 
Department--``(A) analyzes trends in aviation consumer 
protection, civil rights, and licensing; ``(B) identifies major 
challenges facing passengers; and ``(C) addresses any other 
relevant issues, as the Assistant Secretary determines to be 
appropriate. ``(6) FUNDING.--There is authorized to be 
appropriated $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2024, $13,000,000 for 
fiscal year 2025, $14,000,000 for fiscal year 2026, $15,000,000 
for fiscal year 2027, and $16,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.; 
was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Nehls (Nehls 073) (ANS 53); At the end 
of subtitle A of title VI, add the following: SEC. 6ll. SMALL 
UNMANNED AIRCRAFT PILOT RESEARCH FOR PUBLIC SAFETY. (a) IN 
GENERAL.--Chapter 448 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following: ``Sec.  44811. 
Small unmanned aircraft pilot research for public safety ``(a) 
PROHIBITION REGARDING WEAPONS.--The prohibition regarding 
unmanned aircraft armed with dangerous weapons under section 
363 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44802 
note) is reaffirmed. ``(b) PILOT RESEARCH PROGRAM.--``(1) IN 
GENERAL.--Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment 
of this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall initiate a pilot research program to study 
the potential use of non-lethal de-escalation unmanned aircraft 
by law enforcement agencies. ``(2) CONTENTS.--The study 
required under subsection (b) shall address--``(A) the process 
of assessing and validating non-lethal de-escalation equipment 
that may be attached to unmanned aircraft; ``(B) training 
protocols for law enforcement and agents of the Administration; 
and ``(C) operational and safety protocols for operators of 
non-lethal de-escalation unmanned aircraft and agencies 
directly overseeing the operation of such unmanned aircraft. 
``(3) PARTNERSHIPS.--The Administrator shall enter into 
interagency agreements with the Departments of Justice, 
Department of Homeland Security, or State agencies with regard 
to the pilot research program established under this 
subsection. The Administrator may consider unmanned aircraft 
test ranges designated under section 44803, or Federal or State 
law enforcement training facilities as locations for such 
program. ``(4) 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 a report on the results of the pilot research 
program that includes a description of a potential process 
through which an applicant to such program may seek permission 
from the Administrator to operate non-lethal de-escalation 
unmanned aircraft. ``(c) RULEMAKING.--Not later than 6 months 
after receiving the report set required under subsection 
(b)(4), the Administrator shall initiate a rulemaking to create 
a process through which the Administrator shall initiate a 
rulemaking to create a process through which the Administrator 
may provide approval to operate non-lethal de-escalation 
unmanned aircraft. ``(d) MANUFACTURING REQUIREMENT.--Any non-
lethal de-escalation unmanned aircraft used under the pilot 
research program shall be manufactured in the United States, as 
defined by the Federal Trade Commission under part 323 of title 
16, Code of Federal Regulations. ``(e) DEFINITIONS OF NON-
LETHAL DE-ESCALATION UNMANNED AIRCRAFT.--In this section: ``(1) 
NON-LETHAL DE-ESCALATION UNMANNED AIRCRAFT.--The term `non-
lethal de-escalation unmanned aircraft' means an unmanned 
aircraft equipped with 1 or more non-lethal weapons or devices 
that is--``(A) used by law enforcement personnel in scenarios 
that present significant risk to human life, including the life 
of law enforcement personnel, captives, uninvolved individuals, 
the public, or a suspected criminal; and in which the suspected 
criminal is in an position through which he or she could 
potentially escalate the situation and expose human life to a 
high level of risk. ``(2) NON LETHAL WEAPON.--The term `non-
lethal weapon' has the meaning given the term in used in DOD 
Directive Number 300.03E, issued on August 31, 2018, by the 
Department of Defense.''. (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.--The analysis 
for chapter 448 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following: ``44811. Small unmanned 
aircraft pilot research for public safety.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Huffman (Huffman 030) (ANS 54); 
Beginning on page 679, line 25, strike ``332,000,000 for fiscal 
year 2024, $312,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, $300,000,000 for 
fiscal year 2026, $265,000,000 for fiscal year 2027, and 
$252,000,000 for fiscal year 2028'' and insert ``335,000,000 
for fiscal year 2024, $340,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, 
$342,000,000 for fiscal year 2026, $342,000,000 for fiscal year 
2027, and $350,000,000 for fiscal year 2028''.; was NOT AGREED 
TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Perry (Perry 200) (ANS 55); At the end 
of title VIII of the bill, add the following: SEC. 834. 
PREVAILING WAGES. Section 47112(b) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by inserting ``This subsection applies to an 
airport development project only if the total cost of the 
project exceeds $150,000 (with the Secretary of Transportation 
adjusting such amount for inflation each year).'' after 
``bids.''.; was NOT AGREED TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Perry (Perry 203) (ANS 56); Strike 
section 429.; was NOT AGREED TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Huffman (Huffman 029) (ANS 57); 
Beginning on page 679, line 25, strike ``332,000,000 for fiscal 
year 2024, $312,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, $300,000,000 for 
fiscal year 2026, $265,000,000 for fiscal year 2027, and 
$252,000,000 for fiscal year 2028'' and insert ``335,000,000 
for fiscal year 2024, $340,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, 
$342,000,000 for fiscal year 2026, $342,000,000 for fiscal year 
2027, and $350,000,000 for fiscal year 2028''.; was NOT AGREED 
TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Yakym (Yakym 020) (ANS 58); Page 575, 
after line 2, insert the following: (J) Commercial drone 
industry associations.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Perry (Perry 218) (ANS 59); At the end 
of the bill, add the following: TITLE X--FREEDOM TO FLY ACT OF 
2023 SECTION 1001. SHORT TITLE. This title may be cited as the 
``Freedom to Fly Act of 2023''. SEC. 1002. PROHIBITION ON 
IMPLEMENTATION OF VACCINATION MANDATE. The Administrator may 
not implement or enforce any requirement that employees of air 
carriers be vaccinated against COVID-19. SEC. 1003. PROHIBITION 
ON VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR FAA CONTRACTORS. The 
Administrator may not require any contractor to mandate that 
employees of such contractor obtain a COVID-19 vaccine or 
enforce any condition regarding COVID-19 vaccination status of 
employees of a contractor. SEC. 1004. PROHIBITION ON VACCINE 
MANDATE FOR FAA EMPLOYEES. The Administrator may not implement 
or enforce any requirement that employees of the Administration 
be vaccinated against COVID-19. SEC. 1005. PROHIBITION ON 
VACCINE MANDATE FOR PASSENGERS OF AIR CARRIERS. The 
Administrator may not implement or enforce any requirement that 
passengers of air carriers be vaccinated against COVID-19. SEC. 
1006. PROHIBITION ON IMPLEMENTATION OF A MASK MANDATE. The 
Administrator may not implement or enforce any requirement that 
employee of air carriers wear a mask. SEC. 1007. PROHIBITION ON 
MASK MANDATES FOR FAA CONTRACTORS. The Administrator may not 
require any contractor to mandate that employees of such 
contractor wear a mask. SEC. 1008. PROHIBITION ON MASK MANDATE 
FOR FAA EMPLOYEES. The Administrator may not implement or 
enforce any requirement that employees of the Administration 
wear a mask. SEC. 1009. PROHIBITION ON MASK MANDATE FOR 
PASSENGERS OF AIR CARRIERS. The Administrator may not implement 
or enforce any requirement that passengers of air carriers wear 
a mask. SEC. 1010. DEFINITIONS. In this title: (1) 
ADMINISTRATOR.--The term ``Administration'' means the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration. (2) AIR 
CARRIER.--The term ``air carrier'' has the meaning given such 
term in section 40102 of title 49, United States Code.; was 
AGREED TO by a recorded vote of 33 yeas and 32 nays (Roll Call 
No. 021).

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Perry (Perry 207) (ANS 60); Strike 
section 419 of the bill and insert the following: SEC. 419. 
REPEAL. Section 47136 of title 49, United States Code, is 
repealed.; was NOT AGREED TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Perry (Perry 222) (ANS 61); At the end 
of title VIII of the bill, add the following: SEC. 834. AIR 
TRAFFIC CONTROLLER SEPARATION. Section 8335(a) of title 5, 
United States Code, is amended--(1) by striking ``56 years of 
age'' and inserting ``58 years of age''; and (2) by striking 
``61 years of age'' and inserting ``63 years of age''.; was NOT 
AGREED TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. DeSaulnier (DeSaulnier 017) (ANS 62); 
At the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__.TASK FORCE 
ON HUMAN FACTORS IN AVIATION SAFETY. (a) IN GENERAL.--Not later 
than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
convene a task force on human factors in aviation safety (in 
this section referred to as the ``Task Force''). (b) 
COMPOSITION.--The Task Force shall consist of members appointed 
by the Administrator and having expertise in an operational or 
academic discipline that is relevant to the analysis of human 
errors in aviation. The number of members shall be determined 
by the Administrator to ensure sufficient representation of 
relevant operational and academic disciplines. (c) DURATION.--
(1) IN GENERAL.--Members of the Task Force shall be appointed 
for the length of the existence of the Task Force. (2) LENGTH 
OF EXISTENCE.--(A) IN GENERAL.--The Task Force shall have an 
initial length of existence of 2 years. (B) OPTION.--The 
Administrator may exercise an option to lengthen the duration 
of the existence of the Task Force for a period of 2 years. (d) 
DISCIPLINES.--For purposes of subsection (b), disciplines may 
include air carrier operations, line pilot expertise, air 
traffic control, technical operations, aeronautical 
information, aircraft maintenance and mechanics psychology, 
linguistics, human-machine integration, general aviation 
operations, and organizational behavior and culture. (e) 
EXPERTISE.--(1) IN GENERAL.--No less than half of the members 
shall have expertise in aviation. (2) ADDITIONAL EXPERTISE.--
The Task Force shall include members with expertise on human 
factors but whose experience and training are not in aviation 
specifically and who have not previously been engaged in work 
related to the Federal Aviation Administration or the aviation 
industry. The Task Force shall also include pilot labor 
organization, certificated mechanic labor organizations, and at 
least one member from an air traffic controller labor 
organization. (f) FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MEMBERS.--(1) 
IN GENERAL.--Not more than 4 members may be employees of the 
Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation 
Safety Board, excluding representatives of the labor 
representatives of employees of the air traffic control system. 
Not more than 2 members may be employees of the National 
Transportation Safety Board. The Federal Aviation 
Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board 
members shall be non-voting. (2) FEDERAL AVIATION 
ADMINISTRATION EMPLOYEES.--Any member who is an Federal 
Aviation Administration employee shall have expertise in 
safety. (g) DUTIES.--In coordination with the Research, 
Engineering, and Development Advisory Committee established 
under section 44508 of title 49, United States Code, the Task 
Force shall--(1) not later than the date on which the Task 
Force is no longer in existence, produce a written report 
that--(A) to the greatest extent possible, identifies the most 
significant human factors and the relative contribution of such 
factors to aviation safety risk; (B) identifies new research 
priorities for research in human factors in aviation safety; 
(C) reviews existing products by other working groups related 
to human factors in aviation safety including the Commercial 
Aviation Safety Team (CAST)'s work pertaining to flight crew 
responses to abnormal events; (D) provides recommendations on 
potential revisions to any Federal Aviation Administration 
regulations and guidance pertaining to the certification of 
aircraft under part 25 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations, including sections related to presumed pilot 
response times and assumptions about the reliability of pilot 
performance during unexpected, stressful events; (E) reviews 
rules, regulations, or standards regarding flight crew rest and 
fatigue, as well as maintenance personnel rest and fatigue, 
that are used by a sample of international air carriers, 
including those deemed to be more stringent and less stringent 
than the current standards pertaining to United States air 
carriers, and identify risks to the National Airspace System 
from any such variation in standards across countries; (F) 
reviews pilot training requirements and recommend any revisions 
necessary to ensure adequate understanding of automated systems 
on aircraft; (G) reviews approach and landing misalignment and 
make any recommendations for improving these events; (H) 
identifies ways to enhance instrument landing system 
maintenance schedules; determines how a real-time smart system 
should be developed that informs the Air Traffic Control 
System, Airlines, and Airports about any changes in the state 
of runway and taxiway lights; and identifies how this system 
could be connected to the Federal Aviation Administration's 
maintenance system; (I) analyzes, with respect to human errors 
related to aviation safety of part 121 air carriers--(i) 
fatigue and distraction during critical phases of work among 
pilots or other aviation personnel; (ii) tasks and workload; 
(iii) organizational culture; (iv) communication among 
personnel; (v) adherence to safety procedures; (vi) mental 
state of personnel; and (vii) any other relevant factors that 
are the cause or potential cause of human error related to 
aviation safety; (J) includes a tabulation of the number of 
accidents, incidents, or aviation safety database entries 
received in which an item identified under subparagraph (I) was 
a cause or potential cause of human error related to aviation 
safety; and (K) includes a list of causes or potential causes 
of human error related to aviation safety about which the 
Administrator believes additional information is needed; and 
(2) if the Secretary exercises the option de23 scribed in 
subsection (c)(2)(B), not later than the date that is 2 years 
after the date of establishment of the Task Force, produce an 
interim report containing the information described in 
paragraph (1). (h) METHODOLOGY.--To complete the report under 
subparagraphs (I) through (K) of subsection (g)(1), the Task 
Force shall consult with the National Transportation Safety 
Board and use all available data compiled and analysis 
conducted on safety incidents and irregularities collected 
during the relevant fiscal year from the following: (1) Flight 
Operations Quality Assurance. (2) Aviation Safety Action 
Program. (3) Aviation Safety Information Analysis and Sharing. 
(4) The Aviation Safety Reporting System. (5) Aviation safety 
recommendations and investigation findings of the National 
Transportation Safety Board. (6) Other relevant programs or 
sources. (i) APPLICABLE LAW.--Section 1013 of title 5, United 
States Code, shall not apply to the Task Force.; was NOT AGREED 
TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Perry (Perry 214) (ANS 63); Page 256, 
line 1, strike ``or labor''. Page 256, line 7, strike ``or 
labor''.; was NOT AGREED TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Garamendi (Garamendi 062) (ANS 64); At 
the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__. PROJECT 
DELIVERY INNOVATION. (a) IN GENERAL.--Subchapter I of chapter 
471 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at 
the end the following: ``Sec. 47145. Project delivery 
innovation ``(a) IN GENERAL.--The Secretary of Transportation 
shall allow any airport eligible to receive grants under this 
subchapter to implement projects using funding made available 
under the heading `Federal Aviation Administration--Airport 
Infrastructure Grants' under title VIII of the Infrastructure 
Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58) through contracting 
mechanisms that would comply with existing law and regulations 
governing the use of Federal funding for airport projects under 
this subchapter through alternative delivery methods such as 
Construction Manager-at-Risk or Progressive Design Build. ``(b) 
PROCUREMENT.--The funding described in subsection (a) may be 
allocated to a non-federally procured existing project that is 
utilizing an alternative delivery method, as long as the 
eligible airport modifies existing contracts to incorporate the 
required Federal provisions.''. (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.--The 
analysis for subchapter I of chapter 471 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: 
``47145. Project delivery innovation.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Perry (Perry 220) (ANS 65); Page 691, 
line 11, strike ``and''. Page 691, line 13, strike the period 
and insert ``; and''. Page 691, after line 13, insert the 
following: (4) the sale or disposal of unneeded offices.; was 
NOT AGREED TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. DeSaulnier (DeSaulnier 016) (ANS 66); 
At the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC. 834. PAID 
FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE FOR FAA AND TSA EMPLOYEES. (a) IN 
GENERAL.--Section 40122(g)(5) of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended to read as follows: ``(5) FAMILY AND MEDICAL 
LEAVE.--``(A) PAID PARENTAL LEAVE.--``(i) IN GENERAL.--The 
Administrator shall implement a paid parental leave benefit for 
employees of the Administration that is, at a minimum, 
consistent with the paid parental leave benefits provided under 
section 6382 of title 5. ``(ii) ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS.--The 
paid parental leave benefit provided under clause (i) shall 
provide for the following: ``(I) The entitlement to leave for 
the placement of a son or daughter with the employee for 
adoption or foster care may commence prior to the placement of 
the son or daughter to be adopted for activities necessary to 
allow the adoption to proceed. ``(II) An employee may use leave 
for the birth of a son or daughter of the employee and in order 
to care for such son or daughter in the event that the employee 
experiences any of the following: ``(aa) A pregnancy loss. 
``(bb) An unsuccessful round of intrauterine insemination or of 
an assisted reproductive technology procedure. ``(cc) A failed 
adoption match or an adoption that is not finalized because it 
is contested by another party. ``(dd) A failed surrogacy 
arrangement. ``(ee) A diagnosis or event that impacts pregnancy 
or fertility. ``(III) An employee may use leave for the birth 
of a son or daughter of the employee and in order to care for 
such son or daughter in the event that the absence is necessary 
to care for a spouse or domestic partner who experiences a 
circumstance described in subclause (II). ``(IV)(aa) In the 
event that an employee gives birth to a child under a surrogacy 
arrangement, the employee may use leave for the birth of a son 
or daughter of the employee and in order to care for such son 
or daughter during such recovery period. ``(bb) For an employee 
who gives birth to a child under a surrogacy arrangement, the 
child shall be considered to be the child of the employee for 
purposes of determining entitlement to leave under provided 
pursuant to this subparagraph. ``(V) In the event that a child 
dies during the birth-giving parent's post-birth recovery 
period, the employee may use leave for the birth of a son or 
daughter of the employee and in order to care for such son or 
daughter during such recovery period. In the case of the 
employee who is not the birth-giving parent, such leave is 
available only to the extent the employee is providing care to 
the birth-giving parent. In these circumstances, an employee 
may not use paid leave, provided pursuant to subparagraph (B), 
that is described in paragraphs (C) or (D) section 102(a)(1) of 
the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993. ``(B) OTHER PAID 
FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE.--The Administrator shall implement a 
paid leave benefit for employees of the Administration that 
provides paid family and medical leave described in each of 
subparagraphs (C), (D), and (E) of section 102(a)(1) of the 
Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993. Such paid leave benefit 
shall be in addition to any other paid leave provided to 
employees.''. (b) TSA.--Section 111(d)(B) of the Aviation and 
Transportation Security Act is amended by adding after the 
period at the end the following: ``The provisions of paragraph 
(5)(A)(ii) and paragraph (5)(B) of section 40122(g) of title 
49, United States Code, shall apply to any individual appointed 
under paragraph (1).''. (c) APPLICATION.--Subparagraph (A)(ii) 
and subparagraph (B) of such section 40122(g)(5) (as added by 
subsection (a) of this section), and the amendment to 
subparagraph (B) of section 111(d) of the Aviation and 
Transportation Security Act under subsection (b) of this 
section, shall apply with respect to any event for which family 
and medical leave may be taken under any of such subparagraphs 
occurring on or after the date that is 6 months after the date 
of enactment of this Act.; was NOT AGREED TO by a recorded vote 
of 28 yeas and 37 nays (Roll Call No. 022).

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Perry (Perry 205) (ANS 67); At the end 
of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__. AIRSPACE 
CLEARINGHOUSE ENHANCEMENT. (a) STRUCTURES INTERFERING WITH AIR 
COMMERCE OR NATIONAL SECURITY.--Section 44718 of title 49, 
United States Code, is further amended--(1) in subsection (a), 
by inserting ``on a publicly available website'' after ``public 
notice''; (2) by redesignating subsection (h) as subsection (I; 
and (3) by inserting after subsection (g) the following: ``(h) 
SPECIAL RULE FOR ENERGY PROJECTS.--``(1) IN GENERAL.--Any 
person who is required to submit an application for an energy 
project under this section shall include in such application a 
disclosure of any relationship such person has with a foreign 
principal or with an agent of a foreign principal. ``(2) 
INACCURATE DISCLOSURE OF RELATIONSHIP WITH FOREIGN PRINCIPAL.--
``(A) IN GENERAL.--The Secretary of Transportation, in 
consultation with the Attorney General of the United States, 
shall establish a process to evaluate the accuracy of a 
disclosure made under paragraph (1) and determine whether a 
person has knowingly violated such paragraph. ``(B) INITIAL 
PENALTY FOR INACCURATE DISCLOSURE.--If the Secretary determines 
that a person has knowingly violated paragraph (1), such person 
shall be prohibited from submitting an application for an 
energy project under this section during the period beginning 
on the date on which the Secretary made the determination under 
subparagraph (A) and ending on the date that is 2 years after 
such determination. ``(C) PENALTIES FOR SUBSEQUENT INACCURATE 
DISCLOSURES.--If the Secretary determines that a person 
knowingly violates paragraph (1) after an initial violation 
under subparagraph (B), such person shall be permanently 
prohibited from submitting an application for an energy project 
under this section. ``(3) DEFINITIONS.--In this subsection: 
``(A) ENERGY PROJECT.--The term `energy project' has the 
meaning given such term in section 183a(h) of title 10. ``(B) 
FOREIGN PRINCIPAL; AGENT OF A FOREIGN PRINCIPAL.--The terms 
`foreign principal' and `agent of a foreign principal' have the 
meaning given such terms in section 1 of the Foreign Agents 
Registration Act of 1938 (22 U.S.C. 611).''. (b) REVIEW OF 
PROPOSED ACTIONS.--Section 183a(c)(3) of title 10, United 
States Code, is amended by inserting ``The Clearinghouse shall 
ensure that a governor has at least 120 days after the date on 
which the governor receives the notice of presumed risk to 
provide any such comments and shall provide detailed 
information and other information necessary to ensure that the 
governor can fully understand the nature of the presumed 
risk.'' after the first sentence.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Perry (Perry 201) (ANS 68); TITLE X--
ATC CORPORATION; was NOT AGREED TO by voice vote.

    En Bloc amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a 
Substitute to H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Graves of Missouri 
(Graves MO 016) (ANS 69 En Bloc); Page 199, line 10, insert 
``and may not duplicate the objectives of the Air Carrier 
Training Aviation Rulemaking Committee'' before the period at 
the end. Strike section 547 and insert the following: SEC. 547. 
INCREMENTAL SAFETY IMPROVEMENT. Section 44704 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
following: ``(h) INCREMENTAL SAFETY IMPROVEMENT.--``(1) IN 
GENERAL.--The Administrator may consider and approve a proposed 
incremental design change request from a type certificate 
holder, if such holder is required by the Administrator to make 
a safety-related design change to bring a product into 
compliance, even if the proposed incremental design change does 
not eliminate all non-compliant conditions. ``(2) PROPOSED 
INCREMENTAL DESIGN CHANGE.--A proposed incremental design 
change under paragraph (1) shall--``(A) be related to the 
required safety-related change described in this subsection; 
and ``(B) improve safety. ``(3) FULL COMPLIANCE.--An approval 
issued under this subsection shall not be construed to relive a 
type certificate holder from addressing all noncompliant 
conditions under paragraph (1).''. Strike section 744. Strike 
section 845 and insert the following: SEC. 845. CREWMEMBER 
PUMPING GUIDANCE. (a) IN GENERAL.--Not later than 180 days 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 
shall issue guidance to part 121 air carriers relating to the 
expression of milk by crewmembers on an aircraft during 
noncritical phases of flight, consistent with the performance 
of the crewmember's duties aboard the aircraft. The guidance 
shall be equally applicable to any lactating crewmember. In 
developing the guidance, the Administrator shall--(1) consider 
multiple methods of expressing breast milk that could be used 
by crewmembers, including the use of wearable lactation 
technology; and (2) ensure the guidance will not require an air 
carrier or foreign air carrier to incur significant expense, 
such as through--(A) the addition of an extra crewmember in 
response to providing a break; (B) removal or retrofitting of 
seats on the aircraft; or (C) modification or retrofitting of 
an aircraft. (b) DEFINITIONS.--In this section: (1) 
CREWMEMBER.--The term ``crewmember'' has the meaning given such 
term in section 1.1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations. 
(2) CRITICAL PHASES OF FLIGHT.--The term ``critical phases of 
flight'' has the meaning given such term in section 121.542 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations. (3) PART 121.--The term 
``part 121'' means part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations. (c) AVIATION SAFETY.--Nothing in this section 
shall limit the authority of the Administrator relating to 
aviation safety under subtitle VII of title 49, United States 
Code. (Norton 056) (ANS 69 En Bloc); Page 451, line 10, strike 
``18'' and insert ``12''. Page 451, line 15, insert ``, and 
training required for flight crew'' after ``medical kits'''. 
Page 451, line 18, insert ``(including the costs of flight 
diversions and emergency landings)'' after ``costs'''. Page 
451, strike lines 22 through 24 and insert the following: (2) 
whether the contents of the emergency medical kits include the 
appropriate medications and equipment that can practicably be 
administered to address--Page 452, after line 5, insert the 
following: (c) CONSULTATION.--In conducting the review required 
under subsection (a), the Administrator shall consult with 
associations representing aerospace medical professionals. 
(Molinaro 052 Revised) (ANS 69 En Bloc); Page 574, strike line 
23 and all that follows through page 575, line 2 and insert the 
following: (I) certified labor organizations representing 
commercial airline pilots, air traffic control specialists 
employed by the Administration, certified aircraft maintenance 
technicians, certified aircraft dispatchers, and aviation 
safety inspectors. Page 631, strike line 24. Page 632, strike 
lines 11 through 17 and insert the following: (16) certified 
labor organizations representing aviation workers, including--
(A) Federal Aviation Administration employees; (B) airline 
pilots working for air carriers operating under part 121 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; (C) flight attendants 
working for air carriers operating under part 121 of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations; and (D) other customer facing 
airline and airport workers; Page 692, strike lines 11 through 
13 and insert the following: (4) certified labor organizations 
representing flight attendants at air carriers operating under 
part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; (5) 
certified labor organizations representing aircraft maintenance 
technicians; (6) certified labor organizations representing 
other aviation workers, as appropriate; (Garamendi 065 Revised) 
(ANS 69 En Bloc); At the end of title VIII, add the following: 
SEC. 11. AIRCRAFT INTERCHANGE AGREEMENT LIMITATIONS. (a) IN 
GENERAL.--Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment 
of this section, the Administrator shall revise section part 
121.569 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to include 
each of the provisions described in subsection (b). (b) 
PROVISIONS DESCRIBED.--The provisions described in this 
subsection are the following: (1) A 30-day limit on foreign 
aircraft interchange agreements. (2) A minimum break between 
foreign aircraft interchange renewals of 90 days. (3) A limit 
of no more than 1 foreign aircraft interchange agreement 
between 2 airlines. (4) A limit of no more than 2 foreign 
aircraft on the interchange agreement.; (Edwards 012 Revised) 
(ANS 69 En Bloc); Page 280, after line 21, insert the 
following: (d) REPORT.--The Comptroller General of the United 
States shall issue a report on the Airports Office of the 
Federal Aviation Administration and the Airport Improvement 
Program and include in such report a description of--(1) the 
responsibilities of States participating in the block grant 
program under section 47128 of title 49, United States Code; 
and (2) the impact of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs 
Act (117-58) and other Federal administrative funding sources 
on the ability of such States to disburse and administer 
Airport Improvement Program funds.; (Ezell 007) (ANS 69 En 
Bloc); At the end of title VIII of the bill, add the following: 
SEC. 834. SECONDARY RUNWAYS. In approving grants for projects 
with funds made available pursuant to title VIII of division J 
of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-
58) under the heading ``Federal Aviation Administration--
Airport Infrastructure Grants'', the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall consider permitting a 
nonhub or small hub airport to use such funds to extend 
secondary runways, notwithstanding the level of operational 
activity as such airport.; (Molinaro 051 Revised) (ANS 69 En 
Bloc); Page 574, strike line 23 and all that follows through 
page 575, line 2 and insert the following: (I) certified labor 
organizations representing commercial airline pilots, air 
traffic control specialists employed by the Administration, 
certified aircraft maintenance technicians, certified aircraft 
dispatchers, and aviation safety inspectors. Page 631, strike 
line 24. Page 632, strike lines 11 through 17 and insert the 
following: (16) certified labor organizations representing 
aviation workers, including--(A) Federal Aviation 
Administration employees; (B) airline pilots working for air 
carriers operating under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations; (C) flight attendants working for air carriers 
operating under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations; and (D) other customer facing airline and airport 
workers; Page 692, strike lines 11 through 13 and insert the 
following: (4) certified labor organizations representing 
flight attendants at air carriers operating under part 121 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; (5) certified labor 
organizations representing aircraft maintenance technicians; 
(6) certified labor organizations representing other aviation 
workers, as appropriate; (Molinaro 053) (ANS 69 En Bloc); At 
the end of title VII, add the following: SEC.__. SPECIAL RULE 
FOR RECLASSIFICATION OF CERTAIN UNCLASSIFIED AIRPORTS. (a) 
REQUEST FOR RECLASSIFICATION.--(1) IN GENERAL.--Not later than 
September 30, 2024, a privately owned reliever airport (as 
defined in section 47102 of title 49, United States Code) that 
is identified as unclassified in the National Plan of 
Integrated Airport Systems, 2021-2025 (as published under 
section 47103 of title 49, United States Code) may submit to 
the Secretary of Transportation a request to reclassify the 
airport according to the criteria used to classify a publicly 
owned airport. (2) REQUIRED INFORMATION.--In submitting a 
request under paragraph (1), the privately owned reliever 
airport shall include the following information: (A) A sworn 
statement and accompanying documentation that demonstrates how 
the airport would satisfy the requirements of Federal Aviation 
Administration Order 5090.5, titled ``Formulation of the NPIAS 
and ACIP'', (or any successor guidance) to be classified as 
``Local'' or ``Basic'' if the airport was publicly owned. (B) A 
report that--(i) identifies the role of the airport to the 
aviation system; and (ii) describes the long-term fiscal 
viability of the airport based on demonstrated aeronautical 
activity and associated revenues relative to ongoing operating 
and maintenance costs. (b) ELIGIBILITY REVIEW.--(1) IN 
GENERAL.--Not later than 60 days after receiving a request from 
a privately owned reliever airport under subsection (a), the 
Secretary of Transportation shall perform an eligibility review 
with respect to the airport, including an assessment of the 
airport's safety, security, capacity, access, compliance with 
Federal grant assurances, and protection of natural resources 
and the quality of the environment, as prescribed by the 
Secretary. (2) PUBLIC SPONSOR.--In performing the eligibility 
review under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Transportation--
(A) may require the airport requesting reclassification to 
provide information regarding the outlook (whether positive or 
negative) for obtaining a public sponsor; and (B) may not 
require the airport to obtain a public sponsor. (c) 
RECLASSIFICATION BY THE SECRETARY.--(1) IN GENERAL.--Not later 
than 60 days after receiving a request from a privately owned 
reliever airport under subsection (a)(1), the Secretary of 
Transportation shall grant such request if the following 
criteria are met: (A) The request includes the required 
information under subsection (a)(2). (B) The privately owned 
reliever airport, to the satisfaction of the Secretary--(i) 
passes the eligibility review performed under subsection (b); 
or (ii) submits a corrective action plan in accordance with 
paragraph (2). (2) CORRECTIVE ACTION PLAN.--With respect to a 
privately owned reliever airport that does not, to the 
satisfaction of the Secretary, pass the eligibility review 
performed under subsection (b), such airport may resubmit to 
the Secretary a reclassification request along with a 
corrective action plan that--(A) resolves any shortcomings 
identified in such eligibility review; and (B) proves that any 
necessary corrective action has been completed by the airport. 
(d) EFFECTIVE DATE.--The reclassification of any privately 
owned reliever airport under this section shall take effect not 
later than--(1) fiscal year 2025 for any request granted under 
subsection (c)(1); and (2) fiscal year 2026 for any request 
granted after the submission of a corrective action plan under 
subsection (c)(2).; (Gooden TX 036) (ANS 69 En Bloc); At the 
end of title VIII, add the following: SEC. 811. FEDERAL 
AVIATION ADMINISTRATION ACADEMY AND FACILITY EXPANSION PLAN. 
(a) PLAN.--(1) IN GENERAL.--No later than 90 days after the 
date of enactment of this section, the Administrator shall 
initiate the development of a plan to--(A) expand overall FAA 
capacity relating to facilities, instruction, equipment, and 
training resources to grow the number of developmental air 
traffic controllers enrolled per fiscal year and support 
increases in FAA air controller staffing to advance the safety 
of the national airspace system; and (B) establish a second FAA 
Academy. (2) CONSIDERATIONS.--In developing the plan under 
paragraph (1), the Administrator shall con17 sider--(A) the 
resources needed to support an increase in the total number of 
developmental air traffic controllers enrolled at the FAA 
Academies; (B) the resources needed to lessen FAA Academy 
attrition per fiscal year; (C) how to modernize the education 
and training of developmental air traffic controllers, 
including through the use of new techniques and technologies to 
support instruction, and whether field training can be 
administered more flexibly, such as at other FAA locations 
across the country; (D) the equipment needed to support 
expanded instruction, including air traffic control simulation 
systems, virtual reality, and other virtual training platforms; 
(E) projected staffing needs associated with FAA Academy 
expansion and the operation of virtual education platforms, 
including the number of on-the-job instructors needed to 
educate and train additional developmental air traffic 
controllers; (F) the use of existing FAA-owned facilities and 
classroom space and identifying potential opportunities for new 
construction; (G) the costs of--(i) expanding FAA capacity (as 
described in paragraph (1)(A)); and (ii) establishing a second 
FAA Academy (as described in paragraph (1)(B)); (H) soliciting 
input from, and coordinating with, relevant stakeholders as 
appropriate, including the exclusive bargaining representative 
of air traffic control specialists of the FAA certified under 
section 7111 of title 5, United States Code; and (I) other 
logistical and financial considerations as determined by 
appropriate the Administrator. (b) REPORT.--Not later than one 
year after the date of enactment of this section, the 
Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of 
Congress the plan developed under subsection (a). (c) 
BRIEFING.--Not later than 180 days after the submission of the 
plan under subsection (b), the Administrator shall brief the 
appropriate committees of Congress on the plan, including the 
implementation of the plan.; (Johnson SD 033) (ANS 69 En Bloc); 
Page 679, strike lines 17 through 20 and insert the following: 
(3) SECTION 41731.--Section 41731 of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended--(A) in subsection (c) by inserting ``and 
section 41737(a)(1)(F)'' after ``subsection (a)(1)''; and (B) 
in subsection (d) by inserting ``and section 41737(a)(1)(F)'' 
after ``subsection (a)(1)(B)''.; (Stauber 017) (ANS 69 En 
Bloc); Page 679, line 16, strike ``not greater than''.; 
(Stauber 018) (ANS 69 En Bloc); Page 640, strike line 3 and all 
that follows through page 643, line 3 and insert the following: 
(d) FEASIBILITY OF IN CABIN WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINT SYSTEMS.--(1) 
ROADMAP.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this section, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate 
committees of Congress a publicly available strategic roadmap 
that describes how the Department of Transportation and the 
United States Access Board, respectively, shall, in accordance 
with the recommendations from the National Academies of 
Science, Engineering, and Mathematics Transportation Research 
Board Special Report 341--(A) establish a program of research, 
in collaboration with the Rehabilitation Engineering and 
Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA), the 
assistive technology industry, air carriers, original equipment 
manufacturers, national disability and disabled veterans 
organizations, and any other relevant stakeholders, to test and 
evaluate an appropriate selection of WC19-compliant wheelchairs 
and accessories in accordance with applicable FAA 
crashworthiness and safety performance criteria, including the 
issues and considerations set forth in Special Report 341; and 
(B) sponsor studies that assess issues and considerations, 
including those set forth in Special Report 341, such as--(i) 
the likely demand for air travel by individuals who are 
nonambulatory if such individuals could remain seated in their 
personal wheelchairs in flight; and (ii) the feasibility of 
implementing seating arrangements that would accommodate 
passengers in wheelchairs in the main cabin in flight. (2) 
STUDY.--If determined to be technically feasible by the 
Secretary, not later than 2 years after making such 
determination, the Secretary shall commence a study to assess 
the economic and financial feasibility of air carriers and 
foreign air carriers implementing seating arrangements that 
accommodate passengers with wheelchairs (including power 
wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, and scooters) in the main 
cabin during flight. Such study shall include an assessment 
of--(A) the cost of such seating arrangements, equipment, and 
installation; (B) the demand for such seating arrangements; (C) 
the impact of such seating arrangements on passenger seating 
and safety on aircraft; (D) the impact of such seating 
arrangements on the cost of operations and airfare; and (E) any 
other information determined appropriate by the Secretary. (3) 
REPORT.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which the 
study under paragraph (2) is completed, the Secretary shall 
submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a publicly 
available report describing the results of the study conducted 
under paragraph (2), together with any recommendations the 
Secretary determines appropriate.; (Auchincloss 017) (ANS 69 En 
Bloc); At the end of title VIII of the bill, add the following: 
SEC. 834. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION. Nothing in this Act shall be 
construed to--(1) prevent airports from engaging in curb 
management practices, including determining and assigning curb 
designations, regulations, and to install and maintain upon any 
of the roadways or parts of roadways as many curb zones as 
necessary to aid in the regulation, control, and inspection of 
passenger loading and unloading; or (2) prevent airports from 
enforcing curb zones using sensor, camera, automated license 
plate recognition, and software technologies and issuing 
citations by mail to the registered owner of the vehicle.; 
(Titus 057) (ANS 69 En Bloc); At the end of subtitle A of title 
VII, add the following: SEC. 7_. IMPROVED TRAINING STANDARDS 
FOR ASSISTING PASSENGERS WHO USE WHEELCHAIRS. (a) RULEMAKING.--
Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this 
section, the Secretary shall issue a notice of proposed 
rulemaking to develop requirements for minimum training 
standards for airline personnel or contractors who assist 
wheelchair users who must board or deplane using an aisle chair 
or other boarding device. (b) REQUIREMENTS.--The training 
standards developed under subsection (a) shall require, at a 
minimum, that airline personnel or contractors who assist 
wheelchair users who must board or deplane using an aisle chair 
or other boarding device--(1) complete refresher training 
within 18 months and be recertified on the job within 18 months 
by a superior in order to remain qualified for providing aisle 
chair assistance; and (2) be able to successfully demonstrate 
the each of following skills in hands-on training sessions 
before being allowed to board or deplane a passenger using an 
aisle chair or other boarding device: (A) How to safely use the 
aisle chair, or other boarding device, including the use of all 
straps, brakes, and other safety features. (B) How to assist in 
the transfer of passengers to and from their wheelchair, the 
aisle chair, and the aircraft's passenger seat, either by 
physically lifting the passenger or deploying a mechanical 
device for the lift or transfer. (C) How to effectively 
communicate with, and take instruction from, the passenger. (c) 
CONSIDERATIONS.--In conducting the rulemaking under subsection 
(a), the Secretary shall consider, at a minimum--(1) whether to 
require air carriers and foreign air carriers to partner with 
national disability organizations and disabled veterans 
organizations representing individuals with disabilities who 
use wheelchairs and scooters in developing and reviewing 
training; and (2) whether individuals able to provide boarding 
and deplaning assistance for passengers with limited or no 
mobility should receive training incorporating procedures from 
medical professionals on how to properly lift these passengers. 
(d) FINAL RULE.--Not later than 12 months after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Secretary shall issue a final 
rule pursuant to the rulemaking conducted under this section. 
(e) PENALTIES.--The Secretary may assess a civil penalty in 
accordance with section 46301 of title 49, United States Code, 
to any air carrier or foreign air carrier who fails to meet the 
requirements established under the final rule under subsection 
(d). SEC. 7_. TRAINING STANDARDS FOR STOWAGE OF WHEELCHAIRS AND 
SCOOTERS. (a) RULEMAKING.--Not later than 6 months after the 
date of enactment of this section, the Secretary shall issue a 
notice of proposed rulemaking to develop minimum training 
standards related to stowage of wheelchairs and scooters on 
aircraft. (b) REQUIREMENTS.--The training standards developed 
under subsection (a) shall require, at a minimum, that airline 
personnel or contractors who stow wheelchairs and scooters on 
aircraft--(1) complete refresher training within 18 months and 
be recertified on the job within 18 months by a superior in 
order to remain qualified for handling and stowing wheelchairs 
and scooters; and (2) be able to successfully demonstrate the 
each of following skills in hands-on training sessions before 
being allowed to handle or stow a wheelchair or scooter: (A) 
How to properly handle and configure, at a minimum on a common 
design for power and manual wheelchairs and scooters for 
stowage on each aircraft type operated by the air carrier or 
foreign air carrier. (B) How to properly review any wheelchair 
or scooter information provided by the passenger or the 
assistive device manufacturer. (C) How to properly load, 
secure, and unload wheelchairs and scooters, including how to 
use any specialized equipment for loading or unloading, on each 
aircraft type operated by the air carrier or foreign air 
carrier. (c) CONSIDERATIONS.--In conducting the rulemaking 
under subsection (a), the Secretary shall consider, at a 
minimum whether to require air carriers and foreign air 
carriers to partner with wheelchair manufacturers, national 
disability and disabled veterans organizations resenting 
individuals who use wheelchairs and scooters, and aircraft 
manufacturers, in developing training. (d) FINAL RULE.--Not 
later than 12 months after the date of enactment of this 
section, the Secretary shall issue a final rule pursuant to the 
rulemaking conducted under this section. (e) PENALTIES.--The 
Secretary may assess a civil penalty in accordance with section 
46301 of title 49, United States Code, to any air carrier or 
foreign air carrier who fails to meet the requirements 
established under the final rule under subsection (d). SEC. 
711. INVESTIGATION OF COMPLAINTS. Section 41705(c) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking paragraph (1), and 
inserting the following: ``(1) IN GENERAL.--The Secretary 
shall--``(A) not later than 120 days after the receipt of any 
complaint of a violation of this section or a regulation 
prescribed under this section, investigate such complaint; and 
``(B) provide, in writing, to the individual that filed the 
complaint and the air carrier or foreign air carrier alleged to 
have violated this section or a regulation prescribed under 
this section, the determination of the Secretary with respect 
to--``(i) whether the air carrier or foreign air carrier 
violated this section or a regulation prescribed under this 
section; ``(ii) the facts underlying the complaint; and ``(iii) 
any action the Secretary is taking in response to the 
complaint.''.''. At the end of subtitle B of title VII, insert 
the following: SEC. 754. STANDARDS. (a) AIRCRAFT ACCESS 
STANDARDS.--(1) STANDARDS.--(A) ADVANCE NOTICE OF PROPOSED 
RULEMAKING.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this section, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue an 
advanced notice of proposed rulemaking regarding standards to 
ensure that the aircraft boarding and deplaning process is 
accessible, in terms of deign for and transportation of, and 
communication with, individuals with disabilities, including 
individuals who use wheelchairs. (B) NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULE 
MAKING.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which the 
advanced notice of proposed rulemaking under subparagraph (A) 
is completed, the Secretary shall issue a notice of proposed 
rulemaking regarding standards addressed in subparagraph (A). 
(C) FINAL RULE.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which 
the notice of proposed rulemaking under subparagraph (B) is 
completed, the Secretary shall issue a final rule. (2) COVERED 
AIRPORT, EQUIPMENT, AND FEATURES.--The standards prescribed 
under paragraph (1)(A) shall address, at a minimum--(A) 
boarding and deplaning equipment; (B) improved procedures to 
ensure the priority cabin stowage for manual assistive devices 
pursuant to section 382.67 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations; and (C) improved cargo hold storage to prevent 
damage to assistive devices. (3) CONSULTATION.--For purposes of 
the rulemaking in subsection (a), the Secretary shall consult 
with the Access Board and any other relevant department or 
agency to determine appropriate accessibility standards. (b) IN 
FLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT RULEMAKING.--Not later than 1 year after 
the date of the enactment of this section, the Secretary shall 
issue a notice of proposed rulemaking in accordance with the 
November 22, 2016 Resolution of the U.S. Department of 
Transportation ACCESS Committee's and the consensus 
recommendation set forth in Term Sheet Reflecting Agreement of 
the Access Committee Regarding In-Flight Entertainment. (c) 
NEGOTIATED RULEMAKING ON IN CABIN WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINT SYSTEMS 
AND ENPLANING AND DEPLANING STANDARDS.--(1) TIMING.--(A) IN 
GENERAL.--Not later than 1 year after completion of the report 
required by section 735(d)(3), and if that report finds 
economic and financial feasibility of air carriers and foreign 
air carriers implementing seating arrangements that accommodate 
passengers with wheelchairs (including power wheelchairs, 
manual wheelchairs, and scooters) in the main cabin during 
flight, the Secretary shall conduct a negotiated rulemaking on 
new type certificated aircraft standards for seating 
arrangements that accommodate passengers with wheelchairs 
(including power wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, and scooters) 
in the main cabin during flight or an accessible route to a 
minimum of 2 aircraft passenger seats for passengers to access 
from their personal assistive devices. (B) REQUIREMENT.--The 
negotiated rulemaking shall include participation of 
representatives of--(i) air carriers; (ii) aircraft 
manufacturers; (iii) national disability organizations; (iv) 
aviation safety experts; and (v) mobility aid manufacturers. 
(2) NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING.--Not later than 1 year after 
the completion of the negotiated rulemaking required by 
paragraph (1), the Secretary shall issue a notice of proposed 
rulemaking regarding the standards in paragraph (1). (3) FINAL 
RULE.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which the notice 
of proposed rulemaking under paragraph (2) is completed, the 
Secretary shall issue a final rule regarding the standards in 
paragraph (1). (4) CONSIDERATIONS.--In the negotiated 
rulemaking and rulemaking required under this subsection, the 
Secretary shall consider-- (A) a reasonable period for the 
design, certification, and construction of aircraft that meet 
the requirements; (B) the safety of all persons on-board the 
aircraft, including necessary wheelchair standards and 
wheelchair compliance with FAA crashworthiness and safety 
performance criteria; and (C) the costs of design, 
installation, equipage, and aircraft capacity impacts, 
including partial fleet equipage and fare impacts. (d) VISUAL 
AND TACTILELY ACCESSIBLE ANNOUNCEMENTS.--The Advisory Committee 
established under section 439(g) of the FAA Reauthorization Act 
of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 41705 note) (as amended by section 731) 
shall examine technical solutions and the feasibility of 
visually and tactilely accessible announcements on-board 
aircraft. (e) AIRPORT FACILITIES.--Not later than 2 years after 
the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall, in 
direct consultation with the Access Board, prescribe 
regulations setting forth minimum standards under section 41705 
of title 49, United States Code (commonly known as the ``Air 
Carrier Access Act''), that ensure all gates (including 
counters), ticketing areas, and customer service desks covered 
under such section at airports are accessible to and usable by 
all individuals with disabilities, including through the 
provision of visually and tactilely accessible announcements 
and full and equal access to aural communications. (f) 
DEFINITIONS.--In this section: (1) ACCESS BOARD.--The term 
``Access board'' means the Architectural and Transportation 
Barriers Compliance Board. (2) AIR CARRIER.--The term ``air 
carrier'' has the meaning given such term in section 40102 of 
title 49, United States Code. (3) INDIVIDUAL WITH A 
DISABILITY.--The term ``individual with a disability'' has the 
meaning given such term in section 382.3 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations. (4) FOREIGN AIR CARRIER.--The term 
``foreign air carrier'' has the meaning given such term in 
section 40102 of title 49, United States Code.; was AGREED TO 
by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Ryan (Ryan 017) (ANS 70); Strike 
section 829 and insert the following: SEC._. CREW TRAINING. 
Section 44918(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``and unruly passenger 
behavior'' before the period at the end; (2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting the following: 
``(A) Recognize suspicious behavior and activities and 
determine the seriousness of any occurrence.''; (B) in 
subparagraph (D), by inserting ``, including training to defend 
against the use of edged or contact weapons'' before the period 
at the end; (C) by striking subparagraph (H) and inserting the 
following: ``(H) De-escalation training based on 
recommendations issued by the Air Carrier Training Aviation 
Rulemaking Committee.''; (D) by redesignating subparagraphs (I) 
and (J) as subparagraphs (J) and (K), respectively; and (E) by 
inserting after subparagraph (H) the following: ``(I) Methods 
to subdue and restrain an active attacker.''; (3) by striking 
paragraph (4) and inserting the following: ``(4) MINIMUM 
STANDARDS.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, the Administrator of 
the Transportation Security Administration, in consultation 
with the Federal Air Marshal Service and the Aviation Security 
Advisory Committee, shall establish minimum standards for-- 
``(A) the training provided under this subsection and for 
recurrent training; and ``(B) the individuals or entities 
providing such training.''; (4) in paragraph (6)--(A) in the 
first sentence--(i) by inserting ``and the Federal Air Marshal 
Service'' after ``consultation with the Administrator''; (ii) 
by striking ``and periodically shall'' and inserting ``and 
shall periodically''; and (iii) by inserting ``based on changes 
in the potential or actual threat conditions'' before the 
period at the end; and (B) in the second sentence, by inserting 
``, including self-defense training expertise and experience'' 
before the period at the end; and (5) by adding at the end the 
following: ``(8) AIR CARRIER ACCOMMODATION.--An air carrier 
with a crew member participating in the training program under 
this subsection shall provide a process through which each such 
crew member may obtain reasonable accommodations.''.; was NOT 
AGREED TO by voice vote.

    En Bloc amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a 
Substitute to H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. LaMalfa 032 (LaMalfa 
032) (ANS 71 En Bloc); At the end of title VIII, add the 
following: SEC. 11. WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION. (a) IN GENERAL.--To 
ensure that sufficient firefighting resources are available to 
suppress wildfires and6 protect public safety and property, and 
notwithstanding any other provision of law or agency 
regulation, not later than 18 months after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall promulgate an interim final rule 
under which--(1) an operation described in section 21.25(b)(7) 
of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, shall allow for the 
transport of firefighters to and from the site of a wildfire to 
perform ground wildfire suppression and designate the 
firefighters conducting such an operation as essential 
crewmembers on board a covered aircraft operated on a mission 
to suppress wildfire; (2) the aircraft maintenance, 
inspections, and pilot training requirements under part 135 of 
such title 14 may apply to such an operation, if determined by 
the Administrator to be necessary to maintain the safety of 
firefighters carrying out wildfire suppression missions; and 
(3) the noise standards described in part 36 of such title 14 
shall not apply to such an operation. (b) SURPLUS MILITARY 
AIRCRAFT.--In promulgating any rule under subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall not enable any aircraft of a type that has 
been manufactured in accordance with the requirements of and 
accepted for use by, any branch of the United States Military 
and has been later modified to be used for wildfire suppression 
operations. (c) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS TO FAA DOCUMENTS.--In 
promulgating an interim final rule under sub16 section (a), the 
Administrator shall amend FAA Order 8110.56, Restricted 
Category Type Certification (dated February 27, 2006), as well 
as any corresponding policy or guidance material, to reflect 
the requirements of subsection (a). (d) SAVINGS PROVISION.--
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the 
Administrator's authority to take action otherwise authorized 
by law to protect aviation safety or passenger safety. (e) 
DEFINITIONS.--In this section: (1) COVERED AIRCRAFT.--The term 
``covered aircraft'' means an aircraft type-certificated in the 
restricted category under section 21.25 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations, used for transporting firefighters to and 
from the site of a wildfire in order to perform ground wildfire 
suppression for the purpose of extinguishing a wildfire on 
behalf of, or pursuant to a contract with, a Federal, State, or 
local government agency. (2) FIREFIGHTERS.--The term 
``firefighters'' means a trained fire suppression professional 
the transport of whom is necessary to accomplish a wildfire 
suppression operation. (LaMalfa 033) (ANS 71 En Bloc); At the 
end of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__. BANNING MUNICIPAL 
AIRPORT. (a) FINDINGS.--Congress finds the following: (1) In 
2016, the City of Banning commissioned an Airport Feasibility 
Study to analyze the future of the Banning Municipal Airport. 
The study found that--(A) the Banning Airport had a 71 percent 
reduction in traffic from 2010 to 2015, drastically reducing 
revenues and creating a financial burden for the city; (B) the 
Banning Municipal Airport lacks the needed infrastructure, 
amenities or superior location to successfully compete with 
other airports for more business; and (C) the hangars available 
at Banning Municipal Airport are lacking as compared to other 
nearby airports. (2) The closure of Banning Municipal Airport's 
operations is supported by the community and the Banning City 
Council who voted in 2017 on a resolution ``declaring that it 
shall be a goal of the city of Banning to close the Banning 
Municipal Airport as soon as legally permitted.''. (3) The 
closure of the airport would benefit the Morongo Band of 
Mission Indians by removing aviation easements on lands held in 
trust adjacent to the airport. (4) The repurposing of the land 
for industrial use such as distribution, logistics, e-commerce 
and light manufacturing will lead to job creation, sales tax 
and demand for housing. (b) IN GENERAL.--The United States, 
acting through the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration, shall release the City of Banning, California, 
from all restrictions, conditions, and limitations on the use, 
encumbrance, conveyance, and closure of the Banning Municipal 
Airport, as described in the most recent airport layout plan 
approved by the Federal Aviation Administration, to the extent 
such restrictions, conditions, and limitations are enforceable 
by the Administrator. (c) CONDITIONS.--The release under 
subsection (b) shall not be executed before the City of 
Banning, California, or its designee, transfers to the 
Department of Transportation of the State of California--(1) 
the amounts described in subsection (d), to be used for FAA-
approved capital improvements within the meaning of airport 
development (as defined in section 47102(3) of title 49, United 
States Code) at other public use, general aviation airports 
serving the region; and (2) for no consideration, all airport 
and aviation-related equipment of the Banning Municipal Airport 
owned by the City of Banning and determined by the FAA or 
Department of Transportation of the State of California to be 
salvageable for use at other airports. (d) AMOUNTS DESCRIBED.--
The amounts described in this subsection are the following: (1) 
An amount equal to the fair market value for the highest and 
best use of the Banning Municipal Airport property determined 
in good faith by 2 independent and qualified real estate 
appraisers and an independent review appraiser on or after the 
date of the enactment of this Act. (2) An amount equal to the 
unamortized portion of any Federal development grants other 
than land paid to the City of Banning for use at the Banning 
Municipal Airport, which may be paid with, and shall be an 
allowable use of, airport revenue notwithstanding section 47107 
or 47133 of title 49, United States Code. (3) An amount equal 
to the airport revenues, along with accrued interest, remaining 
in the airport account for the Banning Municipal Airport as of 
the date of the enactment of this Act and otherwise due to or 
received by the City of Banning after such date of enactment 
pursuant to sections 47107(b) and 47133 of title 49, United 
States Code. (e) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.--Nothing in this section 
shall be construed to limit the applicability of--(1) the 
requirements and processes under section 46319 of title 49, 
United States Code; (2) the requirements under the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.); (3) 
the requirements and processes under part 157 of title 14, Code 
of Federal Regulations; or (4) the public notice requirements 
under section 47107(h)(2) of title 49, United States Code.; 
(LaMalfa 034) (ANS 71 En Bloc); Page 342, line 23, insert ``The 
Administrator may not determine extraordinary circumstances 
exist under this subsection with respect to projects otherwise 
covered by a categorical exclusion under subsections (a) or (b) 
involving repair, replacement, or maintenance of grounds, 
infrastructure, buildings, structures, or facilities which do 
not substantially change the existing footprint of the grounds, 
infrastructure, buildings, structures, or facilities.'' after 
``such action.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Yakym (Yakym 025) (ANS 72); Page 520, 
line 20, strike ``proposed requirements'' and insert ``proposed 
risk-based requirements that align with the risk 
recommendations described in Recommendation AG 2.1 of the UAS 
Beyond Visual Line of Sight ARC Final Report published by the 
Federal Aviation Administration or other proposed 
requirements''. Page 529, line 2, insert ``, as described in 
Recommendations AS 2.1 and 2.9 final report of the UAS Beyond 
Visual Line of Sight Aviation Rulemaking Committee, which 
require a manufacturer's declaration of compliance to a Federal 
Aviation Administration accepted means of compliance and which 
shall not require type or production certification or the 
issuance of a special airworthiness certificate'' after 
``aircraft''. Page 529, line 6, insert ``as described in 
Recommendation OQ 2.2 of the UAS Beyond Visual Line of Sight 
Aviation Rulemaking Committee'' after ``aircraft''.; was 
WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Massie (Massie 028) (ANS 73); At the 
end of subtitle B of title IV, add the following: SEC.__. 
ELIMINATION OF PASSENGER FACILITY CHARGE CAPS. Section 40117(b) 
of title 49, United States Code, is amended--(1) in paragraph 
(1) by striking ``of $1, $2, or $3'' and inserting ``in any 
amount''; (2) by striking paragraph (4); (3) by redesignating 
paragraphs (5), (6), and (7) as paragraphs (4), (5), and (6), 
respectively; (4) in paragraph (5) (as so redesignated)--(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 (5) in paragraph (6)(A) (as so 
redesignated)--(A) by striking ``specified in paragraphs (1), 
(4), and (6)'' and inserting ``specified in paragraphs (1) and 
(5)''; and (B) by striking ``imposed under paragraph (1) or 
(4)'' and inserting ``imposed under paragraph (1)''; and (6) by 
adding at the end the following: ``(7) ELIGIBILITY FOR AIRPORT 
IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM FUNDS.--Any eligible agency that imposes a 
passenger facility charge that exceeds $4.50 shall not be 
eligible to receive funds under subchapter I of chapter 
471.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Westerman (Westerman 029) (ANS 74); 
Page 85, line 24, strike ``the Civil Aviation Registry 
website'' and insert ``Federal Aviation Administration 
websites''. Page 85, line 25, strike ``ICAO AIRCRAFT'' and 
insert ``MODE S''. Page 86, line 3, strike ``ICAO'' and insert 
``Mode S''. Page 86, line 7, strike ``substantiate'' and insert 
``attest to''. Page 86, Line 9, strike ``ICAO'' and insert 
``Mode S''. Page 86, line 16, strike ``ICAO'' and insert ``Mode 
S''. Page 87, after line 5, insert the following: ``(A) the 
names of the aircraft owner or operator; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Mast (Mast 056) (ANS 75); At the end 
of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__. COMPETITIVE ACCESS. 
(a) IN GENERAL.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall take such actions to ensure that an 
airport submits to the Administrator a report in any case in 
which such airport is unable to accommodate a request by any 
entity providing ground transportation services to such airport 
that is seeking access to such airport in order to provide or 
expand such services. (b) CONTENTS.--The report required under 
subsection (a) shall include-- (1) a summary of the request; 
(2) an explanation why the request was denied by the airport; 
and (3) a timeframe for when airport will be able to 
accommodate the request, if applicable.; was NOT AGREED TO by 
voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Mast (Mast 059) (ANS 76); At the end 
of title VIII, add the following: SEC. 11. ECONOMIC NON 
DISCRIMINATION. (a) IN GENERAL.--Each entity that provides 
commercial ground transportation to users of an airport shall 
be subject to the same rates, fees, rentals, and other charges 
as are uniformly applicable to all other such users providing 
such services (including entities controlled by the airport) 
making the same or similar physical use of such airport and 
using similar facilities. (b) ESSENTIAL NEXUS TO LEGITIMATE 
PUBLIC PURPOSE.--All rates, fees, rentals and other charges 
described in subsection (a) shall-- (1) have an essential nexus 
to a legitimate public purpose; (2) be roughly proportionate to 
the impact the physical use has on airport facilities; and (3) 
be no greater than necessary to cover the costs of such impact 
of the physical use. (c) BURDEN OF PROOF.--An airport shall 
have the burden of proving the instituting rates, fees, rentals 
and other charges described under subsection (a). (d) 
NONDISCRIMINATORY AND SUBSTANTIALLY COMPARABLE RULES, 
REGULATIONS, AND CONDITIONS.-- Each entity described in 
subsection (a) shall be subject to such nondiscriminatory and 
substantially comparable rules, regulations, and conditions and 
provided equivalent access rights to the airport as are 
applicable or provided to all such other entities which make 
the same or similar physical use of such airport and use 
similar facilities. (e) REASONABLE CLASSIFICATIONS.--An airport 
shall be permitted to make reasonable classifications between 
entities described in subsection (a), except any 
classifications not rationally related to the safe operation of 
the airport, such as those classifications based on presumed 
benefits derived, degree of economic harm to the airport, or 
anti-competitive motives. (f) REASONABLE JUSTIFICATION.--
Neither the rules, regulations and conditions applicable, or 
the access rights provided to, an entity described in 
subsection (a) shall prevent, restrict or distort such entity's 
ability to compete with any other such entities, including 
those entities controlled by the airport, without a reasonable 
justification that benefits the public interest. (g) 
CLASSIFICATION.--Classification or status as a specific type of 
entity described in subsection (a) shall not be unreasonably 
withheld by any airport provided a commercial ground 
transportation user assumes obligations substantially similar 
to those already imposed on other such entities in such 
classification or status.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Payne (Payne 042) (ANS 77); Page 712, 
after line 17, insert the following: (e) CONSULTATION.--The 
Administrator may only issue a waiver under this section for 
the operation of an aircraft in an area covered by a temporary 
flight restriction after consulting with Federal and local law 
enforcement officials to verify that such waiver would not risk 
the safety and security of the public located in the area where 
the temporary flight restriction is in place.; was WITHDRAWN.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. D'Esposito (D'Esposito 018) (ANS 78); 
At the end of title VIII, add the following: SEC.__. HOUSING OF 
UNDOCUMENTED MIGRANTS. The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration may not authorize airport space to 
house undocumented migrants.; was NOT AGREED TO by voice vote.

    Amendment to the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to 
H.R. 3935 offered by Mr. Garcia of Illinois (Garcia of IL 031) 
(ANS); To require employers of airport service workers at 
small, medium, and large hub airports to ensure that airport 
service workers are paid the prevailing wage and provided 
fringe benefits, 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. This Act 
may be cited as the ``Good Jobs for Good Airports Act''. SEC. 
2. FINDINGS; PURPOSES. (a) FINDINGS.--Congress finds the 
following: (1) Safe and effective airport operations are 
essential to national commerce and the general welfare. (2) A 
well-trained, stable workforce at our Nation's airports is 
critical to ensuring public safety and security, as well as the 
health and safety of the public and protection from infectious 
diseases. (3) The Federal Government has invested billions of 
dollars in creating and maintaining our Nation's aviation 
infrastructure, reflecting the national interest in maintaining 
airports across the country. (4) Airport services are most 
effective when the workforce providing those services is able 
to earn a living wage and able to secure adequate health 
benefit coverage. In fact, meeting the growing challenges of 
operating airports securely and efficiently requires the 
recruitment and retention of excellent staff in all of the 
classifications of employees who work in airport services and 
operations. (5) Effective management of airports and effective 
airport security requires that workforce turnover be reduced 
and that the workforce be highly trained and highly motivated. 
(6) In connection with setting wage and bene25 fits standards 
for those engaged in airport services, there is a need to 
establish an orderly system that reconciles competing interests 
without undue disruption. (b) PURPOSES.--The purposes of this 
Act are--(1) to provide a mechanism for ensuring minimum wage 
and benefits standards for individuals who work in airports; 
and (2) to serve the best interests of the people of the United 
States by stabilizing the workplace conditions of the labor 
pool that supports our Nation's airport operations. SEC. 3. 
AMENDMENTS TO TITLE 49 OF THE UNITED STATES CODE TO ENSURE 
MINIMUM WAGE AND BENEFITS FOR COVERED SERVICE WORKERS. (a) 
COVERED SERVICE WORKER DEFINITION.--Section 40102(a) of title 
49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
following: ``(48) `covered service worker'--``(A) means an 
individual who furnishes services on the property or premises 
of a small hub airport, medium hub airport, or large hub 
airport, performing-- ``(i) functions that are related to the 
air transportation of persons, property, or mail, including--
``(I) the loading or unloading of property on aircraft or a 
building or facility on the airport property; ``(II) assistance 
to passengers, including assistance under part 382 of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations; ``(III) security; ``(IV) airport 
ticketing or check-in functions; ``(V) ground-handling of 
aircraft or related equipment (but not including mechanical 
services, machinery maintenance, car service maintenance, 
services at maintenance-related stores, fueling, de-icing, or 
other mechanic related functions); ``(VI) aircraft cleaning and 
sanitization functions or waste removal; ``(VII) cleaning 
within an airport terminal or other building or facility on the 
airport property; ``(VIII) transportation of employees or 
individuals within the airport property; or ``(IX) ramp agent 
functions; ``(ii) concessions services on the property of an 
airport, including--``(I) food service, including food and 
beverage service, wait service, busing, cooks, or cashiers; 
``(II) retail service, including retail related to news or 
gifts or duty free retail services; ``(III) cleaning for 
concession services; ``(IV) security for concession services; 
or ``(V) airport lounge services, including food, retail, 
cleaning, or security services for or at an airport lounge; 
``(iii) airline catering services (such as the preparation or 
assembly of food, beverages, provisions, or related supplies 
for delivery, and the delivery of such items, directly to 
aircraft or to a location on or near airport property for 
subsequent delivery to aircraft at the airport); or ``(iv) food 
or beverage service, housekeeping, or hotel service at a hotel 
located on airport property; ``(B) includes an individual 
without regard to any contractual relationship alleged to exist 
between the individual and a contractor or subcontractor; ``(C) 
shall not include an individual to whom the exemption under 
section 13(a)(1) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 
U.S.C. 213(a)(1)) applies; and ``(D) shall not include an 
employee of-- ``(i) a State, municipality, or other political 
subdivision of a State or an authority created by an agreement 
between 2 or more States; or ``(ii) the Transportation Security 
Administration or a qualified private screening company 
performing security screening of passengers pursuant to a 
contract entered into with the Transportation Security 
Administration. ``(49) `covered employer' means any person 
engaged in commerce, or in any industry or activity affecting 
commerce, who employs 1 or more covered service workers.''. (b) 
AIR COMMERCE AND SAFETY.--(1) IN GENERAL.--Chapter 401 of title 
49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
following new section: ``Sec. 40131. Labor standards for 
certain airport service jobs. ``(a) REQUIREMENT.--Any covered 
employer providing services at or for a small, medium, or large 
hub airport shall ensure that all covered service workers, 
including those subject to a collective bargaining agreement, 
employed by the covered employer at such airport are paid a 
wage and fringe benefits that are-- ``(1) with respect to such 
wage, not less than the higher of--``(A) $15.00 per hour; ``(B) 
the minimum hourly wage for the appropriate locality and 
classification as determined in accordance with chapter 67 of 
title 41, United States Code (commonly known as the `Service 
Contract Act'), by the Secretary of Labor under subsection 
(c)(1)(A), adjusted annually to reflect any changes made by 
such Secretary in such determinations; ``(C) the minimum hourly 
wage required under any Federal regulation, policy, or 
directive issued by the President pursuant to subtitle I of 
title 40, United States Code, for workers employed in the 
performance of any Federal contract for the procurement of 
services; or ``(D) the minimum hourly wage required under an 
applicable State or local minimum wage law (including a 
regulation) or policy, including the policy of a political 
subdivision of a State or an authority created by a compact 
between 2 or more States or 1 or more States and the District 
of Columbia, that applies to covered service workers; and ``(2) 
with respect to such fringe benefits, not less than the greater 
of--``(A) the minimum fringe benefits for the appropriate 
locality and classification as determined in accordance with 
chapter 67 of title 41, United States Code (commonly known as 
the `Service Contract Act'), by the Secretary of Labor under 
subsection (c)(1)(A), adjusted annually to reflect any changes 
made by such Secretary in such determinations; or ``(B) the 
minimum fringe benefits required under an applicable State or 
local law (including a regulation) or policy, including the 
policy of a political subdivision of a State or an authority 
created by a compact between 2 or more States or 1 or more 
States and the District of Columbia, that applies to covered 
service workers. ``(b) CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT FOR COVERED 
EMPLOYERS.-- ``(1) IN GENERAL.--A covered employer shall 
certify, under penalty of perjury, in a manner determined by 
the Secretary of Transportation, on a monthly basis that all 
covered service workers, including those subject to a 
collective bargaining agreement, employed by the covered 
employer are provided wage and fringe benefits that comply with 
the requirements described in paragraphs (1) and (2) of 
subsection (a). ``(2) FAILURE TO SUBMIT CERTIFICATION.--The 
failure to submit a certification under paragraph (1) shall 
constitute a violation of this section. ``(3) FALSE 
CERTIFICATION.--The submission of a false certification under 
paragraph (1) shall constitute a violation of this section. 
``(c) CLASSIFICATIONS AND WAGE DETERMINATIONS.-- ``(1) IN 
GENERAL.--The Secretary of Labor shall--``(A) not later than 
120 days after the date of enactment of this section and in 
accordance with paragraph (2), issue a wage determination with 
minimum hourly wage and fringe benefits in accordance with the 
methodology used by the Secretary of Labor under chapter 67 of 
title 41, United States Code (commonly known as the `Service 
Contract Act'), appropriate for each class of covered service 
worker for purposes of paragraphs (1)(B) and (2)(A) of 
subsection (a); and ``(B) not later than 120 days after the 
date of enactment of this section and annually thereafter, 
provide to the Secretary of Transportation the applicable 
minimum hourly wage and fringe benefits required for purposes 
of subsection (a) with respect to each such class of covered 
service worker. ``(2) NEW OCCUPATIONAL CATEGORIES.--In issuing 
the wage determinations under paragraph (1)(A), the Secretary 
of Labor--``(A) shall ensure that each class of covered service 
worker is classified appropriately in a category of occupation 
of a type covered under chapter 67 of title 41, United States 
Code; and ``(B) to the extent needed to carry out subparagraph 
(A), may establish 1 or more new categories of occupation of a 
type covered under chapter 67 of title 41, United States Code, 
to ensure that all classes of covered service workers have an 
appropriate determination of minimum hourly wage and fringe 
benefits. ``(d) RULEMAKING AUTHORITY.--The Secretary of Labor 
and the Secretary of Transportation may prescribe regulations 
to implement this section, provided that such regulations 
prescribed by the Secretary of Transportation shall be 
consistent with such regulations prescribed by the Secretary of 
Labor. ``(e) ENFORCEMENT.--``(1) WAGE AND BENEFIT 
ENFORCEMENT.--The Secretary of Labor shall have the authority 
to enforce the wage and fringe benefit requirements for covered 
service workers described in paragraphs (1) and (2) of 
subsection (a), including the authority to issue orders, 
conduct investigations, examine the records of covered 
employers, hold hearings, make decisions based on findings of 
fact, and take other appropriate action pursuant to the 
authority of the Secretary of Labor under the Fair Labor 
Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 201 et seq.). ``(2) 
CERTIFICATION ENFORCEMENT.--``(A) IN GENERAL.--The Secretary of 
Transportation shall have the authority to enforce the 
certification requirement described in subsection (b), 
including the authority to issue orders, conduct 
investigations, examine the records of covered employers, hold 
hearings, make decisions based on findings of fact, and take 
other appropriate action pursuant to the 15 Secretary of 
Transportation's authority. ``(B) CONSIDERATIONS.--In 
determining whether a covered employer submitted a false 
certification under subsection (b), the Secretary of 
Transportation shall consider as evidence any findings of fact 
made by the Secretary of Labor regarding a covered employer's 
failure to comply with the wage and fringe benefit requirements 
described in paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (a). ``(f) 
NON PREEMPTION OF STATE OR LOCAL LAWS.--Nothing in this section 
shall preempt any State or local law (including a regulation) 
or policy that requires a higher minimum wage or otherwise 
requires greater benefits or protections for covered service 
workers than the requirements of this section. ``(g) REPORT TO 
CONGRESS.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act, and annually thereafter, 
the Secretary of Transportation shall submit to the Committee 
on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives a report on their efforts to implement such 
Act, as well as an assessment of the efforts of covered 
employers to come into compliance with the requirements of such 
Act. ``(h) PUBLICATION OF DATA.--The Secretary of 
Transportation shall publish complaint data relating to covered 
service workers in a manner comparable to other aviation 
consumer complaint data.''. (2) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.--The 
analysis for chapter 401 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by inserting after the item relating to section 40130 
the following: ``40131. Labor standards for certain airport 
service jobs.''. (c) PENALTIES.--Section 46301 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended-- (1) in subsection (a), by 
adding at the end the following new paragraph: ``(8) PENALTIES 
RELATING TO LABOR STANDARDS FOR CERTAIN AIRPORT SERVICE JOBS. 
Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the maximum civil penalty for a 
violation of section 40131 shall be an amount not to exceed 3 
times the amount of a civil penalty as described in paragraph 
(1).''; and (2) in subsection (c)(1)(A), by striking ``or 
section 44909 of this title'' and inserting ``section 44909, or 
section 40131 of this title.''. (d) INVESTIGATIONS AND 
PROCEEDINGS.--(1) IN GENERAL.--Chapter 461 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new 
section: ``Sec. 46112. Enforcement of labor standards for 
certain airport service jobs by interested persons ``An 
interested person may bring a civil action in a district court 
of the United States against a person to enforce section 40131. 
The action may be brought in the judicial district in which the 
defendant does business or the violation occurred.''. (2) 
CLERICAL AMENDMENT.--The analysis for chapter 461 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item 
relating to section 46111 the following: ``46112. Enforcement 
of labor standards for certain airport service jobs by 
interested persons.''. SEC. 4. MINIMUM WAGE AND FRINGE BENEFITS 
FOR COVERED SERVICE WORKERS UNDER THE FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT 
OF 1938. Section 6 of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 
U.S.C. 206) is amended by adding at the end the following: 
``(h) COVERED SERVICE WORKERS PERFORMING SERVICES FOR SMALL, 
MEDIUM, AND LARGE HUB AIRPORTS.--``(1) IN GENERAL.--In lieu of 
the rate prescribed by subsection (a)(1), an employer shall pay 
each employee employed as a covered service worker (as defined 
in section 40102(a) of title 49, United States Code), providing 
services at or for a small hub airport, medium hub airport, or 
large hub airport (as those terms are defined in such section), 
who in any workweek is engaged in commerce or in the production 
of goods for commerce, or is employed in an enterprise engaged 
in commerce or in the production of goods for commerce, a 
minimum wage and fringe benefits as provided under section 
40131(a) of title 49, United States Code. ``(2) ADMINISTRATION 
AND ENFORCEMENT OF FRINGE BENEFITS.--For purposes of 
administration and enforcement of any unpaid fringe benefits 
required under paragraph (1), the fair market value amount of 
any such fringe benefits shall be deemed unpaid minimum wages 
under this Act.''.; was WITHDRAWN.

                            Committee Votes

    Clause 3(b) of rule XIII of the Rules of the House of 
Representatives requires each committee report to include the 
total number of votes cast for and against on each record vote 
on a motion to report and on any amendment offered to the 
measure or matter, and the names of those members voting for 
and against.

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Roll Call Vote No. 018

    On: agreeing to Amendment Nehls 37 Revised--#ANS 14 offered 
by Mr. Nehls
    Agreed to: 32 yeas and 31 nays

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Member                           Vote                    Member                    Vote
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Graves of MO................................          Yea   Mr. Larsen of WA..................          Nay
Mr. Crawford....................................          Yea   Ms. Norton........................          Nay
Mr. Webster of FL...............................          Yea   Mrs. Napolitano...................          Nay
Mr. Massie......................................          Yea   Mr. Cohen.........................          Nay
Mr. Perry.......................................          Yea   Mr. Garamendi.....................          Nay
Mr. Babin.......................................          Yea   Mr. Johnson of GA.................          Nay
Mr. Graves of LA................................          Yea   Mr. Carson........................          Nay
Mr. Rouzer......................................          Yea   Ms. Titus.........................          Nay
Mr. Bost........................................          Yea   Mr. Huffman.......................          Nay
Mr. LaMalfa.....................................          Yea   Ms. Brownley......................          Nay
Mr. Westerman...................................          Yea   Ms. Wilson of FL..................          Nay
Mr. Mast........................................          Yea   Mr. Payne.........................          Nay
Mrs. Gonzalez-Colon.............................          Yea   Mr. DeSaulnier....................          Nay
Mr. Stauber.....................................  ............  Mr. Carbajal......................          Nay
Mr. Burchett....................................          Yea   Mr. Stanton.......................          Nay
Mr. Johnson of SD...............................          Yea   Mr. Allred........................          Nay
Mr. Van Drew....................................          Yea   Ms. Davids of KS..................          Nay
Mr. Nehls.......................................          Yea   Mr. Garcia of IL..................          Nay
Mr. Gooden of TX................................          Yea   Mr. Pappas........................          Nay
Mr. Mann........................................          Yea   Mr. Moulton.......................          Nay
Mr. Owens.......................................          Yea   Mr. Auchincloss...................          Nay
Mr. Yakym.......................................          Yea   Ms. Strickland....................          Nay
Mrs. Chavez-DeRemer.............................          Yea   Mr. Carter of LA..................          Nay
Mr. Edwards.....................................          Yea   Mr. Ryan..........................          Nay
Mr. Kean of NJ..................................          Yea   Mrs. Peltola......................          Nay
Mr. D'Esposito..................................  ............  Mr. Menendez......................          Nay
Mr. Burlison....................................          Yea   Ms. Hoyle of OR...................          Nay
Mr. James.......................................          Yea   Mrs. Sykes........................          Nay
Mr. Van Orden...................................          Yea   Ms. Scholten......................          Nay
Mr. Williams of NY..............................          Yea   Mrs. Foushee......................          Nay
Mr. Molinaro....................................          Nay
Mr. Collins.....................................          Yea
Mr. Ezell.......................................          Yea
Mr. Duarte......................................          Yea
Mr. Bean of FL..................................          Yea
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Roll Call Vote No. 019

    On: agreeing to Amendment Collins 009--#ANS 26 offered by 
Mr. Collins
    Agreed to: 36 yeas and 28 nays

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Member                           Vote                    Member                    Vote
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Graves of MO................................          Nay   Mr. Larsen of WA..................          Nay
Mr. Crawford....................................          Yea   Ms. Norton........................          Nay
Mr. Webster of FL...............................          Yea   Mrs. Napolitano...................          Nay
Mr. Massie......................................          Yea   Mr. Cohen.........................          Nay
Mr. Perry.......................................          Yea   Mr. Garamendi.....................          Nay
Mr. Babin.......................................          Yea   Mr. Johnson of GA.................          Nay
Mr. Graves of LA................................          Nay   Mr. Carson........................          Nay
Mr. Rouzer......................................          Yea   Ms. Titus.........................          Nay
Mr. Bost........................................          Yea   Mr. Huffman.......................          Nay
Mr. LaMalfa.....................................          Yea   Ms. Brownley......................          Nay
Mr. Westerman...................................          Yea   Ms. Wilson of FL..................          Nay
Mr. Mast........................................          Yea   Mr. Payne.........................          Nay
Mrs. Gonzalez-Colon.............................          Yea   Mr. DeSaulnier....................          Nay
Mr. Stauber.....................................          Yea   Mr. Carbajal......................          Nay
Mr. Burchett....................................          Yea   Mr. Stanton.......................          Nay
Mr. Johnson of SD...............................          Yea   Mr. Allred........................          Yea
Mr. Van Drew....................................          Yea   Ms. Davids of KS..................          Nay
Mr. Nehls.......................................          Yea   Mr. Garcia of IL..................          Nay
Mr. Gooden of TX................................          Yea   Mr. Pappas........................          Nay
Mr. Mann........................................          Yea   Mr. Moulton.......................          Yea
Mr. Owens.......................................          Yea   Mr. Auchincloss...................          Yea
Mr. Yakym.......................................          Yea   Ms. Strickland....................          Nay
Mrs. Chavez-DeRemer.............................          Yea   Mr. Carter of LA..................          Nay
Mr. Edwards.....................................          Yea   Mr. Ryan..........................          Nay
Mr. Kean of NJ..................................          Yea   Mrs. Peltola......................          Nay
Mr. D'Esposito..................................  ............  Mr. Menendez......................          Nay
Mr. Burlison....................................          Yea   Ms. Hoyle of OR...................          Nay
Mr. James.......................................          Yea   Mrs. Sykes........................          Yea
Mr. Van Orden...................................          Yea   Ms. Scholten......................          Nay
Mr. Williams of NY..............................          Yea   Mrs. Foushee......................          Nay
Mr. Molinaro....................................          Yea
Mr. Collins.....................................          Yea
Mr. Ezell.......................................          Yea
Mr. Duarte......................................          Yea
Mr. Bean of FL..................................          Yea
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Roll Call Vote No. 020

    On: agreeing to Amendment Perry 202--#ANS 32 offered by Mr. 
Perry
    Not Agreed to: 22 yeas and 42 nays

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Member                           Vote                    Member                    Vote
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Mr. Graves of MO...............................          Nay   Mr. Larsen of WA..................          Nay
Mr. Crawford....................................          Yea   Ms. Norton........................          Nay
Mr. Webster of FL...............................          Yea   Mrs. Napolitano...................          Nay
Mr. Massie......................................          Yea   Mr. Cohen.........................          Nay
Mr. Perry.......................................          Yea   Mr. Garamendi.....................          Nay
Mr. Babin.......................................          Yea   Mr. Johnson of GA.................          Nay
Mr. Graves of LA................................          Nay   Mr. Carson........................          Nay
Mr. Rouzer......................................          Yea   Ms. Titus.........................          Nay
Mr. Bost........................................          Nay   Mr. Huffman.......................          Nay
Mr. LaMalfa.....................................          Yea   Ms. Brownley......................          Nay
Mr. Westerman...................................          Yea   Ms. Wilson of FL..................          Nay
Mr. Mast........................................          Yea   Mr. Payne.........................          Nay
Mrs. Gonzalez-Colon.............................          Nay   Mr. DeSaulnier....................          Nay
Mr. Stauber.....................................          Nay   Mr. Carbajal......................          Nay
Mr. Burchett....................................          Yea   Mr. Stanton.......................          Nay
Mr. Johnson of SD...............................          Yea   Mr. Allred........................          Nay
Mr. Van Drew....................................          Nay   Ms. Davids of KS..................          Nay
Mr. Nehls.......................................          Yea   Mr. Garcia of IL..................          Nay
Mr. Gooden of TX................................          Yea   Mr. Pappas........................          Nay
Mr. Mann........................................          Yea   Mr. Moulton.......................          Nay
Mr. Owens.......................................          Yea   Mr. Auchincloss...................          Nay
Mr. Yakym.......................................          Yea   Ms. Strickland....................          Nay
Mrs. Chavez-DeRemer.............................          Nay   Mr. Carter of LA..................          Nay
Mr. Edwards.....................................          Yea   Mr. Ryan..........................          Nay
Mr. Kean of NJ..................................          Nay   Mrs. Peltola......................          Nay
Mr. D'Esposito..................................  ............  Mr. Menendez......................          Nay
Mr. Burlison....................................          Yea   Ms. Hoyle of OR...................          Nay
Mr. James.......................................          Nay   Mrs. Sykes........................          Nay
Mr. Van Orden...................................          Nay   Ms. Scholten......................          Nay
Mr. Williams of NY..............................          Nay   Mrs. Foushee......................          Nay
Mr. Molinaro....................................          Nay
Mr. Collins.....................................          Yea
Mr. Ezell.......................................          Yea
Mr. Duarte......................................          Yea
Mr. Bean of FL..................................          Yea
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Roll Call Vote No. 021

    On: agreeing to Amendment Perry 218--#ANS 59 offered by Mr. 
Perry
    Agreed to: 33 yeas and 32 nays

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Member                           Vote                    Member                    Vote
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Graves of MO................................          Nay   Mr. Larsen of WA..................          Nay
Mr. Crawford....................................          Yea   Ms. Norton........................          Nay
Mr. Webster of FL...............................          Yea   Mrs. Napolitano...................          Nay
Mr. Massie......................................          Yea   Mr. Cohen.........................          Nay
Mr. Perry.......................................          Yea   Mr. Garamendi.....................          Nay
Mr. Babin.......................................          Yea   Mr. Johnson of GA.................          Nay
Mr. Graves of LA................................          Nay   Mr. Carson........................          Nay
Mr. Rouzer......................................          Yea   Ms. Titus.........................          Nay
Mr. Bost........................................          Yea   Mr. Huffman.......................          Nay
Mr. LaMalfa.....................................          Yea   Ms. Brownley......................          Nay
Mr. Westerman...................................          Yea   Ms. Wilson of FL..................          Nay
Mr. Mast........................................          Yea   Mr. Payne.........................          Nay
Mrs. Gonzalez-Colon.............................          Yea   Mr. DeSaulnier....................          Nay
Mr. Stauber.....................................          Yea   Mr. Carbajal......................          Nay
Mr. Burchett....................................          Yea   Mr. Stanton.......................          Nay
Mr. Johnson of SD...............................          Yea   Mr. Allred........................          Nay
Mr. Van Drew....................................          Yea   Ms. Davids of KS..................          Nay
Mr. Nehls.......................................          Yea   Mr. Garcia of IL..................          Nay
Mr. Gooden of TX................................          Yea   Mr. Pappas........................          Nay
Mr. Mann........................................          Yea   Mr. Moulton.......................          Nay
Mr. Owens.......................................          Yea   Mr. Auchincloss...................          Nay
Mr. Yakym.......................................          Yea   Ms. Strickland....................          Nay
Mrs. Chavez-DeRemer.............................          Yea   Mr. Carter of LA..................          Nay
Mr. Edwards.....................................          Yea    Mr. Ryan.........................          Nay
Mr. Kean of NJ..................................          Yea   Mrs. Peltola......................          Nay
Mr. D'Esposito..................................          Yea    Mr. Menendez.....................          Nay
Mr. Burlison....................................          Yea   Ms. Hoyle of OR...................          Nay
Mr. James.......................................          Yea   Mrs. Sykes........................          Nay
Mr. Van Orden...................................          Yea   Ms. Scholten......................          Nay
Mr. Williams of NY..............................          Yea   Mrs. Foushee......................          Nay
Mr. Molinaro....................................          Yea
Mr. Collins.....................................          Yea
Mr. Ezell.......................................          Yea
Mr. Duarte......................................          Yea
Mr. Bean of FL..................................          Yea
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Roll Call Vote No. 022

    On: agreeing to Amendment DeSaulnier 016--#ANS 66 offered 
by Mr. DeSaulnier
    Not Agreed to: 28 yeas and 37 nays

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Member                           Vote                    Member                    Vote
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Graves of MO................................          Nay   Mr. Larsen of WA..................          Nay
Mr. Crawford....................................          Nay   Ms. Norton........................          Yea
Mr. Webster of FL...............................          Nay   Mrs. Napolitano...................          Yea
Mr. Massie......................................          Nay   Mr. Cohen.........................          Nay
Mr. Perry.......................................          Nay   Mr. Garamendi.....................          Yea
Mr. Babin.......................................          Nay   Mr. Johnson of GA.................          Yea
Mr. Graves of LA................................          Nay   Mr. Carson........................          Yea
Mr. Rouzer......................................          Nay   Ms. Titus.........................          Yea
Mr. Bost........................................          Nay   Mr. Huffman.......................          Yea
Mr. LaMalfa.....................................          Nay   Ms. Brownley......................          Yea
Mr. Westerman...................................          Nay   Ms. Wilson of FL..................          Yea
Mr. Mast........................................          Nay   Mr. Payne.........................          Yea
Mrs. Gonzalez-Colon.............................          Nay   Mr. DeSaulnier....................          Yea
Mr. Stauber.....................................          Nay   Mr. Carbajal......................          Yea
Mr. Burchett....................................          Nay   Mr. Stanton.......................          Yea
Mr. Johnson of SD...............................          Nay   Mr. Allred........................          Yea
Mr. Van Drew....................................          Nay   Ms. Davids of KS..................          Nay
Mr. Nehls.......................................          Nay   Mr. Garcia of IL..................          Yea
Mr. Gooden of TX................................          Nay   Mr. Pappas........................          Yea
Mr. Mann........................................          Nay   Mr. Moulton.......................          Yea
Mr. Owens.......................................          Nay   Mr. Auchincloss...................          Yea
Mr. Yakym.......................................          Nay   Ms. Strickland....................          Yea
Mrs. Chavez-DeRemer.............................          Nay   Mr. Carter of LA..................          Yea
Mr. Edwards.....................................          Nay   Mr. Ryan..........................          Yea
Mr. Kean of NJ..................................          Nay   Mrs. Peltola......................          Yea
Mr. D'Esposito..................................          Nay   Mr. Menendez......................          Yea
Mr. Burlison....................................          Nay   Ms. Hoyle of OR...................          Yea
Mr. James.......................................          Nay   Mrs. Sykes........................          Yea
Mr. Van Orden...................................          Yea   Ms. Scholten......................          Yea
Mr. Williams of NY..............................          Nay    Mrs. Foushee.....................          Yea
Mr. Molinaro....................................          Nay
Mr. Collins.....................................          Nay
Mr. Ezell.......................................          Nay
Mr. Duarte......................................          Nay
Mr. Bean of FL..................................          Nay
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Roll Call Vote No. 023

    On: agreeing to Final Passage, H.R. 3935, as amended
    Agreed to: 63 yeas and 0 nays

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Member                           Vote                    Member                    Vote
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Graves of MO................................          Yea   Mr. Larsen of WA..................          Yea
Mr. Crawford....................................          Yea   Ms. Norton........................          Yea
Mr. Webster of FL...............................          Yea   Mrs. Napolitano...................          Yea
Mr. Massie......................................  ............  Mr. Cohen.........................          Yea
Mr. Perry.......................................  ............  Mr. Garamendi.....................          Yea
Mr. Babin.......................................          Yea   Mr. Johnson of GA.................          Yea
Mr. Graves of LA................................          Yea   Mr. Carson........................          Yea
Mr. Rouzer......................................          Yea   Ms. Titus.........................          Yea
Mr. Bost........................................          Yea   Mr. Huffman.......................          Yea
Mr. LaMalfa.....................................          Yea   Ms. Brownley......................          Yea
Mr. Westerman...................................          Yea   Ms. Wilson of FL..................          Yea
Mr. Mast........................................          Yea   Mr. Payne.........................          Yea
Mrs. Gonzalez-Colon.............................          Yea   Mr. DeSaulnier....................          Yea
Mr. Stauber.....................................          Yea   Mr. Carbajal......................          Yea
Mr. Burchett....................................          Yea   Mr. Stanton.......................          Yea
Mr. Johnson of SD...............................          Yea   Mr. Allred........................          Yea
Mr. Van Drew....................................          Yea   Ms. Davids of KS..................          Yea
Mr. Nehls.......................................          Yea   Mr. Garcia of IL..................          Yea
 Mr. Gooden of TX...............................          Yea   Mr. Pappas........................          Yea
Mr. Mann........................................          Yea   Mr. Moulton.......................          Yea
Mr. Owens.......................................          Yea   Mr. Auchincloss...................          Yea
Mr. Yakym.......................................          Yea   Ms. Strickland....................          Yea
Mrs. Chavez-DeRemer.............................          Yea   Mr. Carter of LA..................          Yea
Mr. Edwards.....................................          Yea   Mr. Ryan..........................          Yea
Mr. Kean of NJ..................................          Yea   Mrs. Peltola......................          Yea
Mr. D'Esposito..................................          Yea   Mr. Menendez......................          Yea
Mr. Burlison....................................          Yea   Ms. Hoyle of OR...................          Yea
Mr. James.......................................          Yea   Mrs. Sykes........................          Yea
Mr. Van Orden...................................          Yea   Ms. Scholten......................          Yea
Mr. Williams of NY..............................          Yea   Mrs. Foushee......................          Yea
Mr. Molinaro....................................          Yea
Mr. Collins.....................................          Yea
Mr. Ezell.......................................          Yea
Mr. Duarte......................................          Yea
Mr. Bean of FL..................................          Yea
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

            Committee Oversight Findings and Recommendations

    With respect to the requirements of clause 3(c)(1) of rule 
XIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, the 
Committee's oversight findings and recommendations are 
reflected in this report.

               New Budget Authority and Tax Expenditures

    With respect to the requirements of clause 3(c)(2) of rule 
XIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives and section 
308(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and with respect 
to requirements of clause (3)(c)(3) of rule XIII of the Rules 
of the House of Representatives and section 402 of the 
Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the Committee has requested 
but has not received a cost estimate for this bill from the 
Director of Congressional Budget Office. The Committee has also 
requested but not received from the Director of the 
Congressional Budget Office a statement as to whether this bill 
contains any new budget authority, spending authority, credit 
authority, or an increase or decrease in revenues or tax 
expenditures.
    With respect to the requirements of clause 3(c)(2) of rule 
XIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives and section 
308(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and with respect 
to requirements of clause (3)(c)(3) of rule XIII of the Rules 
of the House of Representatives and section 402 of the 
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 when available the Committee 
will adopt as its own the cost estimate prepared by the 
Director of the Congressional Budget Office pursuant to section 
402 of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974.

               Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate

    Pursuant to clause 3(d)(1) of House rule XIII, when 
available the Committee will adopt as its own the cost estimate 
prepared by the Director of the Congressional Budget Office 
pursuant to section 402 of the Congressional Budget Act of 
1974.

                    Performance Goals and Objectives

    With respect to the requirement of clause 3(c)(4) of rule 
XIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, the 
performance goal and objective of this legislation, as amended, 
are to reauthorize federal aviation programs administered by 
the FAA and DOT. The bill, as amended, also reforms the 
organizational structure of the FAA and continues the process 
of integrating UAS into the National Airspace System.

                    Duplication of Federal Programs

    Pursuant to clause 3(c)(5) of rule XIII of the Rules of the 
House of Representatives, the Committee finds that no provision 
of H.R. 3935, as amended, establishes or reauthorizes a program 
of the Federal government known to be duplicative of another 
Federal program, a program that was included in any report from 
the Government Accountability Office to Congress pursuant to 
section 21 of Public Law 111-139, or a program related to a 
program identified in the most recent Catalog of Federal 
Domestic Assistance.

   Congressional Earmarks, Limited Tax Benefits, and Limited Tariff 
                                Benefits

    In compliance with clause 9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the 
House of Representatives, this bill, as reported, contains no 
congressional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff 
benefits as defined in clause 9(e), 9(f), or 9(g) of the rule 
XXI.

                       Federal Mandates Statement

    When available the Committee will adopt as its own the 
estimate of Federal mandates prepared by the Director of the 
Congressional Budget Office pursuant to section 423 of the 
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (Public Law 104-4).

                        Preemption Clarification

    Section 423 of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 
requires the report of any Committee on a bill or joint 
resolution to include a statement on the extent to which the 
bill or joint resolution is intended to preempt state, local, 
or tribal law. The Committee finds that H.R. 3935, as amended, 
does not preempt any state, local, or tribal law.

                      Advisory Committee Statement

    Sections 307, 625, and 708 of this bill, as amended, each 
establish an advisory committee, as defined in section 1001 of 
title 5, United States Code. Pursuant to section 1004 of title 
5, United States Code, the Committee determines that the 
functions of these advisory committees are not being carried 
out by existing agencies or advisory committees and could not 
adequately be performed by enlarging the mandate of an existing 
advisory committee. The Committee notes that sections 624 and 
708 terminate existing advisory committees. The Committee also 
determines that the new advisory committees have a clearly 
defined purpose, fairly balanced membership, and meet all of 
the other requirements of section 1004(b) of title 5, United 
States Code.

                  Applicability To Legislative Branch

    The Committee finds that the legislation does not relate to 
the terms and conditions of employment or access to public 
services or accommodations within the meaning of section 
102(b)(3) of the Congressional Accountability Act (Public Law 
104-1).

             Section-by-Section Analysis of the Legislation


         TITLE I: AUTHORIZATIONS AND FAA ORGANIZATIONAL REFORM


                       Subtitle A--Authorizations


Sec. 101. Airport Planning and Development and Noise Compatibility 
        Planning and Programs.

    This section authorizes $4 billion from the Airport and 
Airway Trust Fund (AATF) for the Federal Aviation 
Administration's (FAA's) Airport Improvement Program (AIP) 
account for each of fiscal years (FYs) 2024 through 2028.

Sec. 102. Facilities and Equipment.

    This section authorizes from the AATF the following amounts 
for FAA's Facilities & Equipment (F&E) account: $3.375 billion 
for FY 2024; $3.425 billion for FY 2025; $3.475 billion for FY 
2026; $3.475 billion for FY 2027; and $3.475 billion for FY 
2028.

Sec. 103. Operations.

    This section authorizes the following amounts for FAA's 
Operations account: $12.73 billion for FY 2024; $13.035 billion 
for FY 2025; $13.334 billion for FY 2026; $13.640 billion for 
FY 2027; and $13.954 billion for FY 2028.

Sec. 104. Extension of Miscellaneous Expiring Authorities.

    This section extends various expiring authorities, 
including: AIP discretionary grant eligibility for the Marshall 
Islands, Micronesia, and Palau; continuation of the Safety 
Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee; and allowing 
AIP funds to be spent on certain airport property redevelopment 
projects.

                 Subtitle B--FAA Organizational Reform


Sec. 121. FAA Leadership.

    This section establishes the leadership of the FAA, 
consisting of the Administrator, a Deputy Administrator for 
Programs and Management (previously referred to as the ``Deputy 
Administrator''), and a new career Deputy Administrator for 
Safety and Operations. The new career Deputy Administrator will 
provide consistency and stability to the agency between 
Administrations, help reduce the likelihood of needing an 
executive from a Line of Business or Staff Office to perform 
the duties of an acting Administrator and help to manage the 
increasingly diverse and complex responsibilities of the FAA.
    This section further explains that the Deputy Administrator 
for Programs and Management manages the Chief Counsel and the 
Assistant Administrators (except the Assistant Administrator 
for Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement), and that the Deputy 
Administrator for Safety and Operations manages the Chief 
Operating Officer (COO) of the air traffic control (ATC) 
system, the Associate Administrators, and the Assistant 
Administrator for Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement.
    This section also sets the rate of pay, succession plan, 
and general qualifications for those positions.
    The Committee expects the FAA Administrator may choose to 
rename the deputy positions described in this section.

Sec. 122. FAA Management Board.

    This section establishes the Management Board of the FAA 
consisting of Associate and Assistant Administrators, the Chief 
Counsel, and the COO.
    This section reinforces the responsibilities of the Chief 
Counsel--to provide advice, take enforcement action, and 
represent the FAA in legal proceedings, but not to manage the 
activities of other offices or the Administrator. The Committee 
is concerned that the Office of the Chief Counsel routinely 
oversteps its intended role, unnecessarily reviews established 
historical precedent when there is not legal risk, and does not 
provide timely legal interpretations for internal offices or 
external entities in order to maintain a reasonable pace of 
work. It should not be expected that the work of the agency 
should indefinitely stop in order for an affirmative decision 
to be issued by the Chief Counsel, unless the office 
responsible for such program determines that it is necessary.
    This section also establishes a new Assistant Administrator 
for Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement who is responsible 
for the FAA's rulemaking agenda, updating outdated rules of the 
agency, evaluating existing regulations for effectiveness, 
redundancy, and accuracy, coordinating with offices of the 
agency and other Federal entities to maintain rulemaking 
timelines, and receiving and processing petitions for 
exemption.
    The Committee expects the FAA Administrator may choose to 
rename the positions described in this section in the future as 
the activities and responsibilities of the agency change.

Sec. 123. Prohibition on Conflicting Pecuniary Interests.

    Apart from pre-approved teaching, this section prohibits 
FAA executives and leadership from engaging in another business 
or having financial interests in aeronautical enterprises 
outside of index funds.

Sec. 124. Authority of Secretary and Administrator.

    This section establishes the authorities of the FAA 
Administrator relating to those of the Department of 
Transportation (DOT), including the promulgation of regulations 
and responsibility for regulated aerospace entities.
    This section also clarifies the rulemaking approval 
procedures at the Department for FAA rules and sets the 
benchmark for significant rulemakings.

Sec. 125. Review of FAA Rulemaking Processes.

    This section directs the National Academy of Public 
Administration (NAPA) to evaluate the process by which FAA 
rulemakings are drafted, reviewed, and approved. NAPA will 
submit a report to Congress on their findings and provide 
recommendations to improve the agency's rulemaking process.
    The Committee expects this study will occur after the FAA 
Administrator implements any reforms and improvements to the 
rulemaking process that are underway at the time that this Act 
is enacted, and therefore this review will consider the 
effectiveness of those changes.

Sec. 126. Office of Innovation.

    This section establishes an Office of Innovation within the 
FAA that can be tasked by Congress, FAA leadership, or the 
Management Board of the agency to assist in scoping policy or 
rulemaking, tackling complex issues across multiple offices or 
that otherwise require additional considerations, and 
positioning the FAA to support aerospace innovation. The office 
is comprised of up to 15 mid-level career employees with 
expertise in particular fields and who represent the interests 
of an employee's respective office of the FAA during two-year 
appointments.
    The Committee expects the opportunity to serve in this 
office will expose mid-level employees to the work of their 
peers in other lines of business and staff offices; better 
prepare them for advancement in the FAA; and allow them to work 
on short- or long-term projects where issues span multiple 
offices. It is not expected that this office has decision-
making authority, but the leadership of the Administration and 
the Management Board should give full consideration to any work 
products of the Office of Innovation.

Sec. 127. Frank A. LoBiondo National Aerospace Safety and Security 
        Campus.

    This section designates the campus owned by the FAA at the 
Atlantic City International Airport in New Jersey as the 
``Frank A. LoBiondo National Aerospace and Safety Campus.'' The 
Campus includes facilities and property leased to other public 
or private entities.

Sec. 128. Technical Center for Advanced Aerospace.

    This section renames, codifies, and expands the role of the 
``William J. Hughes Technical Center for Advanced Aerospace'' 
(formerly the William J. Hughes Technical Center). The 
Technical Center is responsible for promoting Federal, 
academic, and industry cooperation and opportunities to advance 
aerospace research, development, and safety.
    This section provides the Technical Center with the 
following duties: providing the aerospace industry access to 
Federal facilities, systems, and personnel through appropriate 
agreements; managing technology demonstration grant awards; 
identifying opportunities to improve aviation safety and 
efficiency of the ATC system; managing related facilities; and 
supporting the activities occurring in and around the Aerospace 
Safety and Security Campus.
    The Center should consist of the FAA-operated buildings on 
the Campus. This section does not specify where in the FAA 
organizational structure the Technical Center exists.

Sec. 129. Office of NextGen Sunset.

    This section sunsets the Office of NextGen in two and a 
half years and transfers the remaining duties, activities, and 
personnel to the William J. Hughes Technical Center for 
Advanced Aerospace, the Air Traffic Organization (including the 
NextGen Advisory Committee), and other offices of the 
Administration, as appropriate. In reassigning the activities 
of the Office of NextGen, the FAA Administrator should 
determine where activities would be most efficiently handled 
and if there are opportunities to reduce duplicative efforts.

Sec. 130. FAA Ombudsman.

    This section establishes an Ombudsman of the FAA in the 
Office of Government and Industry Affairs to assist regulated 
persons and entities with an action or inaction of the FAA 
regarding a certification, certificate, license, registration, 
waiver or exemption, interpretation, determination, or other 
activity. The Ombudsman can coordinate with relevant offices 
within the FAA to facilitate the review and adjudication of 
various actions, highlight communication lapses, and ensure 
that reporting or dispute resolution mechanisms are 
transparent. The Ombudsman can also recommend solutions to 
improve the agency's processes, communication, and other issues 
discovered during certain processes.
    This section requires that the Ombudsman ensure an initial 
response is provided to a person within 10 days of receiving a 
submission. If a covered submission relates to an alleged 
violation of an order, a regulation, or any other provision of 
Federal law or whistleblower retaliation, the Ombudsman will 
refer the submission to the appropriate Federal entity to 
adjudicate or investigate the submission.
    It is expected the Office of Government and Industry 
Affairs will need additional personnel to handle the new 
functions of the Ombudsman. It is also expected that the 
Assistant Administrator will determine how best to organize the 
office in order to perform such functions.

Sec. 131. Project Dashboards and Feedback Portal.

    This section requires the Ombudsman to determine whether 
creating public dashboards and feedback portals for various FAA 
offices to routinely update regulated persons and entities on 
their applications would be beneficial to applicants and an 
efficient use of agency resources.
    The Committee expects that any dashboard must work in a 
dynamic manner and provide near real-time, accessible status 
updates in order to be effective.

Sec. 132. Sense of Congress on FAA Engagement During Rulemaking 
        Activities.

    This section expresses the sense of Congress that the FAA 
should engage with regulated entities during the pre-drafting 
of a rule and use, to a greater extent, docketed ex parte 
conversations to better inform the agency's work, reduce the 
time needed to adjudicate comments, and improve the timeline 
for the promulgation of final rules.

Sec. 133. Civil Aeromedical Institute.

    This section contains a conforming amendment with no policy 
implications. This section maintains the Civil Aeromedical 
Institute.

Sec. 134. Management Advisory Council.

    This section repeals the Air Traffic Services Board which 
has remained unused since its inception in 2003.
    This section reestablishes the Federal Aerospace Management 
Advisory Council (MAC). This section reaffirms the role of the 
MAC, to provide advice and counsel to the Administrator and 
serve as an oversight resource. The MAC is comprised of 13 
members, including a designee of DOT, a designee of the 
Department of Defense (DOD), 10 members representing aerospace 
and technology interests--five appointed by the Secretary and 
five appointed by the Administrator--and one member 
representing an air traffic controllers union.
    The Committee expects the MAC will remain an advisory 
council to the FAA Administrator and the work of the Council 
should remain private unless the membership of the Committee or 
the FAA Administrator determines otherwise on a case-by-case 
basis.

Sec. 135. Aviation Noise Officer.

    This section establishes the position of the Aviation Noise 
Officer (formerly the Aircraft Noise Regional Ombudsman). 
Appointed by the FAA Administrator, these officers will serve 
as liaisons to the public, including to community groups and 
airports, and will make recommendations to the Administrator on 
rules and decisions of the agency that may have noise impacts.
    The Committee does not expect this section will require any 
reporting or structural changes to offices or personnel within 
the agency, unless the FAA Administrator determines such 
changes are appropriate.

Sec. 136. Chief Operating Officer.

    This section contains conforming amendments based on the 
repeal of the Air Traffic Services Board. This section 
maintains the existing duties of the COO, adds the integration 
of new user operations into the National airspace system (NAS) 
to the duties of the COO, and clarifies that the COO has the 
responsibility for maintaining a state of good repair and the 
continuous improvement of the ATC system.

Sec. 137. Report on Unfunded Capital Investment Needs of Air Traffic 
        Control System.

    This section establishes a process by which the COO of the 
ATC system can submit to Congress, the FAA Administrator, and 
the DOT Secretary a list of upcoming ATC system facility and 
equipment needs following the publication of the President's 
budget that were not included in the budget. This process is 
similar to the Unfunded Priorities List process used by the 
DOD.
    The Committee does not expect that any information provided 
in the report necessarily represents a position of the 
Administration and White House nor that it indicates 
disagreement of the COO or the FAA Administrator with the 
President's Budget. The Committee is expecting to better 
understand the current and near-term needs of the ATC system, 
and where additional resources that may be available during the 
appropriations process would be best directed.

Sec. 138. Chief Technology Officer.

    This section maintains the existing duties of the Chief 
Technology Officer (CTO), adds a post-employment provision, and 
makes conforming edits.
    The Committee expects the FAA to prioritize the 
establishment of this position.

Sec. 139. Definition of Air Traffic Control System.

    This section includes a conforming amendment to maintain 
the definition of the ATC system and updates it to match the 
current scope of the system--including third-party providers of 
systems, hardware, and services.
    The Committee does not expect this updated definition to be 
construed or interpreted as authorizing or facilitating the 
privatization of the ATC system.

Sec 140. Peer Review of Office of Whistleblower Protection and Aviation 
        Safety Investigations.

    This section subjects the Office of Whistleblower 
Protection and Aviation Safety Investigations to a peer review, 
similar to those performed on the Offices of Inspectors 
General. Such review will occur every five years and will be 
conducted in line with the guidelines of the Council of the 
Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE).

Sec. 141. Cybersecurity Lead.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to designate a 
Cybersecurity Lead for the agency. The Cybersecurity Lead will 
provide briefings to Congress on their activities, including 
implementation of the cybersecurity subtitle of this Act.

Sec. 142. Reducing FAA Waste, Inefficiency, and Unnecessary 
        Responsibilities.

    This section repeals or amends several annual FAA reports, 
as well as longstanding rulemakings that were previously 
required under law but are no longer necessary or a pertinent 
use of agency resources.

                       TITLE II: GENERAL AVIATION


         Subtitle A--Expanding Pilot Privileges and Protections


Sec. 201. Reexamination of Pilots or Certificate Holders.

    This section amends the Pilot's Bill of Rights to require 
the FAA Administrator to provide timely notification to an 
airman subject to a reexamination of an airman certificate. In 
providing such notification, the FAA Administrator must inform 
the individual (1) of the nature of the reexamination and the 
specific activity on which the reexamination is necessitated; 
(2) that the reexamination shall occur within one year from the 
date of the notice provided by the FAA Administrator; and (3) 
when an oral or written response to the notification from the 
FAA Administrator is not required.
    This section clarifies that nothing in the section 
prohibits the FAA Administrator from reexamining an airman in 
certain scenarios.

Sec. 202. GAO Review of Pilot's Bill of Rights.

    This section requires the Comptroller General to submit to 
Congress a report on the implementation and application of the 
Pilot's Bill of Rights, including the application of the 
Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and the Federal Rules of 
Evidence to covered proceedings by the National Transportation 
Safety Board (NTSB) and the impacts of the implementation of 
the Pilot's Bill of Rights.

Sec. 203. Expansion of BasicMed.

    This section amends Section 2307 of the FAA Extension, 
Safety, and Security Act of 2016 by: increasing the number of 
allowable passengers in a covered aircraft to six (up from 
five); increasing the allowable number of seats in a covered 
aircraft to seven (up from six); and increasing the maximum 
certificated takeoff weight of a covered aircraft to 12,500 
pounds (up from 6,000 pounds). This section also updates the 
medical form a state-licensed physician uses in completing a 
comprehensive medical examination.
    The amendments made by this section are applicable 
beginning on the date that is 120 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act.

Sec. 204. Data Privacy.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to establish a 
process by which: (1) a private aircraft owner or operator may 
request the FAA Administrator to block the registration number 
and other similar identifiable data or information of their 
aircraft from any public dissemination or display for 
noncommercial flights; and (2) an aircraft owner or operator 
may request that the FAA Administrator withhold from public 
disclosure certain personally identifiable information on the 
Civil Aviation Registry website.
    This section also requires the FAA Administrator to 
establish a program for aircraft owners and operators to apply 
for a new International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) 
aircraft identification code and develop a plan for which the 
FAA Administrator could allow for a process to disassociate an 
assigned Mode S code with its aircraft registry number.
    This section further requires the FAA Administrator to 
conduct a study assessing the technical challenges, benefits, 
and costs of encrypting Automatic Dependent Surveillance-
Broadcast (ADS-B) signals to provide for a safer and more 
secure environment for National airspace system users.

Sec. 205. Prohibition on Using ADS-B Data to Initiate an Investigation.

    This section prohibits the FAA Administrator from 
initiating an investigation (excluding a criminal 
investigation) of a person based exclusively on ADS-B data.
    This section does not preclude the FAA from using ADS-B 
data in civil investigations as long as the investigation was 
not originally initiated based on the sole review of such data.

Sec. 206. Prohibition on N-Number Profiteering.

    This section prohibits an individual from reserving an 
aircraft registration number without certifying they intend to 
use the number either immediately on a specific aircraft or for 
future use on an aircraft owned or controlled, or intended to 
be owned or controlled, by the individual.
    An individual may transfer a reserved registration number 
to another person so long as the transferor does not impose a 
cost on the transaction that exceeds the amount paid to 
initially reserve the number and the transferee certifies as 
such.

Sec. 207. Accountability for Aircraft Registration Numbers.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to review the 
process for reserving aircraft registration numbers to ensure 
that such process offers equal opportunity for members of the 
public to obtain specific aircraft registration numbers.

Sec. 208. Timely Resolution of Investigations.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to issue a 
final determination on any investigation into a person or 
entity left open for more than two years, unless the FAA 
Administrator determines after a review of the facts that such 
time to perform the investigation is insufficient.

Sec. 209. Expansion of Volunteer Pilot Organization Definition.

    This section amends Section 821 of the FAA Modernization 
and Reform Act of 2012 to modify the definition of a 
``volunteer pilot organization'' to expand the scope of 
charitable transportation that may be conducted for purposes of 
allowing reimbursement for fuel costs and airport fees 
attributed to a charitable flight operation, which includes: 
(1) assisting individuals accessing medical care; (2) 
delivering organs and other medical aid; and (3) certain 
disaster relief efforts.

Sec. 210. Charitable Flight Fuel Reimbursement Exemptions.

    This section deems that exemptions granted to volunteer 
pilot organizations to reimburse pilots providing charitable 
transportation will be valid for five years.
    The Committee expects the FAA Administrator to begin 
applying the changes made by this section to exemptions issued 
after the date of enactment of this Act.

Sec. 211. GAO Report on Charitable Flights.

    This section requires the Comptroller General to initiate a 
review of charitable flights, including: (1) a review of all 
applicable laws, regulations, policies, legal opinions, and 
guidance pertaining to charitable flights and the operations of 
such flights; (2) an assessment of petitions for exemption from 
the regulation that prohibits reimbursement for fuel costs for 
private pilots; and (3) such flights conducted without an 
exemption from the regulation that prohibits reimbursement for 
fuel costs for private pilots.

Sec. 212. All Makes and Models Authorization.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to reestablish 
the authorization for all types and makes of certain 
experimental single and multiengine piston powered aircraft.

Sec. 213. Response to Letter of Investigation.

    This section amends section 2(b) of the Pilot's Bill of 
Rights to ensure that an individual has not less than 30 days 
to respond to Letter of Investigation from the FAA 
Administrator after receipt of such Letter.

                  Subtitle B--General Aviation Safety


Sec. 221. ADS-B Safety Enhancement Incentive Program.

    This section establishes a rebate program to incentivize 
certain general aviation aircraft owners and operators to 
purchase and install safety enhancing ADS-B technology on their 
aircraft. The amount of a rebate is equal to the lesser of the 
cost of purchasing such technology or $2,000 and it must be 
redeemed or presented for payment within 180 days of issuance.

Sec. 222. GAO Report on ADS-B Technology.

    This section requires the Comptroller General to conduct a 
study on ADS-B equipage and usage rates across the active 
general aviation fleet in the United States and ways of further 
incentivizing equipage.

Sec. 223. Protecting General Aviation Airports from FAA Closure.

    This section ensures the FAA will only permit grant 
obligated airports to close if the Secretary of Transportation 
ensures that the closure: will not significantly impair the 
aeronautical purpose of an airport; will not result in the 
permanent closure of an airport (unless the Secretary 
determines that the waiver will directly facilitate the 
construction of a replacement airport); or is necessary to 
protect or advance the civil aviation interests of the United 
States.

Sec. 224. Ensuring Safe Landings During Off-Airport Operations.

    This section prohibits the FAA from applying section 91.119 
of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, in any manner that 
requires a pilot to continue a landing that is unsafe.

Sec. 225. Airport Diagram Terminology.

    This section requires the Administration to update certain 
Administration policy and guidance to ensure the clear and 
consistent use of terms to delineate the types of parking 
available to general aviation pilots.

Sec. 226. Alternative ADS-B Technologies for Use in Certain Small 
        Aircraft.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to publish 
within three years a list of alternative ADS-B technologies for 
use in certain small aircraft so that such aircraft may 
voluntarily broadcast positioning to other aircraft in non-rule 
airspace.

Sec. 227. Airshow Safety Team.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator, in partnership 
with industry, to establish as a part of the General Aviation 
Joint Safety Committee an Airshow Safety Team focused 
exclusively on airshow and aerial event safety.

Sec. 228. Tower Marking Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to issue a 
notice of proposed rulemaking to implement section 2110 of the 
FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 (49 U.S.C. 
44718 note) within one year.

                   Subtitle C--Improving FAA Services


Sec. 241. Aircraft Registration Validity During Renewal.

    This section would permit an aircraft to be operated on or 
after the expiration date found on the certificate of 
registration issued for such aircraft as if it were not 
expired, so long as the operator is awaiting a pending 
registration renewal application and meets additional criteria. 
This section would not permit any person to operate an aircraft 
with an expired registration if the FAA Administrator has 
denied an application to renew the registration of such 
aircraft.

Sec. 242. Temporary Airman Certificates.

    This section provides that an individual may obtain a 
temporary airman certificate from the FAA Administrator while 
waiting for a permanent one to replace a lost or stolen airman 
certificate. This section also requires the individual to 
subsequently destroy the temporary airman certificate upon 
receipt of the permanent replacement certificate.

Sec. 243. Flight Instruction or Testing.

    This section deems that certain individuals who provide 
flight instruction or testing are not operating an aircraft 
carrying persons or property for hire.

Sec. 244. Letter of Deviation Authority.

    This section excludes a flight instructor, registered 
owner, lessor, or lessee of an aircraft from the requirement to 
obtain a letter of deviation authority from the FAA 
Administrator to allow, conduct, or receive flight training, 
checking, and testing in a covered aircraft if no person 
advertises the aircraft or instruction as available for those 
activities; the flight instructor is not providing both the 
training and the aircraft; and no person receives compensation 
for use of the aircraft during those activities, other than 
expenses owed for operating, owning, and maintaining the 
aircraft.

Sec. 245. National Coordination and Oversight of Designated Pilot 
        Examiners.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to establish a 
program or office to provide National coordination and 
oversight of designated pilot examiners (DPEs). This section 
further requires the established program or office to 
coordinate with Flight Standards District Offices, DPE managing 
specialists, and aviation industry stakeholders, including 
representatives of the general aviation community to consider 
(or reconsider) implementing the final recommendations report 
issued by the DPE Reforms Working Group.

Sec. 246. BasicMed for Examiners Administering Tests or Proficiency 
        Checks.

    This section would allow a pilot examiner to perform 
authorized examiner duties under BasicMed so long as the 
examiner can otherwise act as pilot-in-command under BasicMed 
in the aircraft being used for the exam.

Sec. 247. Designee Locator Tool Improvements.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to update the 
designee locator search tool to ensure that it has improved 
search functionalities recommended by the Women in Aviation 
Advisory Board and DPE Reforms Working Group. These include 
filtering a search for an aviation medical examiner by sex, if 
such information is available; displaying credentials and 
aircraft qualifications of a designated pilot examiner; and 
displaying the scheduling availability of a designated pilot 
examiner.

Sec. 248. Deadline to Eliminate Aircraft Registration Backlog.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to take such 
actions as may be necessary to reduce and maintain the aircraft 
registration and recordation backlog at the Civil Aviation 
Registry so that, on average, applications are processed no 
later than 10 business days after receipt.

Sec. 249. Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate Backlog.

    This section sets the goal of reducing the backlog of air 
carrier certificate applications under part 135 at an average 
certificate processing goal of less than 60 days within one 
year of enactment and an average of less than 30 days 
processing goal within two years of enactment.
    This section also requires the FAA Administrator to convene 
a working group to make recommendations to improve the aircraft 
conformity process for existing part 135 air carriers and 
operators and to study and review methods to modernize and 
improve the air carrier certification process under part 135.

Sec. 250. Logging Flight Time Accrued in Certain Public Aircraft.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator, as required in 
the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, to issue a final rule to 
allow a pilot conducting certain public aircraft operations 
under the direct operational control of forestry and fire 
protection agencies to log flight time accrued in such 
aircraft. If the FAA Administrator fails to issue the 
rulemaking, the FAA Administrator would be prohibited from 
enforcing existing prohibitions pertaining to such actions 
against a pilot conducting public aircraft operations under the 
direct operational control of forestry and fire protection from 
logging flight time.

Sec. 251. Flight Instructor Certificates.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to issue a 
final rule for the rulemaking activity titled ``Removal of the 
Expiration Date on a Flight Instructor Certificate'' (RIN 2120-
AL25), not later than 36 months after the date of enactment of 
the Act. Such rulemaking would require the FAA Administrator to 
remove the expiration date on a flight instructor certificate, 
among other things.
    In the event the FAA Administrator fails to complete the 
required rulemaking, an individual holding a valid flight 
instructor certificate as of the date that is 36 months after 
the date of enactment may exercise the privileges of the 
certificate regardless of whether the certificate subsequently 
expires until the FAA Administrator issues the required 
rulemaking.

Sec. 252. Consistency of Policy Application in Flight Standards and 
        Aircraft Certification.

    This section requires the DOT Office of Inspector General 
(OIG) to initiate audits of the Flight Standards and Aircraft 
Certification Services, and the personnel of such offices, on 
the consistency of policy and regulatory interpretation and the 
application of policies, orders, and guidance. In conducting 
the audits, the IG is required to interview a wide array of 
stakeholders that interface with multiple FAA field and 
regional offices.
    The three audits enumerated would pertain to the FAA's work 
with Part 145 repair stations, supplemental type certificate 
(STC) holders, and technical standard orders (TSO) holders. 
Subsequently, this section requires a report from the IG to 
Congress for each issue and then requires the FAA Administrator 
to consider such report's suggested best practices to ensure 
consistent application of policies, orders, guidance, and 
regulations.

Sec. 253. Application of Policies, Orders, and Guidance.

    This section adds a new subsection to section 44701 of 
title 49, United States Code, that requires the FAA 
Administrator to ensure that policies, orders, and guidance 
issued are applied equally and consistently and are not altered 
without consultation. This section also requires the 
Administrator to ensure that officials are properly documenting 
findings and decisions throughout a project to avoid 
disruptions when personnel change.

Sec. 254. Expansion of the Regulatory Consistency Communications Board.

    This section amends section 224 of the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018 by expanding the membership requirements for the 
Regulatory Consistency Communications Board to include 
additional FAA offices and by optimizing the functions of the 
Board.

Sec. 255. Exemption of Fees for Air Traffic Services.

    This section requires the FAA to provide or ensure air 
traffic services and aviation safety support for large, 
multiday aviation events, including airshows and fly-ins, where 
the average daily number of manned operations were 1,000 or 
greater in at least one of the preceding three years, without 
the imposition or collection of any fee, tax, or other charge 
for that purpose.

Sec. 256. Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification 
        Rulemaking Deadline.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to issue a 
final rule for the rulemaking activity titled ``Modernization 
of Special Airworthiness Certification'' (RIN 2120-AL50).

Sec. 257. Termination of Designees.

    This section mandates the FAA Administrator update the 
Administration's Designee Management Policy to provide for an 
investigatory process and record keeping requirements when a 
designee's termination is being considered. This section also 
requires the Administrator provide for a review panel to 
determine whether a termination is appropriate when termination 
for cause is a possible outcome upon the completion of the 
investigation. This section would allow for a subsequent review 
for a designated pilot examiner who was terminated for cause.

Sec. 258. Part 135 Check Airmen Reforms.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to assign to 
the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee (ARAC) the task of 
reviewing all regulations and policies related to check airmen 
for air carrier operations conducted under part 135 of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    This section requires the ARAC to produce action-based 
recommendations based on the activities conducted pursuant to 
the review and requires the FAA Administrator to implement, as 
appropriate, such recommendations.

                      Subtitle D--Other Provisions


Sec. 261. Required Consultation with National Parks Overflights 
        Advisory Group.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator and other 
agencies to consult with the National Parks Overflights 
Advisory Group as required in existing law.

Sec. 262. Supplemental Oxygen Regulatory Reform.

    This section prohibits the application of certain 
supplemental oxygen mask requirements for pilots on board 
pressurized aircraft operating under parts 91 (general 
operating rules applied to all civil aircraft) and 135 (on-
demand, unscheduled air service) of the Federal aviation 
regulations if the aircraft is flying below 41,000 feet.

Sec. 263. Exclusion of Gyroplanes from Fuel System Requirements.

    This section clarifies that the crash resistant fuel system 
requirements in section 44737 of title 49, United States Code, 
only apply to helicopters by striking the term ``rotorcraft'' 
in each instance it appears and inserting ``helicopter.''
    This section also exempts from the requirements of section 
44737 helicopters issued an experimental certificate or 
operating under a special flight permit.

Sec. 264. Airshow Venue Information, Awareness, Training, and Education 
        Program.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to establish a 
program, in cooperation with the National Center for the 
Advancement of Aerospace, to be known as the ``Airshow Venue 
Information, Awareness, Training, and Education (AVIATE) 
Program.'' This program will provide information to the public, 
general aviation airports, local officials, and other 
stakeholders on the benefits of hosting air shows and how to 
host and execute such shows safely, among other things.

Sec. 265. Low Altitude Rotorcraft and Powered-Lift Operations.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator within three 
years to establish or update low altitude routes and flight 
procedures to ensure safe rotorcraft and powered-lift aircraft 
operations within Class B airspace of the National airspace 
system.

Sec. 266. BasicMed in North America.

    This section instructs the FAA Administrator to seek to 
facilitate the recognition of BasicMed medical qualifications 
with civil aviation authorities in Canada and such other 
foreign countries the FAA Administrator determines are 
appropriate.

Sec. 267. Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to continue to 
partner with industry and other federal government stakeholders 
to carry out the Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions 
Initiative (EAGLE Initiative).
    This section specifies that the FAA Administrator shall 
take such actions as may be necessary to facilitate: (1) the 
safe elimination of the use of leaded aviation gasoline by 
piston-engine aircraft by the end of 2030 without adversely 
affecting the piston-engine aircraft fleet; (2) the approval of 
unleaded alternatives to leaded aviation gasoline for use in 
all piston-engine aircraft types and piston-engine types; (3) 
the implementation of the requirements of section 431 as they 
relate to the continued availability of aviation gasoline; (4) 
efforts to make approved unleaded gasoline widely available at 
airports; and (5) the development and implementation of a 
transition plan to safely expedite the transition of the 
piston-engine general aviation aircraft fleet to unleaded fuels 
by 2030.
    This section also requires the FAA Administrator to develop 
and implement a transition plan to safely expedite the 
transition of piston-engine aircraft to unleaded fuels by 2030. 
In developing such plan, the FAA Administrator must consult 
aviation stakeholders and consider the following: (1) progress 
of the EAGLE Initiative; (2) the evaluation and development of 
fuel storage infrastructure to support the storage and 
distribution of unleaded fuels; (3) best practices for 
protecting against exposure to lead contamination on airfields; 
(4) efforts to address supply chain issues inhibiting timely 
distribution of unleaded fuels; and (5) efforts to educate 
pilots and aircraft owners on how to safely transition to 
unleaded fuels.
    This section requires the FAA Administrator to develop 
materials that map or otherwise clearly convey the availability 
of unleaded fuels at airports. The FAA Administrator must brief 
the appropriate Committees of Congress not later than 60 days 
after publication of the plan.

                     TITLE III: AEROSPACE WORKFORCE


                  Subtitle A--Growing the Talent Pool


Sec. 301. Extensions of Aviation Workforce Development Programs.

    This section amends section 625 (the Aviation Workforce 
Development Programs) of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to 
reauthorize funding levels for the aviation maintenance program 
and the aircraft pilot program at $15 million respectively for 
each of FYs 2024 through 2026.
    This section also authorizes funding for an aviation 
manufacturing workforce development program at $15 million for 
the program for each of FYs 2024 through 2026.

Sec. 302. Improving Aviation Workforce Development Programs.

    This section amends section 625 of the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018 by establishing a third workforce development 
program for aviation manufacturing to invest in the education 
and recruitment of aviation manufacturing workers and support 
the development of the aviation manufacturing workforce.
    This section increases the maximum award limit for all 
three workforce development programs to $750,000 (up from 
$500,000) and provides a 20 percent set-aside for the Willa 
Brown Aviation Education Program.
    This section updates the eligible entities and project 
eligibilities for the aviation maintenance and aircraft pilot 
programs, and harmonizes such eligible entities across each 
program, where appropriate.
    This section terminates the authority of the DOT Secretary 
to make these awards after September 30, 2026, though aviation 
workforce development grant activities are intended to continue 
under the newly created CAREER program, which is established 
under section 305.

Sec. 303. National Center for the Advancement of Aerospace.

    This section creates the National Center for the 
Advancement of Aerospace (NCAA), an independent, Federally 
chartered non-profit entity that serves to support and promote 
aviation workforce development and aviation education.
    This section requires the NCAA to perform certain duties to 
fulfill the Center's purpose, which includes administering on 
behalf of the DOT Secretary the newly established Cooperative 
Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and Employment Readiness 
(CAREER) Program, the successor to the Aviation Workforce 
Development Program. The section also establishes a council to 
aid both the Secretary and the NCAA in carrying out the CAREER 
program by reviewing grant applications and recommending grant 
recipients.
    This section requires the NCAA to report to Congress 
annually on the activities of the Center and the CAREER grant 
program, among other things.
    This section authorizes the following amounts to be 
appropriated from the AATF to fund the NCAA: $10 million for 
each FY 2024 through 2026, and $11 million for FY 2027 and FY 
2028.

Sec. 304. Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and Employment 
        Readiness Program.

    This section establishes the Cooperative Aviation 
Recruitment, Enrichment, and Employment Readiness (CAREER) 
Program, the successor to the Aviation Workforce Development 
Programs, to support the education, recruitment, training, and 
retention of future aviation professionals and the development 
of a robust United States aviation workforce.
    This section requires the Secretary to partner with the 
CAREER council (established as part of the NCAA) in 
administering the CAREER program and to establish a 
solicitation, review, and evaluation process that to ensure 
awards are made to eligible entities with proposals that have 
adequate merit and relevancy to the mission of the program and 
the NCAA.
    This section requires the DOT Secretary to impose 
reasonable reporting and monitoring requirements for grant 
recipients to measure relevant outcomes for each program.
    This section authorizes $50 million to be appropriated for 
the CAREER program in each of FYs 2027 and 2028.

Sec. 305. Repeal of Duplicative or Obsolete Workforce Programs.

    This section repeals the FAA's airway science curriculum 
grant program and the advanced training facilities program for 
maintenance technicians for air carrier aircraft.

Sec. 306. Civil Airmen Statistics.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to publish the 
United States Civil Airmen Statistics monthly (rather than on 
an annual basis) and expands data criteria. This section also 
requires the FAA Administrator to establish a web-based 
dashboard to present this data and findings.

Sec. 307. Bessie Coleman Women in Aviation Advisory Committee.

    This section establishes the Bessie Coleman Women in 
Aviation Advisory Committee to advise the DOT Secretary and the 
FAA Administrator on the recruitment, retention, employment, 
education, training, well-being, and treatment of women in the 
aviation industry and in aviation-focused Federal civil service 
positions.
    This section specifies the Committee's activities and 
certain functions it may perform in carrying out taskings by 
the Secretary.The Committee is also required to submit reports 
to Congress.
    This section sunsets the Committee on the last day of the 
eight-year period beginning on the date of the initial 
appointment of the members of the Committee.

Sec. 308. Establishing a Comprehensive Web-Based Aviation Resource 
        Center.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to partner with 
the NCAA to establish a high-quality, web-based resource center 
that provides streamlined public access to information on 
aviation career resources, apprenticeships, and related 
curricula for students and teachers, among other things.

Sec. 309. Direct Hire Authority from UAS Collegiate Training 
        Initiative.

    This section provides authority to the FAA Administrator to 
hire graduates or near-graduates in good standing from eligible 
institutions of higher education under the Unmanned Aircraft 
System Collegiate Training Initiative. This section sunsets the 
FAA Administrator's direct hire authority on September 30, 
2028.

     Subtitle B--Improving Training and Rebuilding Talent Pipelines


Sec. 311. Joint Aviation Employment Training Working Group.

    This section requires the establishment of an interagency 
working group to advise the DOT Secretary and the DOD Secretary 
on matters and policies related to the training and 
certification of certain aviation professionals to improve 
career transition between the military and civilian workforces.

Sec. 312. Airman Knowledge Testing Working Group.

    This section requires the Administrator to establish a 
working group under the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee 
to review knowledge testing processes and procedures to improve 
the facilitation, administration, and accessibility of 
knowledge tests.
    The working group shall also assess opportunities to allow 
high school students upon successful completion of an aviation 
maintenance curriculum described in paragraph (1) to take the 
general written knowledge portion of the mechanic exam.

Sec. 313. Airman Certification System Working Group and Timely 
        Publication of Standards.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to task the 
Airman Certification System Working Group established under the 
Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee with reviewing Airman 
Certification Standards to ensure that airman proficiency and 
knowledge correlates and corresponds to regulations, 
procedures, equipment, aviation infrastructure, and safety 
trends.
    This section also requires the FAA Administrator to publish 
the process by which the Airman Certification Standards are to 
be established, updated, and maintained, including related 
guidance and handbooks.

Sec. 314. Air Traffic Control Workforce Staffing.

    This section transfers the responsibility for annual 
reporting on the Controller Workforce Plan (CWP) from the FAA 
Administrator to the COO of the Air Traffic Organization. It 
requires the COO to revise air traffic control hiring plans and 
staffing standards to ensure the controller and management 
workforce is adequately staffed to safely and efficiently 
manage the ATC system.
    This section directs the FAA Administrator to set as the 
hiring target for each of FYs 2024 through 2027 to the maximum 
number of individuals trained at the FAA Air Traffic Control 
Academy.
    This section requires the COO, in the interim, to adopt and 
utilize the staffing models and methodologies developed by the 
Collaborative Resource Workgroup (CRWG) that were recommended 
in a report submitted to the FAA Administrator and referenced 
in the CWP submitted to Congress on May 5, 2023.
    This section requires the Transportation Research Board 
(TRB) to compare the Administration's staffing models and 
methodologies with those developed by the CRWG and determine 
which staffing model best accounts for the operational staffing 
needs of the air traffic control system. This section requires 
the FAA Administrator to adopt the best staffing model 
identified by the TRB.

Sec. 315. Aviation Safety Workforce Assessment.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to assess, on a 
recurring basis, staffing levels, critical competencies, and 
skills gaps of safety critical positions in the Flight 
Standards Service and Aircraft Certification Service and within 
other offices of the Administration that support such services.

Sec. 316. Military Aviation Maintenance.

    This section requires the interagency working group 
established in section 311 to evaluate the appropriateness of 
revising part 65 rules (Federal aviation rules governing the 
certification of airmen other than flight crewmembers) to 
create a mechanic written competency test for eligible military 
maintenance technicians, to develop an Airmen Certification 
Standard to qualify eligible military technicians, and to allow 
a certificate of eligibility from the Joint Services Aviation 
Maintenance Technician Certification Council evidencing 
completion of a training program.
    This section requires the interagency working group to 
determine whether an expansion of the number of active testing 
locations operated within military installation testing centers 
would increase access to testing, as well as how to implement 
such expansion.

            Subtitle C--Engaging and Retaining the Workforce


Sec. 321. Airman's Medical Bill of Rights.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to develop a 
document referred to as the ``Airman's Medical Bill of Rights'' 
that details the rights of an individual before, during, and 
after a medical exam conducted by an Aviation Medical Examiner. 
This section also directs the FAA Administrator to develop a 
second document to explain the standard procedures performed 
during a medical examination conducted by an examiner and to 
make such document readily available to individuals.

Sec. 322. Improved Designee Misconduct Reporting Process.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to establish a 
streamlined process for individuals involved in incidents of 
alleged misconduct by a designee to report such incidents in a 
manner that protects the individual's privacy and 
confidentiality.
    This section would also require designees to report to the 
FAA Administrator any arrest, indictment, or conviction for 
violation of a local, State, or Federal law within a period 
time to be specified by the FAA Administrator.
    This section also requires DOT OIG to conduct an audit of 
the reporting process not later than three years after the date 
on which the FAA Administrator completes the required updates 
to the reporting process.

Sec. 323. Report on Safe Uniform Options for Certain Aviation 
        Employees.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to conduct a 
review to determine whether major commercial airline carriers 
and repair stations have in place uniform policies and 
offerings that ensure pregnant employees can perform required 
duties safely.This section requires the FAA Administrator to 
brief Congress on the results of the review within two years.

Sec. 324. Extension of Samya Rose Stumo National Air Grant Fellowship 
        Program.

    This section extends the authorization for the Samya Rose 
Stumo National Air Grant Fellowship Program through FY 2028.

Sec. 325. Promotion of Civil Aeronautics and Safety of Air Commerce.

    This section makes conforming edits associated with 
sections 326 and 502 of the bill.

Sec. 326. Educational and Professional Development.

    This section describes the efforts the FAA shall undertake 
to promote and support the education and professional 
development of persons in the aviation sector, schools, or 
other organizations.

Sec. 327. Human Factors Professionals.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to establish a 
work code for human factors professionals.

Sec. 328. Aeromedical Innovation and Modernization Working Group.

    This section establishes a working group to review the 
medical processes, policies, and procedures of the 
Administration and to make recommendations to the FAA 
Administrator to ensure the timely and efficient certification 
of airmen. This section requires the working group to assess 
the special issuance process, determine the appropriateness of 
expanding the list of medical conditions an Aviation Medical 
Examiner can issue a certificate, and to evaluate certain 
medications and treatments approved for use by airmen, among 
other activities.
    This section also establishes a pilot mental health task 
group responsible for developing and providing recommendations 
related to supporting the mental health of pilots. Within two 
years of its establishment, the task group must submit a report 
to the DOT Secretary and Congress on its findings.

Sec. 329. Frontline Manager Workload Study.

    This section directs the COO of the Air Traffic 
Organization to conduct a study on frontline manager workload 
challenges in air traffic control facilities. The COO must 
submit a report to Congress on its findings.

Sec. 330. Age Standards for Pilots.

    This section amends Section 44729 of title 49, United 
States Code to increase the mandatory retirement age for pilots 
conducting operations under part 121 to 67 years of age (up 
from 65 years of age). This section provides retroactive 
application of the change to the mandatory retirement age so 
that a person who has attained 65 years of age on or before the 
date of enactment of the Act may return to service as a pilot 
for an air carrier engaged in covered operations.
    This section prohibits an air carrier engaged in covered 
operations from requiring an employed pilot to serve until they 
attain 67 years of age.

                    TITLE IV: AIRPORT INFRASTRUCTURE


         Subtitle A--Airport Improvement Program Modifications


Sec. 401. AIP Definitions.

    This section modifies and expands various definitions 
applicable to the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), including 
the establishment of a heliport and vertiport definition and 
clarification that certain airport development projects that 
are capable of sustaining commercial operations after a natural 
disaster are AIP eligible.

Sec. 402. Revenue Diversion Penalty Enhancement.

    This section doubles the maximum penalty for an airport 
that illegally diverts airport revenue.

Sec. 403. Extension of Competitive Access Report Requirement.

    This section extends the requirement that medium and large 
hub airports file competitive access reports if they are unable 
to accommodate a request from an air carrier for additional 
gates.

Sec. 404. Renewal of Certain Leases.

    This section permits an airport to renew certain nominal 
rate leases with National Guard units without violating revenue 
diversion restrictions.

Sec. 405. Community Use of Airport Land.

    This section prevents certain airports with parks on 
airport property from having to close the parks as a result of 
FAA requirements.

Sec. 406. Price Adjustment Provisions.

    This section allows the DOT Secretary to incorporate price 
adjustment provisions into an AIP grant agreement to account 
for labor or material cost inflation.

Sec. 407. Allowable Project Costs and Letters of Intent.

    This section allows an airport to incur utility relocation 
and work site preparation costs in advance of an AIP grant 
agreement and makes various technical amendments.

Sec. 408. Small Airport Letters of Intent.

    This section requires the FAA to issue AIP letters of 
intent (LOIs) to small airports. Under an LOI, the FAA agrees 
in advance to provide funding for an airport project, allowing 
an airport to plan large capital projects proactively and 
receive better financing terms from the market. LOIs are 
currently restricted to large airports. This section will 
require the FAA to issue $100 million in small airport LOIs 
annually beginning in FY 2028, giving small airports more 
certainty about when they will be able to complete major 
projects like runway extensions and rehabilitation.

Sec. 409. Prohibition on Use of AIP Funds to Procure Certain Passenger 
        Boarding Bridges.

    This section prohibits AIP funds from being used to 
purchase certain Chinese manufactured jet bridges.

Sec. 410. Fuel Infrastructure.

    This section makes the installation of unleaded aviation 
gasoline fueling systems and fueling systems for type 
certificated hydrogen aircraft AIP eligible.

Sec. 411. Apportionments.

    This section revises AIP apportionment formulas.
    Major revisions in subsection (a) include increasing the 
minimum primary airport apportionment from $1 million to $1.3 
million and eliminating the ``cliff'' for small commercial 
service airports whose passenger enplanements fell below 
10,000. Instead, commercial service airports will receive 
funding on a sliding scale that ramps up from the $150,000 non-
primary entitlement to the $1.3 million minimum primary 
apportionment, depending on the number of enplaned passengers. 
The section also increases the cargo airport apportionment to 
four percent of AIP and allows airports with more than 
25,000,000 pounds of total landed weight to receive cargo 
apportionments.
    Major revisions in subsection (b) include increasing the 
general aviation apportionment from 20 percent to 25 percent of 
AIP. This section also allows general aviation apportionment 
funding in United States territories to be used for any airport 
in the territory.

Sec. 412. PFC Turnback Reduction.

    This section reduces the amount of AIP apportionment 
funding a large or medium hub airport is required to turn back 
if it charges a passenger facility charge of $4.50 from 75 
percent to 60 percent, which will increase the amount of AIP 
apportionment funding those airports receive.

Sec. 413. Transfer of AIP Supplemental Funds to Formula Program.

    This section reduces the authorization for AIP supplemental 
discretionary funds by more than 90 percent in order to make 
such funds available for the AIP formula program. The remaining 
authorization for supplemental funds is prioritized for runway 
safety projects.

Sec. 414. Small Airport Fund.

    This section accounts for the reduction in PFC turnback 
funds flowing into the small airport fund by diverting 50 
percent of non-primary entitlement carryover funds into the 
small airport fund. This section also simplifies the 
distribution formula for the fund. Finally, this section 
creates a five percent set-aside for the construction of small 
general aviation hangars and a five percent set-aside for 
aprons intended to be used for itinerant general aviation 
parking.

Sec. 415. Revision of Discretionary Categories.

    This section revises the formulas and eligibilities in AIP 
discretionary categories. This section increases the number of 
projects eligible to be funded under the existing environmental 
programs set-aside while both raising the floor and lowering 
the ceiling on category funding. This section also lowers the 
maximum amount that can be spent under the environmental set-
aside from $300 million to $200 million while raising the 
minimum floor for that set-aside to $150 million.
    The Committee intends for the FAA Administrator to provide 
a minimum of $150 million each fiscal year for projects funded 
through the environmental set-aside AIP discretionary account 
via the process described in the amendments made by this 
section.

Sec. 416. Terminal Development.

    This section removes most restrictions on the kinds of 
terminal development projects AIP can be used for, reducing the 
need for airports to segment terminal projects to comply with 
program requirements.

Sec. 417. State Block Grant Program.

    This section revises provisions relating to the State Block 
Grant Program under which States administer and disburse 
general aviation airport funding.
    Subsection (a) increases the Federal share of airport 
projects in state block grant States from 90 percent to 91 
percent to account for administrative costs associated with 
running the program.
    Subsection (b) requires the FAA to provide recurring 
training on state block grant program administrative 
requirements, including when there is a significant change to 
the program.
    Subsection (c) requires the DOT Secretary to enter into 
memoranda of agreement with state block grant States to 
delineate FAA and State responsibilities under the program. The 
subsection also requires the FAA to accept State documentation 
that is equivalent to the documentation that FAA itself would 
produce for a similar decision.

Sec. 418. Innovative Financing Techniques.

    This section authorizes the DOT Secretary to approve AIP 
grants for projects that use innovative financing techniques.

Sec. 419. Long-Term Management Plans.

    This section adds as an additional priority consideration 
for airport funding under the zero-emission vehicle program the 
development of a long-term management plan for eligible 
vehicles and equipment.

Sec. 420. Alternative Project Delivery.

    This section expends an existing alternative project 
delivery program and allows for the FAA to approve AIP grants.

Sec. 421. Nonmovement Area Surveillance Surface Display Systems Pilot 
        Program.

    This section extends a FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 
pilot program that allows airports to use AIP funds to acquire 
nonmovement area surveillance systems.

Sec. 422. Repeal of Obsolete Criminal Provisions.

    This section repeals an obsolete criminal provision 
relating to FAA construction of international airport 
facilities.

Sec. 423. Limitation on Certain Rolling Stock Procurements.

    This section applies an existing Federal Transit 
Administration (FTA) prohibition on using Federal funds to 
acquire Chinese rolling stock to AIP.

Sec. 424. Regulatory Application.

    This section requires the FAA to consider the extent to 
which communities in Alaska are not connected to the ground 
transportation system when administering AIP.

Sec. 425. National Priority System Formulas.

    This section directs the FAA to update its formulas for 
determining AIP grant priorities assigned to different 
projects.

Sec. 426. Minority and Disadvantaged Business Participation.

    This section finds that there remains a compelling need for 
the continuation of the airport disadvantaged business 
enterprise (DBE) program and the airport concessions DBE 
program.

Sec. 427. Airport Access Roads in Remote Locations.

    This section extends the applicability of a provision in 
the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 that allows AIP funds to be 
used to construct certain airport access roads in noncontiguous 
States.

Sec. 428. Limited Regulation of Non-Federally Sponsored Property.

    This section clarifies a provision in the FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2018 that prohibits the DOT from 
regulating, directly or indirectly, the acquisition, use, 
lease, transfer, or disposal of airport property by an airport 
owner or operator if the land was not purchased with Federal 
funds, except to ensure airport safety and efficiency is 
maintained and that fair market value is received.

Sec. 429. Motorcoach Enplanement Pilot Program.

    This section allows airports to count passengers who pass 
through security and board motorcoaches to other airports to be 
counted as enplaned passengers for purposes of AIP 
apportionment funding through 2028.

Sec. 430. Populous Counties Without Airports.

    This section requires the FAA to include a new airport in 
the national plan of integrated airport systems if the airport 
is located in the most populous county of a state that does not 
have a listed airport if it meets certain criteria.

Sec. 431. Continued Availability of Aviation Gasoline.

    This section requires that airports that had aviation 
gasoline available in 2018 continue to make aviation gasoline, 
including leaded or unleaded gasoline, available for purchase.

Sec. 432. AIP Handbook Update.

    This section requires the FAA to update the AIP handbook to 
account for legislative changes to the program. It also 
requires that the FAA consult with airport stakeholders in 
developing the handbook and to release a draft handbook for 
public comment.

Sec. 433. GAO Audit of Airport Financial Reporting Program.

    This section requires the Comptroller General to audit the 
FAA's airport financial reporting program, under which airports 
are required to provide certain financial data to the FAA on an 
annual basis.

Sec. 434. GAO Review of Nonaeronautical Revenue Streams at Airports.

    This section requires the Comptroller General to review 
nonaeronautical revenue streams at airports and to assess 
different opportunities for airports to increase their 
nonaeronautical revenue.

Sec. 435. Maintaining Safe Fire and Rescue Staffing Levels.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to update 
airport firefighting and rescue requirements to ensure certain 
airports have basic level Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) 
training for at least one first responder, consistent with best 
practices.
    This section also requires the FAA Administrator to 
evaluate present-day airport environments and determine if 
current staffing requirements are sufficient.

Sec. 436. GAO Study of On-Site Airport Generation.

    This section requires the Comptroller General to study the 
feasibility of certain on-site power generation solutions at 
airports and submit a report to Congress on its findings.

Sec. 437. Transportation Demand Management at Airports.

    This section requires the Comptroller General to study and 
issue a report on the efficacy of transportation demand 
management strategies at United States airports. In this 
section, the term ``transportation demand management strategy'' 
means the use of planning, programs, policy, marketing, 
communications, incentives, pricing, data, and technology to 
optimize travel modes, routes used, departure times, and number 
of trips.

Sec. 438. Coastal Airports Assessment.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to coordinate 
with the Army Corps of Engineers to assess the resiliency of 
United States coastal airports and submit a report to Congress 
on the findings and related recommendations.

Sec. 439. Airport Investment Partnership Program.

    This section amends the Airport Investment Partnership 
Program giving the DOT Secretary the ability to conduct a 
benefit-cost analysis during the approval of an application. If 
conducted, the benefit-cost analysis must be completed within 
60 days of submission or 60 days after all required information 
is submitted to the Secretary.

Sec. 440. GAO Study on Per-Trip Airport Fees for TNC Consumers.

    This section tasks the Comptroller General with studying 
the fees that airports charge customers of transportation 
network companies.

Sec. 441. Special Rule for Reclassification of Certain Unclassified 
        Airports.

    Under this section, a privately owned reliever airport that 
is not identified in the National Plan of Integrated Airport 
Systems may submit to the DOT Secretary a request to reclassify 
the airport according to criteria used to classify a publicly 
owned airport. In submitting such a request, the airport shall 
provide a sworn statement, along with the appropriate 
documentation, to demonstrate the airport satisfies the 
requirements to be classified as ``local'' or ``basic'' if the 
airport was publicly owned. Airports must also submit a report 
that identifies the role of the airport to the aviation system 
and describes the long-term fiscal viability of the airport.
    This section directs the DOT Secretary to complete an 
eligibility review within 60 days of receiving such 
reclassification request from a privately owned reliever 
airport. When conducting the eligibility review, the Secretary 
may require the airport to provide information on the 
possibility for obtaining a public sponsor; however, the 
Secretary may not require the airport to obtain a public 
sponsor.
    This section also directs the Secretary to grant requests 
within 60 days of receiving the request if the request includes 
the appropriate information (as defined under this section) and 
the airport passes the eligibility review. An airport that does 
not pass the eligibility review, performed by the Secretary, 
may submit a corrective action plan that resolves the 
shortcomings identified by the eligibility review and proves 
corrective actions have been completed by the airport.
    Lastly, this section dictates that the reclassification of 
privately owned reliever airports shall take effect before 
September 30, 2026, for an airport that passes the eligibility 
review and before September 30, 2027, for requests granted 
after the submission of a corrective action plan.

Sec. 442. Permanent Solar Powered Taxiway Edge Lighting Systems.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to publish an 
engineering brief on the acceptable use of solar-powered 
taxiway edge lighting systems at nonprimary airports.

Sec. 443. Secondary Runways.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to consider 
allowing for the use of funds from the Infrastructure 
Investment and Jobs Act for the extension of secondary runways 
as non-hub or small-hub airports.

Sec. 444. Increasing the Energy Efficiency of Airports and Meeting 
        Current and Future Electrical Power Demands.

    This section amends Section 47140 of title 49, United 
States Code, to include present and future power demands for 
airside and landside operations in airport energy assessments. 
This section further amends section 47140 to include airside 
energy projects as an eligible project.

Sec. 445. Electric Aircraft Infrastructure Pilot Program.

    This section establishes a five-year pilot program allowing 
up to 10 eligible airports to acquire, install, and operate 
charging equipment for electric aircraft and to construct or 
modify related infrastructure to support such equipment.

Sec. 446. Curb Management Practices.

    This section clarifies that nothing in this Act shall 
prevent an airport from implementing curb management practices 
or from enforcing curb zones at an airport.

                 Subtitle B--Passenger Facility Charge


Sec. 461. PFC Application Approvals.

    This sectionexpands the eligible uses of Passenger Facility 
Charges (PFCs) to include ``airport-related projects.''

Sec. 462. PFC Authorization Pilot Program Implementation.

    This section requires the implementation of the PFC 
authorization pilot program, which would allow airports to file 
a notice of their intent to impose a PFC rather than file an 
application to do so. The pilot program maintains all presently 
required air carrier consultation and comment requirements and 
permits the DOT Secretary to block an airport's imposition of a 
PFC subject to further review.

     Subtitle C--Noise and Environmental Programs and Streamlining


Sec. 471. Streamlining Consultation Process.

    This section clarifies that the DOT Secretary may consult 
with the Secretary of the Interior and the Administrator of the 
Environmental Protection Agency on runway construction or 
extension projects.

Sec. 472. Repeal of Burdensome Emissions Credit Requirements.

    This section repeals requirements that airports receive 
emissions credits when they receive AIP grants for certain 
environmental projects.

Sec. 473. Expedited Environmental Review and One Federal Decision.

    This section reforms and expands the applicability of FAA's 
expedited environmental review process and implements the major 
components of One Federal Decision. The process will apply to 
all airport capacity enhancement projects, terminal development 
projects, and general aviation projects, as well as certain 
important aviation safety projects. The section directs the FAA 
to take the lead on coordinating and scheduling the 
environmental review process and to ensure that environmental 
reviews are occurring concurrently with each other.

Sec. 474. Subchapter III Definitions.

    This section makes minor amendments to definitions 
applicable to subchapter III of chapter 471 of title 49, United 
States Code.

Sec. 475. Pilot Program Extension.

    This section extends the authorization of the environmental 
mitigation pilot program established in the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018.

Sec. 476. Part 150 Noise Standards Update.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to review and 
revise part 150 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to 
reflect all relevant laws and regulations, including part 161 
of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    In clarifying existing and future noise policies and 
standards, the FAA Administrator is required to seek feedback 
from airports, airport users, and individuals living in the 
vicinity of airports.
    This section also directs the FAA Administrator to brief 
the appropriate Committees of Congress every six months on the 
review conducted under this section. The briefing requirement 
sunsets on September 30, 2028.

Sec. 477. Reducing Community Aircraft Noise Exposure.

    This section mandates that the FAA Administrator take the 
following actions to reduce undesirable aircraft noise when 
implementing or revising a flight procedure: the FAA 
Administrator should implement flight procedures that mitigate 
the impact of aircraft noise, work with airport sponsors and 
impacted neighborhoods in establishing or modifying arrival and 
departure routes, and discourage local encroachment of 
residential or other buildings near airports.

Sec. 478. Categorical Exclusions.

    This section increases the number of FAA activities that 
are presumed to be covered by categorical exclusions for 
purposes of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
    Subsection (a) creates a categorical exclusion for airport 
projects that receive less than $6 million in Federal funding, 
similar to Federal highway projects.
    Subsection (b) creates a categorical exclusion for the 
rebuilding of airport infrastructure that is damaged or 
destroyed in a natural disaster.
    Subsection (c) clarifies that the standard ``extraordinary 
circumstances'' exception applies to categorical exclusions 
created under this section.

Sec. 479. Critical Habitat On or Near Airport Property.

    This section requires the FAA to coordinate with other 
Federal agencies to ensure the designation of critical habitat 
for endangered species does not create conflicting regulatory 
requirements for airports or jeopardize aviation safety.

Sec. 480. Updating Presumed to Conform Limits.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary to update presumed 
to conform limits to include the construction of aircraft 
hangars and airport rescue and firefighting facilities.

Sec. 481. Recommendations on Reducing Rotorcraft Noise in District of 
        Columbia.

    This section requires the Comptroller General to study 
options to reduce rotorcraft noise in the District of Columbia, 
including consideration of changes to military operations and 
alternative methods for emergency response and law enforcement 
operations.

Sec. 482. UFP Study.

    This section requires a National Academies study to examine 
airborne ultrafine particles (UFP) and their effects on human 
health, including on susceptible individuals. Among its 
considerations, the study will provide recommendations on 
measures to reduce aviation-related emissions.

Sec. 483. Aviation and Airport Community Engagement.

    This section requires the FAA to form an Airport Community 
of Interest Task Force to provide recommendations on multiple 
aspects of FAA community engagement with airport communities, 
including with regard to Federal noise abatement efforts, air 
traffic pattern changes, the Federal noise complaint process, 
development projects around airports, and improving information 
sharing. It also directs the FAA to convene annual engagement 
events in each of its regions, in conjunction with its Regional 
Community Engagement Officers, to focus on topics of regional 
interest.

Sec. 484. Community Collaboration Program.

    This section requires the FAA to establish a Community 
Collaboration Program to harmonize policies and procedures 
across the agency relating to community engagement, including 
establishing the Airport Community of Interest Task Force as 
detailed in Sec. 483, hosting regional engagement events 
referred to in Sec. 483, coordinating with the Air Traffic 
Organization on engagement efforts related to air traffic 
procedure changes, oversight of Regional Ombudsmen, increasing 
the responsiveness of the FAA's noise complaint process, and 
implementing Government Accountability Office (GAO) 
recommendations related to improving outreach on noise.

Sec. 485. Third Party Study on Aviation Noise Metrics.

    This section requires a National Academies study on the 
efficacy and disadvantages of the Day-Night Average Sound Level 
(DNL) noise metric compared to alternatives, including for 
assessing the impacts of nighttime noise, and any changes that 
should be made to it.

Sec. 486. Information Sharing Requirement.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary (acting through the 
FAA Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration) to 
establish a mechanism to make helicopter noise complaint data 
accessible to the Administration, helicopter operators 
operating in the D.C. area, and the public through a website of 
the Administration.
    This section also requires helicopter operators operating 
in the D.C. area to provide helicopter noise complaint data to 
the Administration through the process developed under this 
section.

                        TITLE V: AVIATION SAFETY


                     Subtitle A--General Provisions


Sec. 501. Zero Tolerance for Near Misses, Runway Incursions, and 
        Surface Safety Risks.

    This section expands the aviation policy of the United 
States to expressly include aviation-related projects, 
activities, and actions as being important in improving the 
ground operations of aircraft at airports, and requires the FAA 
to continuously track and evaluate both ground and air traffic 
activity and incidents at and around airports to mitigate and 
reduce such incidents from occurring.
    This section requires the FAA to establish the Runway 
Safety Council to develop strategies to address safety risks of 
ground operations at airports. This section also requires the 
FAA to identify and deploy technologies, equipment, and 
systems, such as surface surveillance and detection systems, to 
enhance the safety of ground operations at all medium hub 
airports, large hub airports, and other airports that lack 
airport surface surveillance capabilities and may need such 
capabilities.

Sec. 502. Global Aviation Safety.

    Subsection (a) of this section establishes the rationale 
for FAA's international presence--providing technical 
assistance to civil aviation authorities, encouraging the 
adoption of United States standards and policies, maintaining 
an aviation regulatory environment that supports the safe 
travel of Americans abroad, supporting United States 
manufacturers pursuing validation of aerospace products and new 
markets, and managing bilateral aviation safety agreements with 
foreign countries.
    Subsection (b) requires the FAA to develop a means by which 
to review the effectiveness of its international offices in 
executing the mission of the agency and the adequacy of the 
resources needed for such a mission. This subsection also 
requires the FAA Administrator to establish new offices based 
on any identified gaps. In performing the review, the Committee 
expects the FAA Administrator will consider the need for an 
international office in Ethiopia near the headquarters of the 
African Union Commission and in Indonesia where the country has 
seen passenger counts increase by more than 50 percent from 
2013 to 2019.
    Subsection (c) defines the purpose of multilateral and 
bilateral aviation safety agreements (BASA) and includes in 
such purpose: the harmonization of requirements and processes 
to the benefit of aviation safety and the United States 
aerospace industry; the ability to update BASAs to include new 
technologies and aerospace users; and procedures for holding 
foreign aviation authorities accountable for adherence to 
BASAs. This subsection also requires the DOT OIG to audit the 
extent to which the United States and other foreign civil 
aviation authorities comply with BASAs as they pertain to 
validating aerospace products. The Committee expects FAA will 
seek to update, with relevant authorities, existing BASAs to 
include at a minimum the operation of unmanned aircraft systems 
and powered-lift aircraft as well as the certification and 
validation of such systems and aircraft.
    Lastly, subsection (d) requires that the FAA Administrator 
establish a strategic plan for international engagement which 
includes maintaining metrics to measure the effectiveness of 
and compliance with BASAs.

Sec. 503. Availability of Personnel for Inspections, Site Visits, and 
        Training.

    This section instructs the FAA Administrator and the DOT 
Secretary to delegate the authority to authorize travel for 
certain employees to appropriate supervisors of the 
Administration, without additional approvals. Travel authorized 
under this section shall be for the purpose of promoting civil 
aeronautics and safety of air commerce both domestically and 
internationally.
    The Committee expects that the DOT Secretary and FAA 
Administrator will reduce the burden of getting travel approved 
and that personnel of the Administration will increase their 
site visits and participation in in-person conferences and 
meetings.

Sec. 504. Helicopter Air Ambulance Operations.

    This section repeals an outstanding rulemaking activity 
that is duplicative with other regulatory and oversight actions 
taken by the FAA regarding helicopter air ambulance operations. 
This section requires the FAA to inform Congress on how 
specific risks to air ambulance operations will be captured 
under their Safety Management System (SMS) programs.
    This section also requires the FAA to more routinely 
publish air ambulance safety information on the FAA's website.

Sec. 505. Global Aircraft Maintenance Safety Improvements.

    This requires that all foreign aircraft repair stations be 
subject to at least one unannounced safety inspection each year 
and sets forth minimum qualifications for mechanics and others 
working on United States registered aircraft at foreign repair 
stations.
    This section also directs the FAA to convene a foreign 
repair station working group with other civil aviation 
authorities to conduct a review of the certification and 
oversight of the stations and to identify any future 
enhancements to strengthen oversight of such stations.
    This section further requires that rules mandated in the 
FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 on drug and 
alcohol testing and a threat assessment of employees at foreign 
repair stations are implemented.

Sec. 506. ODA Best Practice Sharing.

    This section directs the FAA's Organization Designation 
Authorization (ODA) Oversight Office to convene a forum for ODA 
holders, unit members, and other organizational representatives 
not less than every two years to share best practices and 
foster open and transparent communication between 
Administration safety specialists, ODA holders, and unit 
members.

Sec. 507. Training of Organization Delegation Authority Unit Members.

    This section mandates that approved ODA holders have a 
recurrent training program for all ODA unit members. The 
training program established in this section shall cover unit 
members' professional obligation and responsibilities, the ODA 
holder's code of ethics, and procedures for reporting safety 
concerns.
    This section also requires the FAA ODA Office to review 
each ODA holder's recurrent training program to ensure it 
covers all topics required under this section.
    In addition, this section requires that ODA unit members 
complete ethics training within 60 business days of being 
designated as an ODA unit member. ODA unit members authorized 
to perform delegated functions under an ODA prior to the 
establishment of the training program must complete the 
training no later than 30 days after such training course is 
approved by the FAA Administrator and annually thereafter.

Sec. 508. Clarification on Safety Management System Information 
        Disclosure.

    This section clarifies that a report, data, or other 
information submitted for any purpose relating to the 
development, implementation, and use of a safety management 
system, including a system required by regulations, that is 
acceptable to the FAA Administrator, may not be disclosed to 
the public by the FAA Administrator.

Sec. 509. Extension of Aircraft Certification, Safety, and 
        Accountability Act Reporting Requirements.

    This section extends the reporting requirements in the 
Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act through 
2028.

Sec. 510. Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative.

    This section renames the FAA Alaska Aviation Safety 
Initiative as the ``Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety 
Initiative'' and sets forth objectives to work cooperatively 
with aviation stakeholders towards the goal of reducing the 
rate of fatal aircraft accidents by 90 percent from 2019-2033 
and eliminating fatal accidents of commercial aircraft by 2033 
in Alaska, Hawaii, and the territories of the United States. 
Furthermore, the section designates the Regional Administrator 
for the Alaskan Region of the Administration to serve as the 
Director of the Initiative and requires the Director to build 
upon the existing initiatives of the FAA Alaska Aviation Safety 
Initiative.
    This section also directs the FAA Administrator to ensure 
installation and operation of automated weather reporting 
systems and the reliability and availability of information 
from those systems. Further, it directs the FAA Administrator 
to deploy visual weather observation systems and continue to 
assess the state of weather camera systems. This also requires 
the FAA Administrator to encourage and incentivize equipage of 
automatic dependent surveillance broadcast out equipment on 
commercial aircraft operating in the covered locations.
    Finally, this section allows the FAA Administrator to 
consider hiring locally for safety critical FAA position in the 
covered locations if the FAA Administrator has determined there 
are unique circumstances affecting the ability to hire for 
those positions. It also directs the FAA Administrator to take 
such actions as may be necessary to implement NTSB 
recommendations A-22-25 and A-22-26, in coordination with 
various Alaska stakeholders.

Sec. 511. Continued Oversight of FAA Compliance Program.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to continue the 
agency-wide evaluation to assess the functioning and 
effectiveness of the Compliance Program and directs the FAA 
Administrator to determine the need for long term metrics, if 
the program ensure the highest level of compliance with safety 
standards, and if the program has met its stated safety goals 
and purpose.

Sec. 512. Scalability of Safety Management Systems.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator, in conducting a 
rulemaking to require, or implementing a regulation requiring a 
safety management system, to consider the scalability of such 
safety management system requirements to the full range of 
entities in terms of size or complexity.

Sec. 513. Finalize Safety Management System Rulemaking.

    This section directs the Administrator to issue a final 
rule on the SMS notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) no later 
than 180 days after the enactment of this Act. This section 
also requires the SMS NPRM to apply to all certificate holders 
operating under the rules for part 135 or section 91.147 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, as well as certain 
production and type certificate holders under part 21 of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations.

Sec. 514. Improvements to Aviation Safety Information Analysis and 
        Sharing.

    This section would require the FAA to implement 
improvements to the Aviation Safety Information Analysis and 
Sharing program with respect to safety data sharing and risk 
mitigation. Required improvements include developing predictive 
capabilities to anticipate emerging safety risks, establishing 
a robust process for prioritizing request for safety 
information, and identifying industry segments not yet included 
in the program.

Sec. 515. Improvement of Certification Processes.

    This section directs the FAA to continually evaluate and 
improve the process by which they coordinate with, respond to, 
and consider aircraft certification applications.
    This section also requires that the FAA contract with a 
qualified third-party organization or consortium to evaluate 
the use of digital tools and software systems that allow for 
near-real-time and virtual evaluation of an applicant's design, 
associated documentation, and software or systems products, 
including the use of digital three-dimensional formats and 
model-based systems engineering design techniques.
    This section requires that the FAA review any 
recommendations, pursue the implementation of any recommended 
solutions, and issue updates to guidance and policy documents 
in order to integrate the use of such solutions.

Sec. 516. Instructions for Continued Airworthiness Aviation Rulemaking 
        Committee.

    This section requires that the FAA convene an Aviation 
Rulemaking Committee (ARC) on instructions for continued 
airworthiness (ICA).The ARC will evaluate related regulations 
and guidance material for clarity, the sufficiency of safety 
and maintenance data used to prepare ICA, the protection of 
intellectual property, and the harmonization of FAA's ICA with 
those of their peer authorities. This section was amended by 
the Committee to ensure that the ARC would not consist of a 
majority viewpoint regarding the accessibility of ICA.
    This section requires the FAA to update such regulations 
and guidance material to address the recommendations from the 
ICA ARC.

Sec. 517. Clarity for Supplemental Type Certificate Requirements.

    This section requires the FAA to clarify when a major 
alteration requires a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) and 
when a change can be approved using FAA approved engineering 
data. The Committee believes that entities considering 
alterations should be able to reasonably predict whether an STC 
will be required and that district offices should be able to 
confidently and accurately make such determinations in most 
cases.

Sec. 518. Use of Advanced Tools in Certifying Aerospace Products.

    This section requires the FAA to study and consider the use 
of advanced tools (including simulation, integrated test 
facilities, laboratories, and remote piloting) during flight 
testing of aviation products to reduce the risk to test pilots 
and more adequately test the limits of such products, 
particularly when such tests are done more than once--in 
company testing and then FAA testing.
    This section requires the FAA to issue a report on the 
results of the assessment and the FAA's plans to implement such 
findings.

Sec. 519. Transport Airplane and Propulsion Certification 
        Modernization.

    This section requires the FAA to publish a draft rule on 
transport airplane and propulsion certification modernization 
which the agency added to its regulatory agenda in 2022. This 
rule further harmonizes the certification requirements for 
transport category aircraft with the European Union Aviation 
Safety Agency (EASA), codifies common special conditions, and 
addresses other recommendations of the Aviation Rulemaking and 
Advisory Committee.

Sec. 520. Engine Fire Protection Standards.

    This section requires that the FAA review and compare their 
application of international airworthiness standards for engine 
firewalls with the requirements of other civil aviation 
authorities.

Sec. 521. Risk Model for Production Facility Inspections.

    This section requires the FAA to conduct a review of the 
risk-based model used by FAA certification management offices 
to inform the frequency of aircraft manufacturing or production 
facility inspections and update the model to ensure it accounts 
for risk during periods of increased production.

Sec. 522. Secondary Cockpit Barriers.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to convene an 
Aviation Rulemaking Committee to review and develop findings 
and recommendations to require installation of a secondary 
cockpit barrier on certain commercial aircraft not covered by 
any current rules, including the final rule issued recently 
mandating secondary barriers for certain new aircraft 
manufactured for delivery.

Sec. 523. Review of FAA Use of Aerospace Safety Data.

    This section requires that the FAA enter into an agreement 
with a qualified third-party organization or consortium to 
review what data the FAA has, how that data is stored and used, 
and whether the data is complete and useful for the purposes of 
identifying safety trends and addressing identified risks.
    This section requires that the FAA develop and implement a 
plan based on any recommendations and work with the qualified 
third-party organization or consortium to implement such plans.

Sec. 524. Part 135 Duty and Rest.

    This section requires the FAA to address two 
recommendations from the Part 135 Pilot Rest and Duty Aviation 
Rulemaking Committee (ARC). Specifically, it requires the FAA 
to limit the use of ferry flights beyond reasonable duty times, 
and update policy and guidance on record keeping for part 135 
operators. The section further requires the FAA Administrator 
to ensure that part 135 operators are considering the risk of 
ferry flights and inadequate flight crew record keeping 
requirements in their mandated safety management systems.

Sec. 525. Cockpit Voice and Video Recorders.

    This section would require the FAA Administrator to 
complete a rulemaking to require scheduled air carriers to be 
equipped with a cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder 
capable of recording the most recent 25 hours of data no later 
than four years after the date of enactment of this Act. 
Furthermore, this section prohibits any person from erasing or 
tampering with any recording on such recorders following an 
aircraft accident or incident, requires that such cockpit voice 
recorder has the capability for an operator to use an erasure 
feature, requires that the manufacturer or the National 
Transportation Safety Board have access to the software 
necessary to extract deleted recording data, and require that 
data on such recorders is not disclosed for uses other than 
accident or incident investigation purposes.
    Finally, this section prohibits cockpit voice recorder 
recordings from being used by the FAA Administrator or any 
employer for any certificate action, civil penalty, or 
disciplinary proceedings against flight crew members.

Sec. 526. Flight Data Recovery from Overwater Operations.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to direct the 
Aviation Rulemaking and Advisory Committee to provide consensus 
recommendations for the equipage of flight data recovery for 
aircraft operated by scheduled air carriers for extended 
overwater operations. Furthermore, this section requires the 
FAA Administrator to initiate a rulemaking based on such 
consensus recommendations, if determined appropriate, no later 
than one year after receiving any recommendations. Finally, if 
the FAA Administrator decides not to issue a rulemaking, they 
must provide a briefing to Congress on the justification for 
such a decision.

Sec. 527. Emergency Medical Equipment on Passenger Aircraft.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to review and, 
as appropriate, update regulations regarding emergency medical 
equipment requirements, and the training required for flight 
crew for such emergency medical equipment, for scheduled air 
carriers. Further, this section requires the FAA Administrator 
to consider the benefits and costs of requiring scheduled air 
carriers to include new medications and equipment in approved 
emergency medical kits. Furthermore, it requires the FAA 
Administrator to consider whether the current requirements for 
minimum contents of emergency medical kits include appropriate 
medications to address the emergency medical needs of children 
and pregnant women, opioid overdose, anaphylaxis, and cardiac 
arrest. Finally, this section requires the FAA Administrator to 
consult with associations representing aerospace medical 
professionals when conducting the review.

Sec. 528. Navigation Aids Study.

    This section requires the DOT OIG to examine the effects of 
potentially reclassifying navigation aids from Design Assurance 
Level-B to Design Assurance Level-A including the cost-benefit, 
risks, and necessity of such potential reclassification.

Sec. 529. Remote Towers.

    This section directs a third party to study: (1) the remote 
tower pilot program established under the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018; and (2) remote tower technology in existence as of 
the date of enactment of this Act. It also directs the FAA to 
establish certification and operational approval processes for 
such technology, for use primarily at non-towered, public-use 
airports.

Sec. 530. Weather Reporting Systems Study.

    This section requires the Comptroller General to examine 
how to improve the procurement, functionality, and 
sustainability of weather reporting systems to improve the 
resiliency of weather reporting systems, and to assess 
alternative means to weather reporting systems that would 
suffice in obtaining accurate weather data and information.

Sec. 531. GAO Study on Expansion of the FAA Weather Camera Program.

    This section directs Comptroller General to conduct a study 
on the feasibility and potential safety benefits of expanding 
the Weather Camera Program of the FAA to locations in the 
United States that lack weather camera services.

Sec. 532. Study on Aviation Safety in Era of Wireless Connectivity.

    This section mandates the FAA Administrator enter into an 
agreement with the National Academies to study potential 
conflicts between uses of radio spectrum by aviators and 
wireless telecommunications network.

Sec. 533. Ramp Worker Safety Call to Action.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to initiate a 
Call to Action to bring stakeholders together to share best 
practices and implement actions to address airport ramp worker 
safety.

Sec. 534. Safety Data Analysis for Aircraft Without Transponders.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator, in coordination 
with the NTSB Chairman, to collect and analyze data relating to 
accidents and incidents involving aircraft exempt from air 
traffic control transponder and altitude reporting equipment 
and use requirements. It also directs the FAA Administrator, if 
appropriate, to develop recommendations on how to reduce the 
number of incidents and accidents associated with such 
aircraft.

Sec. 535. Crash-Resistant Fuel Systems in Rotorcraft.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to task the 
Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee (ARAC) to review and 
update the 2018 report of the Rotorcraft Occupation Protection 
Working Group by reviewing NTSB data from 2016-2023 on post-
crash fires in helicopter accidents and determining to what 
extent crash-resistant fuel systems could have prevented 
fatalities.
    In addition, the ARAC shall develop recommendations to 
encourage helicopter owners and operators to expedite 
installation of crash-resistant fuel systems regardless of 
original certification and manufacture date, and requires the 
FAA to implement recommendations or work with the United States 
Helicopter Safety Team, as appropriate, to implement 
recommendations.

Sec. 536. Reducing Turbulence on Part 121 Aircraft Operations.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to review and 
implement, as appropriate, the recommendations by the Chair of 
the NTSB in the ``Preventing Turbulence-Related Injuries in Air 
Carrier Operations Conducted Under Title 14 Code of Federal 
Regulations Part 121'' report issued on August 10, 2021.
    This section also mandates the FAA Administrator submit to 
the appropriate Committees of Congress a report detailing the 
status of the recommendations made in the safety report. If the 
FAA Administrator does not implement any of the recommendations 
made in the safety report, the report to Congress shall contain 
a description of why such recommendations were not implemented.

Sec. 537. Study on Radiation Exposure.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to enter into an 
agreement with the National Academies to conduct a study on 
radiation exposure onboard various aircraft types operated 
under Part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.The 
section requires a report to Congress with recommendations.

Sec. 538. Deterring Crewmember Interference.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to convene a 
task force to develop standards and best practices relating to 
suspected violations in interference with cabin or flight crew, 
security screening personnel, or flight attendants. The task 
force convened under this section shall be comprised of air 
carriers, airport sponsors and airport law enforcement 
agencies, and labor organizations representing air carrier 
pilots, flight attendants, and customer service representatives 
employed by air carriers.
    This section also requires the FAA Administrator to take 
such actions necessary to brief passengers before takeoff that 
it is against Federal law to assault or threaten to assault any 
individuals onboard an aircraft or interfere with duties of a 
crewmember.

Sec. 539. Cabin Temperature Standards.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to review 
existing standards produced by industry standards organizations 
on safe cabin air temperature and assess their validity. If the 
FAA Administrator determines there is not an appropriate 
standard to determine unsafe temperatures onboard aircraft, the 
FAA Administrator may enter into an agreement with the National 
Academies to conduct a study and provide recommendations to 
address unsafe cabin temperatures.

Sec. 540. Cabin Air Quality.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to develop a 
standardized system for flight attendants, pilots, and aircraft 
maintenance technicians of air carriers to voluntarily report 
fume events onboard passenger-carrying aircraft.
    This section further requires the FAA Administrator to 
enter into an agreement with the National Academies to study 
and issue recommendations pertaining to cabin air quality and 
any risk of, and potential for, persistent and accidental fume 
events.

Sec. 541. Evacuation Standards for Transport Category Airplanes.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to task the 
ARAC with reviewing and proposing updates to the evacuation 
requirements for commercial aircraft and requires the 
Administrator to issue a final rule not later than 18 months 
after the date of enactment based on the recommendations 
provided by the ARAC.

Sec. 542. Lithium-Ion Powered Wheelchairs.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary to task the Air 
Carrier Access Act Advisory Committee, in consultation with the 
Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety 
Administration (PHMSA), to conduct a review of regulations, 
standards and air carrier policies regarding lithium-ion 
battery powered wheelchairs and mobility aids. The Committee 
will provide recommendations to the DOT Secretary to ensure the 
safe transport of such wheelchairs and mobility aids in 
aviation. Furthermore, this section also requires the DOT 
Secretary to notify an air carrier if they do not have a policy 
pertaining to lithium-ion battery powered wheelchairs and 
mobility aids in effect.

Sec. 543. National Simulator Program Policies and Guidance.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to review 
relevant policies and guidance (including all advisory 
circulars, information bulletins, and directives) pertaining to 
the National Simulator Program. In conducting the review, the 
FAA Administrator should consult with representatives of air 
carriers, flight schools, training centers, and manufacturers 
and suppliers of flight simulation training devices.
    Following the completion of the review, the Administrator 
shall update, at a minimum, the following advisory circulars: 
Advisory Circular 120-40B, Advisory Circular 120-45A, Advisory 
Circular 120-50A, and Advisory Circular 120-63, each of which 
was issued in the 1990s.

Sec. 544. GAO Study on the FAA's National Simulator Program.

    This section directs the Comptroller General to study the 
FAA's National Simulator Program to assess how the program 
accounts for advancements in technologies pertaining to flight 
training simulators, the workforce of the Administration tasked 
with carrying out and supporting the program, and how the 
program engages with relevant aviation stakeholders. Not later 
than 18 months after the enactment of this Act, GAO shall 
submit a report to Congress on its findings.

Sec. 545. GAO Study on FAA Alignment with Best Available Technologies 
        and Standards.

    This section tasks Comptroller General to conduct a study 
on the incorporation of best available technologies into the 
FAA to increase aviation safety and improve the health and 
safety of aviation workers. The study shall examine the degree 
to which the FAA Administrator is enabling the use of 
technologies used by other air navigation service providers to 
meet ICAO standards and identify any barriers to the adoption 
of such technologies.

Sec. 546. Advanced Simulation Training.

    This section allows a person applying for an airline 
transport pilot (ATP) certificate to obtain up to 150 
additional hours of the total aeronautical experience 
requirement in a full flight simulator representing an airplane 
that provides six-degrees of freedom motion. To be eligible to 
obtain the additional 150 hours, a person must have completed 
the hours as part of a FAA approved training course and outside 
of a restricted-ATP pathway.
    This section requires the FAA Administrator to issue a 
final rule within two years to update the appropriate 
regulations to reflect changes made by this section. The FAA 
Administrator is required to consult with the Air Carrier 
Training Aviation Rulemaking Committee in developing the 
required rulemaking and in evaluating whether the additional 
150 hours may be accrued in a full flight simulator that 
provides three-degrees of freedom of motion.

Sec. 547. Incremental Safety Improvement.

    This section allows the FAA Administrator to consider and 
approve incremental aircraft design change requests when such a 
change would improve safety and does not address all non-
compliant conditions. This section also specifically enumerates 
that such changes do not alleviate a certificate holder from 
addressing all non-compliances.

                   Subtitle B--Aviation Cybersecurity


Sec. 571. Findings.

    This section declares the findings of Congress that the FAA 
is tasked with the responsibility of regulating the protection 
against cyber threats that affect aviation safety and the safe, 
secure, and efficient operation of air navigation services and 
airspace management.

Sec. 572. Aerospace Product Safety.

    This section prescribes that the FAA Administrator is 
responsible for prescribing regulations and minimum standards 
for cybersecurity in air commerce. It further provides that the 
FAA Administrator, in consultation with other agencies, shall 
have the exclusive rulemaking authority to prescribe 
regulations for purposes of assuring the cybersecurity of 
aircraft and related components.

Sec. 573. Federal Aviation Administration Regulations, Policy, and 
        Guidance.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to establish a 
cybersecurity threat management process to protect the national 
airspace system from cyber incidents. In establishing such a 
process, the Administrator will monitor, track, and evaluate 
the national airspace system cyber environment for cyber 
incidents to respond to such incidents, as appropriate.

Sec. 574. Civil Aviation Cybersecurity Rulemaking Committee.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to conduct 
rulemaking proceedings to establish civil aviation 
cybersecurity standards. In working towards such proceedings, 
the Administrator will establish an aviation rulemaking 
committee to develop recommendations on civil aviation 
cybersecurity standards.

                     TITLE VI: AEROSPACE INNOVATION


                 Subtitle A--Unmanned Aircraft Systems


Sec. 601. Definitions.

    This section further defines an actively tethered unmanned 
aircraft system (UAS) to require that such systems maintain 
safe flight in the event of a power or flight control failure 
while in-flight, while also requiring such systems be 
programmed to initiate a controlled landing in the event the 
tether of an actively tethered unmanned aircraft system 
separates from the unmanned aircraft component of such system.

Sec. 602. Unmanned Aircraft System Test Ranges.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to carry out a 
program for testing and evaluation activities at unmanned 
aircraft system test ranges in furtherance of the safe 
integration of UAS into the national airspace system.
    This section allows the FAA Administrator to establish 
nonregulatory special use airspace areas, similar to military 
operations areas and alert areas, to separate and segregate 
certain unmanned aircraft system testing and evaluation 
activities from instrument flight rules traffic and to identify 
for visual flight rules traffic locations where such activities 
are conducted.
    This section also directs the FAA Administrator to use the 
UAS test ranges, as necessary, for testing and evaluation of 
counter-UAS systems and solutions.

Sec. 603. Unmanned Aircraft in the Arctic.

    This section expands the permitted use of UAS operations in 
the Arctic to include unmanned aircraft that are 55 pounds or 
greater.

Sec. 604. Public Safety Use of Tethered UAS.

    This section expands the statutory requirements of 
operating a public actively tethered UAS to non-governmental 
public safety organizations carrying out public safety 
operations with actively tethered UAS. This section further 
clarifies that actively tethered UAS operations shall not be 
operated greater than 150 feet above ground level, unless 
granted prior authorization from the FAA Administrator.

Sec. 605. Special Authority for Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

    This section transfers the special authority granted under 
section 44807 of title 49, United States Code, from the DOT 
Secretary to the FAA Administrator. Further, this section 
directs the Administrator to determine how UAS may operate 
safely in the national airspace system using a risk-based 
approach in making such determinations.
    This section requires the FAA Administrator to establish 
requirements for UAS that may operate safely in the national 
airspace system, as determined under this section. In 
establishing such requirements, this section directs the FAA 
Administrator to take into consideration mitigation measures 
used by such systems while operating exclusively within the 
airspace of a Mode C Veil.
    This section also explicitly limits its applicability to 
UAS that do not have established regulations applicable to a 
proposed operation of such systems.

Sec. 606. Recreational Operations of Drone Systems.

    This section permits the FAA Administrator to authorize 
recreational unmanned aircraft to fly above 400 feet within 
Class G airspace at fixed sites. This section also directs the 
FAA Administrator to prioritize FAA Recognized Identification 
Area (FRIA) requests submitted for fixed sites.

Sec. 607. Airport Safety and Airspace Hazard Mitigation and 
        Enforcement.

    This section extends authorities of the FAA's Airport 
Safety and Airspace Hazard Mitigation and Enforcement program, 
which was established under sec. 383 of the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018, from 2023 to 2028.

Sec. 608. Applications for Designation.

    This section removes the requirement for the FAA 
Administrator to consider locations that may warrant 
prohibitions or restrictions of UAS operations in close 
proximity to a fixed site facility.
    This section expands sites to be considered under this 
section to state correctional facilities and eligible outdoor 
gatherings. Lastly, this section requires the FAA Administrator 
to publish a NPRM related to the section by March 1, 2024, with 
the requirement to publish a final rule no later than 16 months 
after the NPRM.
    The Committee expects the FAA to leverage existing TFR 
processes to restrict flights over eligible outdoor gatherings. 
It is not the Committee's expectation that the Agency's 
existing rulemaking efforts be expanded to consider eligible 
outdoor gatherings.

Sec. 609. Beyond Visual Line of Sight Rulemaking.

    This section mandates the FAA Administrator to issue at 
least one NPRM no later than four months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, with at least one final rule no later 
than 16 months after the date of enactment of this Act, for UAS 
to operate beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) and primarily at 
or below 400 feet above ground level. The rulemakings require 
the FAA to address airworthiness standards for unmanned 
aircraft, standards for associated elements of such aircraft, 
and how remote pilots of such aircraft will be qualified to 
operate such UAS. Additionally, this section enables the FAA 
Administrator to ensure the compliance of such standards and 
qualifications through the use of third-party compliance 
services.
    Further, this section requires the FAA Administrator to 
enable UAS operations for agricultural purposes under a 
rulemaking, along with the establishment of protocols for 
networked information exchange, including network-based remote 
identification for BVLOS operations.
    Until the FAA Administrator publishes the final rulemaking 
required under this section, the Administrator is directed to 
use the authorities granted section 44807 of title 49, United 
States Code, to authorize BVLOS UAS operations.

Sec. 610. UAS Traffic Management.

    This section allows the FAA Administrator to enter into 
agreements for UAS stakeholders to provide unmanned aircraft 
system traffic management (UTM) capabilities or services for 
advanced UAS operations, including BVLOS operations, one-to-
many operations, and aircraft-to-aircraft communications. This 
section also directs the FAA Administrator to establish and 
publish UTM standards. Furthermore, the section directs the FAA 
Administrator to brief Congress on the implementation of the 
requirements under this section.

Sec. 611. Radar Data Pilot Program.

    This section directs the Administrator, in coordination 
with the DOD Secretary and other relevant Federal agencies, to 
establish a pilot program to make airspace data feeds 
containing classified or controlled unclassified information 
available to qualified users. In this section a qualified user 
means an entity authorized to receive airspace data feeds 
containing classified of controlled unclassified information). 
This section sunsets on October 1, 2028. Furthermore, the 
section directs the FAA Administrator to brief Congress on the 
pilot program.

Sec. 612. Electronic Conspicuity Study.

    This section directs the Comptroller General to study 
technologies and methods for UAS to detect and avoid manned 
aircraft that may lawfully operate below 500 feet above ground 
level. The study requires the Comptroller General to consult 
with aviation stakeholder representatives, and to report to 
Congress on the findings of such study.

Sec. 613. Remote Identification Alternative Means of Compliance.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to review and 
evaluate the final rule titled ``Remote Identification of 
Unmanned Aircraft'' issued on January 15, 2021. In reviewing 
the final rule, the FAA Administrator shall determine the 
feasibility and advisability of whether UAS manufacturers and 
operators can meet the intent of the final rule through 
alternative means of compliance, including network-based remote 
identification.

Sec. 614. Part 107 Waiver Improvements.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to use a 
performance- and risk-based approach in reviewing waiver 
requests under part 107 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations. In reviewing waiver requests submitted under part 
107, the FAA Administrator is directed to improve the review 
process, to include not requiring the use of open-ended prompts 
for requesters to complete where waiver request factors and 
variables can be standardized. The only time open-ended prompts 
may be required is for unusual or irregular operations.
    This section also requires the FAA Administrator to 
recognize the safety enhancements of controlled access to 
property over which an unmanned aircraft flies in assessing 
whether to approve a waiver.
    Additionally, this section directs the FAA Administrator to 
publish all certificates of waiver and to consider the 
precedential value of previously approved waivers under part 
107 in assessing and approving subsequent waiver requests.

Sec. 615. Acceptable Levels of Risk and Risk Assessment Methodology.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to establish 
acceptable levels of risk, and a risk assessment methodology 
for such levels of risk, to be used in conducting UAS 
operations. The risk assessment methodology will be used to 
assist remote pilots in mitigating risk for specific operations 
and should consider when, where, and how the operation will 
take place, to include consideration of the nature of detect 
and avoid mitigation measures.

Sec. 616. Environmental Review.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to publish 
environmental review guidance specific to UAS and their 
operations. The purpose of this guidance is to streamline the 
assessments of required environmental reviews at a programmatic 
level, including conducting such assessments in tandem with 
other required reviews associated with UAS operations.
    This section also requires the FAA Administrator to 
establish criteria and standards metrics for determinations 
around an unmanned aircraft's airworthiness in conjunction with 
part 36 in title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, including 
definitive standards for any potential noise impacts and visual 
impacts related to UAS operations. This section also grants the 
FAA Administrator relief from the requirement to conduct noise 
certification for UAS prior to the development of criteria and 
standards.

Sec. 617. Carriage of Hazardous Materials.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator, in coordination 
with the PHMSA Administrator, to revise processes and put in 
place special conditions or waivers in operational approvals to 
allow for the carriage of certain hazardous materials by UAS 
weighing less than 100 pounds and carrying less than 10 pounds 
gross weight of limited quantity cargo.
    This section also directs the DOT Secretary to revise 
requirements, guidance, and regulations to allow for the 
carriage of a de minimis amount of hazardous materials. The 
Secretary must consider if the hazardous materials are a 
consumer commodity, whether the materials pose an unreasonable 
risk to health, safety, or property, and the altitude at which 
the operations are conducted.
    The DOT Secretary must also establish a process by which an 
individual can petition the Secretary to establish or revise a 
de minimis amount of hazardous materials.

Sec. 618. Unmanned Aircraft System Use in Wildfire Response.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator, in coordination 
with the United States Forest Service, other Federal agencies 
and Federal contractors, to develop a plan on the use of UAS by 
public entities in wildfire response efforts, including 
wildfire detection, mitigation, and suppression.
    The plan, under this section, shall designate areas with a 
high potential for wildfires where unmanned aircraft systems 
may operate BVLOS in fire detection, mitigation, and 
suppression efforts. In addition, the plan shall include a 
process to facilitate the safe and efficient operation of UAS 
in wildfire response. The plan, developed under this section, 
shall be submitted to Congress, and published on a publicly 
available website of the FAA.
    Lastly, this section directs the FAA Administrator to enter 
into an agreement to provide a liaison to the National 
Interagency Fire Center to facilitate unmanned aircraft systems 
wildfire response.

Sec. 619. Pilot Program for UAS Inspections of FAA Infrastructure.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary to initiate a pilot 
program to supplement DOT oversight and inspection activities 
with UAS, including the inspection of ground-based aviation 
infrastructure, to increase employee safety, enhance data 
collection, improve the accuracy of inspections, and reduce the 
costs associated with such inspections.
    Upon the conclusion of the pilot program, the DOT Secretary 
is required to assess the results of the program and 
incorporate any benefits of using UAS into DOT's routine 
activities, to include such activities related to the regular 
inspection of ground-based aviation infrastructure.

Sec. 620. Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grant Program.

    This bill establishes a $50 million DOT grant program to 
support the use of drones when inspecting, repairing, or 
constructing critical infrastructure. Under this program, the 
DOT Secretary must award grants to state, tribal, and local 
governments; metropolitan planning organizations; or groups of 
those entities to purchase and use drones to increase 
efficiency, reduce costs, improve worker and community safety, 
reduce carbon emissions, or meet other priorities related to 
critical infrastructure projects through the use of drones. 
Grant recipients must use domestically manufactured drones that 
are made by companies not subject to influence or control from 
certain foreign entities, including China and Russia.

Sec. 621. Drone Education and Workforce Training Grant Program.

    This section directs the DOT Secretary to establish a $50 
million drone education and training program to make grants 
available to eligible educational institutionsfor training on 
eligible small UAS technology.

Sec. 622. Drone Workforce Training Program Study.

    This section tasks the Comptroller General to study the 
effectiveness of the Collegiate Training Initiative Program for 
Unmanned Aircraft Systems established in the FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2018. The Comptroller General shall 
submit of a report to Congress detailing the findings of such 
study and any recommendations to improve and expand the 
Collegiate Training Initiative Program for Unmanned Aircraft 
Systems.

Sec. 623. UAS Integration Office.

    This section clarifies the authorities of the Executive 
Director of the UAS Integration Office of the FAA to facilitate 
matters related to UAS within the Administration and to provide 
recommendations to lines of business within the Administration, 
as necessary.

Sec. 624. Termination of Advanced Aviation Advisory Committee.

    This section terminates the Advanced Aviation Advisory 
Committee.

Sec. 625. Unmanned and Autonomous Flight Advisory Committee.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to establish 
the Unmanned and Autonomous Flight Advisory Committee. The 
Unmanned and Autonomous Flight Advisory Committee will assist 
with advising the FAA Administrator on the technical challenges 
related to the certification and operational standards of 
highly automated aircraft among other related technical 
matters. This new committee will be made up of representatives 
from the UAS industry, community advocates, and certified 
aviation labor unions. The Committee must submit an annual 
report to Congress on its activities.

Sec. 626. NextGen Advisory Committee Membership Expansion.

    This section expands the membership of the NextGen Advisory 
Committee to include a representative from both the UAS and 
powered-lift industries.

Sec. 627. Temporary Flight Restriction Integrity.

    This section adds additional requirements the FAA 
Administrator must ensure when issuing a temporary flight 
restriction (TFR). When issuing a TFR, the FAA Administrator 
shall ensure there is a specific and articulable safety or 
security basis for the size and duration of the restriction. 
Upon granting such a restriction, the FAA Administrator shall 
immediately distribute such restriction to aircraft operators 
through the Notice to Air Mission (NOTAM) system. Such notice 
shall include the basis for the restriction and how a covered 
person may operate lawfully within such restriction.

Sec. 628. Interagency Coordination.

    This section includes a sense of Congress that the joint 
DOD--FAA UAS Executive Committee (ExCom) has exceeded the scope 
of activities and membership of the original intent and 
taskings. These expansions have resulted in an imbalance in the 
oversight of certain Federal entities in matters concerning 
civil aviation safety and security.
    This section also directs the FAA Administrator to revise 
the charter of the ExCom to ultimately achieve the routine 
access of DOD UAS into the National airspace system, and seek 
to sunset the ExCom, in coordination with the DOD Secretary, no 
earlier than two years after the date of enactment.

Sec. 629. Review of Regulations to Enable Unescorted UAS Operations.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator, in coordination 
with the DOD Secretary, to conduct a review of requirements 
necessary to permit UAS operated by a Federal agency or an 
armed service to operate in the National airspace system 
without the need for an escort by a manned aircraft.

Sec. 630. UAS Operations over High Seas.

    This section clarifies that UAS operations that begin and 
end within the United States or territorial waters of the 
United States shall not be considered international flight, 
even if a flight enters airspace over international waters.

Sec. 631. Beyond BEYOND.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to extend the 
existing BEYOND program, and no later than two years after the 
end date of the program's extension, the FAA Administrator is 
required to expand the BEYOND program to enable testing of 
other new and emerging aviation concepts and technologies, 
including concepts and technologies unrelated to UAS, to 
ultimately inform policies, rulemaking, and guidance needed to 
enable these new concepts and technologies.

Sec. 632. UAS Integration Strategy.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to implement the 
recommendations made by GAO to the DOT Secretary in a report 
titled ``Drones: FAA should Improve its Approach to Integrating 
Drones into the National Airspace System'' issued in January of 
2023. The recommendations call for the development of a 
comprehensive drone integration strategy and for the FAA to 
develop ways to more clearly communicate with drone operators.
    In addition, the FAA Administrator shall also implement the 
recommendation made by the DOT OIG contained in the audit 
report titled ``FAA Made Progress Through Its UAS Integration 
Pilot Program, but FAA and Industry Challenges Remain to 
Achieve Full UAS Integration'' issued in April of 2022. Among 
its recommendations, the DOT OIG calls for the agency to 
establish goals, milestones, and performance measures for the 
BEYOND program.
    The FAA Administrator is required to brief the appropriate 
committees of Congress on the status of such implementation 
annually.

Sec. 633. Authorization of Appropriations for Know Before You Fly 
        Campaign.

    This section authorizes $1,000,000 for each of the fiscal 
years 2024 through 2028 for the educational campaign Know 
Before You Fly. This campaign is intended to broaden the public 
awareness of unmanned aircraft systems.

Sec. 634. Public Aircraft Definition.

    This section broadens the definition of a public aircraft 
to include aviation systems undergoing testing and evaluations 
at an FAA-authorized UAS test range, infrastructure 
inspections, or any other activity undertaken by a government 
entity that the FAA Administrator determines is inherently 
governmental.

                   Subtitle B--Advanced Air Mobility


Sec. 651. Definition.

    This section defines ``powered-lift aircraft.''

Sec. 652. Powered-Lift Aircraft Rulemakings.

    This section requiresthe FAA to publish a final interim 
regulation for the operations of powered-lift aircraft by the 
beginning of 2025.It is the expectation of the Committee that 
in finalizing such rules, the FAA will provide a feasible 
paradigm for powered-lift aircraft the FAA is in the process of 
certifying.
    Additionally, this section requires that the FAA initiate 
additional rulemaking within five years, providing permanent 
performance-based regulations for the certification and 
commercial operations of powered lift aircraft.
    If the FAA fails to meet the timeline for the publication 
of an interim regulation, this section sets out specific 
operating and training rules in order to provide the powered-
lift industry a means by which to operate and train personnel 
until such time as the FAA produces the required regulations.

Sec. 653. Powered-Lift Aircraft Entry into Service.

    This section requires the FAA to provide short-term and 
long-term solutions for the safe integration of powered-lift 
aircraft into the national airspace, including controlled 
airspace. This section also requires that the FAA evaluate the 
impact of such operations on air traffic controllers and the 
use of other tools to support ATC.

Sec. 654. Sense of Congress on the Preparation for the Entry into 
        Service of Powered-Lift Aircraft.

    This section expresses the sense of Congress that the FAA 
should work with powered-lift aircraft manufacturers and 
operators and other relevant stakeholders to prepare draft 
manuals, pilot training programs, and operational documents 
required to enter service in a timely manner.

Sec. 655. Infrastructure Supporting Vertical Flight.

    This section requiresthe FAA to update the definitions in 
regulation to include vertiports as a subclass of heliports, 
include vertiport guidance into their Heliport Design Advisory 
Circular, and sunset the FAA's Vertiport Engineering Brief once 
the Heliport Design Advisory Circular is updated. Lastly, this 
section requires that the FAA provide Airport District Offices 
with adequate guidance to support the development of 
vertiports, update relevant forms, and consider powered-lift 
operations in operational forecasts.

Sec. 656. Charting of Aviation Infrastructure.

    This section instructs the FAA to continue to improve the 
accuracy of the Airport Master Record database and improve the 
process by which the operators of private and public aviation 
infrastructure can update database.

Sec. 657. Advanced Air Mobility Working Group.

    This section extends the inter-departmental working group 
established though the Advanced Air Mobility Coordination and 
Leadership Act by six months and clarifies the intended scope 
of such working group to cover urban and regional air mobility.
    This section also makes technical corrections, definitional 
edits, and expands the future uses of the working group if 
determined valuable by the Secretary.

Sec. 658. Advanced Air Mobility Infrastructure Pilot Program Extension.

    This section amends the Advanced Air Mobility 
Infrastructure Pilot Program established in the Consolidated 
Appropriations Act of 2023 to conform definitions with Sec. 657 
of this Act. This section also clarifies that the consideration 
of the use of existing infrastructure in concert with new 
infrastructure is eligible under the grant program.
    Lastly, this section expands the information collected by 
the DOT Secretary under the pilot program and extends the 
program for two years, through 2026.

                      Subtitle C--Other Provisions


Sec. 681. Report on National Spaceports Policy.

    This section extends the report established under section 
580(c)(3) of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 until 2028.

Sec. 682. Intermodal Transportation Infrastructure Improvement Pilot 
        Program.

    This section establishes a $20 million pilot grant program 
with a dollar-for-dollar match to support launch and reentry 
sites for commercial space transportation.

Sec. 683. Airspace Access for High-Speed Aircraft.

    This section gives the FAA Administrator the authority to 
establish high speed testing corridors and to ensure there is a 
process in which manufacturers and operators of high-speed 
aircraft can engage in flight testing of such high-speed 
aircraft.
    This section requires the FAA Administrator, in 
coordination with the appropriate agencies, to conduct a study 
to assess necessary actions to facilitate the integration and 
operation of high-speed aircraft into the national airspace 
system. In addition, this section requires the Administrator to 
study how high-speed aircraft may be able to conduct operations 
above the upper boundary of Class A airspace in a manner that 
limits aircraft noise levels at ground level. Not later than 
two years after the completion of the study, the FAA 
Administrator shall issue an NPRM in the Federal Register to 
permit flight operations with speeds above Mach 1 at or above 
the altitude identified in the study under this section.
    The Committee expects that as the FAA studies the 
integration of hypersonic aircraft into the National Airspace 
System that the FAA Administrator will consult with a variety 
of stakeholders, including industry, labor, and air traffic 
control.

Sec. 684. ICAO Activities on New Technologies.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to prioritize 
engagement with ICAO to improve aviation safety and support the 
entry-into-service of new forms of aviation.
    This section further directs the FAA Administrator to 
contribute to or lead ICAO efforts with respect to the 
development of landing and take-off noise standards for 
supersonic aircraft.

Sec. 685. AIP Eligibility for Certain Spaceport Infrastructure.

    This section allows for airports that are also spaceports 
to use AIP funds to repave the entire length and width of their 
runway if there is a commercial space transportation need for 
such size.

Sec. 686. Commercial Space Transportation Statistics.

    This section directs the DOT Secretary to collect and 
disseminate information on commercial space transportation 
operations.

Sec. 687. Report on Certain Infrastructure Needs.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary to submit a report 
on the infrastructure needs at launch sites in rural 
communities to Congress.

Sec. 688. Airspace Integration for Space Launch and Reentry.

    This section states that it is the sense of Congress that: 
(1) the safe and efficient use of the national airspace system 
is of the utmost importance; (2) commercial aviation and space 
launch and re-entry operations are vital to the United States 
global leadership, economy, and national security; (3) aircraft 
hazard areas are necessary during space launch (and re-entry) 
operations to ensure public safety; and (4) the FAA 
Administrator of the FAA should prioritize the development and 
deployment of technologies that improve the visibility of space 
launch operations and minimize the workload of air traffic 
controllers charged with routing air traffic during such 
operations.
    This section authorizes $10 million dollars for each of 
fiscal years 2024-2028 to expedite the development of 
technologies that would assist with achieving operational 
readiness no later than December 31, 2026.

              TITLE VII: PASSENGER EXPERIENCE IMPROVEMENTS


                     Subtitle A--General Provisions


Sec. 701. Advertisements and Solicitations for Passenger Air 
        Transportation.

    This section declares that it shall not be an unfair or 
deceptive practice for an air carrier, foreign air carrier, 
ticket agent, or other person offering to sell tickets for 
passenger air transportation or a tour, or tour component, to 
clearly and separately disclose government-imposed taxes and 
fees associated with the air transportation from the total cost 
of the air transportation when advertising or soliciting the 
base air fare. The section also clarifies that nothing in this 
section shall be construed to limit the DOT Secretary's ability 
to regulate the disclosure of air carrier-imposed fees.

Section 702. Modernization of Consumer Complaint Submissions.

    This section modernizes the air travel consumer complaint 
process within the DOT by requiring the DOT Secretary to 
maintain a website to accept such consumer complaint 
submissions. Furthermore, it requires air carriers to provide 
DOT consumer complaint submission information on their 
websites.

Sec. 703. Codification of Consumer Protection Provisions.

    This section codifies sections 429 and 434 of the FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2018 into chapter 417 of title 49, 
United States Code with regards to passenger rights and airline 
passengers with disabilities bill of rights.

Sec. 704. Extension of Aviation Consumer Protection Advisory Committee.

    This section extends the authorization of the Aviation 
Consumer Protection Advisory Committee at the DOT and adds 
``ticket agents and travel management companies'' to the 
Committee.

Sec. 705. Removal of Outdated References to Passengers with 
        Disabilities.

    This section removes outdated references to passengers with 
disabilities in title 49 of United States Code.

Sec. 706. Extension of Aviation Consumer Advocate Reporting 
        Requirement.

    This section extends the requirement of the Aviation 
Consumer Advocate at the DOT to submit an annual report to 
Congress on complaints to, and recommendations of, the Aviation 
Consumer Advocate.

Sec. 707. Air Carrier Access Act Advisory Committee.

    This section reauthorizes the Air Carrier Access Act 
Advisory Committee and includes manufacturers of wheelchairs 
(including powered wheelchairs), and other mobility aids as a 
member of such Committee.

Sec. 708. Passenger Experience Advisory Committee.

    This section establishes the Passenger Experience Advisory 
Committee within the DOT to advise the DOT Secretary and the 
FAA Administrator in carrying out activities relating to the 
improvement of the comprehensive passenger experience in air 
transportation customer service.

Sec. 709. Streamlining of Offline Ticket Disclosures.

    This section directs the DOT Secretary to take such actions 
that may be necessary to update the process by which an air 
carrier or ticket agent is required to fulfill disclosure 
obligations in ticketing transactions for air transportation 
not completed through a website.

Sec. 710. Ticket Agent Refund Obligations.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary to clarify that a 
ticket agent shall provide a refund to a passenger only if the 
ticket agent possesses or has access to the funds of such 
passenger.

Sec. 711. Updating Passenger Information Requirement Regulations.

    This section tasks the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory 
Committee at the FAA with reviewing regulations relating to 
passenger information requirements for scheduled air carriers 
and allows the Committee to make recommendations to update and 
improve such regulations. Furthermore, this section requires 
the FAA Administrator to issue a final rule six years following 
the date of enactment of this Act revising passenger 
information requirements for scheduled air carriers.

Sec. 712. Mobility Aids on Board Improve Lives and Empower All.

    This section requires air carriers to publish on their 
website relevant dimensions and other characteristics of the 
cargo holds of all aircraft types operated by the air carrier, 
while also allowing air carriers to protect the confidentiality 
of any trade secret or proprietary information submitted.
    This section also directs the DOT Secretary to require air 
carriers to provide a refund to individuals with disabilities 
who purchase a ticket to fly on a carrier but cannot travel 
because the wheelchair of the individual cannot physically be 
accommodated in the cargo hold of the aircraft and directs the 
DOT Secretary to annually evaluate data regarding the 
mishandling of wheelchairs on aircraft.
    Additionally, this section requires the DOT Secretary to 
develop a strategic plan to test and evaluate wheelchairs in 
accordance with applicable FAA crashworthiness and safety 
performance standards. Furthermore, it requires the DOT 
Secretary to sponsor studies to assess the likely demand for 
air travel by individuals with disabilities if they could 
remain seated in personal wheelchairs during flight. Finally, 
if determined to be technically feasible, the DOT Secretary 
shall commence a study to assess the economic and financial 
feasibility of air carrier and foreign air carriers 
implementing seating arrangements that accommodate passengers 
with wheelchairs in the main cabin during flight.

Sec. 713. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation 
        Consumers.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary to provide an 
annual report on the disability-related aviation consumer 
complaints filed with the DOT.

Sec. 714. Aircraft Accessibility.

    This section directs the DOT Secretary to study and 
evaluate improvements to transport category aircraft 
accessibility and provide the results of the study and 
evaluation, along with recommendations to address the findings, 
to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science 
and Transportation of the Senate.

Sec. 715. Accessibility of Websites, Software Applications, and Kiosks 
        for Individuals with Disabilities.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary, in consultation 
with the United States Architectural and Transportation 
Barriers Compliance Board (also known as the Access Board), to 
prescribe regulations setting forth minimum standards to ensure 
that individuals with disabilities are able to access kiosks, 
software applications, and websites in a manner that is equally 
as effective as individuals without disabilities.

Sec. 716. Review of Methods to Report Flight Delay and Cancellation 
        Statistics.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary, in consultation 
with the FAA Administrator, to conduct a review of the means of 
reporting flight delay and cancellation statistics to the DOT 
Secretary. The DOT Secretary is required to coordinate and 
collaborate with air carriers when conducting such review.

Sec. 717. Reimbursement for Incurred Costs.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary to direct airlines 
providing scheduled passenger service to establish policies 
regarding reimbursement for lodging, transportation between 
such lodging and the airport, and meal costs incurred due to a 
flight cancellation or significant delay directly attributable 
to the air carrier.

Sec. 718. Airline Operational Resiliency Plans.

    This section directs the DOT Secretary to require a covered 
air carrier to develop and regularly update an operational 
resiliency strategy to prevent or limit the impact of future 
flight disruptions on passengers.

Sec. 719. Family Seating.

    This section directs the DOT Secretary to issue an NPRM to 
establish a policy directing air carriers that assign seats, or 
allow individuals to select seats in advance of the date of 
departure of a flight, to sit each child who has not attained 
the age of 14 years, adjacent to an accompanying adult at no 
additional cost beyond the ticket price. This section also does 
not allow the DOT Secretary to impose a change in the overall 
seating or boarding policy of an air carrier that has an open 
or flexible seating policy in place that generally allows 
adjacent family seating.

Sec. 720. Seat Dimensions.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to initiate a 
rulemaking on minimum dimensions for passenger seat sizes. If 
the FAA Administrator determines a rulemaking is not necessary, 
they shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on such 
decision.

Sec. 721. Improved Training Standards for Assisting Passengers Who Use 
        Wheelchairs.

    This section directs the DOT Secretary to issue an NPRM to 
develop minimum training standards for airline personnel and 
contractors who assist passengers with disabilities using 
wheelchairs with boarding or deplaning a commercial flight. 
Airline personnel required to complete the training must do so 
within 18 months and be recertified every 18 months. In 
addition, airline personnel must be able to demonstrate the 
following skills: safely using the aisle chair or other 
boarding devices, assist in transferring a passenger to and 
from their wheelchair, and the ability to effectively 
communicate and take instructions from the passenger.
    This section also requires the DOT Secretary, in producing 
such a rule, to consider whether air carriers and foreign air 
carriers should partner with national disability organizations 
and/or disabled veterans' organizations. In addition, the DOT 
Secretary shall consider if such personnel should receive 
training from medical professionals on lifting disabled 
passengers.
    Lastly, this section directs the DOT Secretary to issue a 
final rulemaking not later than 12 months after enactment and 
gives the DOT Secretary the ability to assess civil penalties 
in cases where air carriers and foreign air carriers fail to 
meet the requirements.

Sec. 722. Training Standards for Stowage of Wheelchairs and Scooters.

    This section directs the DOT Secretary to issue an NPRM not 
later than six months after the date of enactment of this Act. 
The rulemaking shall develop minimum standards for the stowage 
of scooters and wheelchairs used by passengers with 
disabilities. The standards developed under this section shall 
apply to airline personnel and contractors who stow scooters 
and wheelchairs onboard a commercial flight.
    Airline personnel and contractors who stow scooters and 
wheelchairs must complete training within 18 months and be 
recertified every 18 months. In addition to the training 
course, airline personnel and contractors must demonstrate the 
ability to properly handle and configure wheelchairs and 
scooters on each aircraft type operated by the air carrier, 
properly review wheelchair or scooter information provided by 
the passenger or manufacturer, and properly load, secure, and 
unload wheelchairs and scooters (including how to use any 
specialized equipment).
    This section also requires the DOT Secretary, in producing 
such a rule, to consider whether air carriers and foreign air 
carriers ought to partner with national disability 
organizations and/or disabled veterans' organizations, 
wheelchair manufacturers, and aircraft manufacturers in 
developing such training.
    Lastly, this section directs the DOT Secretary to issue a 
final rulemaking not later than 12 months after enactment and 
gives the Secretary the ability to assess civil penalties in 
cases where air carriers and foreign air carriers fail to meet 
the requirements.

Sec. 723. Investigation of Complaints.

    This section directs the DOT Secretary to investigate 
complaints of discrimination against individuals with 
disabilities within 120 days of receiving such complaint. In 
addition, the DOT Secretary shall provide (in writing) to the 
individual who filed the complaint, and the air carrier alleged 
to have made the discrimination, the facts underlying the 
complaint and any action the DOT Secretary is taking in 
response to the investigation.

Sec. 724. Standards.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary, not later than one 
year after the date of enactment of this Act, to initiate a 
rulemaking process regarding standards to ensure the aircraft 
boarding and deplaning process is accessible, in terms of 
design for, transportation of, and communication with, 
individuals with disabilities and requires the DOT Secretary to 
issue a final rule regarding such standards. This section also 
requires the DOT Secretary to issue an NPRM, not later than one 
year after the date of enactment of this Act, on accessible in-
flight entertainment.
    Additionally, this section requires the DOT Secretary to 
conduct a negotiated rulemaking on newly type certificated 
aircraft standards for seating arrangements to accommodate 
individuals with disabilities using wheelchairs (among other 
provisions), contingent on if the feasibility study required by 
section 712(d)(3) of this Act finds economic and financial 
feasibility of air carriers and foreign air carriers 
implementing seating arrangements that accommodate individuals 
with disabilities using wheelchairs. Furthermore, after the 
completion of the negotiated rulemaking, this section requires 
the DOT Secretary to issue an NPRM followed by a final rule 
regarding such standards.
    Finally, this section requires the Air Carrier Access Act 
Advisory Committee to examine technical solutions and the 
feasibility of visually and tactilely accessible announcements 
on-board aircraft. This section also requires the DOT Secretary 
to prescribe regulations setting forth minimum standards that 
ensure all gates (including counters), ticketing areas, and 
customer service desks covered under such section at airports 
are accessible to and usable by all individuals with 
disabilities.

                        Subtitle B--Air Traffic


Sec. 741. Transfers of Air Traffic Systems Acquired with AIP.

    This section allows an airport in a non-contiguous state to 
transfer a Medium Intensity Approach Lighting System with 
Runway Alignment Indicator Lights purchased with AIP funds to 
the FAA for operation.

Sec. 742. NextGen Programs.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to expedite the 
implementation of NextGen programs and capabilities. In doing 
so, the FAA Administrator is directed to prioritize 
performance-based navigation, data communications, terminal 
flight data management, and aeronautical information management 
systems, with specific implementation due dates.

Sec. 743. Airspace Access.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator of the FAA to 
conduct a comprehensive review of the National airspace system, 
including special use airspace, within three years of the Act's 
enactment. The FAA Administrator is also tasked with 
identifying methods to streamline and expedite access to 
certain categories of airspace for users who may not regularly 
have such access.

Sec. 744. Airspace Transition Completion.

    This section requires the FAA to complete the transition of 
the Newark, New Jersey radar sector. The staffing requirements 
of this section are specific to the transition of the Newark, 
New Jersey radar sector.

Sec. 745. FAA Contract Towers.

    This section requires that the FAA Administrator update its 
regulations, standards, and guidance on operational readiness 
inspections under the Contract Tower program to give airport 
sponsors seven years to complete these inspections if they are 
acting in good faith while attempting to complete these 
inspections.
    This section also directs the FAA Administrator to 
authorize and enable the use of advanced technologies at 
Contract Towers, specifically with technology that is similar 
to that of FAA air traffic controllers.
    This section directs the DOT Secretary to assess the 
existing liability limits for contract tower contractors to 
ultimately determine if currently established liability limits 
need updating.

Sec. 746. FAA Contract Tower Workforce Audit.

    This section directs the DOT OIG to conduct an audit of the 
workforce needs for the FAA Contract Tower Program. The audit 
should review staffing levels, assess any potential need for an 
air traffic controller training program for contract tower 
controllers, and explore initial technical training for these 
controllers.

Sec. 747. Aviation Infrastructure Sustainment.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to develop 
performance metrics for the operations of safety-critical 
communication, navigation, and surveillance aviation 
infrastructure to determine when these types of infrastructure 
need to be taken out of service and replaced, as necessary.

Sec. 748. Air Traffic Control Tower Safety.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to ensure that 
the safety of the National airspace system and its users are 
the primary consideration when making determinations about the 
design, adoption, and construction of air traffic control 
towers.

Sec. 749. Air Traffic Services Data Reports.

    This section extends the air traffic services biennial data 
reporting requirement from eight years to 14 years. This 
section also adds operators of commercial space transportation 
launch and reentry vehicles to the segments of air traffic 
service users.

Sec. 750. Consideration of Small Hub Control Towers.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator, when selecting 
projects for the replacement of Federally owned contract 
towers, to consider selecting projects at small hub commercial 
service airports with air traffic control towers that are at 
least 50 years old.

Sec. 751. Air Traffic Control Tower Replacement Process Report.

    This section mandates that the FAA Administrator to submit 
a report to Congress on the process by which ATC facilities are 
chosen for replacement. This section also mandates that the 
Administrator produce and publish on the website of the 
Administration a list of all air traffic control tower 
facilities replaced within the previous 10-year period, any 
facilities in the process of being replaced, and any facilities 
under consideration for replacement.

Sec. 752. FAA Contract Tower Pilot Program.

    This section tasks the FAA Administrator with establishing 
a pilot program to convert three high activity contract towers 
(under the FAA Contract Tower Program) to visual flight rule 
towers staffed by the Administration. When selecting facilities 
to participate in the pilot program, the Administrator shall 
prioritize towers that have had over 200,000 tower operation in 
calendar year 2022 or a small hub airport with more than 
900,000 passenger enplanements in calendar year 2021, have 
control towers owned by the Administration or towers 
constructed to Administration standards, and operate within 
complex air space.
    This section also tasks the FAA Administrator with 
appointing all air traffic controllers employed as Federal 
contract tower operators to the position of air traffic 
controller so long as they meet the qualifications established 
in Code and meet all other pre-employment qualifications.

                Subtitle C--Small Community Air Service


Sec. 771. Essential Air Service Reforms.

    This section makes reforms to the Essential Air Service 
(EAS) program while ensuring the program remains committed to 
connecting communities. This section reduces the maximum 
overall per passenger subsidy cap of the program from $1,000 to 
$500, requires the DOT Secretary to consider the total cost of 
an air carrier's application, and applies a five percent cost 
share to communities not in Alaska or Hawaii that are less than 
175 miles from a large or medium hub airport beginning in 
fiscal year 2027.

Sec. 772. Essential Air Service Authorization.

    This section authorizes, out of the Airport and Airway 
Trust Fund, funding for the EAS program. This includes $332 
million for FY 2024, $312 million for FY 2025, $300 million for 
FY 2026, $265 million for FY 2027 and $252 million for FY 2028.

Sec. 773. Small Community Air Service Development Program Reform and 
        Authorization.

    This section reduces the prohibition for use of a Small 
Community Air Service Development Program grants for the same 
project from ten years to six years. Furthermore, this section 
allows the DOT Secretary to give priority to communities who 
demonstrate support from at least one air carrier to provide 
service. Finally, this section authorizes the Small Community 
Air Service Development Program at $10 million a year through 
FY 2028.

Sec. 774. GAO Study on Increased Costs of Essential Air Service.

    This section directs the Comptroller General to study the 
causes of increased costs of the EAS program.

                       TITLE VIII: MISCELLANEOUS


Sec. 801. Digitalization of FAA Processes.

    This section requires that the FAA evaluate their programs, 
activities, and processes and work to digitize those that may 
be beneficial to external entities or internal coordination.

Sec. 802. FAA Telework.

    This section puts in place requirements for FAA telework 
policies, requiring that telework policies be based on job 
functions, duties, and level of management to ensure the 
mission of the agency can be accomplished effectively. This 
section requires that telework policies cannot inhibit site 
visits, inspections, in-person collaboration, on-the-job 
training, and operations of the NAS. Lastly, this section 
requires the consideration of telework status and duty station 
when determining pay rates for employees.

Sec. 803. Review of Office Space.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary to review the 
office footprint of the DOT to determine if it is an adequate 
use of resources based on the workforce, the needs of that 
workforce, the regions where DOT's modal administrations 
perform work, and general changes to how and where work is 
completed. This section then requires the DOT Secretary to 
determine where office consolidation (within a reasonable 
distance) within and between modes may make sense in order to 
more effectively utilize resources and provide amenities to 
personnel. This section also requires that such review consider 
accessibility for persons with disabilities, maintenance costs, 
and age and condition of such offices. This section does not 
include a review of operational facilities.

Sec. 804. Aircraft Weight Reduction Task Force.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to establish a 
task force to identify ways to safely reduce the weight of 
certain aircraft to reduce fuel burn. The task force will 
review and evaluate various factors, including: 1) regulations 
that may inhibit the certification of new materials, 
manufacturing processes, components, or technologies without 
decreasing safety; 2) outdated and underused elements of 
aircraft; 3) novel technologies and manufacturing processes; 
and 4) non-proprietary methods that air carriers use to 
decrease weight.

Sec. 805. Audit of Technical Writing Resources and Capabilities.

    This section directs the DOT OIG to review the technical 
writing support, resources, and educational tools provided to 
FAA employees in order to effectively write regulations, 
orders, and other guidance materials, and to provide 
recommendations on such subject.

Sec. 806. FAA Participation in Industry Standards Organizations.

    This section requires the FAA to actively participate in 
industry standard organizations (ISO) working on the 
development of aviation standards and means of compliance. This 
section requires that the FAA accept or decline an invitation 
to join a working group, subcommittee, or other body of an ISO 
and provide such response to the ISO and Congress. To the 
extent that the FAA does choose to participate, this section 
makes it clear that the FAA should be contributing to the 
development of work products and providing feedback and 
expertise as relevant, in addition to coordinating with and 
informing FAA management and other FAA subject matter experts 
about the status of ISO work products.

Sec. 807. Sense of Congress on Use of Voluntary Consensus Standards.

    This section expresses the sense of Congress that the FAA 
should be following the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) 
Circular A-119, Federal Participation in the Development and 
Use of Voluntary Consensus Standards and Conformity Assessment 
Activities.

Sec. 808. Required Designation.

    Ensures aviation rulemaking committees comprised of 
stakeholders can deliberate on recommendations to the FAA 
Administrator without undue scrutiny before publication.

Sec. 809. Sensitive Security Information.

    This section would restore DOT authorities that were 
inadvertently repealed with the passage of the FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-254). This section allows 
the Secretary to maintain DOT's Sensitive Security Information 
(SSI) regulations in Section 15.5 of title 49, Code of Federal 
Regulations.

Section 810. Preserving Open Skies While Ensuring Fair Skies.

    This section clarifies that the public interest test 
carried out by DOT considers the undermining of labor standards 
and applies it to the consideration of foreign carrier permits. 
This section also adds the undermining of labor standards as a 
consideration when formulating the negotiating policy of the 
United States. It is the expectation of the Committee that 
existing foreign air carrier permits and air transport 
agreements should not be materially altered or renegotiated 
based on this section.

Sec. 811. Commercial Preference.

    This section amends the general procurement authority of 
the FAA to make clear they should be updating their acquisition 
management system periodically and should include in such 
updates the consideration for commercial products and services 
(which the FAA Administrator may already be doing in some 
instances).

Sec. 812. Consideration of Third-Party Services.

    This section updates the requirement that FAA maintain 
plans and policies related to operation of the NAS (and execute 
on such plans) in a manner that covers current FAA practices, 
including the use of third-party services. This section also 
makes technical corrections in section 44501.
    The Committee does not intend this section to imply any 
expectation relating to how frequently third-party services are 
used.

Sec. 813. Certificates of Authorization or Waiver.

    This section provides discretion to the FAA Administrator 
to approve aircraft operations within Temporary Flight 
Restrictions (TFRs). This section also requires that, if the 
FAA Administrator approves operations within statutory TFRs, 
conditions of those approvals include discretion to permit 
flights within 0.75 nautical miles under certain conditions.
    Subsection (b)(2) is intended to maintain the operational 
restriction on aircraft that would not be flown if such event 
wasn't taking place (e.g., that do not have a formal 
relationship with the organizers of such event). This is 
intended to preclude activities like aerial advertising and 
banner towing as well as unauthorized recordings of such 
events.

Sec. 814. Wing-In-Ground-Effect Craft.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator and the 
Commandant of the Coast Guard to execute a memorandum of 
understanding (MOU) regarding the specific roles, 
responsibilities, and resources of the respective entities 
pertaining to wing-in-ground (WIG) effect craft. This section 
explicitly prohibits the DOT Secretary from regulating a WIG-
effect craft operator as an air carrier.

Sec. 815. Quasquicentennial of Aviation.

    This section states that it is the sense of Congress that 
the DOT Secretary and the FAA Administrator shall facilitate 
and participate in local, national, and international 
observances to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the Wright 
brothers first flight on December 17, 2028.

Sec. 816. Federal Contract Tower Wage Determinations and Positions.

    This section requires that the DOT Secretary request that 
the Secretary of Labor review and update the cost-of-living 
adjustment for air traffic controllers at Federal contract 
towers and create a new wage determination for managers at 
Federal contract towers.

Sec. 817. Internal Process Improvements Review.

    This section requires the DOT OIG to review the process by 
which the FAA develops and coordinates orders, advisory 
circulars, statements of policy, guidance, technical standards, 
and other materials in order to reduce the timeline required to 
produce and update such materials.

Sec. 818. Acceptance of Digital Driver's License and Identification 
        Cards.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to take such 
actions necessary to accept a digital or mobile driver's 
license issued by a state in such instances where an individual 
is required to submit a government-issued identification.

Sec. 819. Buckeye 940 Release of Deed Restrictions.

    This section releases former Luke Air Force Base Auxiliary 
Field #6 from certain Federal land use deed restrictions.

Sec. 820. Federal Aviation Administration Information Technology System 
        Integrity.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to conduct a 
review of aging information technology systems within the FAA 
to identify, inventory, and assess critical software and 
hardware systems and their vulnerabilities to degradation, 
errors, and malicious attacks. In conducting this review, the 
FAA Administrator is directed to identify the necessary 
upgrades and replacements needed to decrease the risks posed by 
such vulnerabilities and address each vulnerability 
appropriately.
    This section also requires the DOT OIG to audit the 
integrity of information systems of the Administration.

Sec. 821. Briefing on Radio Communications Coverage Around Mountainous 
        Terrain.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to brief 
Congress on the radio communications coverage of the airspace 
surrounding the Mena Intermountain Municipal Airport to 
determine at what altitudes radio communications capabilities 
may be compromised or lost, and to make recommendations on 
changes necessary to increase the radio communications coverage 
near this airport.

Sec. 822. Study on Congested Airspace.

    This section directs the Comptroller General to initiate a 
study on the efficiency and efficacy of scheduled commercial 
air service transiting congested airspace. In conducting the 
study, the Comptroller General shall examine various regions of 
congested airspace, commercial air activity, military flight 
activity, emergency response activity, commercial space 
transportation activities, weather, and air traffic controller 
staffing.

Sec. 823. Administrative Services Franchise Fund.

    This section addresses an inefficiency in the use of FAA's 
franchise fund which requires that all funds be paid in 
advance. The flexibility provided is consistent with funds of 
other Departments.

Sec. 824. Use of Biographical Assessments.

    This section amends Section 44506(f)(2)(A) of title 49, 
United States Code, by striking ``paragraph (1)(B)(ii)'' and 
inserting ``paragraph (1)(B)''.

Sec. 825. Whistleblower Protection Enforcement.

    This section clarifies that the FAA and the Department of 
Labor shall collectively determine an enforcement action 
against a person who retaliates against a whistleblower 
following an adjudication process and determination.

Sec. 826. Final Rulemaking on Certain Manufacturing Standards.

    This section instructs the FAA to publish a final rule on 
aircraft standards that meets the minimum required for United 
States manufacturers to sell aircraft overseas.

Sec. 827. Remote Dispatch.

    This section establishes a certificate for aircraft 
dispatchers and requires that air carriers maintain designated 
dispatch centers and flight following centers. This section 
also clarifies that air carriers may not dispatch aircraft from 
any location other than its designated dispatch centers, except 
in cases of emergency.

Sec. 828. Employee Assault Prevention and Response Plans Amendment.

    This section amends section 551 of the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018 to give the FAA Administrator authority to enforce 
the requirement that commercial airlines establish employee 
assault and response plans.

Sec. 829. Crew Member Self-Defense Training.

    This section requires commercial airlines provide a process 
by which crew members can receive reasonable accommodations for 
self-defense training courses.

Sec. 830. Formal Sexual Assault and Harassment Policies on Air Carriers 
        and Foreign Air Carriers.

    This section directs passenger air carriers and foreign air 
carriers to issue a formal policy on sexual assault or 
harassment incidents. The policy mandated by this section 
should include a statement of zero tolerance, procedures for 
reporting a sexual assault or harassment incident, procedures 
for personnel to follow following the report of an incident, 
procedures to limit or prohibit future travel for any passenger 
who causes an incident, and training for appropriate personnel.
    This section also directs air carriers and foreign air 
carriers to prominently display on their website (and 
appropriate signage) a written statement informing passengers 
and personnel of the procedure for reporting an incident.

Sec. 831. Interference with Security Screening Personnel.

    This section clarifies that interference with security 
screening personnel extends to an airport or air carrier 
employee performing ticketing, check-in, baggage claim, or 
boarding functions.

Sec. 832. Mechanisms to Reduce Helicopter Noise.

    This section instructs the Comptroller General to examine 
ways that state and local governments can mitigate commercial 
helicopter noise.

Sec. 833. Technical Corrections.

    This section makes various non-substantive technical and 
conforming amendments.

Sec. 834. Transportation of Organs.

    This section tasks the DOT Secretary, in coordination with 
the FAA Administrator, to convene a working group to assist in 
developing best practices and identifying hindrances for 
transporting an organ in the cabin of a commercial aircraft. 
The working group shall consist of air carriers operating under 
part 121, organ procurement organizations, organ transplant 
hospitals, flight attendants, and any other Federal agencies 
determined appropriate by the FAA Administrator. One year after 
convening, the working group will submit a report with 
recommendations to the Secretary.

Sec. 835. Report on Application Approval Timing.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to submit to 
Congress a report on the application process for Part 137 
certificates.

Sec. 836. Study on Air Cargo Operations.

    This section requires the Comptroller General to initiate a 
study on the economic sustainability of air cargo operations, 
including the airport facilities and infrastructure as well as 
intramodality of cargo operations at an airport that support 
such operations.

Sec. 837. Next Generation Radio Altimeters.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator (in coordination 
with industry stakeholders) to carry out an accelerated program 
to assist with the development, testing, and certification of 
standards and technology necessary to ensure the FAA is able to 
certify, produce standards, and meet the goal of next 
generation radio altimeters equipped across all necessary 
aircraft by January 1, 2028. In addition, the FAA Administrator 
may award grants for the purpose of meeting the equipage goal 
of January 1, 2028.

Sec. 838. Sense of Congress Regarding Safety and Security of Aviation 
        Infrastructure.

    This section expresses the sense of Congress that the 
safety and security of aviation infrastructure is essential.

Sec. 839. Restricted Category Aircraft Maintenance and Operations.

    This section clarifies that the FAA Administrator shall 
have sole jurisdiction over the maintenance and operations of 
civil restricted category aircraft. This section ensures that 
other Federal or local governmental bodies do not set 
maintenance or operational requirements for the safety of such 
aircraft.

Sec. 840. Report on Telework.

    This section requires the DOT Secretary to provide Congress 
with a report detailing direct and indirect costs and 
inefficiencies associated with the maximum telework policies 
during the COVID-19 public health emergency.

Sec. 841. Crewmember Pumping Guidance.

    This section directs the FAA Administrator to issue 
guidance to part 121 air carriers relating to crewmembers 
pumping during noncritical phases of flight. In producing 
guidance, the FAA Administrator shall consider multiple methods 
of expressing breast milk that could be used by crewmembers and 
ensure that any guidance does not require an air carrier or 
foreign air carrier to incur significant expenses such as the 
addition of an extra crewmember or removal or retrofitting of 
any seats on the aircraft.

Sec. 842. Aircraft Interchange Agreement Limitations.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to conduct a 
study on the regulations and use of foreign interchange 
agreements.

Sec. 843. Federal Aviation Administration Academy and Facility 
        Expansion Plan.

    This section requires the FAA Administrator to develop a 
plan to expand the FAA's capacity for training air traffic 
controllers, including the establishment of a second FAA ATC 
training academy. This section requires the FAA Administrator 
to submit the plan to Congress and brief Congress on the plan 
developed under this section.

 TITLE IX: NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD AMENDMENTS ACT OF 2023


Sec. 901. Short Title.

    This title may be cited as the ``National Transportation 
Safety Board Amendments Act of 2023.''

Sec. 902. Authorization of Appropriations.

    This section authorizes $142 million for FY 2024, $145 
million for FY 2025, $150 million for FY 2026, $155 million for 
FY 2027, and $161 million for FY 2028 for the National 
Transportation Safety Board (NTSB or ``Board'' in this title). 
Furthermore, the Committee recognizes the need for additional 
rail safety inspectors at the NTSB and encourages the agency to 
utilize portions of the authorized funds to hire such rail 
safety inspectors.

Sec. 903. Clarification of Treatment of Territories.

    This section clarifies that the term ``State'' means a 
state of the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto 
Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana 
Islands, and Guam.

Sec. 904. Additional Workforce Training.

    This section authorizes the NTSB to acquire training on 
emerging transportation technologies and allows the NTSB to 
conduct training to meet the needs of the NTSB's strategic 
workforce plan.

Sec. 905. Acquiring Mission-Essential Knowledge and Skills.

    This section gives the Chairman of the Board direct hiring 
authority of highly qualified personnel with specialized 
knowledge if the Chairman determines there is a severe shortage 
of qualified personnel or a critical hiring need for particular 
positions. This direct hire authority terminates on the date 
that is five years after the date of enactment of this Act and 
does not apply to positions in the excepted service or the 
Senior Executive Service.

Sec. 906. Overtime Annual Report Termination.

    This section repeals the statutory requirement that the 
NTSB submit an Overtime Pay annual report to Congress.

Sec. 907. Strategic Workforce Plan.

    This section directs the Board to submit to Congress a 
strategic workforce plan that covers a five-year forecast 
period. The workforce plan should be updated at least once 
every five years and should be made available to the public on 
the Board's website.

Sec. 908. Travel Budgets.

    This section directs the Board to establish annual fiscal 
year budgets for non-accident-related travel expenditures. 
These new estimates are to be included in the annual budget 
request of the Board. In addition, the Board shall notify 
Congress if any member exceeds their non-accident-related 
travel budget.

Sec. 909. Retention of Records.

    This section grants the Board the ability to retain 
investigative records for such periods as determined by the 
Board.

Sec. 910. Nondisclosure of Interview Recordings.

    This section prohibits the Board from publicly disclosing 
any audio or video recordings of interviews with participants 
in, or witnesses to, an accident being investigated by the 
Board. This does not pertain to transcripts or summaries of 
such interviews. In addition, the Board must notify Congress if 
the Board or United States Attorney General carries out civil 
actions against an airman employed by an air carrier operating 
under part 121 at the time of the accident.

Sec. 911. Closed Unacceptable Recommendations.

    This section requires the NTSB to include in their annual 
report to Congress a list of each recommendation made by the 
Board to the DOT Secretary or the Commandant of the Coast Guard 
that was closed in an unacceptable status in the past 12 
months.

Sec. 912. Establishment of Office of Oversight, Accountability, and 
        Quality Assurance.

    This section establishes an Office of Oversight, 
Accountability, and Quality Assurance at the NTSB to promote 
efficiency and effectiveness; and prevent and detect waste, 
fraud, and abuse in programs and operations at the NTSB. 
Furthermore, it requires the Director of the newly established 
office to submit an annual report to Congress on the 
activities, investigations, findings, and recommendations of 
the Office.

Sec. 913. Miscellaneous Investigative Authorities.

    This section grants the NTSB additional authority to 
investigate and identify probable cause for any highway 
accident, including highway accidents that occur at railroad 
grade crossings, concurrent with any State investigation. In 
addition, this section clarifies the NTSB's investigative 
authority into railroad accidents by including railroad grade 
crossing or trespasser accidents in which there is a fatality 
or substantial property damage.

Sec. 914. Public Availability of Accident Reports.

    This section directs the Board to make accident reports 
available to the public, at no cost, via a database on their 
website. In addition to being made available on their website, 
the reports should be available to the public in printed form 
at a reasonable cost.

Sec. 915. Ensuring Accountability for Timeliness of Reports.

    This section directs the Board to submit a report to 
Congress on any accident report not completed within two years 
of the accident. The report to Congress shall contain the 
reasons why the investigation has yet to be completed. The 
Board will also be required to submit subsequent progress 
reports to Congress every 90 days until the investigation is 
complete.

Sec. 916. Ensuring Access to Data.

    This section ensures that the Board will be able to obtain 
recordings, recording information, and data pertinent to 
accidents from manufacturers or vendor suppliers. This will 
enable the Board to read and interpret any recording device or 
recorded information pertinent to an accident and allow the 
Board to perform an independent physics-based simulation and 
analysis of an accident.

Sec. 917. Public Availability of Safety Recommendations.

    This section directs the Board to make the DOT Secretary's 
responses to safety recommendations available to the public, at 
no cost, via a database on their website. In addition to being 
made available on their website, the responses should be 
available to the public in printed form at a reasonable cost.

Sec. 918. Improving Delivery of Family Assistance.

    This section broadens the scope of family assistance to 
include passengers and the families of those passengers 
involved in accidents within United States airspace or airspace 
delegated to the United States. This section also directs the 
Director of Family Support Services to request a passenger list 
from the air carrier as soon as practicable. The Director may 
not release any individual's information unless they deem it 
appropriate to provide such information to the family of the 
passenger or a local, state, or Federal agency tasked with 
determining the where-abouts or welfare of the passenger. In 
addition, the independent non-profit organization designated 
for family assistance may request a passenger list to share 
with family, as appropriate. The designated organization may 
not publicly release the personal information of a passenger. 
Lastly, this section makes similar conforming edits to the 
scope of family assistance for passengers and the families of 
such passengers involved in rail accidents.

Sec. 919. Updating Civil Penalty Authority.

    This section broadens the scope of civil penalties beyond 
aviation accidents, to include rail passenger accidents.

Sec. 920. Electronic Availability of Public Docket Records.

    This section directs the Board to make all records included 
in the public docket of an accident or incident investigation 
electronically available to the public, regardless of the date 
on which such public docket or record was created. The Board 
shall provide an annual briefing to Congress until such records 
are electronically available to the public.

Sec. 921. Drug-Free Workplace.

    This section directs the Board to implement a drug testing 
program for Board employees, in accordance with Executive Order 
12564.

Sec. 922. Accessibility in the Workplace.

    This section directs the NTSB to assess their offices 
(headquarters and regional offices) to identify barriers to 
accessibility to their facilities. The assessment shall be done 
in compliance with the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 and 
the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Sec. 923. Most Wanted List.

    As requested by the NTSB, this section directs the Board to 
terminate publication of the Most Wanted List.

Sec. 924. Technical Corrections.

    This section makes technical corrections to sections 
relating to the NTSB in title 49, United States Code.

                  TITLE X: FREEDOM TO FLY ACT OF 2023


Sec. 1001. Short Title.

    This section provides the short title for Title X, 
``Freedom to Fly Act of 2023.''

Sec. 1002. Prohibition on Implementation of Vaccination Mandate.

    This section bars the FAA Administrator from mandating 
COVID-19 vaccine requirements for the personnel of air 
carriers.

Sec. 1003. Prohibition on Vaccination Requirements for FAA Contractors.

    This section bars the FAA Administrator from mandating 
COVID-19 vaccine requirements for the personnel of FAA 
contractors.

Sec. 1004. Prohibition on Vaccine Mandate for FAA Employees.

    This section bars the FAA Administrator from putting in 
place COVID-19 vaccine requirements for employees of the FAA.

Sec. 1005. Prohibition on Vaccine Mandate for Passengers of Air 
        Carriers.

    This section bars the FAA Administrator from mandating 
COVID-19 vaccine requirements for passengers on air carriers.

Sec. 1006. Prohibition on Implementation of a Mask Mandate.

    This section bars the FAA Administrator from mandating any 
mask requirements for the personnel of air carriers.
    The Committee does not intend for this section to limit or 
prevent the FAA Administrator from issuing aviation safety or 
health related measures unrelated to COVID-19.

Sec. 1007. Prohibition on Mask Mandates for FAA Contractors.

    This section bars the FAA Administrator from mandating any 
mask requirements for the personnel of FAA contractors.
    The Committee does not intend for this section to limit or 
prevent the FAA Administrator from issuing aviation safety or 
health related measures unrelated to COVID-19.

Sec. 1008. Prohibition on Mask Mandate for FAA Employees.

    This section bars the FAA Administrator from putting in 
place any mask requirements for the personnel of the FAA.
    The Committee does not intend for this section to limit or 
prevent the FAA Administrator from issuing aviation safety or 
health related measures unrelated to COVID-19.

Sec. 1009. Prohibition on Mask Mandate for Passengers of Air Carriers.

    This section bars the FAA Administrator from mandating any 
mask requirements for passengers on air carriers.
    The Committee does not intend for this section to limit or 
prevent the FAA Administrator from issuing aviation safety or 
health related measures unrelated to COVID-19.

Sec. 1010. Definitions.

    This section contains definitions specific to Title X.

         Changes in Existing Law Made by the Bill, as Reported

    In compliance with clause 3(e) of rule XIII of the Rules of 
the House of Representatives, changes in existing law made by 
the bill, as reported, are shown as follows (existing law 
proposed to be omitted is enclosed in black brackets, new 
matter is printed in italic, existing law in which no change is 
proposed is shown in roman):

         Changes in Existing Law Made by the Bill, as Reported

  In compliance with clause 3(e) of rule XIII of the Rules of 
the House of Representatives, changes in existing law made by 
the bill, as reported, are shown as follows (existing law 
proposed to be omitted is enclosed in black brackets, new 
matter is printed in italics, and existing law in which no 
change is proposed is shown in roman):

                      TITLE 49, UNITED STATES CODE


 Subtitle                                                           Sec.
     * * * * * * *
      Multimodal Freight Transportation...........................70101]
70101ULTIMODAL FREIGHT TRANSPORTATION.................................

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SUBTITLE I--DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Chapter                                                             Sec.
     * * * * * * *
      Surface Transportation Board..................................701]

                        CHAPTER 1--ORGANIZATION

Sec.
     * * * * * * *
120. National Center for the Advancement of Aerospace.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 106. Federal Aviation Administration

  (a) [The Federal] In General._The Federal  Aviation 
Administration is an administration in the Department of 
Transportation.
  [(b) The head of the Administration is the Administrator, who 
shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and 
consent of the Senate. When making an appointment, the 
President shall consider the fitness of the individual to carry 
out efficiently the duties and powers of the office. Except as 
provided in subsection (f) or in other provisions of law, the 
Administrator reports directly to the Secretary of 
Transportation. The term of office for any individual appointed 
as Administrator after August 23, 1994, shall be 5 years.
  [(c) The Administrator must--
          [(1) be a citizen of the United States;
          [(2) be a civilian; and
          [(3) have experience in a field directly related to 
        aviation.
  [(d)(1) The Administration has a Deputy Administrator, who 
shall be appointed by the President. In making an appointment, 
the President shall consider the fitness of the appointee to 
efficiently carry out the duties and powers of the office. The 
Deputy Administrator shall be a citizen of the United States 
and have experience in a field directly related to aviation. An 
officer on active duty in an armed force may be appointed as 
Deputy Administrator. However, if the Administrator is a former 
regular officer of an armed force, the Deputy Administrator may 
not be an officer on active duty in an armed force.
  [(2) The annual rate of basic pay of the Deputy Administrator 
shall be set by the Secretary but shall not exceed the annual 
rate of basic pay payable to the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration.
  [(3) An officer on active duty or a retired officer serving 
as Deputy Administrator is entitled to hold a rank and grade 
not lower than that held when appointed as Deputy 
Administrator. The Deputy Administrator may elect to receive 
(A) the pay provided by law for the Deputy Administrator, or 
(B) the pay and allowances or the retired pay of the military 
grade held. If the Deputy Administrator elects to receive the 
military pay and allowances or retired pay, the Administration 
shall reimburse the appropriate military department from funds 
available for the expenses of the Administration.
  [(4) The appointment and service of a member of the armed 
forces as a Deputy Administrator does not affect the status, 
office, rank, or grade held by that member, or a right or 
benefit arising from the status, office, rank, or grade. The 
Secretary of a military department does not control the member 
when the member is carrying out duties and powers of the Deputy 
Administrator.
  [(e) The Administrator and the Deputy Administrator may not 
have a pecuniary interest in, or own stock in or bonds of, an 
aeronautical enterprise, or engage in another business, 
vocation, or employment.]
  (b) Administration Leadership.--
          (1) Administrator.--
                  (A) In general.--The head of the 
                Administration is the Administrator, who shall 
                be appointed by the President, by and with the 
                advice and consent of the Senate.
                  (B) Qualifications.--The Administrator 
                shall--
                          (i) be a citizen of the United 
                        States;
                          (ii) not be an active duty or retired 
                        member of an Armed Force; and
                          (iii) have experience in 
                        organizational management and a field 
                        directly related to aviation.
                  (C) Fitness.--In appointing an individual as 
                Administrator, the President shall consider the 
                fitness of such individual to carry out 
                efficiently the duties and powers of the 
                office.
                  (D) Term of office.--The Term of office for 
                any individual appointed as Administrator shall 
                be 5 years.
                  (E) Reporting chain.--Except as provided in 
                subsection (f) or in other provisions of law, 
                the Administrator reports directly to the 
                Secretary of Transportation.
          (2) Deputy administrator for programs and 
        management.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administration has a 
                Deputy Administrator for Programs and 
                Management, who shall be a political appointee 
                of the President.
                  (B) Qualifications.--The Deputy Administrator 
                for Programs and Management shall--
                          (i) be a citizen of the United 
                        States; and
                          (ii) have experience in management 
                        and a field directly related to 
                        aviation.
                  (C) Fitness.--In appointing an individual as 
                Deputy Administrator for Programs and 
                Management, the President shall consider the 
                fitness of the individual to carry out 
                efficiently the duties and powers of the 
                office, including the duty to act for the 
                Administrator under the circumstances described 
                in subparagraph (F).
                  (D) Reporting chain.--The Deputy 
                Administrator for Programs and Management 
                reports directly to the Administrator.
                  (E) Duties.--The Deputy Administrator for 
                Programs and Management shall--
                          (i) manage the Assistant 
                        Administrators and Chief Counsel 
                        established under subsection (d), 
                        except the Assistant Administrator for 
                        Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement; 
                        and
                          (ii) carry out duties and powers 
                        prescribed by the Administrator.
                  (F) Succession plan.--The Deputy 
                Administrator for Programs and Management acts 
                for the Administrator when the Administrator is 
                absent or unable to serve, or when the office 
                of the Administrator is vacant.
                  (G) Compensation.--
                          (i) Annual rate of basic pay.--The 
                        annual rate of basic pay of the Deputy 
                        Administrator for Programs and 
                        Management shall be set by the 
                        Secretary but shall not exceed the 
                        annual rate of basic pay payable to the 
                        Administrator.
                          (ii) Exception.--A retired regular 
                        officer of an Armed Force serving as 
                        the Deputy Administrator for Programs 
                        and Management is entitled to hold a 
                        rank and grade not lower than that held 
                        when appointed as the Deputy 
                        Administrator for Programs and 
                        Management and may elect to receive--
                                  (I) the pay provided for the 
                                Deputy Administrator for 
                                Programs and Management under 
                                clause (i); or
                                  (II) the pay and allowances 
                                or the retired pay of the 
                                military grade held.
                          (iii) Reimbursement of expenses.--If 
                        the Deputy Administrator for Programs 
                        and Management elects to receive 
                        compensation described in clause 
                        (ii)(II), the Administration shall 
                        reimburse the appropriate military 
                        department from funds available for the 
                        expenses of the Administration.
          (3) Deputy administrator for safety and operations.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administration has a 
                Deputy Administrator for Safety and Operations, 
                who--
                          (i) shall be appointed by the 
                        Administrator; and
                          (ii) shall not be a political 
                        appointee.
                  (B) Qualifications.--The Deputy Administrator 
                for Safety and Operations shall--
                          (i) be a citizen of the United 
                        States; and
                          (ii) have experience in 
                        organizational management and a field 
                        directly related to aviation.
                  (C) Fitness.--In appointing an individual as 
                Deputy Administrator for Safety and Operations, 
                the Administrator shall consider the fitness of 
                the individual to carry out efficiently the 
                duties and powers of the office, including the 
                duty to act for the Administrator under the 
                circumstances described in subparagraph (F).
                  (D) Reporting chain.--The Deputy 
                Administrator for Safety and Operations reports 
                to the Administrator.
                  (E) Duties.--The Deputy Administrator for 
                Safety and Operations shall--
                          (i) manage the Associate 
                        Administrators and Chief Operating 
                        Officer established under subsection 
                        (c) and the Assistant Administrator for 
                        Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement 
                        established under subsection (d);
                          (ii) develop and maintain a long-term 
                        strategic plan of the Administration; 
                        and
                          (iii) carry out other duties and 
                        powers prescribed by the Administrator.
                  (F) Succession plan.--The Deputy 
                Administrator for Safety and Operations acts 
                for the Administrator when the Administrator 
                and the Deputy Administrator for Programs and 
                Management are absent or unable to serve, or 
                when the office of the Administrator and the 
                Office of the Deputy Administrator for Programs 
                and Management are vacant.
                  (G) Compensation.--The annual rate of basic 
                pay of the Deputy Administrator for Safety and 
                Operations shall be set by the Administrator 
                but shall not exceed the annual rate of basic 
                pay payable to the Administrator.
          (4) Leadership of the administration defined.--In 
        this section, the term ``leadership of the 
        Administration'' means--
                  (A) the Administrator under paragraph (1);
                  (B) the Deputy Administrator for Programs and 
                Management under paragraph (2); and
                  (C) the Deputy Administrator for Safety and 
                Operations under paragraph (3).
  (c) Associate Administrators.--
          (1) In general.--The Administration has Associate 
        Administrators, as determined necessary by the 
        Administrator, including--
                  (A) appointed by the Administrator, an 
                Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety, an 
                Associate Administrator for Commercial Space 
                Transportation, an Associate Administrator for 
                Security and Hazardous Materials Safety, a 
                Chief Operating Officer of the Air Traffic 
                Control System; and
                  (B) appointed by the President, an Associate 
                Administrator for Airports.
          (2) Qualifications.--Associate Administrators shall 
        be citizens of the United States.
          (3) Duties.--The Associate Administrators shall carry 
        out duties and powers of their office described in this 
        section and those prescribed by the Administrator.
  (d) Chief Counsel; Assistant Administrators.--
          (1) In general.--The Administration has Assistant 
        Administrators and a Chief Counsel.
                  (A) Chief counsel.--The Chief Counsel shall 
                be appointed by the President and shall--
                          (i) advise the Administrator on legal 
                        matters relating to the 
                        responsibilities, functions, and 
                        management of the Administration;
                          (ii) at the request of the 
                        Administrator, provide guidance, 
                        counsel, and advice regarding, but 
                        shall not have final decision-making 
                        authority with regards to, the 
                        activities of the Administrator, 
                        including--
                                  (I) rulemaking activities;
                                  (II) policy and guidance 
                                document production;
                                  (III) exemption and waiver 
                                decisions; and
                                  (IV) certification and 
                                approval determinations;
                          (iii) represent the Administration 
                        before the National Transportation 
                        Safety Board, Department of 
                        Transportation law judges, the Equal 
                        Employment Opportunity Commission, 
                        Federal courts of the United States, 
                        and other bodies and courts, as 
                        appropriate;
                          (iv) pursue enforcement actions on 
                        behalf of the Administrator; and
                          (v) perform other functions as 
                        determined by the Administrator.
                  (B) Assistant administrator for rulemaking 
                and regulatory improvement.--The Assistant 
                Administrator for Rulemaking and Regulatory 
                Improvement shall be appointed by the 
                Administrator and shall--
                          (i) be responsible for developing and 
                        managing the execution of a regulatory 
                        agenda for the Administration that 
                        meets statutory and Administration 
                        deadlines, including by--
                                  (I) prioritizing rulemaking 
                                projects that are necessary to 
                                improve safety;
                                  (II) establishing the 
                                regulatory agenda of the 
                                Administration; and
                                  (III) coordinating with 
                                offices of the Administration, 
                                the Department, and other 
                                Federal entities as appropriate 
                                to improve timely feedback 
                                generation and approvals when 
                                required by law;
                          (ii) not delegate overall 
                        responsibility for meeting internal 
                        timelines and final completion of the 
                        regulatory activities of the 
                        Administration outside the Office of 
                        the Assistant Administrator for 
                        Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement;
                          (iii) on an ongoing basis--
                                  (I) review the 
                                Administration's regulations in 
                                effect to improve safety;
                                  (II) reduce undue regulatory 
                                burden;
                                  (III) replace prescriptive 
                                regulations with performance-
                                based regulations, as 
                                appropriate;
                                  (IV) prevent duplicative 
                                regulations; and
                                  (V) increase regulatory 
                                clarity and transparency 
                                whenever possible;
                          (iv) make recommendations for the 
                        Administrator's review under subsection 
                        (f)(3)(C)(ii);
                          (v) receive, coordinate, and respond 
                        to petitions for rulemaking and for 
                        exemption as provided for in subpart A 
                        of part 11 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                        Regulations, and provide an initial 
                        response to a petitioner not later than 
                        30 days after the receipt of such a 
                        petition--
                                  (I) acknowledging receipt of 
                                such petition;
                                  (II) confirming completeness 
                                of such petition;
                                  (III) providing an initial 
                                indication of the complexity of 
                                the request and how such 
                                complexity may impact the 
                                timeline for adjudication; and
                                  (IV) requesting any 
                                additional information, as 
                                appropriate, that would assist 
                                in the consideration of the 
                                petition;
                          (vi) track the issuance of exemptions 
                        and waivers by the Administration to 
                        sections of title 14, Code of Federal 
                        Regulations, and establish a 
                        methodology by which to determine if it 
                        would be more efficient and in the 
                        public's interest to amend a rule to 
                        reduce the future need of waivers and 
                        exemptions; and
                          (vii) promulgate regulatory updates 
                        as determined more efficient or in the 
                        public's best interest under clause 
                        (vi).
                  (C) Appointment.--Additional Assistant 
                Administrators, as determined necessary by the 
                Administrator, may be appointed by the 
                Administrator.
          (2) Qualifications.--The Assistant Administrators 
        shall be a citizen of the United States.
          (3) Duties.--The Assistant Administrators shall carry 
        out duties and powers of their office described in this 
        section and those prescribed by the Administrator.
          (4) Management board of the administration.--In this 
        section, the term ``Management Board of the 
        Administration'' means--
                  (A) the Associate Administrators and Chief 
                Operating Officer established under subsection 
                (c); and
                  (B) the Assistant Administrators and Chief 
                Counsel established under subsection (d).
  (e) Prohibition on Conflicting Pecuniary Interests.--
          (1) In general.--The leadership of the Administration 
        and the Management Board of the Administration may not 
        have a pecuniary interest in, or hold a financial 
        interest in, an aeronautical enterprise, or engage in 
        another business, vocation, or employment.
          (2) Teaching.--Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the 
        Deputy Administrators and the Management Board of the 
        Administration may not receive compensation for 
        teaching without prior approval of the Administrator.
          (3) Financial interest defined.--In this subsection, 
        the term ``financial interest''--
                  (A) means--
                          (i) any current or contingent 
                        ownership, equity, or security 
                        interest;
                          (ii) any indebtedness or compensated 
                        employment relationship; or
                          (iii) any right to purchase or 
                        acquire any such interest, including a 
                        stock option; and
                  (B) does not include securities held in an 
                index fund.
  (f) Authority of the Secretary and the Administrator.--
          (1) Authority of the secretary.--Except as provided 
        in [paragraph (2)] paragraphs (2) and (3), the 
        Secretary of Transportation shall carry out the duties 
        and powers, and controls the personnel and activities, 
        of the Administration. [Neither] In exercising duties, 
        powers, and authorities that are assigned to the 
        Secretary or the Administrator under this title, 
        neither the Secretary nor the Administrator may submit 
        decisions for the approval of, or be bound by the 
        decisions or recommendations of, [a committee, board, 
        or organization established by executive order.] a 
        committee, board, council, or organization that is--
                  (A) established by executive order; or 
                  (B) not explicitly directed by legislation to 
                review the exercise of such duties, powers, and 
                authorities by the Secretary or the 
                Administrator. 
          (2) Authority of the administrator.--The 
        Administrator--
                  (A) is the final authority for carrying out 
                all functions, powers, and duties of the 
                Administration relating to--
                          (i) the appointment and employment of 
                        all officers and employees of the 
                        Administration (other than Presidential 
                        and political appointees);
                          (ii) [the acquisition and maintenance 
                        of property, services, and equipment of 
                        the Administration;] the acquisition, 
                        establishment, improvement, operation, 
                        maintenance, security (including 
                        cybersecurity), and disposal of 
                        property, facilities, services, and 
                        equipment of the Administration, 
                        including all elements of the air 
                        traffic control system owned by the 
                        Administration;
                          (iii) except as otherwise provided in 
                        [paragraph (3)] paragraph (4), the 
                        promulgation of regulations, rules, 
                        orders, circulars, bulletins, and other 
                        official publications of the 
                        Administration; and
                          (iv) any obligation imposed on the 
                        Administrator, or power conferred on 
                        the Administrator, by the Air Traffic 
                        Management System Performance 
                        Improvement Act of 1996 (or any 
                        amendment made by that Act);
                  (B) shall offer advice and counsel to the 
                President with respect to civil aviation, any 
                matter for which the Administrator is the final 
                authority under subparagraph (A), any duty 
                carried out by the Administrator pursuant to 
                paragraph (3), or the provisions of this title, 
                or the appointment and qualifications of any 
                officer or employee of the Administration to be 
                appointed by the President or as a political 
                appointee;
                  (C) may delegate, and authorize successive 
                redelegations of, to an officer or employee of 
                the Administration any function, power, or duty 
                conferred upon the Administrator, unless such 
                delegation is prohibited by law; and
                  (D) except as otherwise provided for in this 
                title, and notwithstanding any other provision 
                of law, shall not be required (formally or 
                informally) to coordinate, submit for approval 
                or concurrence, or seek the advice or views of 
                the Secretary or any other officer or employee 
                of the Department of Transportation or any 
                other Federal agency on any matter with respect 
                to which the Administrator is the final 
                authority.
          (3) Duties and powers of the administrator.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administrator shall 
                carry out--
                          (i) the duties and powers of the 
                        Secretary under this subsection related 
                        to aviation safety (except those 
                        related to transportation, packaging, 
                        marking, or description of hazardous 
                        material) and stated in--
                                  (I) subsections (c) and (d) 
                                of section 1132;
                                  (II) sections 40101(c), 
                                40103(b), 40106(a), 40108, 
                                40109(b), 40113(a), 40113(c), 
                                40113(d), 40113(e), 40114(a), 
                                and 40117;
                                  (III) chapter 443;
                                  (IV) chapter 445, except 
                                sections 44502(a)(3), 44503, 
                                and 44509;
                                  (V) chapter 447, except 
                                sections 44721(b), and 44723;
                                  (VI) chapter 448;
                                  (VII) chapter 451;
                                  (VIII) chapter 453;
                                  (IX) section 46104;
                                  (X) subsections (d) and 
                                (h)(2) of section 46301, 
                                section 46303(c), sections 
                                46304 through 46308, section 
                                46310, section 46311, and 
                                sections 46313 through 46320;
                                  (XI) chapter 465;
                                  (XII) chapter 471;
                                  (XIII) chapter 475; and
                                  (XIV) chapter 509 of title 
                                51; and
                          (ii) such additional duties and 
                        powers as may be prescribed by the 
                        Secretary.
                  (B) Applicability.--Section 40101(d) applies 
                to the duties and powers specified in 
                subparagraph (A).
                  (C) Transfer.--Any of the duties and powers 
                specified in subparagraph (A) may only be 
                transferred to another part of the Department 
                if specifically provided by law or in a 
                reorganization plan submitted under chapter 9 
                of title 5.
                  (D) Administrative finality.--A decision of 
                the Administrator in carrying out the duties or 
                powers specified in subparagraph (A) is 
                administratively final.
          [(3)] (4) Regulations.--
                  (A) In general.--[In the performance] (i) 
                Issuance of Regulations._In the performance  of 
                the functions of the Administrator and the 
                Administration, the Administrator is authorized 
                to issue, rescind, and revise such regulations 
                as are necessary to carry out those functions. 
                The issuance of such regulations shall be 
                governed by the provisions of chapter 5 of 
                title 5. [The Administrator shall act] (ii) 
                Petitions for Rulemaking._The Administrator 
                shall act  upon all petitions for rulemaking no 
                later than 6 months after the date such 
                petitions are filed by dismissing such 
                petitions, by informing the petitioner of an 
                intention to dismiss, or by issuing a notice of 
                proposed rulemaking or advanced notice of 
                proposed rulemaking. [The Administrator shall 
                issue] (iii) Rulemaking Timeline._The 
                Administrator shall issue  a final regulation, 
                or take other final action, not later than 16 
                months after the last day of the public comment 
                period for the regulations or, in the case of 
                an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking, if 
                issued, not later than 24 months after the date 
                of publication in the Federal Register of 
                notice of the proposed rulemaking. [On February 
                1] (iv) Reporting Requirement._On February 1  
                and August 1 of each year 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 
                letter listing each deadline the Administrator 
                missed under this subparagraph during the 6-
                month period ending on such date, including an 
                explanation for missing the deadline and a 
                projected date on which the action that was 
                subject to the deadline will be taken.
                  [(B) Approval of secretary of 
                transportation.--(i) The Administrator may not 
                issue a proposed regulation or final regulation 
                that is likely to result in the expenditure by 
                State, local, and tribal governments in the 
                aggregate, or by the private sector, of 
                $250,000,000 or more (adjusted annually for 
                inflation beginning with the year following the 
                date of the enactment of the Wendell H. Ford 
                Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st 
                Century) in any year, or any regulation which 
                is significant, unless the Secretary of 
                Transportation approves the issuance of the 
                regulation in advance. For purposes of this 
                paragraph, a regulation is significant if the 
                Administrator, in consultation with the 
                Secretary (as appropriate), determines that the 
                regulation is likely to--
                          [(I) have an annual effect on the 
                        economy of $250,000,000 or more or 
                        adversely affect in a substantial and 
                        material way the economy, a sector of 
                        the economy, productivity, competition, 
                        jobs, the environment, public health or 
                        safety, or State, local, or tribal 
                        governments or communities; or
                          [(II) raise novel or significant 
                        legal or policy issues arising out of 
                        legal mandates that may substantially 
                        and materially affect other 
                        transportation modes.
                  [(ii) In an emergency, the Administrator may 
                issue a regulation described in clause (i) 
                without prior approval by the Secretary, but 
                any such emergency regulation is subject to 
                ratification by the Secretary after it is 
                issued and shall be rescinded by the 
                Administrator within 5 days (excluding 
                Saturdays, Sundays, and legal public holidays) 
                after issuance if the Secretary fails to ratify 
                its issuance.
                  [(iii) Any regulation that does not meet the 
                criteria of clause (i), and any regulation or 
                other action that is a routine or frequent 
                action or a procedural action, may be issued by 
                the Administrator without review or approval by 
                the Secretary.
                  [(iv) The Administrator shall submit a copy 
                of any regulation requiring approval by the 
                Secretary under clause (i) to the Secretary, 
                who shall either approve it or return it to the 
                Administrator with comments within 45 days 
                after receiving it.
                  [(C) Periodic review.--(i) Beginning on the 
                date which is 3 years after the date of the 
                enactment of the Air Traffic Management System 
                Performance Improvement Act of 1996, the 
                Administrator shall review any unusually 
                burdensome regulation issued by the 
                Administrator after such date of enactment 
                beginning not later than 3 years after the 
                effective date of the regulation to determine 
                if the cost assumptions were accurate, the 
                benefit of the regulations, and the need to 
                continue such regulations in force in their 
                present form.
                  [(ii) The Administrator may identify for 
                review under the criteria set forth in clause 
                (i) unusually burdensome regulations that were 
                issued before the date of the enactment of the 
                Air Traffic Management System Performance 
                Improvement Act of 1996 and that have been in 
                force for more than 3 years.
                  [(iii) For purposes of this subparagraph, the 
                term ``unusually burdensome regulation'' means 
                any regulation that results in the annual 
                expenditure by State, local, and tribal 
                governments in the aggregate, or by the private 
                sector, of $25,000,000 or more (adjusted 
                annually for inflation beginning with the year 
                following the date of the enactment of the Air 
                Traffic Management System Performance Act of 
                1996) in any year.
                  [(iv) The periodic review of regulations may 
                be performed by advisory committees and the 
                Management Advisory Council established under 
                subsection (p).]
                  (B) Approval of secretary of 
                transportation.--
                          (i) In general.--The Administrator 
                        may not issue, unless the Secretary of 
                        Transportation approves the issuance of 
                        the regulation in advance, a proposed 
                        regulation or final regulation that--
                                  (I) is likely to result in 
                                the expenditure by State, 
                                local, and Tribal governments 
                                in the aggregate, or by the 
                                private sector, of $250,000,000 
                                or more (adjusted annually for 
                                inflation beginning with the 
                                year following the date of 
                                enactment of the Securing 
                                Growth and Robust Leadership in 
                                American Aviation Act) in any 
                                year; or
                                  (II) is significant.
                          (ii) Significant defined.--For 
                        purposes of this paragraph, a 
                        regulation is significant if the 
                        Administrator, in consultation with the 
                        Secretary (as appropriate), determines 
                        that the regulation--
                                  (I) will have an annual 
                                effect on the economy of 
                                $250,000,000 or more (adjusted 
                                annually for inflation 
                                beginning with the year 
                                following the date of enactment 
                                of the Securing Growth and 
                                Robust Leadership in American 
                                Aviation Act);
                                  (II) raises novel or serious 
                                legal or policy issues that 
                                will substantially and 
                                materially affect other 
                                transportation modes; or
                                  (III) adversely affect, in a 
                                substantial and material way, 
                                the economy, a sector of the 
                                economy, productivity, 
                                competition, jobs, the 
                                environment, public health or 
                                safety, or a State, local, or 
                                Tribal government or 
                                communities.
                          (iii) Emergency regulation.--In an 
                        emergency, the Administrator may issue 
                        a final regulation described in clause 
                        (i) without prior approval of the 
                        Secretary. If the Secretary objects to 
                        such regulation in writing within 5 
                        days (excluding Saturday, Sundays, and 
                        legal public holidays) of the issuance, 
                        the Administrator shall immediately 
                        rescind such regulation.
                          (iv) Other regulations.--The 
                        Secretary may not require that the 
                        Administrator submit a proposed or 
                        final regulation to the Secretary for 
                        approval, nor may the Administrator 
                        submit a proposed or final regulation 
                        to the Secretary for approval, if the 
                        regulation--
                                  (I) does not require the 
                                Secretary's approval under 
                                clause (i) (excluding a 
                                regulation issued pursuant to 
                                clause (iii)); or
                                  (II) is a routine or frequent 
                                action or a procedural action.
                          (v) Timeline.--The Administrator 
                        shall submit a copy of any proposed or 
                        final regulation requiring approval by 
                        the Secretary under clause (i) to the 
                        Secretary, who shall either approve the 
                        regulation or return the regulation to 
                        the Administrator with comments within 
                        30 days after receiving the regulation. 
                        If the Secretary fails to approve or 
                        return the regulation with comments to 
                        the Administrator within 30 days, the 
                        regulation shall be deemed to have been 
                        approved by the Secretary.
                  (C) Periodic review.--
                          (i) In general.--In addition to the 
                        review requirements established under 
                        section 5.13(d) of title 49, Code of 
                        Federal Regulations, the Administrator 
                        shall review any significant regulation 
                        issued 3 years after the effective date 
                        of the regulation.
                          (ii) Discretional review.--The 
                        Administrator may review any regulation 
                        that has been in effect for more than 3 
                        years.
                          (iii) Substance of review.--In 
                        performing a review under clause (i) or 
                        (ii), the Administrator shall determine 
                        if--
                                  (I) the cost assumptions were 
                                accurate;
                                  (II) the intended benefit of 
                                the regulation is being 
                                realized;
                                  (III) the need remains to 
                                continue such regulation as in 
                                effect; and
                                  (IV) the Administrator 
                                recommends updates to such 
                                regulation based on the review 
                                criteria specified in section 
                                5.13(d) of title 49, Code of 
                                Federal Regulations.
                          (iv) Review management.--Any periodic 
                        review of a regulation under this 
                        subparagraph shall be managed by the 
                        Assistant Administrator for Rulemaking 
                        and Regulatory Improvement, who may 
                        task an advisory committee or the 
                        Management Advisory Council established 
                        under subsection (p) to assist in 
                        performing the review.
          [(4)] (5) Definition of political appointee.--For 
        purposes of this subsection, the term ``political 
        appointee'' means any individual who--
                  (A) is employed in a position listed in 
                sections 5312 through 5316 of title 5 (relating 
                to the Executive Schedule);
                  (B) is a limited term appointee, limited 
                emergency appointee, or noncareer appointee in 
                the Senior Executive Service, as defined under 
                paragraphs (5), (6), and (7), respectively, of 
                section 3132(a) of title 5; or
                  (C) is employed in a position in the 
                executive branch of the Government of a 
                confidential or policy-determining character 
                under schedule C of subpart C of part 213 of 
                title 5 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
  [(g) Duties and Powers of Administrator.--The Administrator 
shall carry out the following:
          [(1) Duties and powers of the Secretary of 
        Transportation under subsection (f) of this section 
        related to aviation safety (except those related to 
        transportation, packaging, marking, or description of 
        hazardous material) and stated in the following:
                  [(A) Section 308(b).
                  [(B) Subsections (c) and (d) of section 1132.
                  [(C) Sections 40101(c), 40103(b), 40106(a), 
                40108, 40109(b), 40113(a), 40113(c), 40113(d), 
                40113(e), and 40114(a).
                  [(D) Chapter 445, except sections 44501(b), 
                44502(a)(2), 44502(a)(3), 44502(a)(4), 44503, 
                44506, 44509, 44510, 44514, and 44515.
                  [(E) Chapter 447, except sections 44717, 
                44718(a), 44718(b), 44719, 44720, 44721(b), 
                44722, and 44723.
                  [(F) Chapter 451.
                  [(G) Chapter 453.
                  [(H) Section 46104.
                  [(I) Subsections (d) and (h)(2) of section 
                46301 and sections 46303(c), 46304 through 
                46308, 46310, 46311, and 46313 through 46316.
                  [(J) Chapter 465.
                  [(K) Sections 47504(b) (related to flight 
                procedures), 47508(a), and 48107.
          [(2) Additional duties and powers prescribed by the 
        Secretary of Transportation.
  [(h) Section 40101(d) of this title applies to duties and 
powers specified in subsection (g)(1) of this section. Any of 
those duties and powers may be transferred to another part of 
the Department only when specifically provided by law or a 
reorganization plan submitted under chapter 9 of title 5. A 
decision of the Administrator in carrying out those duties or 
powers is administratively final.
  [(i) The Deputy Administrator shall carry out duties and 
powers prescribed by the Administrator. The Deputy 
Administrator acts for the Administrator when the Administrator 
is absent or unable to serve, or when the office of the 
Administrator is vacant.]
  (g) Office of Innovation.--
          (1) In general.--There is established within the 
        Federal Aviation Administration an Office of Innovation 
        (in this subsection referred to as the ``Office'') 
        comprised of employees of the Administration who 
        shall--
                  (A) have a diverse set of expertise;
                  (B) assist the leadership of the 
                Administration and the Management Board of the 
                Administration with--
                          (i) scoping complex regulatory issues 
                        and drafting documents on topics that 
                        span multiple offices or lines of 
                        business of the Administration;
                          (ii) evaluating internal processes; 
                        and
                          (iii) positioning the Administration 
                        to support aerospace innovation; and
                  (C) receive taskings from the leadership of 
                the Administration and the Management Board of 
                the Administration, as determined necessary by 
                such individuals, and work collaboratively with 
                relevant program offices of the Administration, 
                as necessary, to respond to such taskings.
          (2) Appointment of members.--
                  (A) Appointments.--The Administrator shall 
                appoint a maximum of 15 employees to serve a 2-
                year term as a member of the Office of 
                Innovation with at least 1 employee appointed 
                from each of the following:
                          (i) Office of Aviation Safety.
                          (ii) The Air Traffic Organization.
                          (iii) Office of Airports.
                          (iv) Office of Security and Hazardous 
                        Materials Safety.
                          (v) Office of Commercial Space 
                        Transportation.
                          (vi) Office of the Chief Counsel.
                          (vii) Office of Policy, International 
                        Affairs, and Environment.
                  (B) Consultation.--The Office may consult, as 
                necessary, with other personnel of the 
                Administration.
          (3) Selection of members.--An employee appointed 
        under paragraph (2)--
                  (A) may be appointed from nominations made by 
                Associate Administrators, Assistant 
                Administrators, and the Chief Counsel of the 
                Administration;
                  (B) shall not be a senior executive of the 
                Administration;
                  (C) shall have been an employee of the 
                Administration for at least 2 years; and
                  (D) shall have expertise in the authorities 
                and duties of the respective office of the 
                employee.
          (4) Innovation office lead.--The Administrator shall 
        appoint a lead of the Office who shall report to the 
        leadership of the Administration and who--
                  (A) may have a set term, as determined by the 
                Administrator;
                  (B) shall manage the personnel and activities 
                of such Office; and
                  (C) may be a detailed employee of any office 
                of the Administration, notwithstanding the 
                numerical limits placed on appointments in 
                paragraph (2)(A).
          (5) Status.--An appointment of an employee to the 
        Office established under this subsection shall not 
        impact the status or position of such employee in the 
        respective office of such employee and such employee 
        shall be considered a detailed employee to the Office 
        of Innovation.
          (6) Resources.--The Administrator shall provide 
        resources and staff, as necessary, to the Office to 
        support the activities of the Office described in 
        paragraph (1), not to exceed more than 6 full-time 
        equivalent positions, including any necessary project 
        managers.
  (h) Technical Center for Advanced Aerospace.--
          (1) In general.--There is established within the 
        Administration a technology center located at the Frank 
        A. LoBiondo National Aerospace Safety and Security 
        Campus to support the advancement of aerospace safety 
        and innovation which shall be known as the ``William J. 
        Hughes Technical Center for Advanced Aerospace'' (in 
        this subsection referred to as the ``Technical 
        Center'') that shall be used by the Administrator and, 
        as permitted by the Administrator, other governmental 
        entities, academia, and the aerospace industry.
          (2) Management.--The activities of the Technical 
        Center shall be managed by a Director.
          (3) Activities.--The activities of the Technical 
        Center shall include--
                  (A) developing and stimulating technology 
                partnerships with and between industry, 
                academia, and other government agencies and 
                supporting such partnerships by--
                          (i) liaising between external persons 
                        and offices of the Administration 
                        interested in such work;
                          (ii) providing technical expertise 
                        and input, as appropriate; and
                          (iii) providing access to the 
                        properties, facilities, and systems of 
                        the Technical Center through 
                        appropriate agreements;
                  (B) managing technology demonstration grants 
                awarded by the Administrator;
                  (C) identifying software, systems, services, 
                and technologies that could improve aviation 
                safety and the operations and management of the 
                air traffic control system and working with 
                relevant offices of the Administration to 
                consider the use and integration of such 
                software, systems, services, and technologies, 
                as appropriate;
                  (D) supporting the work of any collocated 
                facilities and tenants of such facilities, and 
                to the extent feasible, enter into agreements 
                as necessary to utilize the facilities, 
                systems, and technologies of such collocated 
                facilities and tenants;
                  (E) managing the facilities of the Technical 
                Center and the Frank A. LoBiondo National 
                Aerospace Safety and Security Campus; and
                  (F) carrying out any other duties as 
                determined appropriate by the Administrator.
  (i)  FAA Ombudsman.--
          (1) Establishment.--There is established within the 
        Federal Aviation Administration an Ombudsman who shall 
        coordinate or facilitate the adjudication of covered 
        submissions.
          (2) Ombudsman.--
                  (A) In general.--The Ombudsman shall be 
                appointed by the Administrator and report to 
                the Assistant Administrator for Government and 
                Industry Affairs.
                  (B) Term.--The Ombudsman shall be appointed 
                for a term of 5 years.
          (3) Duties.--The duties of the Ombudsman shall be as 
        follows:
                  (A) Work with the relevant offices within the 
                Administration to--
                          (i) with respect to a covered 
                        submission, resolve, provide a status 
                        update, or provide clarity on the 
                        status of such submissions;
                          (ii) bring to the attention of the 
                        relevant office of the Administration 
                        concerns, as necessary, regarding 
                        Administration processes or 
                        considerations discovered while 
                        coordinating an activity related to a 
                        covered submission under this 
                        subsection; and
                          (iii) address any gaps and 
                        communication lapses in Administration 
                        coordination processes.
                  (B) Determine if, based on a coordinated 
                activity carried out under this subsection, 
                reconsideration with respect to covered 
                submissions or administrative actions are 
                necessary and report to the Administrator or 
                the relevant office within the Administration 
                with recommendations relating to such 
                reconsideration.
                  (C) Determine if trends materialize that 
                could warrant process, procedural, or resource 
                changes and report recommendations regarding 
                such changes to the Administrator and relevant 
                offices within the Administration.
                  (D) Ensure that reporting, processing, or 
                dispute resolution mechanisms within the 
                Administration are transparent and accessible 
                to the public, and facilitate the use of such 
                reporting, processing, or dispute resolution 
                mechanisms, when appropriate.
                  (E) Perform other duties as prescribed by the 
                Assistant Administrator.
          (4) Discretion on coordination and review.--
                  (A) In general.--The Ombudsman shall 
                determine whether to coordinate a review of a 
                covered submission in order to provide a 
                response, coordinate the reconsideration of an 
                administrative action, or take no additional 
                action. In making a determination under this 
                subparagraph, the Ombudsman shall consider--
                          (i) whether there are reporting, 
                        processing, or dispute resolution 
                        mechanisms that have not been exhausted 
                        or that may be more appropriate for 
                        dealing with, investigating, and 
                        responding to such covered submission;
                          (ii) whether the subject or outcome 
                        of a covered submission is alleged to 
                        be--
                                  (I) contrary to law or 
                                regulation;
                                  (II) arbitrary and 
                                capricious; or
                                  (III) performed in an 
                                unreasonably inefficient or 
                                untimely manner; and
                          (iii) such other factors as the 
                        Ombudsman considers appropriate.
                  (B) Exception.--With regard to a covered 
                submission concerning an activity relating to 
                an alleged violation of an order, a regulation, 
                or any other provision of Federal law by the 
                Administration or whistleblower retaliation, 
                the Ombudsman shall refer such covered 
                submission to the appropriate Federal entity to 
                adjudicate or investigate the subject of such 
                submission.
                  (C) Cooperation.--The Administrator shall 
                ensure that the officers and employees of the 
                Administration fully cooperate with the 
                activities of the Ombudsman and provide such 
                information, documents, or materials as may be 
                requested by the Ombudsman.
          (5) Response requirement.--The Ombudsman shall ensure 
        that the Administration provides an initial response to 
        or status update on covered submissions within 10 
        business days of the Ombudsman receiving such 
        submission.
          (6) Definitions.--In this subsection:
                  (A) Administrative action.--The term 
                ``administrative action'' means--
                          (i) an action taken by the 
                        Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration to issue, deny, modify, 
                        or revoke a certificate, registration, 
                        approval, waiver, license, exemption, 
                        determination, interpretation, or any 
                        other authorizing action; or
                          (ii) the lack of any action (or 
                        activity related to an action) 
                        described in clause (i) necessary to be 
                        taken by the Administrator.
                  (B) Covered submission.--The term ``covered 
                submission'' means an inquiry or objection 
                relating to--
                          (i) an aircraft, aircraft engine, 
                        propeller, or appliance certification;
                          (ii) a pilot certificate, including 
                        scheduling an associated appointment 
                        with Administration personnel or 
                        designees;
                          (iii) a medical certificate;
                          (iv) an operator certificate;
                          (v) a commercial space transportation 
                        license;
                          (vi) an aircraft registration;
                          (vii) an operational approval, 
                        waiver, or exemption;
                          (viii) a legal interpretation;
                          (ix) an outstanding determination;
                          (x) an application of agency 
                        guidance; and
                          (xi) any certificate not otherwise 
                        described in this subparagraph that is 
                        issued pursuant to chapter 447.
  (j) [There is] Civil Aeromedical Institute._There is  
established within the Federal Aviation Administration an 
institute to conduct civil aeromedical research under section 
44507 of this title. Such institute shall be known as the 
``Civil Aeromedical Institute''. Research conducted by the 
institute should take appropriate advantage of capabilities of 
other government agencies, universities, or the private sector.
  (k) Authorization of Appropriations for Operations.--
          (1) Salaries, operations, and maintenance.--There is 
        authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of 
        Transportation for salaries, operations, and 
        maintenance of the Administration--
                  [(A) $10,247,000,000 for fiscal year 2018;
                  [(B) $10,486,000,000 for fiscal year 2019;
                  [(C) $10,732,000,000 for fiscal year 2020;
                  [(D) $11,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2021;
                  [(E) $11,269,000,000 for fiscal year 2022; 
                and]
                  [(F)] (A) $11,537,000,000 for fiscal year 
                2023[.];
                  (B) $12,730,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
                  (C) $13,035,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
                  (D) $13,334,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
                  (E) $13,640,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
                  (F) $13,954,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.
        Such sums shall remain available until expended.
          (2) Authorized expenditures.--Out of amounts 
        appropriated under paragraph (1), the following 
        expenditures are authorized:
                  (A) Such sums as may be necessary for fiscal 
                years 2012 through 2015 to carry out and expand 
                the Air Traffic Control Collegiate Training 
                Initiative.
                  (B) Such sums as may be necessary for fiscal 
                years 2012 through 2015 for the completion of 
                the Alaska aviation safety project with respect 
                to the 3 dimensional mapping of Alaska's main 
                aviation corridors.
                  (C) Such sums as may be necessary for fiscal 
                years 2012 through 2015 to carry out the 
                Aviation Safety Reporting System and the 
                development and maintenance of helicopter 
                approach procedures.
                  (D) Not more than the following amounts for 
                commercial space transportation activities:
                          [(i) $22,587,000 for fiscal year 
                        2018.
                          [(ii) $33,038,000 for fiscal year 
                        2019.
                          [(iii) $43,500,000 for fiscal year 
                        2020.
                          [(iv) $54,970,000 for fiscal year 
                        2021.
                          [(v) $64,449,000 for fiscal year 
                        2022.]
                          [(vi)] (i) $75,938,000 for fiscal 
                        year 2023.
                          (ii) $46,815,000 for fiscal year 
                        2024.
                          (iii) $52,985,000 for fiscal year 
                        2025.
                          (iv) $59,044,000 for fiscal year 
                        2026.
                          (v) $65,225,000 for fiscal year 2027.
                          (vi) $71,529,000 for fiscal year 
                        2028.
          (3) Administering program within available funding.--
        [Notwithstanding]
                  (A) In general._Notwithstanding  any other 
                provision of law, [in each of fiscal years 2018 
                through 2023,] if the Secretary determines that 
                the funds appropriated under paragraph (1) are 
                insufficient to meet the salary, operations, 
                and maintenance expenses of the Federal 
                Aviation Administration, as authorized by this 
                section, the Secretary shall reduce nonsafety-
                related activities of the Administration as 
                necessary to reduce such expenses to a level 
                that can be met by the funding available under 
                paragraph (1).
                  (B) Prioritization.--In reducing non-safety-
                related activities of the Administration under 
                subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall 
                prioritize such reductions from amounts other 
                than amounts authorized under this subsection, 
                section 48101, or section 48103.
                  (C) Sunset.--This paragraph shall cease to be 
                effective after September 30, 2028.
  (l) Personnel and Services.--
          (1) Officers and employees.--Except as provided in 
        subsections (a) and (g) of section 40122, the 
        Administrator is authorized, in the performance of the 
        functions of the Administrator, to appoint, transfer, 
        and fix the compensation of such officers and 
        employees, including attorneys, as may be necessary to 
        carry out the functions of the Administrator and the 
        Administration. In fixing compensation and benefits of 
        officers and employees, the Administrator shall not 
        engage in any type of bargaining, except to the extent 
        provided for in section 40122(a), nor shall the 
        Administrator be bound by any requirement to establish 
        such compensation or benefits at particular levels.
          (2) Experts and consultants.--The Administrator is 
        authorized to obtain the services of experts and 
        consultants in accordance with section 3109 of title 5.
          (3) Transportation and per diem expenses.--The 
        Administrator is authorized to pay transportation 
        expenses, and per diem in lieu of subsistence expenses, 
        in accordance with chapter 57 of title 5.
          (4) Use of personnel from other agencies.--The 
        Administrator is authorized to utilize the services of 
        personnel of any other Federal agency (as such term is 
        defined under section 551(1) of title 5).
          (5) Voluntary services.--
                  (A) General rule.--In exercising the 
                authority to accept gifts and voluntary 
                services under section 326 of this title, and 
                without regard to section 1342 of title 31, the 
                Administrator may not accept voluntary and 
                uncompensated services if such services are 
                used to displace Federal employees employed on 
                a full-time, part-time, or seasonal basis.
                  (B) Incidental expenses.--The Administrator 
                is authorized to provide for incidental 
                expenses, including transportation, lodging, 
                and subsistence, for volunteers who provide 
                voluntary services under this subsection.
                  (C) Limited treatment as federal employees.--
                An individual who provides voluntary services 
                under this subsection shall not be considered a 
                Federal employee for any purpose other than for 
                purposes of chapter 81 of title 5, relating to 
                compensation for work injuries, and chapter 171 
                of title 28, relating to tort claims.
          (6) Contracts.--The Administrator is authorized to 
        enter into and perform such contracts, leases, 
        cooperative agreements, or other transactions as may be 
        necessary to carry out the functions of the 
        Administrator and the Administration. The Administrator 
        may enter into such contracts, leases, cooperative 
        agreements, and other transactions with any Federal 
        agency (as such term is defined in section 551(1) of 
        title 5) or any instrumentality of the United States, 
        any State, territory, or possession, or political 
        subdivision thereof, any other governmental entity, or 
        any person, firm, association, corporation, or 
        educational institution, on such terms and conditions 
        as the Administrator may consider appropriate.
          (7) Prohibition on certain performance-based 
        incentives.--No employee of the Administration shall be 
        given an award, financial incentive, or other 
        compensation, as a result of actions to meet 
        performance goals related to meeting or exceeding 
        schedules, quotas, or deadlines for certificates issued 
        under section 44704.
  (m) Cooperation by Administrator.--With the consent of 
appropriate officials, the Administrator may, with or without 
reimbursement, use or accept the services, equipment, 
personnel, and facilities of any other Federal agency (as such 
term is defined in section 551(1) of title 5) and any other 
public or private entity. The Administrator may also cooperate 
with appropriate officials of other public and private agencies 
and instrumentalities concerning the use of services, 
equipment, personnel, and facilities. The head of each Federal 
agency shall cooperate with the Administrator in making the 
services, equipment, personnel, and facilities of the Federal 
agency available to the Administrator. The head of a Federal 
agency is authorized, notwithstanding any other provision of 
law, to transfer to or to receive from the Administration, with 
or without reimbursement, supplies, personnel, services, and 
equipment other than administrative supplies or equipment.
  (n) Acquisition.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator is authorized--
                  (A) to acquire (by purchase, lease, 
                condemnation, or otherwise), construct, 
                improve, repair, operate, and maintain--
                          (i) air traffic control facilities 
                        and equipment;
                          (ii) research and testing sites and 
                        facilities; and
                          (iii) such other real and personal 
                        property (including office space and 
                        patents), or any interest therein, 
                        within and outside the continental 
                        United States as the Administrator 
                        considers necessary;
                  (B) to lease to others such real and personal 
                property; and
                  (C) to provide by contract or otherwise for 
                eating facilities and other necessary 
                facilities for the welfare of employees of the 
                Administration at the installations of the 
                Administration, and to acquire, operate, and 
                maintain equipment for these facilities.
          (2) Title.--Title to any property or interest therein 
        acquired pursuant to this subsection shall be held by 
        the Government of the United States.
  (o) Transfers of Funds.--The Administrator is authorized to 
accept transfers of unobligated balances and unexpended 
balances of funds appropriated to other Federal agencies (as 
such term is defined in section 551(1) of title 5) to carry out 
functions transferred by law to the Administrator or functions 
transferred pursuant to law to the Administrator on or after 
the date of the enactment of the Air Traffic Management System 
Performance Improvement Act of 1996.
  [(p) Management Advisory Council and Air Traffic Services 
Board.--
          [(1) Establishment.--Within 3 months after the date 
        of the enactment of the Air Traffic Management System 
        Performance Improvement Act of 1996, the Administrator 
        shall establish an advisory council which shall be 
        known as the Federal Aviation Management Advisory 
        Council (in this subsection referred to as the 
        ``Council''). With respect to Administration 
        management, policy, spending, funding, and regulatory 
        matters affecting the aviation industry, the Council 
        may submit comments, recommended modifications, and 
        dissenting views to the Administrator. The 
        Administrator shall include in any submission to 
        Congress, the Secretary, or the general public, and in 
        any submission for publication in the Federal Register, 
        a description of the comments, recommended 
        modifications, and dissenting views received from the 
        Council, together with the reasons for any differences 
        between the views of the Council and the views or 
        actions of the Administrator.
          [(2) Membership.--The Council shall consist of 13 
        members, who shall consist of--
                  [(A) a designee of the Secretary of 
                Transportation;
                  [(B) a designee of the Secretary of Defense;
                  [(C) 10 members representing aviation 
                interests, appointed by--
                          [(i) in the case of initial 
                        appointments to the Council, the 
                        President by and with the advice and 
                        consent of the Senate, except that 
                        initial appointments made after May 1, 
                        2003, shall be made by the Secretary of 
                        Transportation; and
                          [(ii) in the case of subsequent 
                        appointments to the Council, the 
                        Secretary of Transportation; and
                  [(D) 1 member appointed, from among 
                individuals who are the leaders of their 
                respective unions of air traffic control system 
                employees, by the Secretary of Transportation.
          [(3) Qualifications.--No officer or employee of the 
        United States Government may be appointed to the 
        Council under paragraph (2)(C) or to the Air Traffic 
        Services Committee.
          [(4) Functions.--
                  [(A) In general.--(i) The Council shall 
                provide advice and counsel to the Administrator 
                on issues which affect or are affected by the 
                operations of the Administrator. The Council 
                shall function as an oversight resource for 
                management, policy, spending, and regulatory 
                matters under the jurisdiction of the 
                Administration.
                  [(ii) The Council shall review the rulemaking 
                cost-benefit analysis process and develop 
                recommendations to improve the analysis and 
                ensure that the public interest is fully 
                protected.
                  [(iii) The Council shall review the process 
                through which the Administration determines to 
                use advisory circulars and service bulletins.
                  [(B) Meetings.--The Council shall meet on a 
                regular and periodic basis or at the call of 
                the chairman or of the Administrator.
                  [(C) Access to documents and staff.--The 
                Administration may give the Council or Air 
                Traffic Services Committee appropriate access 
                to relevant documents and personnel of the 
                Administration, and the Administrator shall 
                make available, consistent with the authority 
                to withhold commercial and other proprietary 
                information under section 552 of title 5 
                (commonly known as the ``Freedom of Information 
                Act''), cost data associated with the 
                acquisition and operation of air traffic 
                service systems. Any member of the Council or 
                Air Traffic Services Committee who receives 
                commercial or other proprietary data from the 
                Administrator shall be subject to the 
                provisions of section 1905 of title 18, 
                pertaining to unauthorized disclosure of such 
                information.
          [(5) Chapter 10 of title 5 not to apply.--Chapter 10 
        of title 5 does not apply to the Council, the Air 
        Traffic Services Committee, such aviation rulemaking 
        committees as the Administrator shall designate, or 
        such aerospace rulemaking committees as the Secretary 
        shall designate.
          [(6) Administrative matters.--
                  [(A) Terms of members appointed under 
                paragraph (2)(c).--Members of the Council 
                appointed under paragraph (2)(C) shall be 
                appointed for a term of 3 years. Of the members 
                first appointed by the President under 
                paragraph (2)(C)--
                          [(i) 3 shall be appointed for terms 
                        of 1 year;
                          [(ii) 4 shall be appointed for terms 
                        of 2 years; and
                          [(iii) 3 shall be appointed for terms 
                        of 3 years.
                  [(B) Term for air traffic control 
                representative.--The member appointed under 
                paragraph (2)(D) shall be appointed for a term 
                of 3 years, except that the term of such 
                individual shall end whenever the individual no 
                longer meets the requirements of paragraph 
                (2)(D).
                  [(C) Terms for air traffic services committee 
                members.--The members appointed to the Air 
                Traffic Services Committee shall be appointed 
                for a term of 5 years, except that the first 
                members of the Committee shall be the members 
                of the Air Traffic Services Subcommittee of the 
                Council on the day before the date of enactment 
                of the Vision 100--Century of Aviation 
                Reauthorization Act who shall serve in an 
                advisory capacity until such time as the 
                President appoints the members of the Committee 
                under paragraph (7).
                  [(D) Reappointment.--An individual may not be 
                appointed to the Committee to more than two 5-
                year terms.
                  [(E) Vacancy.--Any vacancy on the Council or 
                Committee shall be filled in the same manner as 
                the original appointment, except that any 
                vacancy caused by a member appointed by the 
                President under paragraph (2)(C)(i) shall be 
                filled by the Secretary in accordance with 
                paragraph (2)(C)(ii). Any member appointed to 
                fill a vacancy occurring before the expiration 
                of the term for which the member's predecessor 
                was appointed shall be appointed for the 
                remainder of that term.
                  [(F) Continuation in office.--A member of the 
                Council or Committee whose term expires shall 
                continue to serve until the date on which the 
                member's successor takes office.
                  [(G) Removal.--Any member of the Council 
                appointed under paragraph (2)(D) may be removed 
                for cause by the President or Secretary whoever 
                makes the appointment. Any member of the 
                Committee may be removed for cause by the 
                Secretary.
                  [(H) Claims against members of committee.--
                          [(i) In general.--A member appointed 
                        to the Committee shall have no personal 
                        liability under Federal law with 
                        respect to any claim arising out of or 
                        resulting from an act or omission by 
                        such member within the scope of service 
                        as a member of the Committee.
                          [(ii) Effect on other law.--This 
                        subparagraph shall not be construed--
                                  [(I) to affect any other 
                                immunity or protection that may 
                                be available to a member of the 
                                Subcommittee under applicable 
                                law with respect to such 
                                transactions;
                                  [(II) to affect any other 
                                right or remedy against the 
                                United States under applicable 
                                law; or
                                  [(III) to limit or alter in 
                                any way the immunities that are 
                                available under applicable law 
                                for Federal officers and 
                                employees.
                  [(I) Ethical considerations.--
                          [(i) Financial disclosure.--During 
                        the entire period that an individual is 
                        serving as a member of the Committee, 
                        such individual shall be treated as 
                        serving as an officer or employee 
                        referred to in section 13103(f) of 
                        title 5 for purposes of subchapter I of 
                        chapter 131 of such title; except that 
                        section 13103(d) of such title shall 
                        apply without regard to the number of 
                        days of service in the position.
                          [(ii) Restrictions on post-
                        employment.--For purposes of section 
                        207(c) of title 18, an individual who 
                        is a member of the Committee shall be 
                        treated as an employee referred to in 
                        section 207(c)(2)(A)(i) of such title 
                        during the entire period the individual 
                        is a member of the Committee; except 
                        that subsections (c)(2)(B) and (f) of 
                        section 207 of such title shall not 
                        apply.
                  [(J) Chairman; vice chairman.--The Council 
                shall elect a chair and a vice chair from among 
                the members appointed under paragraph (2)(C), 
                each of whom shall serve for a term of 1 year. 
                The vice chair shall perform the duties of the 
                chairman in the absence of the chairman.
                  [(K) Travel and per diem.--Each member of the 
                Council or Committee shall be paid actual 
                travel expenses, and per diem in lieu of 
                subsistence expenses when away from his or her 
                usual place of residence, in accordance with 
                section 5703 of title 5.
                  [(L) Detail of personnel from the 
                administration.--The Administrator shall make 
                available to the Council or Committee such 
                staff, information, and administrative services 
                and assistance as may reasonably be required to 
                enable the Council or Committee to carry out 
                its responsibilities under this subsection.
          [(7) Air traffic services committee.--
                  [(A) Establishment.--The Administrator shall 
                establish a committee that is independent of 
                the Council by converting the Air Traffic 
                Services Subcommittee of the Council, as in 
                effect on the day before the date of enactment 
                of the Vision 100--Century of Aviation 
                Reauthorization Act, into such committee. The 
                committee shall be known as the Air Traffic 
                Services Committee (in this subsection referred 
                to as the ``Committee'').
                  [(B) Membership and qualifications.--Subject 
                to paragraph (6)(C), the Committee shall 
                consist of five members, one of whom shall be 
                the Administrator and shall serve as 
                chairperson. The remaining members shall be 
                appointed by the President with the advice and 
                consent of the Senate and--
                          [(i) shall have a fiduciary 
                        responsibility to represent the public 
                        interest;
                          [(ii) shall be citizens of the United 
                        States; and
                          [(iii) shall be appointed without 
                        regard to political affiliation and 
                        solely on the basis of their 
                        professional experience and expertise 
                        in one or more of the following areas 
                        and, in the aggregate, should 
                        collectively bring to bear expertise in 
                        all of the following areas:
                                  [(I) Management of large 
                                service organizations.
                                  [(II) Customer service.
                                  [(III) Management of large 
                                procurements.
                                  [(IV) Information and 
                                communications technology.
                                  [(V) Organizational 
                                development.
                                  [(VI) Labor relations.
                  [(C) Prohibitions on members of committee.--
                No member of the Committee may--
                          [(i) have a pecuniary interest in, or 
                        own stock in or bonds of, an aviation 
                        or aeronautical enterprise, except an 
                        interest in a diversified mutual fund 
                        or an interest that is exempt from the 
                        application of section 208 of title 18;
                          [(ii) engage in another business 
                        related to aviation or aeronautics; or
                          [(iii) be a member of any 
                        organization that engages, as a 
                        substantial part of its activities, in 
                        activities to influence aviation-
                        related legislation.
                  [(D) General responsibilities.--
                          [(i) Oversight.--The Committee shall 
                        oversee the administration, management, 
                        conduct, direction, and supervision of 
                        the air traffic control system.
                          [(ii) Confidentiality.--The Committee 
                        shall ensure that appropriate 
                        confidentiality is maintained in the 
                        exercise of its duties.
                  [(E) Specific responsibilities.--The 
                Committee shall have the following specific 
                responsibilities:
                          [(i) Strategic plans.--To review, 
                        approve, and monitor the strategic plan 
                        for the air traffic control system, 
                        including the establishment of--
                                  [(I) a mission and 
                                objectives;
                                  [(II) standards of 
                                performance relative to such 
                                mission and objectives, 
                                including safety, efficiency, 
                                and productivity; and
                                  [(III) annual and long-range 
                                strategic plans.
                          [(ii) Modernization and 
                        improvement.--To review and approve--
                                  [(I) methods to accelerate 
                                air traffic control 
                                modernization and improvements 
                                in aviation safety related to 
                                air traffic control; and
                                  [(II) procurements of air 
                                traffic control equipment in 
                                excess of $100,000,000.
                          [(iii) Operational plans.--To review 
                        the operational functions of the air 
                        traffic control system, including--
                                  [(I) plans for modernization 
                                of the air traffic control 
                                system;
                                  [(II) plans for increasing 
                                productivity or implementing 
                                cost-saving measures; and
                                  [(III) plans for training and 
                                education.
                          [(iv) Management.--To--
                                  [(I) review and approve the 
                                Administrator's appointment of 
                                a Chief Operating Officer under 
                                section 106(r);
                                  [(II) review the 
                                Administrator's selection, 
                                evaluation, and compensation of 
                                senior executives of the 
                                Administration who have program 
                                management responsibility over 
                                significant functions of the 
                                air traffic control system;
                                  [(III) review and approve the 
                                Administrator's plans for any 
                                major reorganization of the 
                                Administration that would 
                                impact on the management of the 
                                air traffic control system;
                                  [(IV) review and approve the 
                                Administrator's cost accounting 
                                and financial management 
                                structure and technologies to 
                                help ensure efficient and cost-
                                effective air traffic control 
                                operation; and
                                  [(V) review the performance 
                                and compensation of managers 
                                responsible for major 
                                acquisition projects, including 
                                the ability of the managers to 
                                meet schedule and budget 
                                targets.
                          [(v) Budget.--To--
                                  [(I) review and make 
                                recommendations on the budget 
                                request of the Administration 
                                related to the air traffic 
                                control system prepared by the 
                                Administrator;
                                  [(II) submit such budget 
                                recommendations to the 
                                Secretary; and
                                  [(III) base such budget 
                                recommendations on the annual 
                                and long-range strategic plans.
                  [(F) Committee personnel matters and 
                expenses.--
                          [(i) Personnel matters.--The 
                        Committee may appoint and terminate for 
                        purposes of employment by the Committee 
                        any personnel that may be necessary to 
                        enable the Committee to perform its 
                        duties, and may procure temporary and 
                        intermittent services under section 
                        40122.
                          [(ii) Travel expenses.--Each member 
                        of the Committee shall receive travel 
                        expenses, including per diem in lieu of 
                        subsistence, in accordance with 
                        applicable provisions under subchapter 
                        I of chapter 57 of title 5, United 
                        States Code.
                  [(G) Administrative matters.--
                          [(i) Powers of chair.--Except as 
                        otherwise provided by a majority vote 
                        of the Committee, the powers of the 
                        chairperson shall include--
                                  [(I) establishing committees;
                                  [(II) setting meeting places 
                                and times;
                                  [(III) establishing meeting 
                                agendas; and
                                  [(IV) developing rules for 
                                the conduct of business.
                          [(ii) Meetings.--The Committee shall 
                        meet at least quarterly and at such 
                        other times as the chairperson 
                        determines appropriate.
                          [(iii) Quorum.--Three members of the 
                        Committee shall constitute a quorum. A 
                        majority of members present and voting 
                        shall be required for the Committee to 
                        take action.
                  [(H) Authorization.--There are authorized to 
                be appropriated to the Committee such sums as 
                may be necessary for the Committee to carry out 
                its activities.
  [(q) Aircraft Noise Ombudsman.--
          [(1) Establishment.--There shall be in the 
        Administration an Aircraft Noise Ombudsman.
          [(2) General duties and responsibilities.--The 
        Ombudsman shall--
                  [(A) be appointed by the Administrator;
                  [(B) serve as a liaison with the public on 
                issues regarding aircraft noise; and
                  [(C) be consulted when the Administration 
                proposes changes in aircraft routes so as to 
                minimize any increases in aircraft noise over 
                populated areas.
          [(3) Number of full-time equivalent employees.--The 
        appointment of an Ombudsman under this subsection shall 
        not result in an increase in the number of full-time 
        equivalent employees in the Administration.]
  (p) Management Advisory Council.--
          (1) Establishment.--The Administrator shall establish 
        an advisory council which shall be known as the Federal 
        Aerospace Management Advisory Council (in this 
        subsection referred to as the ``Council'').
          (2) Membership.--The Council shall consist of 13 
        members, who shall consist of--
                  (A) a designee of the Secretary of 
                Transportation;
                  (B) a designee of the Secretary of Defense;
                  (C) 5 members representing aerospace and 
                technology interests, appointed by the 
                Administrator;
                  (D) 5 members representing aerospace and 
                technology interests, appointed by the 
                Secretary of Transportation; and
                  (E) 1 member, appointed by the Secretary of 
                Transportation, who is the head of a union 
                representing air traffic control system 
                employees.
          (3) Qualifications.--No officer or employee of the 
        United States Government may be appointed to the 
        Council under subparagraph (C) or (D) of paragraph (2).
          (4) Functions.--
                  (A) In general.--
                          (i) Advise; counsel.--The Council 
                        shall provide advice and counsel to the 
                        Administrator on issues which affect or 
                        are affected by the activities of the 
                        Administrator.
                          (ii) Resource.--The Council shall 
                        function as an oversight resource for 
                        management, policy, spending, and 
                        regulatory matters under the 
                        jurisdiction of the Administrator.
                          (iii) Submissions to 
                        administration.--With respect to 
                        Administration management, policy, 
                        spending, funding, data management and 
                        analysis, safety initiatives, 
                        international agreements, activities of 
                        the International Civil Aviation 
                        Organization, and regulatory matters 
                        affecting the aerospace industry and 
                        the national airspace system, the 
                        Council may--
                                  (I) regardless of whether 
                                solicited by the Administrator, 
                                submit comments, recommended 
                                modifications, proposals, and 
                                supporting or dissenting views 
                                to the Administrator; and
                                  (II) request the 
                                Administrator include in any 
                                submission to Congress, the 
                                Secretary, or the general 
                                public, and in any submission 
                                for publication in the Federal 
                                Register, a description of the 
                                comments, recommended 
                                modifications, and dissenting 
                                or supporting views received 
                                from the Council under 
                                subclause (I).
                          (iv) Reasoning.--Together with a 
                        Council submission that is published or 
                        described under clause (iii)(II), the 
                        Administrator shall provide the reasons 
                        for any differences between the views 
                        of the Council and the views or actions 
                        of the Administrator.
                          (v) Cost-benefit analysis.--The 
                        Council shall review the rulemaking 
                        cost-benefit analysis process and 
                        develop recommendations to improve the 
                        analysis and ensure that the public 
                        interest is fully protected.
                          (vi) Process review.--The Council 
                        shall review the process through which 
                        the Administration determines to use 
                        advisory circulars, service bulletins, 
                        and other externally facing guidance 
                        and regulatory material.
                  (B) Meetings.--The Council shall meet on a 
                regular and periodic basis or at the call of 
                the chair or of the Administrator.
                  (C) Access to documents and staff.--The 
                Administration may give the Council appropriate 
                access to relevant documents and personnel of 
                the Administration, and the Administrator shall 
                make available, consistent with the authority 
                to withhold commercial and other proprietary 
                information under section 552 of title 5 
                (commonly known as the ``Freedom of Information 
                Act''), cost data associated with the 
                acquisition and operation of air traffic 
                service systems.
                  (D) Disclosure of commercial or proprietary 
                data.--Any member of the Council who receives 
                commercial or other proprietary data as 
                provided for in this paragraph from the 
                Administrator shall be subject to the 
                provisions of section 1905 of title 18, 
                pertaining to unauthorized disclosure of such 
                information.
          (5) Application of chapter 10 of title 5.--Chapter 10 
        of title 5 does not apply to--
                  (A) the Council;
                  (B) such aviation rulemaking committees as 
                the Administrator shall designate; or
                  (C) such aerospace rulemaking committees as 
                the Secretary shall designate.
          (6) Administrative matters.--
                  (A) Terms.--Members of the Council appointed 
                under paragraph (2)(C) shall be appointed for a 
                term of 3 years.
                  (B) Term for air traffic control 
                representative.--The member appointed under 
                paragraph (2)(D) shall be appointed for a term 
                of 3 years, except that the term of such 
                individual shall end whenever the individual no 
                longer meets the requirements of paragraph 
                (2)(D).
                  (C) Vacancy.--Any vacancy on the Council 
                shall be filled in the same manner as the 
                original appointment, except that any member 
                appointed to fill a vacancy occurring before 
                the expiration of the term for which the 
                member's predecessor was appointed shall be 
                appointed for the remainder of that term.
                  (D) Continuation in office.--A member of the 
                Council whose term expires shall continue to 
                serve until the date on which the member's 
                successor takes office.
                  (E) Removal.--Any member of the Council 
                appointed under paragraph (2) may be removed 
                for cause by whomever makes the appointment.
                  [(F) Chair; vice chair.--The Council shall 
                elect a chair and a vice chair from among the 
                members appointed under subparagraphs (C) and 
                (D) of paragraph (2), each of whom shall serve 
                for a term of 1 year. The vice chair shall 
                perform the duties of the chair in the absence 
                of the chair.]
                  (G) Travel and per diem.--Each member of the 
                Council shall be paid actual travel expenses, 
                and per diem in lieu of subsistence expenses 
                when away from the usual place of residence of 
                the member, in accordance with section 5703 of 
                title 5.
                  (H) Detail of personnel from the 
                administration.--The Administrator shall make 
                available to the Council such staff, 
                information, and administrative services and 
                assistance as may reasonably be required to 
                enable the Council to carry out its 
                responsibilities under this subsection.
  (q) Aviation Noise Officer.--
          (1) In general.--The Administration has an Aviation 
        Noise Officer, who shall be appointed by the 
        Administrator.
          (2) Regional officers.--The Aviation Noise Officer 
        shall designate, within each region of the 
        Administration, a Regional Aviation Noise Officer.
          (3) Duties.--The Aviation Noise Officer, in 
        coordination with the Regional Aviation Noise Officers, 
        shall--
                  (A) serve as a liaison with the public, 
                including community groups, on issues regarding 
                aircraft noise;
                  (B) make recommendations to the Administrator 
                to address concerns raised by the public in 
                decision making processes; and
                  (C) be consulted when the Administration 
                proposes changes in aircraft routes so as to 
                minimize any increases in aircraft noise over 
                populated areas.
          (4) Number of full-time equivalent employees.--The 
        appointment of an Aviation Noise Officer under this 
        subsection shall not result in an increase in the 
        number of full-time equivalent employees in the 
        Administration.
  (r) Chief Operating Officer.--
          (1) In general.--
                  [(A) Appointment.--There shall be a Chief 
                Operating Officer for the air traffic control 
                system to be appointed by the Administrator, 
                with the approval of the Air Traffic Services 
                Committee. The Chief Operating Officer shall 
                report directly to the Administrator and shall 
                be subject to the authority of the 
                Administrator.]
                  (A) Appointment.--There shall be a Chief 
                Operating Officer for the air traffic control 
                system that is appointed by the Administrator 
                and subject to the authority of the 
                Administrator.
                  (B) Qualifications.--The Chief Operating 
                Officer shall have a demonstrated ability in 
                management and knowledge of or experience in 
                aviation.
                  (C) Term.--The Chief Operating Officer shall 
                be appointed for a term of 5 years.
                  (D) Removal.--The Chief Operating Officer 
                shall serve at the pleasure of the 
                Administrator, except that the Administrator 
                shall make every effort to ensure stability and 
                continuity in the leadership of the air traffic 
                control system.
                  (E) Vacancy.--Any individual appointed to 
                fill a vacancy in the position of Chief 
                Operating Officer occurring before the 
                expiration of the term for which the 
                individual's predecessor was appointed [shall 
                be appointed for the remainder of that term] 
                may be appointed for either the remainder of 
                the term or for a full term.
          (2) Compensation.--
                  (A) In general.--The Chief Operating Officer 
                shall be paid at an annual rate of basic pay to 
                be determined by the Administrator[, with the 
                approval of the Air Traffic Services 
                Committee]. The annual rate may not exceed the 
                annual compensation paid under section 102 of 
                title 3. The Chief Operating Officer shall be 
                subject to the post-employment provisions of 
                section 207 of title 18 as if the position of 
                Chief Operating Officer were described in 
                section 207(c)(2)(A)(i) of that title.
                  (B) Bonus.--In addition to the annual rate of 
                basic pay authorized by subparagraph (A), the 
                Chief Operating Officer may receive a bonus for 
                any calendar year not to exceed 30 percent of 
                the annual rate of basic pay, based upon the 
                Administrator's evaluation of the Chief 
                Operating Officer's performance in relation to 
                the performance goals set forth in the 
                performance agreement described in paragraph 
                (3).
          (3) Annual performance agreement.--The Administrator 
        and the Chief Operating Officer[, in consultation with 
        the Air Traffic Services Committee,] shall enter into 
        an annual performance agreement that sets forth 
        measurable organization and individual goals for the 
        Chief Operating Officer in key operational areas. The 
        agreement shall be subject to review and renegotiation 
        on an [annual basis.] annual basis and shall include 
        responsibility for--
          (A) the state of good repair of the air traffic 
        control system; 
          (B) the continuous improvement of the safety and 
        efficiency of the air traffic control system; and 
          (C) identifying services and solutions to increase 
        the safety and efficiency of airspace use and to 
        support the safe integration of all airspace users. 
          (4) Annual performance report.--The Chief Operating 
        Officer shall prepare and transmit to the Secretary of 
        Transportation, the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, and the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
        the Senate an annual management report containing [such 
        information as may be prescribed by the Secretary] the 
        annual performance agreement required under paragraph 
        (3), an assessment of the performance of the Chief 
        Operating Officer in relation to the performance goals 
        in the previous year's performance agreement, and such 
        other information as may be prescribed by the 
        Administrator.
          (5) Responsibilities.--The Administrator may delegate 
        to the [Chief Operating Officer, or any other authority 
        within the Administration responsibilities, including] 
        Chief Operating Officer any authority of the 
        Administrator and shall delegate, at a minimum the 
        following:
                  (A) Strategic plans.--To implement the 
                strategic plan of the Administration for the 
                air traffic control system in order to 
                further--
                          (i) a mission and objectives;
                          (ii) standards of performance 
                        relative to such mission and 
                        objectives, including safety, 
                        efficiency, and productivity;
                          (iii) annual and long-range strategic 
                        plans; [and]
                          (iv) methods of the Administration to 
                        accelerate air traffic control 
                        modernization and improvements in 
                        aviation safety related to air traffic 
                        control[.]; and
                          (v) plans to integrate new entrant 
                        operations into the national airspace 
                        system and associated action items.
                  (B) Operations.--To oversee the day-to-day 
                operational functions of the Administration for 
                air traffic control, including--
                          (i) modernization of the air traffic 
                        control system;
                          (ii) increasing productivity or 
                        implementing cost-saving measures;
                          (iii) training and education; and
                          (iv) the management of cost-
                        reimbursable contracts.
                  (C) Budget.--To--
                          (i) develop a budget request of the 
                        Administration related to the air 
                        traffic control system;
                          (ii) submit such budget request to 
                        the Administrator [and the Committee]; 
                        and
                          (iii) ensure that the budget request 
                        supports the agency's annual and long-
                        range strategic plans for air traffic 
                        control services.
          (6) Unfunded capital investment needs report.--
                  (A) In general.--Not later than 10 days after 
                the date on which the budget of the President 
                for a fiscal year is submitted to Congress 
                pursuant to section 1150 of title 31, the Chief 
                Operating Officer shall submit directly to the 
                Administrator, 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 on any unfunded capital 
                investment needs of the air traffic control 
                system.
                  (B) Contents of report.--The report required 
                under subparagraph (A) shall include, for each 
                unfunded capital investment need, the 
                following:
                          (i) A summary description of such 
                        unfunded capital investment need.
                          (ii) Objective to be achieved if such 
                        unfunded capital investment need is 
                        funded in whole or in part.
                          (iii) The additional amount of funds 
                        recommended in connection with such 
                        objective.
                          (iv) The Budget Line Item Program and 
                        Budget Line Item number associated with 
                        such unfunded capital investment need, 
                        as applicable.
                          (v) Any statutory requirement 
                        associated with such unfunded capital 
                        investment need, as applicable.
                  (C) Prioritization of requirements.--The 
                report required under subparagraph (A) shall 
                present unfunded capital investment needs in 
                overall urgency of priority.
                  (D) Definition of unfunded capital investment 
                need.--In this paragraph the term ``unfunded 
                capital investment need'' means a program 
                that--
                          (i) is not funded in the budget of 
                        the President for the fiscal year as 
                        submitted to Congress pursuant to 
                        section 1105 of title 31;
                          (ii) is for infrastructure or a 
                        system related to necessary 
                        modernization or sustainment of the air 
                        traffic control system;
                          (iii) is listed for any year in the 
                        most recent National Airspace System 
                        Capital Investment Plan of the 
                        Administration; and
                          (iv) would have been recommended for 
                        funding through the budget referred to 
                        in subparagraph (A) by the Chief 
                        Operating Officer if--
                                  (I) additional resources had 
                                been available for the budget 
                                to fund the program, activity, 
                                or mission requirement; or
                                  (II) the program, activity, 
                                or mission requirement has 
                                emerged since the budget was 
                                formulated.
          [(8)] (7) Air traffic control system defined.--In 
        this section, the term ``air traffic control system'' 
        has the meaning such term has under section 40102(a).
  (s) Chief Technology Officer.--
          (1) In general.--
                  (A) Establishment.--There shall be a Chief 
                Technology Officer for the air traffic control 
                system that shall report directly to the Chief 
                Operating Officer of the air traffic control 
                system.
                  [(A)] (B) Appointment.--[There shall be a 
                Chief Technology Officer appointed by the Chief 
                Operating Officer. The Chief Technology Officer 
                shall report directly to the Chief Operating 
                Officer.] The Chief Technology Officer shall be 
                appointed by the Chief Operating Officer of the 
                air traffic control system with the consent of 
                the Administrator.
                  [(B)] (C) Minimum qualifications.--The Chief 
                Technology Officer shall have--
                          (i) at least 10 years experience in 
                        engineering [management] management, 
                        systems management, or another relevant 
                        technical management field; and
                          (ii) knowledge of or experience in 
                        the aviation industry.
                  [(C)] (D) Removal.--The Chief Technology 
                Officer shall serve at the pleasure of the 
                Administrator.
                  [(D) Restriction.--The Chief Technology 
                Officer may not also be the Deputy 
                Administrator.]
          (2) Responsibilities.--The responsibilities of the 
        Chief Technology Officer shall include--
                  (A) ensuring the proper operation, 
                maintenance, and cybersecurity of technology 
                systems relating to the air traffic control 
                system across all [program] offices of the 
                Administration;
                  (B) coordinating the implementation, 
                operation, maintenance, and cybersecurity of 
                technology programs relating to the air traffic 
                control system with the aerospace industry and 
                other Federal agencies;
                  (C) reviewing and providing advice to the 
                Secretary, the Administrator, and the Chief 
                Operating Officer on the Administration's 
                budget, cost-accounting system, and benefit-
                cost analyses with respect to technology 
                programs relating to the air traffic control 
                system;
                  (D) consulting with the Administrator on the 
                Capital Investment Plan of the Administration 
                prior to its submission to Congress;
                  (E) developing an annual air traffic control 
                system technology operation and maintenance 
                plan that is consistent with the annual 
                performance targets established under paragraph 
                (4); and
                  (F) ensuring that the air traffic control 
                system architecture remains, to the maximum 
                extent practicable, flexible enough to 
                incorporate future technological advances 
                developed and directly procured by [aircraft 
                operators] the Administration, aircraft 
                operators, or other private providers of 
                information and services related to air traffic 
                management.
          (3) Compensation.--
                  (A) In general.--The Chief Technology Officer 
                shall be paid at an annual rate of basic pay to 
                be determined by the Administrator, in 
                consultation with the Chief Operating Officer. 
                The annual rate may not exceed the annual 
                compensation paid under section 102 of title 3. 
                [The Chief Technology Officer shall be subject 
                to the postemployment provisions of section 207 
                of title 18 as if the position of Chief 
                Technology Officer were described in section 
                207(c)(2)(A)(i) of that title.]
                  (B) Post-employment.--The Chief Technology 
                Officer shall be subject to the postemployment 
                provisions of section 207 of title 18 as if the 
                position of Chief Technology Officer were 
                described in section 207(c)(2)(A)(i) of such 
                title.
                  [(B)] (C) Bonus.--In addition to the annual 
                rate of basic pay authorized by subparagraph 
                (A), the Chief Technology Officer may receive a 
                bonus for any calendar year not to exceed 30 
                percent of the annual rate of basic pay, based 
                upon the Administrator's evaluation of the 
                Chief Technology Officer's performance in 
                relation to the performance targets established 
                under paragraph (4).
          (4) Annual performance targets.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administrator and the 
                Chief Operating Officer, in consultation with 
                the Chief Technology Officer, shall establish 
                measurable annual performance targets for the 
                Chief Technology Officer in key operational 
                areas.
                  (B) Report.--The Administrator shall transmit 
                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 
                describing the annual performance targets 
                established under subparagraph (A).
          (5) Annual performance report.--The Chief Technology 
        Officer shall prepare and transmit to the Secretary of 
        Transportation, the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, and the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
        the Senate an annual report containing--
                  (A) detailed descriptions and metrics of how 
                successful the Chief Technology Officer was in 
                meeting the annual performance targets 
                established under paragraph (4); and
                  (B) other information as may be requested by 
                the Administrator and the Chief Operating 
                Officer.
  (t) Office of Whistleblower Protection and Aviation Safety 
Investigations.--
          (1) Establishment.--There is established in the 
        Federal Aviation Administration (in this subsection 
        referred to as the ``Agency'') the Office of 
        Whistleblower Protection and Aviation Safety 
        Investigations (in this subsection referred to as the 
        ``Office'').
          (2) Director.--
                  (A) Appointment.--The head of the Office 
                shall be the Director, who shall be appointed 
                by the Secretary of Transportation.
                  (B) Qualifications.--The Director shall have 
                a demonstrated ability in investigations and 
                knowledge of or experience in aviation.
                  (C) Term.--The Director shall be appointed 
                for a term of 5 years.
                  (D) Vacancies.--Any individual appointed to 
                fill a vacancy in the position of the Director 
                occurring before the expiration of the term for 
                which the individual's predecessor was 
                appointed shall be appointed for the remainder 
                of that term.
                  (E) Limitation of duties.-- The Director may 
                only perform duties of the Director described 
                in paragraph (3)(A).
          (3) Complaints and investigations.--
                  (A) Authority of director.--The Director 
                shall--
                          (i) receive complaints and 
                        information submitted by employees of 
                        persons holding certificates issued 
                        under title 14, Code of Federal 
                        Regulations (if the certificate holder 
                        does not have a similar in-house 
                        whistleblower or safety and regulatory 
                        noncompliance reporting process 
                        established under or pursuant to a 
                        safety management system) and employees 
                        of the Agency concerning the possible 
                        existence of an activity relating to a 
                        violation of an order, a regulation, or 
                        any other provision of Federal law 
                        relating to aviation safety;
                          (ii) assess complaints and 
                        information submitted under clause (i) 
                        and determine whether a substantial 
                        likelihood exists that a violation of 
                        an order, a regulation, or any other 
                        provision of Federal law relating to 
                        aviation safety has occurred;
                          (iii) based on findings of the 
                        assessment conducted under clause (ii), 
                        make recommendations to the 
                        Administrator of the Agency, in 
                        writing, regarding further 
                        investigation or corrective actions;
                          (iv) receive allegations of 
                        whistleblower retaliation by employees 
                        of the Agency;
                          (v) coordinate with and provide all 
                        necessary assistance to the Office of 
                        Investigations and Professional 
                        Responsibility, the inspector general 
                        of the Department of Transportation, 
                        and the Office of Special Counsel on 
                        investigations relating to 
                        whistleblower retaliation by employees 
                        of the Agency; and
                          (vi) investigate allegations of 
                        whistleblower retaliation by employees 
                        of the Agency that have been delegated 
                        to the Office by the Office of 
                        Investigations and Professional 
                        Responsibility, the inspector general 
                        of the Department of Transportation, or 
                        the Office of Special Counsel.
                  (B) Disclosure of identities.--The Director 
                shall not disclose the identity of an 
                individual who submits a complaint or 
                information under subparagraph (A)(i) unless--
                          (i) the individual consents to the 
                        disclosure in writing; or
                          (ii) the Director determines, in the 
                        course of an investigation, that the 
                        disclosure is required by regulation, 
                        statute, or court order, or is 
                        otherwise unavoidable, in which case 
                        the Director shall provide the 
                        individual reasonable advanced notice 
                        of the disclosure.
                  (C) Independence of director.--The Secretary, 
                the Administrator, or any officer or employee 
                of the Agency may not prevent or prohibit the 
                Director from initiating, carrying out, or 
                completing any assessment of a complaint or 
                information submitted under subparagraph (A)(i) 
                or from reporting to Congress on any such 
                assessment.
                  (D) Access to information.--In conducting an 
                assessment of a complaint or information 
                submitted under subparagraph (A)(i), the 
                Director shall have access to all records, 
                reports, audits, reviews, documents, papers, 
                recommendations, and other material of the 
                Agency necessary to determine whether a 
                substantial likelihood exists that a violation 
                of an order, a regulation, or any other 
                provision of Federal law relating to aviation 
                safety may have occurred.
          (4) Responses to recommendations.--Not later than 60 
        days after the date on which the Administrator receives 
        a report with respect to an investigation, the 
        Administrator shall respond to a recommendation made by 
        the Director under paragraph (3)(A)(iii) in writing and 
        retain records related to any further investigations or 
        corrective actions taken in response to the 
        recommendation.
          (5) Incident reports.--If the Director determines 
        there is a substantial likelihood that a violation of 
        an order, a regulation, or any other provision of 
        Federal law relating to aviation safety has occurred 
        that requires immediate corrective action, the Director 
        shall report the potential violation expeditiously to 
        the Administrator and the Inspector General of the 
        Department of Transportation.
          (6) Reporting of criminal violations to inspector 
        general.--If the Director has reasonable grounds to 
        believe that there has been a violation of Federal 
        criminal law, the Director shall report the violation 
        expeditiously to the Inspector General.
          [(7) Annual reports to congress.--Not later than 
        November 15 of each year, the Director shall submit to 
        Congress a report containing--
                  [(A) information on the number of submissions 
                of complaints and information received by the 
                Director under paragraph (3)(A)(i) in the 
                preceding fiscal year;
                  [(B) summaries of those submissions;
                  [(C) summaries of the resolution of those 
                submissions, including any further 
                investigations and corrective actions 
                recommended in response to the submissions;
                  [(D) summaries of the responses of the 
                Administrator to such recommendations; and
                  [(E) A summary of the activities of the 
                Whistleblower Ombudsman, including--
                          [(i) the number of employee 
                        consultations conducted by the 
                        Whistleblower Ombudsman in the 
                        preceding 12-month period and a summary 
                        of such consultations and their 
                        resolution (in a de-identified or 
                        anonymized form); and
                          [(ii) the number of reported 
                        incidents of retaliation during such 
                        period and, if applicable, a 
                        description of the disposition of such 
                        incidents during such period.]
          (7) Department of transportation office of the 
        inspector general peer review.--
                  (A) In general.--Not later than 2 years after 
                the date of enactment of the Securing Growth 
                and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, 
                and every 5 years thereafter, the inspector 
                general of the Department of Transportation 
                shall perform a peer review of the Office of 
                Whistleblower Protection and Aviation Safety 
                Investigations.
                  (B) Peer review scope.--In completing the 
                peer reviews required under this paragraph, the 
                inspector general shall use the most recent 
                peer review guides published by the Council of 
                the Inspectors General on Integrity and 
                Efficiency Audit Committee and Investigations 
                Committee.
                  (C) Reports to congress.--Not later than 90 
                days after the completion of a peer review 
                required under this paragraph, 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 description of any actions taken or to 
                be taken to address the results of the peer 
                review.
          (8) Whistleblower ombudsman.--
                  (A) In general.--Within the Office, there 
                shall be established the position of 
                Whistleblower Ombudsman.
                  (B) Ombudsman qualifications.--The individual 
                selected as Ombudsman shall have knowledge of 
                Federal labor law and demonstrated government 
                experience in human resource management[,] and 
                conflict resolution.
                  (C) Duties.--The Ombudsman shall carry out 
                the following duties:
                          (i) Educate Administration employees 
                        about prohibitions against materially 
                        adverse acts of retaliation and any 
                        specific rights or remedies with 
                        respect to those retaliatory actions.
                          (ii) Serve as an independent 
                        confidential resource for 
                        Administration employees to discuss any 
                        specific retaliation allegation and 
                        available rights or remedies based on 
                        the circumstances, as appropriate.
                          (iii) Coordinate with Human Resource 
                        Management, the Office of 
                        Accountability and Whistleblower 
                        Protection, the Office of Professional 
                        Responsibility, and the Office of the 
                        Chief Counsel, as necessary.
                          (iv) Coordinate with the Office of 
                        the Inspector General of the Department 
                        of Transportation's Whistleblower 
                        Protection Coordinator and the Office 
                        of the Special Counsel, as necessary.
                          (v) Conduct outreach and assist in 
                        the development of training within the 
                        Agency to mitigate the potential for 
                        retaliation and promote timely and 
                        appropriate processing of any protected 
                        disclosure or allegation of materially 
                        adverse acts of retaliation.

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Sec. 120. National Center for the Advancement of Aerospace

  (a) Federal Charter and Status.--
          (1) In general.--The National Center for the 
        Advancement of Aerospace (in this section referred to 
        as the ``Center'') is a federally chartered entity 
        which shall be incorporated in the District of 
        Columbia. The Center is a private independent entity, 
        not a department, agency, or instrumentality of the 
        United States Government or a component thereof. Except 
        as provided in subsection (f)(1), an officer or 
        employee of the Center is not an officer or employee of 
        the Federal Government.
          (2) Perpetual existence.--Except as otherwise 
        provided, the Center shall have perpetual existence.
  (b) Governing Body.--
          (1) In general.--The Board of Directors (in this 
        section referred to as the ``Board'') is the governing 
        body of the Center.
          (2) Authority.--
                  (A) In general.--The Board shall adopt 
                bylaws, policies, and procedures to carry out 
                the purpose of the Center and may take any 
                other action that it considers necessary (in 
                accordance with the duties and powers of the 
                Center) for the management and operation of the 
                Center. The Board is responsible for the 
                general policies and management of the Center 
                and for the control of all funds of the Center.
                  (B) Powers of board.--The Board shall have 
                the power to do the following:
                          (i) Adopt and alter a corporate seal.
                          (ii) Establish and maintain offices 
                        to conduct its activities.
                          (iii) Enter into contracts or 
                        agreements as a private entity not 
                        subject to the requirements of title 
                        41.
                          (iv) Acquire, own, lease, encumber, 
                        transfer, and dispose of property as 
                        necessary and appropriate to carry out 
                        the purposes of the Center.
                          (v) Publish documents and other 
                        publications in a publicly accessible 
                        manner.
                          (vi) Incur and pay obligations as a 
                        private entity not subject to the 
                        requirements of title 31.
                          (vii) Perform any other act necessary 
                        and proper to carry out the purposes of 
                        the Center as described in its bylaws 
                        or duties outlined in this section.
          (3) Membership of the board.--
                  (A) In general.--The Board shall have 10 
                Directors as follows:
                          (i) Ex-officio membership.--The 
                        following individuals, or their 
                        designees, shall be considered ex-
                        officio members of the Board:
                                  (I) The Administrator of the 
                                Federal Aviation 
                                Administration.
                                  (II) The Executive Director, 
                                pursuant to paragraph (5)(D).
                          (ii) Appointments.--
                                  (I) In general.--From among 
                                those members of the public who 
                                are highly respected and have 
                                exert knowledge and experience 
                                in the fields of aviation, 
                                finance, or academia--
                                          (aa) the Secretary of 
                                        Transportation shall 
                                        appoint 5 members to 
                                        the Board;
                                          (bb) the Secretary of 
                                        Defense shall appoint 1 
                                        member to the Board;
                                          (cc) the Secretary of 
                                        Veterans Affairs shall 
                                        appoint 1 member to the 
                                        Board; and
                                          (dd) the Secretary of 
                                        Education shall appoint 
                                        1 member to the Board.
                                  (II) Terms.--
                                          (aa) In general.--The 
                                        members appointed under 
                                        subclause (I) shall 
                                        serve for a term of 3 
                                        years and may be 
                                        reappointed.
                                          (bb) Staggering 
                                        terms.--The Board shall 
                                        stagger the duration of 
                                        the terms of the 
                                        initial members 
                                        appointed to promote 
                                        the stability of the 
                                        Board.
                  (B) Vacancies.--A vacancy on the Board shall 
                be filled in the same manner as the initial 
                appointment.
                  (C) Status.--All Members of the Board shall 
                have equal voting powers, regardless if they 
                are ex-officio members or appointed.
          (4) Chair of the board.--The Board shall choose a 
        Chair of the Board from among the members of the Board 
        that are not ex-officio members under paragraph 
        (3)(A)(i).
          (5) Administrative matters.--
                  (A) Meetings.--
                          (i) In general.--The Board shall meet 
                        at the call of the Chair but not less 
                        than 2 times each year and may, as 
                        appropriate, conduct business by 
                        telephone or other electronic means.
                          (ii) Open.--
                                  (I) In general.--Except as 
                                provided in subclause (II), a 
                                meeting of the Board shall be 
                                open to the public.
                                  (II) Exception.--A meeting, 
                                or any portion of a meeting, 
                                may be closed if the Board, in 
                                public session, votes to close 
                                the meeting because the matters 
                                to be discussed--
                                          (aa) relate solely to 
                                        the internal personnel 
                                        rules, practices, and 
                                        matters of the Center;
                                          (bb) may result in 
                                        disclosure of 
                                        commercial or financial 
                                        information obtained 
                                        from a person that is 
                                        privileged or 
                                        confidential;
                                          (cc) may disclose 
                                        information of a 
                                        personal nature where 
                                        disclosure would 
                                        constitute an 
                                        unwarranted invasion of 
                                        personal privacy; or
                                          (dd) are matters that 
                                        are specifically 
                                        exempted from 
                                        disclosure by Federal 
                                        or District of Columbia 
                                        law.
                          (iii) Public announcement.--At least 
                        1 week before a meeting of the Board, 
                        and as soon as practicable thereafter 
                        if there are any changes to the 
                        information described in subclauses (I) 
                        through (III), the Board shall make a 
                        public announcement of the meeting that 
                        describes--
                                  (I) the time, place, and 
                                subject matter of the meeting;
                                  (II) whether the meeting is 
                                to be open or closed to the 
                                public; and
                                  (III) the name and 
                                appropriate contact information 
                                of a person who can respond to 
                                requests for information about 
                                the meeting.
                          (iv) Record.--The Board shall keep 
                        minutes from each Board meeting. Such 
                        minutes shall be made available to the 
                        public in an accessible format, except 
                        for portions of the meeting that are 
                        closed pursuant to subparagraph 
                        (A)(ii)(II).
                  (B) Quorum.--A majority of members of the 
                Board shall constitute a quorum.
                  (C) Code of ethics.--The Board shall adopt a 
                code of ethics for Directors, officers, agents, 
                and employees of the Center to--
                          (i) prevent inappropriate conflicts 
                        of interest and promote good employee 
                        conduct; and
                          (ii) at a minimum, prohibit any 
                        member of the Board from participating 
                        in any proceeding, application, ruling, 
                        or other determination, contract claim, 
                        award, controversy, or other matter in 
                        which the member, the member's employer 
                        or prospective employer, or the 
                        member's immediate family member has a 
                        direct financial interest.
                  (D) Executive director.--The Board shall 
                appoint and fix the pay of an Executive 
                Director of the Center (in this section 
                referred to as the ``Executive Director'') who 
                shall--
                          (i) serve as an ex officio Member of 
                        the Board;
                          (ii) serve at the pleasure of the 
                        Board, under such terms and conditions 
                        as the Board shall establish;
                          (iii) is subject to removal by the 
                        Board at the discretion of the Board; 
                        and
                          (iv) be responsible for the daily 
                        management and operation of the Center 
                        and for carrying out the purposes and 
                        duties of the Center.
                  (E) Appointment of personnel.--The Board 
                shall delegate to the Executive Director the 
                authority to appoint additional personnel as 
                the Board considers appropriate and necessary 
                to carry out the purposes and duties of the 
                Center.
          (6) Records.--The Board shall keep correct and 
        complete records of accounts.
          (7) Public information.--With the exception of the 
        matters described in subsection (b)(5)(A)(ii)(II), 
        nothing in this section may be construed to withhold 
        disclosure of information or records that are subject 
        to disclosure under section 552 of title 5.
  (c) Purpose.--The purpose of the Center is to--
          (1) develop a skilled and robust aerospace workforce 
        in the United States;
          (2) provide a forum to support collaboration and 
        cooperation between governmental, nongovernmental, and 
        private aerospace sector stakeholders regarding the 
        advancement of the aerospace workforce, including 
        general, business, and commercial aviation, education, 
        labor, manufacturing, international organizations, and 
        commercial space transportation organizations;
          (3) serve as a repository for research conducted by 
        institutions of higher education, research 
        institutions, or other stakeholders regarding the 
        aerospace workforce and related technical and skill 
        development.
          (4) serve as a centralized resource that provides 
        comprehensive and relevant information sources on the 
        following:
                  (A) Aviation pathway programs and 
                professional development opportunities.
                  (B) Aviation apprenticeship, scholarship, and 
                internship programs.
                  (C) Aviation-related curricula and resources 
                about aviation occupations and career pathways 
                developed for students, teachers, and guidance 
                counselors at all levels of education.
                  (D) Aviation industry organizations.
  (d) Duties.--In order to accomplish the purpose described in 
subsection (c), the Center shall perform the following duties:
          (1) Improve access to aerospace education and related 
        skills training to help grow the U.S. aerospace 
        workforce, including by--
                  (A) assessing the state of the aerospace 
                workforce, including challenges and identifying 
                actions to address such challenges;
                  (B) developing a comprehensive workforce 
                strategy to help coordinate workforce 
                development initiatives;
                  (C) establishing or supporting 
                apprenticeship, scholarship, internship, and 
                mentorship programs that assist individuals who 
                wish to pursue a career in an aerospace-related 
                field;
                  (D) supporting the development of aerospace 
                education curricula, including syllabi, 
                training materials, and lesson plans, for use 
                by an institution of higher education (as 
                defined in section 101 of the Higher Education 
                Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)), a postsecondary 
                vocational institution (as defined in section 
                102(c) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 
                U.S.C. 1002)), or a high school or secondary 
                school (as such terms are defined in section 
                8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education 
                Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801)); and
                  (E) building awareness of youth-oriented 
                aerospace programs and other robust outreach 
                programs, including for primary, secondary, and 
                post-secondary school students.
                  (F) supporting the professional development 
                of teachers using the curricula, syllabi, 
                training materials, and lesson plans described 
                in subparagraph (D); and
                  (G) developing an array of educational and 
                informative aviation-related educational 
                activities and materials for students of 
                varying ages and levels of education to use in 
                the classroom and at home.
          (2) Support personnel or veterans of the Armed Forces 
        seeking to transition to a career in aerospace through 
        outreach, training, scholarships, apprenticeships, or 
        other means.
          (3) Amplify and support the work carried out at the 
        Centers of Excellence and Technical Centers of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration regarding the aerospace 
        workforce, or related technical and skills advancement, 
        including organizing and hosting symposiums, 
        conferences, and other forums as appropriate.
          (4) Administer on behalf of the Secretary of the 
        Department of Transportation the Cooperative Aviation 
        Recruitment, Enrichment, and Employment Readiness 
        Program established by subsection (a) of 40131.
  (e) Duty to Maintain Tax-exempt Status.--The Center shall be 
operated in a manner and for purposes that qualify the Center 
for exemption from taxation under the Internal Revenue Code as 
an organization described in section 501(c)(3) of such Code.
  (f) Administrative Matters of Center.--
          (1) Detailees.--
                  (A) In general.--At the request of the 
                Center, the head of any Federal agency or 
                department may, at the discretion of such 
                agency or department, detail to the Center, on 
                a reimbursable basis, an employee of the agency 
                or department.
                  (B) Civil servant status.--The detail of an 
                employee under subparagraph (A) shall be 
                without interruption or loss of civil service 
                status or privilege.
          (2) Names and symbols.--The Center may accept, 
        retain, and use proceeds derived from the Center's use 
        of the exclusive right to use its name and seal, 
        emblems, and badges incorporating such name as lawfully 
        adopted by the Board in furtherance of the purpose and 
        duties of the Center.
          (3) Gifts, grants, bequests, and devises.--The Center 
        may accept, retain, use, and dispose of gifts, grants, 
        bequests, or devises of money, services, or property 
        from any public or private source for the purpose of 
        covering the costs incurred by the Center in 
        furtherance of the purpose and duties of the Center.
          (4) Voluntary services.--The Center may accept 
        voluntary services from any person that are provided in 
        furtherance of the purpose and duties of the Center.
  (g) Restrictions.--
          (1) Profit.--The Center may not engage in business 
        activity for profit.
          (2) Stocks and dividends.--The Center may not issue 
        any shares of stock or declare or pay any dividends.
          (3) Political activities.--The Center shall be 
        nonpolitical and may not provide financial aid or 
        assistance to, or otherwise contribute to or promote 
        the candidacy of, any individual seeking elective 
        public office or political party. The Center may not 
        engage in activities that are, directly, or indirectly, 
        intended to be or likely to be perceived as advocating 
        or influencing the legislative process.
          (4) Distribution of income or assets.--The assets of 
        the Center may not inure to the benefit of any member 
        of the Board, or any officer or employee of the Center 
        or be distributed to any person. This paragraph does 
        not prevent the payment of reasonable compensation to 
        any officer, employee, or other person or reimbursement 
        for actual and necessary expenses in amounts approved 
        by the Board.
          (5) Loans.--The Center may not make a loan to any 
        member of the Board or any officer or employee of the 
        Center.
          (6) No claim of governmental approval or authority.--
        Except as otherwise provided by section 40131, the 
        Center may not claim approval of Congress or of the 
        authority of the United States for any of its 
        activities.
  (h) Advisory Committee.--
          (1) In general.--The Executive Director shall appoint 
        members to an advisory committee subject to approval by 
        the Board. Members of the Board may not sit on the 
        advisory committee.
          (2) Membership.--The advisory committee shall consist 
        of not more than 15 members who represent various 
        aviation industry and labor stakeholders, stakeholder 
        associations, and others as determined appropriate by 
        the Board. The advisory committee shall select a Chair 
        and Vice Chair from among its members by majority vote.
          (3) Duties.--The advisory committee shall--
                  (A) provide recommendations to the Board on 
                an annual basis regarding the priorities for 
                the activities of the Center;
                  (B) consult with the Board on an ongoing 
                basis regarding the appropriate powers of the 
                Board to accomplish the purposes and duties of 
                the Center; and
                  (C) provide relevant data and information to 
                the Center in order to carry out the duties set 
                forth in subsection (d).
          (4) Meetings.--The provisions for meetings of the 
        Board under subsection (b)(5) shall apply as similarly 
        as is practicable to meetings of the advisory 
        committee.
  (i) Working Groups.--
          (1) In general.--The Board may establish working 
        groups as determined necessary and appropriate to 
        achieve the purpose of the Center under subsection (c).
          (2) Membership.--Any working group established by the 
        Board shall be composed of private sector 
        representatives, stakeholder associations, members of 
        the public, labor representatives, and other relevant 
        parties, as determined appropriate by the Board. Once 
        established, the membership of such working group shall 
        choose a Chair from among the members of the working 
        group by majority vote.
  (j) CAREER Council.--
          (1) Establishment.--Not later than September 30, 
        2026, the Executive Director, in coordination with the 
        Secretary, shall establish a council (in this section 
        referred to as the ``CAREER Council'') for the CAREER 
        Program established under section 40131.
          (2) Duties.--The CAREER Council shall aid the 
        Secretary and the Center in carrying out the CAREER 
        Program by reviewing grant applications and 
        recommending grant recipients.
          (3) Appointment.--The CAREER Council shall be 
        appointed from candidates nominated by national 
        associations representing various sectors of the 
        aviation industry, including--
                  (A) general aviation;
                  (B) commercial aviation;
                  (C) aviation labor, including collective 
                bargaining representatives of Federal Aviation 
                Administration aviation safety inspectors, 
                aviation safety engineers, and air traffic 
                controllers;
                  (D) aviation maintenance, repair, and 
                overhaul; and
                  (E) unmanned aviation.
          (4) Term.--Each council member appointed under 
        paragraph (3) shall serve a term of 4 years.
  (k) Annual Report.--The Board shall submit an annual report 
to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, 
Science, and Transportation of the Senate that, at minimum, 
includes a review and examination of--
          (1) the activities performed as set forth in 
        subsection (d) during the prior fiscal year;
          (2) the advisory committee described in subsection 
        (h);
          (3) the working groups described in subsection (i); 
        and
          (4) the Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, 
        and Employment Readiness Program and related activities 
        established under section 40131, including activities 
        of the CAREER Council established under subsection (j).
  (l) Audit by Department of Transportation Inspector 
General.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the 
        date on which the Center is established under 
        subsection (a), the inspector general of the Department 
        of Transportation shall conduct a review of the Center.
          (2) Contents.--The review shall--
                  (A) include, at a minimum, an evaluation of 
                the efforts taken at the Center to achieve the 
                purpose set forth in subsection (c); and
                  (B) provide any other information that the 
                inspector general determines is appropriate.
          (3) Report on audit.--
                  (A) Report to secretary.--Not later than 30 
                days after the date of completion of the audit, 
                the inspector general shall submit to the 
                Secretary a report on the results of the audit.
                  (B) Report to congress.--Not later than 60 
                days after the date of receipt of the report 
                under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall 
                submit to the appropriate committees of 
                Congress a copy of the report, together with, 
                if appropriate, a description of any actions 
                taken or to be taken to address the results of 
                the audit.
  (m) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to 
be appropriated to the National Center for the Advancement of 
Aerospace out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund to carry out 
this section--
          (1) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
          (2) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
          (3) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
          (4) $11,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
          (5) $11,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 3--GENERAL DUTIES AND POWERS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SUBCHAPTER I--DUTIES OF THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 308. Reports

  (a) As soon as practicable after the end of each fiscal year, 
the Secretary of Transportation shall report to the President, 
for submission to Congress, on the activities of the Department 
of Transportation during the prior fiscal year.
  [(b) The Secretary shall submit to the President and Congress 
each year a report on the aviation activities of the 
Department. The report shall include--
          [(1) collected information the Secretary considers 
        valuable in deciding questions about--
                  [(A) the development and regulation of civil 
                aeronautics;
                  [(B) the use of airspace of the United 
                States; and
                  [(C) the improvement of the air navigation 
                and traffic control system; and
          [(2) recommendations for additional legislation and 
        other action the Secretary considers necessary.]
  [(c)] (b) The Secretary shall submit to Congress each year a 
report on the conditions of the public ports of the United 
States, including the--
          (1) economic and technological development of the 
        ports;
          (2) extent to which the ports contribute to the 
        national welfare and security; and
          (3) factors that may impede the continued development 
        of the ports.
  [(e)] (c)(1) The Secretary shall submit to Congress in March 
1998, and in March of each even-numbered year thereafter, a 
report of estimates by the Secretary on the current performance 
and condition of public mass transportation systems with 
recommendations for necessary administrative or legislative 
changes.
  (2) In reporting to Congress under this subsection, the 
Secretary shall prepare a complete assessment of public 
transportation facilities in the United States. The Secretary 
also shall assess future needs for those facilities and 
estimate future capital requirements and operation and 
maintenance requirements for one-year, 5-year, and 10-year 
periods at specified levels of service.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SUBCHAPTER II--ADMINISTRATIVE

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 329. Transportation information

  (a) The Secretary of Transportation may collect and collate 
transportation information the Secretary decides will 
contribute to the improvement of the transportation system of 
the United States. To the greatest practical extent, the 
Secretary shall use information available from departments, 
agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government 
and other sources. To the extent practical, the Secretary shall 
make available to other Government departments, agencies, and 
instrumentalities and to the public the information collected 
under this subsection.
  (b) The Secretary shall--
          (1) collect and disseminate information on civil 
        aeronautics (other than that collected and disseminated 
        by the National Transportation Safety Board under 
        chapter 11 of this title) including, at a minimum, 
        information on (A) the origin and destination of 
        passengers in interstate air transportation (as that 
        term is used in part A of subtitle VII of this title), 
        and (B) the number of passengers traveling by air 
        between any two points in interstate air 
        transportation; except that in no case shall the 
        Secretary require an air carrier to provide information 
        on the number of passengers or the amount of cargo on a 
        specific flight if the flight and the flight number 
        under which such flight operates are used solely for 
        interstate air transportation and are not used for 
        providing essential air transportation under subchapter 
        II of chapter 417 of this title;
          (2) collect and disseminate information on commercial 
        space transportation operations (other than that 
        collected and disseminated by the National 
        Transportation Safety Board under chapter 11) 
        including, at a minimum, information on the number of 
        launches or reentries licensed by the Secretary, the 
        number of space flight participants, the number of 
        payloads, and the mass of payloads, organized by class 
        of orbit;
          [(2)] (3) study the possibilities of developing air 
        commerce and the [aeronautical] aerospace industry; and
          [(3)] (4) exchange information on [civil aeronautics] 
        civil aerospace with governments of foreign countries 
        through appropriate departments, agencies, and 
        instrumentalities of the Government.
  (c)(1) On the written request of a person, a State, 
territory, or possession of the United States, or a political 
subdivision of a State, territory, or possession, the Secretary 
may--
          (A) make special statistical studies on foreign and 
        domestic transportation;
          (B) make special studies on other matters related to 
        duties and powers of the Secretary;
          (C) prepare, from records of the Department of 
        Transportation, special statistical compilations; and
          (D) provide transcripts of studies, tables, and other 
        records of the Department.
  (2) The person or governmental authority requesting 
information under paragraph (1) of this subsection must pay the 
actual cost of preparing the information. Payments shall be 
deposited in the Treasury in an account that the Secretary 
shall administer. The Secretary may use amounts in the account 
for the ordinary expenses incidental to getting and providing 
the information.
  (d) To assist in carrying out duties and powers under part A 
of subtitle VII of this title, the Secretary of Transportation 
shall maintain separate cooperative agreements with the 
Secretary of Defense and the Administrator of the National 
Aeronautics and Space Administration for the timely exchange of 
information on their programs, policies, and requirements 
directly related to carrying out that part.
  (e) Incidents and Complaints Involving Passenger and Baggage 
Security Screening.--
          (1) Publication of data.--The Secretary of 
        Transportation shall publish data on incidents and 
        complaints involving passenger and baggage security 
        screening in a manner comparable to other consumer 
        complaint and incident data.
          (2) Monthly reports from secretary of homeland 
        security.--To assist in the publication of data under 
        paragraph (1), the Secretary of Transportation may 
        request the Secretary of Homeland Security to 
        periodically report on the number of complaints about 
        security screening received by the Secretary of 
        Homeland Security.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SUBTITLE II--OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Chapter                                                             Sec.
     * * * * * * *
      Surface Transportation Board..................................1301

            CHAPTER 11--NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD

                          SUBCHAPTER I--GENERAL

Sec.
     * * * * * * *

             SUBCHAPTER II--ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE

     * * * * * * *
[117. Methodology.
[1117. Annual report.]
1117. Methodology.
     * * * * * * *
1120. Office of Oversight, Accountability, and Quality Assurance.

                        SUBCHAPTER III--AUTHORITY

[1136. Assistance to families of passengers involved in aircraft 
          accidents.]
1136. Assistance to passengers involved in aircraft accidents and 
          families of such passengers.
     * * * * * * *
[1139. Assistance to families of passengers involved in rail passenger 
          accidents.]
1139. Assistance to passengers involved in rail passenger accidents and 
          families of such passengers.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


                         SUBCHAPTER I--GENERAL

[Sec. 1101. Definitions

  [Section 2101(23) of title 46 and section 40102(a) of this 
title apply to this chapter. In this chapter, the term 
``accident'' includes damage to or destruction of vehicles in 
surface or air transportation or pipelines, regardless of 
whether the initiating event is accidental or otherwise.]

Sec. 1101. Definitions

  (a) In General.--In this chapter:
          (1) Accident.--The term ``accident'' includes damage 
        to or destruction of vehicles in surface or air 
        transportation or pipelines, regardless of whether the 
        initiating event is accidental or otherwise.
          (2) State.--The term ``State'' means a State of the 
        United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, 
        the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, the Northern 
        Mariana Islands, and Guam.
  (b) Applicability of Other Definitions.--Section 2101(23) of 
title 46 and section 40102(a) shall apply to this chapter.

SUBCHAPTER II--ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 1113. Administrative

  (a) General Authority.--(1) The National Transportation 
Safety Board, and when authorized by it, a member of the Board, 
an administrative law judge employed by or assigned to the 
Board, or an officer or employee designated by the Chairman of 
the Board, may conduct hearings to carry out this chapter, 
administer oaths, and require, by subpoena or otherwise, 
necessary witnesses and evidence.
  (2) A witness or evidence in a hearing under paragraph (1) of 
this subsection may be summoned or required to be produced from 
any place in the United States to the designated place of the 
hearing. A witness summoned under this subsection is entitled 
to the same fee and mileage the witness would have been paid in 
a court of the United States.
  (3) A subpoena shall be issued under the signature of the 
Chairman or the Chairman's delegate but may be served by any 
person designated by the Chairman.
  (4) If a person disobeys a subpoena, order, or inspection 
notice of the Board, the Board may bring a civil action in a 
district court of the United States to enforce the subpoena, 
order, or notice. An action under this paragraph may be brought 
in the judicial district in which the person against whom the 
action is brought resides, is found, or does business. The 
court may punish a failure to obey an order of the court to 
comply with the subpoena, order, or notice as a contempt of 
court.
  (b) Additional Powers.--(1) The Board may--
          (A) procure the temporary or intermittent services of 
        experts or consultants under section 3109 of title 5;
          (B) make agreements and other transactions necessary 
        to carry out this chapter without regard to section 
        6101(b) to (d) of title 41;
          (C) use, when appropriate, available services, 
        equipment, personnel, and facilities of a department, 
        agency, or instrumentality of the United States 
        Government on a reimbursable or other basis;
          (D) confer with employees and use services, records, 
        and facilities of State and local governmental 
        authorities;
          (E) appoint advisory committees composed of qualified 
        private citizens and officials of the Government and 
        State and local governments as appropriate;
          (F) accept voluntary and uncompensated services 
        notwithstanding another law;
          (G) accept gifts of money and other property;
          (H) make contracts with nonprofit entities to carry 
        out studies related to duties and powers of the Board;
          (I) negotiate and enter into agreements with 
        individuals and private entities and departments, 
        agencies, and instrumentalities of the Government, 
        State and local governments, and governments of foreign 
        countries for the provision of facilities, accident-
        related and technical services or training in accident 
        investigation theory and techniques, and require that 
        such entities provide appropriate consideration for the 
        reasonable costs of any facilities, goods, services, or 
        training provided by the Board[; and];
          (J) notwithstanding section 1343 of title 31, acquire 
        1 or more small unmanned aircraft (as defined in 
        section 44801) for use in investigations under this 
        chapter[.]; and
          (K) notwithstanding section 3301 of title 41, acquire 
        training on emerging transportation technologies.
  (2) The Board shall deposit in the Treasury amounts received 
under paragraph (1)(I) of this subsection to be credited as 
offsetting collections to the appropriation of the Board. The 
Board shall maintain an annual record of collections received 
under paragraph (1)(I) of this subsection.
  (3) Direct hire authority.--
          (A) In general.--Notwithstanding section 3304 and 
        sections 3309 through 3318 of title 5, the Chairman 
        may, on a determination that there is a severe shortage 
        of candidates or a critical hiring need for particular 
        positions, recruit and directly appoint into the 
        competitive service highly qualified personnel with 
        specialized knowledge important to the function of the 
        Board.
          (B) Limitation.--The authority granted under 
        subparagraph (A) shall terminate on the date that is 5 
        years after the date of the enactment of this 
        paragraph.
          (C) Exception.--The authority granted under 
        subparagraph (A) shall not apply to positions in the 
        excepted service or the Senior Executive Service.
          (D) Requirements.--In exercising the authority 
        granted under subparagraph (A), the Board shall ensure 
        that any action taken by the Board--
                  (i) is consistent with the merit principles 
                of section 2301 of title 5; and
                  (ii) complies with the public notice 
                requirements of section 3327 of title 5.
  (c) Submission of Certain Copies to Congress.--When the Board 
submits to the President or the Director of the Office of 
Management and Budget a budget estimate, budget request, 
supplemental budget estimate, other budget information, a 
legislative recommendation, prepared testimony for 
congressional hearings, or comments on legislation, the Board 
must submit a copy to Congress at the same time. An officer, 
department, agency, or instrumentality of the Government may 
not require the Board to submit the estimate, request, 
information, recommendation, testimony, or comments to another 
officer, department, agency, or instrumentality of the 
Government for approval, comment, or review before being 
submitted to Congress. The Board shall develop and approve a 
process for the Board's review and comment or approval of 
documents submitted to the President, Director of the Office of 
Management and Budget, or Congress under this subsection.
  (d) Liaison Committees.--The Chairman may determine the 
number of committees that are appropriate to maintain effective 
liaison with other departments, agencies, and instrumentalities 
of the Government, State and local governmental authorities, 
and independent standard-setting authorities that carry out 
programs and activities related to transportation safety. The 
Board may designate representatives to serve on or assist those 
committees.
  (e) Inquiries.--The Board, or an officer or employee of the 
Board designated by the Chairman, may conduct an inquiry to 
obtain information related to transportation safety after 
publishing notice of the inquiry in the Federal Register. The 
Board or designated officer or employee may require by order a 
department, agency, or instrumentality of the Government, a 
State or local governmental authority, or a person transporting 
individuals or property in commerce to submit to the Board a 
written report and answers to requests and questions related to 
a duty or power of the Board. The Board may prescribe the time 
within which the report and answers must be given to the Board 
or to the designated officer or employee. Copies of the report 
and answers shall be made available for public inspection.
  (f) Regulations.--The Board may prescribe regulations to 
carry out this chapter.
  (g) Overtime Pay.--
          (1) In general.--Subject to the requirements of this 
        section and notwithstanding paragraphs (1) and (2) of 
        section 5542(a) of title 5, for an employee of the 
        Board whose basic pay is at a rate which equals or 
        exceeds the minimum rate of basic pay for GS-10 of the 
        General Schedule, the Board may establish an overtime 
        hourly rate of pay for the employee with respect to 
        work performed at the scene of an accident (including 
        travel to or from the scene) and other work that is 
        critical to an accident investigation in an amount 
        equal to one and one-half times the hourly rate of 
        basic pay of the employee. All of such amount shall be 
        considered to be premium pay.
          (2) Limitation on overtime pay to an employee.--An 
        employee of the Board may not receive overtime pay 
        under paragraph (1), for work performed in a calendar 
        year, in an amount that exceeds 15 percent of the 
        annual rate of basic pay of the employee for such 
        calendar year.
          (3) Limitation on total amount of overtime pay.--The 
        Board may not make overtime payments under paragraph 
        (1) for work performed in any fiscal year in a total 
        amount that exceeds 1.5 percent of the amount 
        appropriated to carry out this chapter for that fiscal 
        year.
          (4) Basic pay defined.--In this subsection, the term 
        ``basic pay'' includes any applicable locality-based 
        comparability payment under section 5304 of title 5 (or 
        similar provision of law) and any special rate of pay 
        under section 5305 of title 5 (or similar provision of 
        law).
          [(5) Annual report.--Not later than January 31, 2002, 
        and annually thereafter, the Board shall transmit to 
        the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation and the House Transportation and 
        Infrastructure Committee a report identifying the total 
        amount of overtime payments made under this subsection 
        in the preceding fiscal year, and the number of 
        employees whose overtime pay under this subsection was 
        limited in that fiscal year as a result of the 15 
        percent limit established by paragraph (2).]
  (h) Strategic Workforce Plan.--
          (1) In general.--The Board shall develop a strategic 
        workforce plan that addresses the immediate and long-
        term workforce needs of the Board with respect to 
        carrying out the authorities and duties of the Board 
        under this chapter.
          (2) Aligning the workforce to strategic goals.--In 
        developing the strategic workforce plan under paragraph 
        (1), the Board shall take into consideration--
                  (A) the current state and capabilities of the 
                Board, including a high-level review of mission 
                requirements, structure, workforce, and 
                performance of the Board;
                  (B) the significant workforce trends, needs, 
                issues, and challenges with respect to the 
                Board and the transportation industry;
                  (C) the workforce policies, strategies, 
                performance measures, and interventions to 
                mitigate succession risks that guide the 
                workforce investment decisions of the Board;
                  (D) a workforce planning strategy that 
                identifies workforce needs, including the 
                knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to 
                recruit and retain skilled employees at the 
                Board;
                  (E) a workforce management strategy that is 
                aligned with the mission, goals, and 
                organizational objectives of the Board;
                  (F) an implementation system for workforce 
                goals focused on addressing continuity of 
                leadership and knowledge sharing across the 
                Board;
                  (G) an implementation system that addresses 
                workforce competency gaps, particularly in 
                mission-critical occupations; and
                  (H) a system for analyzing and evaluating the 
                performance of the Board's workforce management 
                policies, programs, and activities.
          (3) Planning period.--The strategic workforce plan 
        developed under paragraph (1) shall address a 5-year 
        forecast period, but may include planning for longer 
        periods based on information about trends in the 
        transportation sector.
          (4) Plan updates.--The Board shall update the 
        strategic workforce plan developed under paragraph (1) 
        not less than once every 5 years.
          (5) Relationship to strategic plan.--The strategic 
        workforce plan developed under paragraph (1) may be 
        developed separately from, or incorporated into, the 
        strategic plan required under section 306 of title 5.
          (6) Availability.--The strategic workforce plan under 
        paragraph (1) and the strategic plan required under 
        section 306 of title 5 shall be--
                  (A) submitted to the Committee on 
                Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
                of Representatives and the Committee on 
                Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
                Senate; and
                  (B) made available to the public on a website 
                of the Board.
  (i) Nonaccident Related Travel Budget.--
          (1) In general.--The Board shall establish annual 
        fiscal year budgets for non accident-related travel 
        expenditures for each Board member which shall be 
        incorporated into the annual budget request of the 
        Board.
          (2) Notification.--The Board shall notify the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
        House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, 
        Science, and Transportation of the Senate of any non 
        accident-related travel budget overrun for any Board 
        member not later than 30 days of such overrun becoming 
        known to the Board.
  (j) Retention of Records.--Notwithstanding chapters 21, 29, 
31, and 33 of title 44, the Board may retain investigative 
records for such periods as determined by the Board.

Sec. 1114. Disclosure, availability, and use of information

  (a) General.--(1) Except as provided in subsections (b), (c), 
(d), and (f) of this section, a copy of a record, information, 
or investigation submitted or received by the National 
Transportation Safety Board, or a member or employee of the 
Board, shall be made available to the public on identifiable 
request and at reasonable cost. This subsection does not 
require the release of information described by section 552(b) 
of title 5 or protected from disclosure by another law of the 
United States.
  (2) The Board shall deposit in the Treasury amounts received 
under paragraph (1) to be credited to the appropriation of the 
Board as offsetting collections.
  (b)  [Trade Secrets] Certain Confidential Information.--(1) 
[The Board] In general._The Board  may disclose [information 
related to a trade secret referred to in section 1905 of title 
18] confidential information described in section 1905 of title 
18, including trade secrets, only--
          (A) to another department, agency, or instrumentality 
        of the United States Government when requested for 
        official use;
          (B) to a committee of Congress having jurisdiction 
        over the subject matter to which the information is 
        related, when requested by that committee;
          (C) in a judicial proceeding under a court order that 
        preserves the confidentiality of the information 
        without impairing the proceeding; and
          (D) to the public to protect health and safety after 
        giving notice to any interested person to whom the 
        information is related and an opportunity for that 
        person to comment in writing, or orally in closed 
        session, on the proposed disclosure, if the delay 
        resulting from notice and opportunity for comment would 
        not be detrimental to health and safety.
  (2) Information disclosed under paragraph (1) of this 
subsection may be disclosed only in a way designed to preserve 
its confidentiality.
  (3) Protection of Voluntary Submission of Information.--
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, neither the Board, 
nor any agency receiving information from the Board, shall 
disclose voluntarily provided safety-related information if 
that information is not related to the exercise of the Board's 
accident or incident investigation authority under this chapter 
and if the Board finds that the disclosure of the information 
would inhibit the voluntary provision of that type of 
information.
  (c) Cockpit Recordings and Transcripts.--
          (1) Confidentiality of recordings.--Except as 
        provided in paragraph (2), the Board may not disclose 
        publicly any part of a cockpit voice or video recorder 
        recording or transcript of oral communications by and 
        between flight crew members and ground stations related 
        to an accident or incident investigated by the Board.
          (2) Exception.--Subject to subsections (b) and (g), 
        the Board shall make public any part of a transcript, 
        any written depiction of visual information obtained 
        from a video recorder, or any still image obtained from 
        a video recorder the Board decides is relevant to the 
        accident or incident--
                  (A) if the Board holds a public hearing on 
                the accident or incident, at the time of the 
                hearing; or
                  (B) if the Board does not hold a public 
                hearing, at the time a majority of the other 
                factual reports on the accident or incident are 
                placed in the public docket.
          (3) References to information in making safety 
        recommendations.--This subsection does not prevent the 
        Board from referring at any time to cockpit voice or 
        video recorder information in making safety 
        recommendations.
  (d) Surface Vehicle Recordings and Transcripts.--
          (1) Confidentiality of recordings.--Except as 
        provided in paragraph (2), the Board may not disclose 
        publicly any part of a surface vehicle voice or video 
        recorder recording or transcript of oral communications 
        by or among drivers, train employees, or other 
        operating employees responsible for the movement and 
        direction of the vehicle or vessel, or between such 
        operating employees and company communication centers, 
        related to an accident investigated by the Board.
          (2) Exception.--Subject to subsections (b) and (g), 
        the Board shall make public any part of a transcript, 
        any written depiction of visual information obtained 
        from a video recorder, or any still image obtained from 
        a video recorder the Board decides is relevant to the 
        accident--
                  (A) if the Board holds a public hearing on 
                the accident, at the time of the hearing; or
                  (B) if the Board does not hold a public 
                hearing, at the time a majority of the other 
                factual reports on the accident are placed in 
                the public docket.
          (3) References to information in making safety 
        recommendations.--This subsection does not prevent the 
        Board from referring at any time to voice or video 
        recorder information in making safety recommendations.
  (e) Drug Tests.--(1) Notwithstanding section 503(e) of the 
Supplemental Appropriations Act, 1987 (Public Law 100-71, 101 
Stat. 471), the Secretary of Transportation shall provide the 
following information to the Board when requested in writing by 
the Board:
          (A) any report of a confirmed positive toxicological 
        test, verified as positive by a medical review officer, 
        conducted on an officer or employee of the Department 
        of Transportation under post-accident, unsafe practice, 
        or reasonable suspicion toxicological testing 
        requirements of the Department, when the officer or 
        employee is reasonably associated with the 
        circumstances of an accident or incident under the 
        investigative jurisdiction of the Board.
          (B) any laboratory record documenting that the test 
        is confirmed positive.
  (2) Except as provided by paragraph (3) of this subsection, 
the Board shall maintain the confidentiality of, and exempt 
from disclosure under section 552(b)(3) of title 5--
          (A) a laboratory record provided the Board under 
        paragraph (1) of this subsection that reveals medical 
        use of a drug allowed under applicable regulations; and
          (B) medical information provided by the tested 
        officer or employee related to the test or a review of 
        the test.
  (3) The Board may use a laboratory record made available 
under paragraph (1) of this subsection to develop an 
evidentiary record in an investigation of an accident or 
incident if--
          (A) the fitness of the tested officer or employee is 
        at issue in the investigation; and
          (B) the use of that record is necessary to develop 
        the evidentiary record.
  (f) Foreign Investigations.--
          (1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision 
        of law, neither the Board, nor any agency receiving 
        information from the Board, shall disclose records or 
        information relating to its participation in foreign 
        aircraft accident investigations; except that--
                  (A) the Board shall release records 
                pertaining to such an investigation when the 
                country conducting the investigation issues its 
                final report or 2 years following the date of 
                the accident, whichever occurs first; and
                  (B) the Board may disclose records and 
                information when authorized to do so by the 
                country conducting the investigation.
          (2) Safety recommendations.--Nothing in this 
        subsection shall restrict the Board at any time from 
        referring to foreign accident investigation information 
        in making safety recommendations.
  (g) Privacy Protections.--Before making public any still 
image obtained from a video recorder under subsection (c)(2) or 
subsection (d)(2), the Board shall take such action as 
appropriate to protect from public disclosure any information 
that readily identifies an individual, including a decedent.
  (h) Interview Recordings.--
          (1) In general.--The Board may not publicly disclose 
        any part of any audio or video recording of an 
        interview of participants in, or witnesses to, an 
        accident or incident investigated by the Board.
          (2) Savings provision.--Paragraph (1) shall not be 
        construed to apply to transcripts or summaries of such 
        interviews.

Sec. 1115. Training

  (a) Definition.--In this section, ``Institute'' means the 
Transportation Safety Institute of the Department of 
Transportation and any successor organization of the Institute.
  (b) Use of Institute Services.--The National Transportation 
Safety Board may use, on a reimbursable basis, the services of 
the Institute. The Secretary of Transportation shall make the 
Institute available to--
          (1) the Board for safety training of employees of the 
        Board in carrying out their duties and powers; and
          (2) other safety personnel of the United States 
        Government, State and local governments, governments of 
        foreign countries, interstate authorities, and private 
        organizations the Board designates in consultation with 
        the Secretary.
  (c) Fees.--(1) Training at the Institute for safety personnel 
(except employees of the Government) shall be provided at a 
reasonable fee established periodically by the Board in 
consultation with the Secretary. The fee shall be paid directly 
to the Secretary, and the Secretary shall deposit the fee in 
the Treasury. The amount of the fee--
          (A) shall be credited to the appropriate 
        appropriation (subject to the requirements of any 
        annual appropriation); and
          (B) is an offset against any annual reimbursement 
        agreement between the Board and the Secretary to cover 
        all reasonable costs of providing training under this 
        subsection that the Secretary incurs in operating the 
        Institute.
  (2) The Board shall maintain an annual record of offsets 
under paragraph (1)(B) of this subsection.
  (d) Training of board employees and others.--The Board may 
conduct training of its employees in those subjects necessary 
for the proper performance of accident investigation and in 
those subjects furthering the personnel and workforce 
development needs set forth in the strategic workforce plan of 
the Board as required under section 1113(h). The Board may also 
authorize attendance at courses given under this subsection by 
other government personnel, personnel of foreign governments, 
and personnel from industry or otherwise who have a requirement 
for accident investigation training. The Board may require non-
Board personnel to reimburse some or all of the training costs, 
and amounts so reimbursed shall be credited to the 
appropriation of the Board as offsetting collections.

Sec. 1116. Reports, studies, and retrospective reviews

  (a) Periodic Reports.--The National Transportation Safety 
Board shall report periodically to Congress, departments, 
agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government 
and State and local governmental authorities concerned with 
transportation safety, and other interested persons. The report 
shall--
          (1) advocate meaningful responses to reduce the 
        likelihood of transportation accidents similar to those 
        investigated by the Board; and
          (2) propose corrective action to make the 
        transportation of individuals as safe and free from 
        risk of injury as possible, including action to 
        minimize personal injuries that occur in transportation 
        accidents.
  (b) Studies, Investigations, and Other Reports.--The Board 
also shall--
          (1) carry out special studies and investigations 
        about transportation safety, including avoiding 
        personal injury;
          (2) examine techniques and methods of accident 
        investigation and periodically publish recommended 
        procedures for accident investigations;
          (3) prescribe requirements for persons reporting 
        accidents and aviation incidents that--
                  (A) may be investigated by the Board under 
                this chapter; or
                  (B) involve public aircraft (except aircraft 
                of the armed forces and the intelligence 
                agencies);
          (4) evaluate, examine the effectiveness of, and 
        publish the findings of the Board about the 
        transportation safety consciousness of other 
        departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the 
        Government and their effectiveness in preventing 
        accidents; and
          (5) evaluate the adequacy of safeguards and 
        procedures for the transportation of hazardous material 
        and the performance of other departments, agencies, and 
        instrumentalities of the Government responsible for the 
        safe transportation of that material.
  (c) Annual Report.--The National Transportation Safety Board 
shall submit a report to Congress on July 1 of each year. The 
report shall include--
          (1) a statistical and analytical summary of the 
        transportation accident investigations conducted and 
        reviewed by the Board during the prior calendar year;
          (2) a survey and summary of the recommendations made 
        by the Board to reduce the likelihood of recurrence of 
        those accidents together with the observed response to 
        each recommendation;
          (3) a list of each recommendation made by the Board 
        to the Secretary of Transportation or the Commandant of 
        the Coast Guard that was closed in an unacceptable 
        status in the preceding 12 months;
          [(3)] (4) a detailed appraisal of the accident 
        investigation and accident prevention activities of 
        other departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of 
        the United States Government and State and local 
        governmental authorities having responsibility for 
        those activities under a law of the United States or a 
        State;
          [(4)] (5) a description of the activities and 
        operations of the National Transportation Safety Board 
        Training Center during the prior calendar year;
          [(5)] (6) a list of accidents, during the prior 
        calendar year, that the Board was required to 
        investigate under section 1131 but did not investigate 
        and an explanation of why they were not investigated; 
        and
          [(6)] (7) a list of ongoing investigations that have 
        exceeded the expected time allotted for completion by 
        Board order and an explanation for the additional time 
        required to complete each such investigation.
  (d) Retrospective Reviews.--
          (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), not later 
        than June 1, 2019, and at least every 5 years 
        thereafter, the Chairman shall complete a retrospective 
        review of recommendations issued by the Board that are 
        classified as open by the Board.
          (2) Contents.--A review under paragraph (1) shall 
        include--
                  (A) a determination of whether the 
                recommendation should be updated, closed, or 
                reissued in light of--
                          (i) changed circumstances;
                          (ii) more recently issued 
                        recommendations;
                          (iii) the availability of new 
                        technologies; or
                          (iv) new information making the 
                        recommendation ineffective or 
                        insufficient for achieving its 
                        objective; and
                  (B) a justification for each determination 
                under subparagraph (A).
          (3) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date a 
        review under paragraph (1) is complete, the Chairman 
        shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
        Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives a report that includes--
                  (A) the findings of the review under 
                paragraph (1);
                  (B) each determination under paragraph (2)(A) 
                and justification under paragraph (2)(B); and
                  (C) if applicable, a schedule for updating, 
                closing, or reissuing a recommendation.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 1118. Authorization of appropriations

  [(a) In General.--There are authorized to be appropriated for 
the purposes of this chapter $111,400,000 for fiscal year 2019, 
$112,400,000 for fiscal year 2020, $113,400,000 for fiscal year 
2021, and $114,400,000 for fiscal year 2022. Such sums shall 
remain available until expended.]
  (a) In General.--There are authorized to be appropriated for 
the purposes of this chapter $142,000,000 for fiscal year 2024, 
$145,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, $150,000,000 for fiscal year 
2026, $155,000,000 for fiscal year 2027, and $161,000,000 for 
fiscal year 2028. Such sums shall remain available until 
expended.
  (b) Emergency Fund.--The Board has an emergency fund of 
$2,000,000 available for necessary expenses of the Board, not 
otherwise provided for, for accident investigations. In 
addition, there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as 
may be necessary to increase the fund to, and maintain the fund 
at, a level not to exceed $4,000,000.
  (c) Fees, Refunds, and Reimbursements.--
          (1) In general.--The Board may impose and collect 
        such fees, refunds, and reimbursements as it determines 
        to be appropriate for services provided by or through 
        the Board.
          (2) Receipts credited as offsetting collections.--
        Notwithstanding section 3302 of title 31, any fee, 
        refund, or reimbursement collected under this 
        subsection--
                  (A) shall be credited as offsetting 
                collections to the account that finances the 
                activities and services for which the fee is 
                imposed or with which the refund or 
                reimbursement is associated;
                  (B) shall be available for expenditure only 
                to pay the costs of activities and services for 
                which the fee is imposed or with which the 
                refund or reimbursement is associated; and
                  (C) shall remain available until expended.
          (3) Refunds.--The Board may refund any fee paid by 
        mistake or any amount paid in excess of that required.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 1120. Office of Oversight, Accountability, and Quality Assurance

  (a) Establishment.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Board shall establish in the 
National Transportation Safety Board an Office of Oversight, 
Accountability, and Quality Assurance to provide oversight of 
the duties and responsibilities of the Board.
  (b) Director.--
          (1) Appointment.--The head of the Office of 
        Oversight, Accountability, and Quality Assurance shall 
        be the Director, who shall be appointed by the Chairman 
        of the Board and shall be approved by the Board.
          (2) Qualifications.--The Director shall have 
        demonstrated ability in investigations.
          (3) Term.--The Director shall be appointed for a term 
        of 5 years.
          (4) Vacancies.--Any individual approved to fill a 
        vacancy in the position of the Director occurring 
        before the expiration of the term for which the 
        predecessor of the individual was approved shall be 
        approved for the remainder of the term or for a new 
        term.
  (c) Duties.--The Director shall--
          (1) establish and ensure policies that promote 
        integrity, efficiency, and effectiveness;
          (2) prevent and detect waste, fraud, and abuse in 
        programs and operations;
          (3) provide policy direction related to the conduct, 
        supervision, and coordination of audits and 
        investigations relating to the activities of the Board;
          (4) identify trends and systemic issues within the 
        agency and create strategies and recommendations to 
        address such issues;
          (5) conduct impartial information gathering about 
        complaints or concerns, and ensure the Board is meeting 
        any quality and timeliness standards; and
          (6) not conduct any of the duties under this 
        subsection in a manner that interferes with an ongoing 
        safety investigation of the Board.
  (d) Reporting Criminal Violations to Department of Justice.--
If the Director has reasonable grounds to believe that there 
has been a violation of Federal criminal law, the Director 
shall refer the matter to the Department of Justice.
  (e) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed to interfere or give the Office jurisdiction over any 
active investigation by the Board or the content of products 
approved by a vote of the Board.
  (f) Annual Report.--
          (1) In general.--The Director shall submit to the 
        Board, the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
        the Senate an annual report on the activities, 
        investigations, findings, and recommendations of the 
        Director.
          (2) Sunset.--This subsection shall cease to have 
        effect on October 1, 2028.

                       SUBCHAPTER III--AUTHORITY

Sec. 1131. General authority

  (a) General.--(1) The National Transportation Safety Board 
shall investigate or have investigated (in detail the Board 
prescribes) and establish the facts, circumstances, and cause 
or probable cause of--
          (A) an aircraft accident the Board has authority to 
        investigate under section 1132 of this title or an 
        aircraft accident involving a public aircraft as 
        defined by section 40102(a) of this title other than an 
        aircraft operated by the Armed Forces or by an 
        intelligence agency of the United States;
          (B) a highway accident, including a railroad grade 
        crossing accident, the Board [selects in cooperation 
        with a State] selects, concurrent with any State 
        investigation;
          (C) a railroad [accident in which there is a fatality 
        or substantial property damage, or that involves a 
        passenger train] accident, including a railroad grade 
        crossing or trespasser accident that the Board selects, 
        or in which there is otherwise a fatality or 
        substantial property damage, or that involves a 
        passenger train;
          (D) a pipeline accident in which there is a fatality, 
        substantial property damage, or significant injury to 
        the environment;
          (E) a major marine casualty (except a casualty 
        involving only public vessels) occurring on or under 
        the navigable waters, internal waters, or the 
        territorial sea of the United States as described in 
        Presidential Proclamation No. 5928 of December 27, 
        1988, or involving a vessel of the United States (as 
        defined in section 116 of title 46), under regulations 
        prescribed jointly by the Board and the head of the 
        department in which the Coast Guard is operating; and
          (F) any other accident related to the transportation 
        of individuals or property when the Board decides--
                  (i) the accident is catastrophic;
                  (ii) the accident involves problems of a 
                recurring character; or
                  (iii) the investigation of the accident would 
                carry out this chapter.
  (2)(A) Subject to the requirements of this paragraph, an 
investigation by the Board under paragraph (1)(A)-(D) or (F) of 
this subsection has priority over any investigation by another 
department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States 
Government. The Board shall provide for appropriate 
participation by other departments, agencies, or 
instrumentalities in the investigation. However, those 
departments, agencies, or instrumentalities may not participate 
in the decision of the Board about the probable cause of the 
accident.
  (B) If the Attorney General, in consultation with the 
Chairman of the Board, determines and notifies the Board that 
circumstances reasonably indicate that the accident may have 
been caused by an intentional criminal act, the Board shall 
relinquish investigative priority to the Federal Bureau of 
Investigation. The relinquishment of investigative priority by 
the Board shall not otherwise affect the authority of the Board 
to continue its investigation under this section.
  (C) If a Federal law enforcement agency suspects and notifies 
the Board that an accident being investigated by the Board 
under subparagraph (A), (B), (C), or (D) of paragraph (1) may 
have been caused by an intentional criminal act, the Board, in 
consultation with the law enforcement agency, shall take 
necessary actions to ensure that evidence of the criminal act 
is preserved.
  (3) This section and sections 1113, 1116(b), 1133, and 
1134(a) and (c)-(e) of this title do not affect the authority 
of another department, agency, or instrumentality of the 
Government to investigate an accident under applicable law or 
to obtain information directly from the parties involved in, 
and witnesses to, the accident. The Board and other 
departments, agencies, and instrumentalities shall ensure that 
appropriate information developed about the accident is 
exchanged in a timely manner.
  (b) Accidents Involving Public Vessels.--(1) The Board or the 
head of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating 
shall investigate and establish the facts, circumstances, and 
cause or probable cause of a marine accident involving a public 
vessel and any other vessel. The results of the investigation 
shall be made available to the public.
  (2) Paragraph (1) of this subsection and subsection (a)(1)(E) 
of this section do not affect the responsibility, under another 
law of the United States, of the head of the department in 
which the Coast Guard is operating.
  (c) Accidents Not Involving Government Misfeasance or 
Nonfeasance.--(1) When asked by the Board, the Secretary of 
Transportation or the Secretary of the department in which the 
Coast Guard is operating may--
          (A) investigate an accident described under 
        subsection (a) or (b) of this section in which 
        misfeasance or nonfeasance by the Government has not 
        been alleged; and
          (B) report the facts and circumstances of the 
        accident to the Board.
  (2) The Board shall use the report in establishing cause or 
probable cause of an accident described under subsection (a) or 
(b) of this section.
  (d) Accidents Involving Public Aircraft.--The Board, in 
furtherance of its investigative duties with respect to public 
aircraft accidents under subsection (a)(1)(A) of this section, 
shall have the same duties and powers as are specified for 
civil aircraft accidents under sections 1132(a), 1132(b), and 
1134(a), (b), (d), and (f) of this title.
  (e) Accident Reports.--The Board shall report on the facts 
and circumstances of each accident investigated by it under 
subsection (a) or (b) of this section. The Board shall make 
each report available to the [public at reasonable cost.] 
public
          (1) in printed form at reasonable cost; and 
          (2) in electronic form at no cost in a publicly 
        accessible database on a website of the Board. 
  (f) Timeliness of Reports.--If any accident report under 
subsection (e) is not completed within 2 years from the date of 
the accident, the Board 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 identifying such accident 
report and the reasons for which such report has not been 
completed. The Board shall report progress toward completion of 
the accident report to each such Committees every 90 days 
thereafter, until such time as the accident report is 
completed.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 1134. Inspections and autopsies

  (a) Entry and Inspection.--An officer or employee of the 
National Transportation Safety Board--
          (1) on display of appropriate credentials and written 
        notice of inspection authority, may enter property 
        where a transportation accident has occurred or 
        wreckage from the accident is located and do anything 
        necessary to conduct an investigation; and
          (2) during reasonable hours, may inspect any record, 
        including an electronic record, process, control, or 
        facility related to an accident investigation under 
        this chapter.
  (b) Inspection, Testing, Preservation, and Moving of Aircraft 
and Parts.--(1) In investigating an aircraft accident under 
this chapter, the Board may inspect and test, to the extent 
necessary, any civil aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, 
appliance, or property on an aircraft involved in an accident 
in air commerce.
  (2) Any civil aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, 
appliance, or property on an aircraft involved in an accident 
in air commerce shall be preserved, and may be moved, only as 
provided by regulations of the Board.
  (c) Avoiding Unnecessary Interference and Preserving 
Evidence.--In carrying out subsection (a)(1) of this section, 
an officer or employee may examine or test any vehicle, vessel, 
rolling stock, track, or pipeline component. The examination or 
test shall be conducted in a way that--
          (1) does not interfere unnecessarily with 
        transportation services provided by the owner or 
        operator of the vehicle, vessel, rolling stock, track, 
        or pipeline component; and
          (2) to the maximum extent feasible, preserves 
        evidence related to the accident, consistent with the 
        needs of the investigation and with the cooperation of 
        that owner or operator.
  (d) Exclusive Authority of Board.--Only the Board has the 
authority to decide on the way in which testing under this 
section will be conducted, including decisions on the person 
that will conduct the test, the type of test that will be 
conducted, and any individual who will witness the test. Those 
decisions are committed to the discretion of the Board. The 
Board shall make any of those decisions based on the needs of 
the investigation being conducted and, when applicable, 
subsections (a), (c), and (e) of this section.
  (e) Promptness of Tests and Availability of Results.--An 
inspection, examination, or test under subsection (a) or (c) of 
this section shall be started and completed promptly, and the 
results shall be made available.
  (f) Autopsies.--(1) The Board may order an autopsy to be 
performed and have other tests made when necessary to 
investigate an accident under this chapter. However, local law 
protecting religious beliefs related to autopsies shall be 
observed to the extent consistent with the needs of the 
accident investigation.
  (2) With or without reimbursement, the Board may obtain a 
copy of an autopsy report performed by a State or local 
official on an individual who died because of a transportation 
accident investigated by the Board under this chapter.
  (g) Recorders and Data.--In investigating an accident under 
this chapter, the Board may--
          (1) obtain any recorder or recorded information 
        pertinent to the accident;
          (2) require a manufacturer or the vendors, suppliers, 
        or affiliates of such manufacturer, to provide to the 
        Board, without delay, information the Board determines 
        necessary to enable the Board to read and interpret any 
        recording device or recorded information pertinent to 
        the accident; and
          (3) require a manufacturer or the vendors, suppliers, 
        or affiliates of such manufacturer, to provide to the 
        Board, without delay, data and other intellectual 
        property the Board determines necessary to enable the 
        Board to perform independent physics-based simulations 
        and analyses of the accident situation.

Sec. 1135. Secretary of Transportation's responses to safety 
                    recommendations

  (a) General.--When the National Transportation Safety Board 
submits a recommendation about transportation safety to the 
Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary shall give to the 
Board a formal written response to each recommendation not 
later than 90 days after receiving the recommendation. The 
response shall indicate whether the Secretary intends--
          (1) to carry out procedures to adopt the complete 
        recommendation;
          (2) to carry out procedures to adopt a part of the 
        recommendation; or
          (3) to refuse to carry out procedures to adopt the 
        recommendation.
  (b) Timetable for Completing Procedures and Reasons for 
Refusals.--A response under subsection (a)(1) or (2) of this 
section shall include a copy of a proposed timetable for 
completing the procedures. A response under subsection (a)(2) 
of this section shall detail the reasons for the refusal to 
carry out procedures on the remainder of the recommendation. A 
response under subsection (a)(3) of this section shall detail 
the reasons for the refusal to carry out procedures.
  (c) Public Availability.--The Board shall make a copy of each 
recommendation and response available to the [public at 
reasonable cost.] public--
          (1) in printed form at reasonable cost; and 
          (2) in electronic form in a publicly accessible 
        database on a website of the Board at no cost. 
  (d) Annual Report on Air Carrier Safety Recommendations.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary shall submit to 
        Congress and the Board, on an annual basis, a report on 
        the recommendations made by the Board to the Secretary 
        regarding air carrier operations conducted under part 
        121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (2) Recommendations to be covered.--The report shall 
        cover--
                  (A) any recommendation for which the 
                Secretary has developed, or intends to develop, 
                procedures to adopt the recommendation or part 
                of the recommendation, but has yet to complete 
                the procedures; and
                  (B) any recommendation for which the 
                Secretary, in the preceding year, has issued a 
                response under subsection (a)(2) or (a)(3) 
                refusing to carry out all or part of the 
                procedures to adopt the recommendation.
          (3) Contents.--
                  (A) Plans to adopt recommendations.--For each 
                recommendation of the Board described in 
                paragraph (2)(A), the report shall contain--
                          (i) a description of the 
                        recommendation;
                          (ii) a description of the procedures 
                        planned for adopting the recommendation 
                        or part of the recommendation;
                          (iii) the proposed date for 
                        completing the procedures; and
                          (iv) if the Secretary has not met a 
                        deadline contained in a proposed 
                        timeline developed in connection with 
                        the recommendation under subsection 
                        (b), an explanation for not meeting the 
                        deadline.
                  (B) Refusals to adopt recommendations.--For 
                each recommendation of the Board described in 
                paragraph (2)(B), the report shall contain--
                          (i) a description of the 
                        recommendation; and
                          (ii) a description of the reasons for 
                        the refusal to carry out all or part of 
                        the procedures to adopt the 
                        recommendation.
  (e) Reporting Requirements.--
          (1) Annual secretarial regulatory status reports.--On 
        February 1 of each year, the Secretary shall submit a 
        report to Congress and the Board containing the 
        regulatory status of each recommendation made by the 
        Board to the Secretary (or to an Administration within 
        the Department of Transportation) that is on the 
        Board's ``most wanted list''. The Secretary shall 
        continue to report on the regulatory status of each 
        such recommendation in the report due on February 1 of 
        subsequent years until final regulatory action is taken 
        on that recommendation or the Secretary (or an 
        Administration within the Department) determines and 
        states in such a report that no action should be taken.
          (2) Failure to report.--If on March 1 of each year 
        the Board has not received the Secretary's report 
        required by this subsection, the Board shall notify the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
        House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, 
        Science, and Transportation of the Senate of the 
        Secretary's failure to submit the required report.
          (3) Compliance report with recommendations.--Within 
        90 days after the date on which the Secretary submits a 
        report under this subsection, the Board shall review 
        the Secretary's report and transmit comments on the 
        report to the Secretary, the Committee on Commerce, 
        Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
        House of Representatives.

Sec. 1136. Assistance [to families of passengers involved in aircraft 
                    accidents]  to passengers involved in aircraft 
                    accidents and families of such passengers

  (a) In General.--As soon as practicable after being notified 
of an aircraft accident within United States airspace or 
airspace delegated to the United States involving an air 
carrier or foreign air carrier, resulting in any loss of life, 
and for which the National Transportation Safety Board will 
serve as the lead investigative agency, the Chairman of the 
[National Transportation Safety Board shall] Board shall--
          (1) designate and publicize the name and phone number 
        of a director of family support services who shall be 
        an employee of the Board and shall be responsible for 
        acting as a point of contact within the Federal 
        Government for the families of passengers involved in 
        the accident and a liaison between the air carrier or 
        foreign air carrier and the families; and
          (2) designate an independent nonprofit organization, 
        with experience in disasters and posttrauma 
        communication with families, which shall have primary 
        responsibility for coordinating the [emotional care and 
        support] emotional, psychological, and spiritual care 
        and support services of [the families of passengers 
        involved in the accident] passengers involved in the 
        accident and the families of such passengers.
  (b) Responsibilities of the Board.--The Board shall have 
primary Federal responsibility for facilitating the recovery 
and identification of fatally-injured passengers involved in an 
accident described in subsection (a).
  (c) Responsibilities of Designated Organization.--The 
organization designated for an accident under subsection (a)(2) 
shall have the following responsibilities with respect to [the 
families of passengers involved in the accident] passengers 
involved in the accident and the families of such passengers:
          (1) To provide [mental health and counseling 
        services] emotional, psychological, and spiritual care 
        and support services, in coordination with the disaster 
        response team of the air carrier or foreign air carrier 
        involved.
          (2) To take such actions as may be necessary to 
        provide an environment in which the families may grieve 
        in private.
          (3) To meet with [the families who have traveled to 
        the location of the accident] passengers involved in 
        the accident and the families of such passengers who 
        have traveled to the location of the accident, to 
        contact the families unable to travel to such location, 
        and to contact all passengers and affected families 
        periodically thereafter until such time as the 
        organization, in consultation with the director of 
        family support services designated for the accident 
        under subsection (a)(1), determines that further 
        assistance is no longer needed.
          (4) To communicate with the passengers and families 
        as to the roles of the organization, government 
        agencies, and the air carrier or foreign air carrier 
        involved with respect to the accident and the post-
        accident activities.
          (5) To arrange a suitable memorial service, in 
        consultation with the families.
  [(d) Passenger Lists.--
          [(1) Requests for passenger lists.--
                  [(A) Requests by director of family support 
                services.--It shall be the responsibility of 
                the director of family support services 
                designated for an accident under subsection 
                (a)(1) to request, as soon as practicable, from 
                the air carrier or foreign air carrier involved 
                in the accident a list, which is based on the 
                best available information at the time of the 
                request, of the names of the passengers that 
                were aboard the aircraft involved in the 
                accident.
                  [(B) Requests by designated organization.--
                The organization designated for an accident 
                under subsection (a)(2) may request from the 
                air carrier or foreign air carrier involved in 
                the accident a list described in subparagraph 
                (A).
          [(2) Use of information.--The director of family 
        support services and the organization may not release 
        to any person information on a list obtained under 
        paragraph (1) but may provide information on the list 
        about a passenger to the family of the passenger to the 
        extent that the director of family support services or 
        the organization considers appropriate.]
  (d) Passenger Lists.--
          (1) Requests for passenger lists by the director of 
        family services.--
                  (A) Requests by director of family support 
                services.--It shall be the responsibility of 
                the director of family support services 
                designated for an accident under subsection 
                (a)(1) to request, as soon as practicable, from 
                the air carrier or foreign air carrier involved 
                in the accident a passenger list, which is 
                based on the best available information at the 
                time of the request.
                  (B) Use of information.--The director of 
                family support services may not release to any 
                person information on a list obtained under 
                subparagraph (A), except that the director may, 
                to the extent the director considers 
                appropriate, provide information on the list 
                about a passenger to--
                          (i) the family of the passenger; or
                          (ii) a local, State, or Federal 
                        agency responsible for determining the 
                        whereabouts or welfare of a passenger.
          (2) Requests for passenger lists by designated 
        organization.--
                  (A) Requests by designated organization.--The 
                organization designated for an accident under 
                subsection (a)(2) may request from the air 
                carrier or foreign air carrier involved in the 
                accident a passenger list.
                  (B) Use of information.--The designated 
                organization may not release to any person 
                information on a passenger list but may provide 
                information on the list about a passenger to 
                the family of the passenger to the extent the 
                organization considers appropriate.
  (e) Continuing Responsibilities of the Board.--In the course 
of its investigation of an accident described in subsection 
(a), the Board shall, to the maximum extent practicable, ensure 
that the families of passengers involved in the accident--
          (1) are briefed, prior to any public briefing, about 
        the accident, its causes, and any other findings from 
        the investigation; and
          (2) are individually informed of and allowed to 
        attend any public hearings and meetings of the Board 
        about the accident.
  (f) Use of Air Carrier Resources.--To the extent practicable, 
the organization designated for an accident under subsection 
(a)(2) shall coordinate its activities with the air carrier or 
foreign air carrier involved in the accident so that the 
resources of the carrier can be used to the greatest extent 
possible to carry out the organization's responsibilities under 
this section.
  (g) Prohibited Actions.--
          (1) Actions to impede the board.--No person 
        (including a State or political subdivision) may impede 
        the ability of the Board (including the director of 
        family support services designated for an accident 
        under subsection (a)(1)), or an organization designated 
        for an accident under subsection (a)(2), to carry out 
        its responsibilities under this section or the ability 
        of [the families of passengers involved in the 
        accident] passengers involved in the accident and the 
        families of such passengers to have contact with one 
        another.
          (2) Unsolicited communications.--In the event of an 
        accident involving an air carrier providing interstate 
        or foreign air transportation and in the event of an 
        accident involving a foreign air carrier that occurs 
        within the United States, no unsolicited communication 
        concerning a potential action for personal injury or 
        wrongful death may be made by an attorney (including 
        any associate, agent, employee, or other representative 
        of an attorney) or any potential party to the 
        litigation to an individual injured in the accident, or 
        to a relative of an individual involved in the 
        accident, before the 45th day following the date of the 
        accident.
          (3) Prohibition on actions to [prevent mental health 
        and counseling] prevent certain care and support 
        services.--No State or political subdivision thereof 
        may prevent the employees, agents, or volunteers of an 
        organization designated for an accident under 
        subsection (a)(2) from [providing mental health and 
        counseling services] providing emotional, 
        psychological, and spiritual care and support under 
        subsection (c)(1) in the 30-day period beginning on the 
        date of the accident. The director of family support 
        services designated for the accident under subsection 
        (a)(1) may extend such period for not to exceed an 
        additional 30 days if the director determines that the 
        extension is necessary to meet the needs of the 
        passengers and families and if State and local 
        authorities are notified of the determination.
  (h) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
          (1) Aircraft accident.--The term ``aircraft 
        accident'' means any aviation disaster, regardless of 
        its cause or suspected cause, for which the [National 
        Transportation Safety] Board is the lead investigative 
        agency.
          (2) Passenger.--The term ``passenger'' includes--
                  (A) an employee of an air carrier or foreign 
                air carrier aboard an aircraft;
                  (B) any other person aboard the aircraft 
                without regard to whether the person paid for 
                the transportation, occupied a seat, or held a 
                reservation for the flight; and
                  (C) any other person injured or killed in the 
                aircraft accident, as determined appropriate by 
                the Board.
          (3) Passenger list.--The term ``passenger list'' 
        means a list based on the best available information at 
        the time of a request, of the name of each passenger 
        aboard the aircraft involved in the accident.
  (i) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
construed as limiting the actions that an air carrier may take, 
or the obligations that an air carrier may have, in providing 
assistance to [the families of passengers involved in an 
aircraft accident] passengers involved in the aircraft accident 
and the families of such passengers.
  (j) Relinquishment of Investigative Priority.--
          (1) General rule.--This section (other than 
        subsection (g)) shall not apply to an aircraft accident 
        if the Board has relinquished investigative priority 
        under section 1131(a)(2)(B) and the Federal agency to 
        which the Board relinquished investigative priority is 
        willing and able to provide assistance to the victims 
        and families of the passengers involved in the 
        accident.
          (2) Board assistance.--If this section does not apply 
        to an aircraft accident because the Board has 
        relinquished investigative priority with respect to the 
        accident, the Board shall assist, to the maximum extent 
        possible, the agency to which the Board has 
        relinquished investigative priority in assisting 
        families with respect to the accident.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 1138. Evaluation and audit of National Transportation Safety Board

  (a) In General.--To promote economy, efficiency, and 
effectiveness in the administration of the programs, 
operations, and activities of the National Transportation 
Safety Board, the Comptroller General of the United States 
shall evaluate and audit the programs and [expenditures of the 
National Transportation Safety] expenditures of the Board. Such 
evaluation and audit shall be conducted as determined necessary 
by the Comptroller General or the appropriate congressional 
committees.
  (b) Responsibility of Comptroller General.--The Comptroller 
General shall evaluate and audit Board programs, operations, 
and activities, including--
          (1) information management and security, including 
        privacy protection of personally identifiable 
        information;
          (2) resource management;
          (3) workforce development;
          (4) procurement and contracting planning, practices 
        and policies;
          (5) the process and procedures to select an accident 
        to investigate;
          (6) the extent to which the Board follows leading 
        practices in selected management areas; and
          (7) the extent to which the Board addresses 
        management challenges in completing accident 
        investigations.
  (c) Appropriate Congressional Committees.--For purposes of 
this section the term ``appropriate congressional committees'' 
means the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.

Sec. 1139. Assistance [to families of passengers involved in rail 
                    passenger accidents]  to passengers involved in 
                    rail passenger accidents and families of such 
                    passengers

  (a) In General.--As soon as practicable after being notified 
of a rail passenger accident within the United States involving 
a rail passenger carrier and resulting in any loss of life, and 
for which the National Transportation Safety Board will serve 
as the lead investigative agency, the Chairman of the [National 
Transportation Safety Board shall] Board shall--
          (1) designate and publicize the name and telephone 
        number of a director of family support services who 
        shall be an employee of the Board and shall be 
        responsible for acting as a point of contact within the 
        Federal Government for the families of passengers 
        involved in the accident and a liaison between the rail 
        passenger carrier and the families; and
          (2) designate an independent nonprofit organization, 
        with experience in disasters and post-trauma 
        communication with families, which shall have primary 
        responsibility for coordinating the [emotional care and 
        support] emotional, psychological and spiritual care 
        and support services of [the families of passengers 
        involved in the accident] passengers involved in the 
        accident and the families of such passengers.
  (b) Responsibilities of the Board.--The Board shall have 
primary Federal responsibility for--
          (1) facilitating the recovery and identification of 
        fatally injured passengers involved in an accident 
        described in subsection (a); and
          (2) communicating with the families of passengers 
        involved in the accident as to the roles, with respect 
        to the accident and the post-accident activities, of--
                  (A) the organization designated for an 
                accident under subsection (a)(2);
                  (B) Government agencies; and
                  (C) the rail passenger carrier involved.
  (c) Responsibilities of Designated Organization.--The 
organization designated for an accident under subsection (a)(2) 
shall have the following responsibilities with respect to [the 
families of passengers involved in the accident] passengers 
involved in the accident and the families of such passengers:
          (1) To provide [mental health and counseling 
        services] emotional, psychological, and spiritual care 
        and support services, in coordination with the disaster 
        response team of the rail passenger carrier involved.
          (2) To take such actions as may be necessary to 
        provide an environment in which the families may grieve 
        in private.
          (3) To meet with [the families who have traveled to 
        the location of the accident] passengers involved in 
        the accident and the families of such passengers who 
        have traveled to the location of the accident, to 
        contact the families unable to travel to such location, 
        and to contact all passengers and affected families 
        periodically thereafter until such time as the 
        organization, in consultation with the director of 
        family support services designated for the accident 
        under subsection (a)(1), determines that further 
        assistance is no longer needed.
          (4) To arrange a suitable memorial service, in 
        consultation with the passengers and families.
  [(d) Passenger Lists.--
          [(1) Requests for passenger lists.--
                  [(A) Requests by director of family support 
                services.--It shall be the responsibility of 
                the director of family support services 
                designated for an accident under subsection 
                (a)(1) to request, as soon as practicable, from 
                the rail passenger carrier involved in the 
                accident a list, which is based on the best 
                available information at the time of the 
                request, of the names of the passengers that 
                were aboard the rail passenger carrier's train 
                involved in the accident. A rail passenger 
                carrier shall use reasonable efforts, with 
                respect to its unreserved trains, and 
                passengers not holding reservations on its 
                other trains, to ascertain the names of 
                passengers aboard a train involved in an 
                accident.
                  [(B) Requests by designated organization.--
                The organization designated for an accident 
                under subsection (a)(2) may request from the 
                rail passenger carrier involved in the accident 
                a list described in subparagraph (A).
          [(2) Use of information.--Except as provided in 
        subsection (k), the director of family support services 
        and the organization may not release to any person 
        information on a list obtained under paragraph (1) but 
        may provide information on the list about a passenger 
        to the family of the passenger to the extent that the 
        director of family support services or the organization 
        considers appropriate.]
  (d) Passenger Lists.--
          (1) Requests for passenger lists by the director of 
        family services.--
                  (A) Requests by director of family support 
                services.--It shall be the responsibility of 
                the director of family support services 
                designated for an accident under subsection 
                (a)(1) to request, as soon as practicable, from 
                the rail passenger carrier involved in the 
                accident a passenger list, which is based on 
                the best available information at the time of 
                the request.
                  (B) Use of information.--The director of 
                family support services may not release to any 
                person information on a list obtained under 
                subparagraph (A), except that the director may, 
                to the extent the director considers 
                appropriate, provide information on the list 
                about a passenger to--
                          (i) the family of the passenger; or
                          (ii) a local, State, or Federal 
                        agency responsible for determining the 
                        whereabouts or welfare of a passenger.
          (2) Requests for passenger lists by designated 
        organization.--
                  (A) Requests by designated organization.--The 
                organization designated for an accident under 
                subsection (a)(2) may request from the rail 
                passenger carrier involved in the accident a 
                passenger list.
                  (B) Use of information.--The designated 
                organization may not release to any person 
                information on a passenger list but may provide 
                information on the list about a passenger to 
                the family of the passenger to the extent the 
                organization considers appropriate.
  (e) Continuing Responsibilities of the Board.--In the course 
of its investigation of an accident described in subsection 
(a), the Board shall, to the maximum extent practicable, ensure 
that the families of passengers involved in the accident--
          (1) are briefed, prior to any public briefing, about 
        the accident and any other findings from the 
        investigation; and
          (2) are individually informed of and allowed to 
        attend any public hearings and meetings of the Board 
        about the accident.
  (f) Use of Rail Passenger Carrier Resources.--To the extent 
practicable, the organization designated for an accident under 
subsection (a)(2) shall coordinate its activities with the rail 
passenger carrier involved in the accident to facilitate the 
reasonable use of the resources of the carrier.
  (g) Prohibited Actions.--
          (1) Actions to impede the board.--No person 
        (including a State or political subdivision thereof) 
        may impede the ability of the Board (including the 
        director of family support services designated for an 
        accident under subsection (a)(1)), or an organization 
        designated for an accident under subsection (a)(2), to 
        carry out its responsibilities under this section or 
        the ability of [the families of passengers involved in 
        the accident] passengers involved in the accident and 
        the families of such passengers to have contact with 
        one another.
          (2) Unsolicited communications.--No unsolicited 
        communication concerning a potential action or 
        settlement offer for personal injury or wrongful death 
        may be made by an attorney (including any associate, 
        agent, employee, or other representative of an 
        attorney) or any potential party to the litigation, 
        including the railroad carrier or rail passenger 
        carrier, to an individual (other than an employee of 
        the rail passenger carrier) injured in the accident, or 
        to a relative of an individual involved in the 
        accident, before the 45th day following the date of the 
        accident.
          (3) Prohibition on actions to [prevent mental health 
        and counseling] prevent certain care and support 
        services.--No State or political subdivision thereof 
        may prevent the employees, agents, or volunteers of an 
        organization designated for an accident under 
        subsection (a)(2) from [providing mental health and 
        counseling services] providing emotional, 
        psychological, and spiritual care and support under 
        subsection (c)(1) in the 30-day period beginning on the 
        date of the accident. The director of family support 
        services designated for the accident under subsection 
        (a)(1) may extend such period for not to exceed an 
        additional 30 days if the director determines that the 
        extension is necessary to meet the needs of the 
        passengers and families and if State and local 
        authorities are notified of the determination.
  (h) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Rail passenger accident.--The term ``rail 
        passenger accident'' means any rail passenger disaster 
        that--
                  (A) results in any loss of life;
                  (B) the [National Transportation Safety] 
                Board will serve as the lead investigative 
                agency for; and
                  (C) occurs in the provision of--
                          (i) interstate intercity rail 
                        passenger transportation (as such term 
                        is defined in section 24102); or
                          (ii) high-speed rail (as such term is 
                        defined in section 26105) 
                        transportation, regardless of its cause 
                        or suspected cause.
          (2) Rail passenger carrier.--The term ``rail 
        passenger carrier'' means a rail carrier providing--
                  (A) interstate intercity rail passenger 
                transportation (as such term is defined in 
                section 24102); or
                  (B) interstate or intrastate high-speed rail 
                (as such term is defined in section 26105) 
                transportation,
        except that such term does not include a tourist, 
        historic, scenic, or excursion rail carrier.
          (3) Passenger.--The term ``passenger'' includes--
                  (A) an employee of a rail passenger carrier 
                aboard a train;
                  (B) any other person aboard the train without 
                regard to whether the person paid for the 
                transportation, occupied a seat, or held a 
                reservation for the rail transportation; and
                  (C) any other person injured or killed in a 
                rail passenger accident, as determined 
                appropriate by the Board.
          (4) Passenger list.--The term ``passenger list'' 
        means a list based on the best available information at 
        the time of the request, of the name of each passenger 
        aboard the rail passenger carrier's train involved in 
        the accident. A rail passenger carrier shall use 
        reasonable efforts, with respect to its unreserved 
        trains, and passengers not holding reservations on its 
        other trains, to ascertain the names of passengers 
        aboard a train involved in an accident.
  (i) Limitation on Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this 
section may be construed as limiting the actions that a rail 
passenger carrier may take, or the obligations that a rail 
passenger carrier may have, in providing assistance to the 
families of passengers involved in a rail passenger accident.
  (j) Relinquishment of Investigative Priority.--
          (1) General rule.--This section (other than 
        subsection (g)) shall not apply to a rail passenger 
        accident if the Board has relinquished investigative 
        priority under section 1131(a)(2)(B) and the Federal 
        agency to which the Board relinquished investigative 
        priority is willing and able to provide assistance to 
        the victims and families of the passengers involved in 
        the accident.
          (2) Board assistance.--If this section does not apply 
        to a rail passenger accident because the Board has 
        relinquished investigative priority with respect to the 
        accident, the Board shall assist, to the maximum extent 
        possible, the agency to which the Board has 
        relinquished investigative priority in assisting 
        families with respect to the accident.
  (k) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed to abridge the authority of the Board or the 
Secretary of Transportation to investigate the causes or 
circumstances of any rail accident, including development of 
information regarding the nature of injuries sustained and the 
manner in which they were sustained for the purposes of 
determining compliance with existing laws and regulations or 
for identifying means of preventing similar injuries in the 
future, or both.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


                SUBCHAPTER IV--ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES

Sec. 1151. Aviation enforcement

  (a) Civil Actions by Board.--The National Transportation 
Safety Board may bring a civil action in a district court of 
the United States against a person to enforce section 1132, 
1134(b) or (f)(1) (related to an aircraft accident), 
1136(g)(2), or 1155(a) of this title or a regulation prescribed 
or order issued under any of those sections. An action under 
this subsection may be brought in the judicial district in 
which the person does business or the violation occurred.
  (b) Civil Actions by Attorney General.--On request of the 
Board, the Attorney General may bring a civil action in an 
appropriate court--
          (1) to enforce section 1132, 1134(b) or (f)(1) 
        (related to an aircraft accident), 1136(g)(2), or 
        1155(a) of this title or a regulation prescribed or 
        order issued under any of those sections; and
          (2) to prosecute a person violating those sections or 
        a regulation prescribed or order issued under any of 
        those sections.
  (c) Participation of Board.--On request of the Attorney 
General, the Board may participate in a civil action to enforce 
section 1132, 1134(b) or (f)(1) (related to an aircraft 
accident), 1136(g)(2), or 1155(a) of this title.
  (d) Notification to Congress.--If the Board or Attorney 
General carry out such civil actions described in subsection 
(a) or (b) of this section against an airman employed at the 
time of the accident or incident by an air carrier operating 
under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, the 
Board shall immediately notify the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
Senate of such civil actions, including--
          (1) the labor union representing the airman involved, 
        if applicable;
          (2) the air carrier at which the airman is employed;
          (3) the docket information of the incident or 
        accident in which the airman was involved;
          (4) the date of such civil actions taken by the Board 
        or Attorney General; and
          (5) a description of why such civil actions were 
        taken by the Board or Attorney General.
  (e) Subsequent Notification to Congress.--Not later than 15 
days after the notification described in subsection (d), the 
Board shall submit a report to or brief the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate describing the status of 
compliance with the civil actions taken.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 1155. [Aviation penalties]  Penalties

  (a) Civil Penalty.--(1) A person violating section 1132, 
section 1134(b), section 1134(f)(1), [or section 1136(g) 
(related to an aircraft accident)] section 1136(g), or 1139(g) 
of this title or a regulation prescribed or order issued under 
any of those sections is liable to the United States Government 
for a civil penalty of not more than $1,000. A separate 
violation occurs for each day a violation continues.
  (2) This subsection does not apply to a member of the armed 
forces of the United States or an employee of the Department of 
Defense subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice when 
the member or employee is performing official duties. The 
appropriate military authorities are responsible for taking 
necessary disciplinary action and submitting to the National 
Transportation Safety Board a timely report on action taken.
  (3) The Board may compromise the amount of a civil penalty 
imposed under this subsection.
  (4) The Government may deduct the amount of a civil penalty 
imposed or compromised under this subsection from amounts it 
owes the person liable for the penalty.
  (5) A civil penalty under this subsection may be collected by 
bringing a civil action against the person liable for the 
penalty. The action shall conform as nearly as practicable to a 
civil action in admiralty.
  (b) Criminal Penalty.--A person that knowingly and without 
authority removes, conceals, or withholds a part of a civil 
aircraft involved in an accident, or property on the aircraft 
at the time of the accident, shall be fined under title 18, 
imprisoned for not more than 10 years, or both.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SUBTITLE V--RAIL PROGRAMS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


PART C--PASSENGER TRANSPORTATION

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 243--AMTRAK

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 24316. Plans to address needs of families of passengers involved 
                    in rail passenger accidents

  (a) Submission of Plan.--Not later than 6 months after the 
date of the enactment of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 
2008, a rail passenger carrier shall submit to the Chairman of 
the National Transportation Safety Board, the Secretary of 
Transportation, and the Secretary of Homeland Security a plan 
for addressing the needs of the families of passengers involved 
in any rail passenger accident involving a rail passenger 
carrier intercity train and resulting in [a major] any loss of 
life.
  (b) Contents of Plans.--A plan to be submitted by a rail 
passenger carrier under subsection (a) shall include, at a 
minimum, the following:
          (1) A process by which a rail passenger carrier will 
        maintain and provide to the National Transportation 
        Safety Board, the Secretary of Transportation, and the 
        Secretary of Homeland Security immediately upon 
        request, a list (which is based on the best available 
        information at the time of the request) of the names of 
        the passengers aboard the train (whether or not such 
        names have been verified), and will periodically update 
        the list. The plan shall include a procedure, with 
        respect to unreserved trains and passengers not holding 
        reservations on other trains, for the rail passenger 
        carrier to use reasonable efforts to ascertain the 
        names of passengers aboard a train involved in an 
        accident.
          (2) A process for notifying the families of the 
        passengers, before providing any public notice of the 
        names of the passengers, either by utilizing the 
        services of the organization designated for the 
        accident under section 1139(a)(2) of this title or the 
        services of other suitably trained individuals.
          (3) A plan for creating and publicizing a reliable, 
        toll-free telephone number within 4 hours after such an 
        accident occurs, and for providing staff, to handle 
        calls from the families of the passengers.
          (4) A process for providing the notice described in 
        paragraph (2) to the family of a passenger as soon as 
        the rail passenger carrier has verified that the 
        passenger was aboard the train (whether or not the 
        names of all of the passengers have been verified).
          (5) An assurance that, upon request of the family of 
        a passenger, the rail passenger carrier will inform the 
        family of whether the passenger's name appeared on any 
        preliminary passenger manifest for the train involved 
        in the accident.
          (6) A process by which the family of each passenger 
        will be consulted about the disposition of all remains 
        and personal effects of the passenger within the 
        control of the rail passenger carrier and by which any 
        possession of the passenger within the control of the 
        rail passenger carrier (regardless of its condition)--
                  (A) will be retained by the rail passenger 
                carrier for at least 18 months; and
                  (B) will be returned to the family unless the 
                possession is needed for the accident 
                investigation or any criminal investigation.
          (7) A process by which the treatment of the families 
        of nonrevenue passengers will be the same as the 
        treatment of the families of revenue passengers.
          (8) An assurance that the rail passenger carrier will 
        provide adequate training to the employees and agents 
        of the carrier to meet the needs of survivors and 
        family members following an accident.
          (9) An assurance that the family of each passenger or 
        other person killed in the accident will be consulted 
        about construction by the rail passenger carrier of any 
        monument to the passengers, including any inscription 
        on the monument.
          (10) An assurance that the rail passenger carrier 
        will work with any organization designated under 
        section 1139(a)(2) of this title on an ongoing basis to 
        ensure that families of passengers receive an 
        appropriate level of services and assistance following 
        each accident.
          (11) An assurance that the rail passenger carrier 
        will provide reasonable compensation to any 
        organization designated under section 1139(a)(2) of 
        this title for services provided by the organization.
  (c) Use of Information.--Neither the National Transportation 
Safety Board, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of 
Homeland Security, nor a rail passenger carrier may release to 
the public any personal information on a list obtained under 
subsection (b)(1), but may provide information on the list 
about a passenger to the passenger's family members to the 
extent that the Board or a rail passenger carrier considers 
appropriate.
  (d) Limitation on Statutory Construction.--
          (1) Rail passenger carriers.--Nothing in this section 
        may be construed as limiting the actions that a rail 
        passenger carrier may take, or the obligations that a 
        rail passenger carrier may have, in providing 
        assistance to the families of passengers involved in a 
        rail passenger accident.
          (2) Investigational authority of board and 
        secretary.--Nothing in this section shall be construed 
        to abridge the authority of the Board or the Secretary 
        of Transportation to investigate the causes or 
        circumstances of any rail accident, including the 
        development of information regarding the nature of 
        injuries sustained and the manner in which they were 
        sustained, for the purpose of determining compliance 
        with existing laws and regulations or identifying means 
        of preventing similar injuries in the future.
  (e) Limitation on Liability.--A rail passenger carrier shall 
not be liable for damages in any action brought in a Federal or 
State court arising out of the performance of the rail 
passenger carrier in preparing or providing a passenger list, 
or in providing information concerning a train reservation, 
pursuant to a plan submitted by the rail passenger carrier 
under subsection (b), unless such liability was caused by 
conduct of the rail passenger carrier which was grossly 
negligent or which constituted intentional misconduct.
  (f) Definitions.--In this section, the terms ``passenger'' 
and ``rail passenger accident'' have the meaning given those 
terms by section 1139 of this title.
  (g) Funding.--Out of funds appropriated pursuant to section 
20117(a)(1)(A), there shall be made available to the Secretary 
of Transportation $500,000 for fiscal year 2010 to carry out 
this section. Amounts made available pursuant to this 
subsection shall remain available until expended.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SUBTITLE VII--AVIATION PROGRAMS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


PART A--AIR COMMERCE AND SAFETY

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SUBPART i--GENERAL

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


                    CHAPTER 401--GENERAL PROVISIONS

Sec.
     * * * * * * *
[40119..]
40119. Sensitive security information.
     * * * * * * *
40131. Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and Employment 
          Readiness Program.
40132. National airspace system cyber threat management process.

Sec. 40101. Policy

  (a) Economic Regulation.--In carrying out subpart II of this 
part and those provisions of subpart IV applicable in carrying 
out subpart II, the Secretary of Transportation shall consider 
the following matters, among others, as being in the public 
interest and consistent with public convenience and necessity:
          (1) assigning and maintaining safety as the highest 
        priority in air commerce.
          (2) before authorizing new air transportation 
        services, evaluating the safety implications of those 
        services.
          (3) preventing deterioration in established safety 
        procedures, recognizing the clear intent, 
        encouragement, and dedication of Congress to further 
        the highest degree of safety in air transportation and 
        air commerce, and to maintain the safety vigilance that 
        has evolved in air transportation and air commerce and 
        has come to be expected by the traveling and shipping 
        public.
          (4) the availability of a variety of adequate, 
        economic, efficient, and low-priced services without 
        unreasonable discrimination or unfair or deceptive 
        practices.
          (5) coordinating transportation by, and improving 
        relations among, air carriers, and encouraging fair 
        wages and working conditions.
          (6) placing maximum reliance on competitive market 
        forces and on actual and potential competition--
                  (A) to provide the needed air transportation 
                system; and
                  (B) to encourage efficient and well-managed 
                air carriers to earn adequate profits and 
                attract capital, considering any material 
                differences between interstate air 
                transportation and foreign air transportation.
          (7) developing and maintaining a sound regulatory 
        system that is responsive to the needs of the public 
        and in which decisions are reached promptly to make it 
        easier to adapt the air transportation system to the 
        present and future needs of--
                  (A) the commerce of the United States;
                  (B) the United States Postal Service; and
                  (C) the national defense.
          (8) encouraging air transportation at major urban 
        areas through secondary or satellite airports if 
        consistent with regional airport plans of regional and 
        local authorities, and if endorsed by appropriate State 
        authorities--
                  (A) encouraging the transportation by air 
                carriers that provide, in a specific market, 
                transportation exclusively at those airports; 
                and
                  (B) fostering an environment that allows 
                those carriers to establish themselves and 
                develop secondary or satellite airport 
                services.
          (9) preventing unfair, deceptive, predatory, or 
        anticompetitive practices in air transportation.
          (10) avoiding unreasonable industry concentration, 
        excessive market domination, monopoly powers, and other 
        conditions that would tend to allow at least one air 
        carrier or foreign air carrier unreasonably to increase 
        prices, reduce services, or exclude competition in air 
        transportation.
          (11) maintaining a complete and convenient system of 
        continuous scheduled interstate air transportation for 
        small communities and isolated areas with direct 
        financial assistance from the United States Government 
        when appropriate.
          (12) encouraging, developing, and maintaining an air 
        transportation system relying on actual and potential 
        competition--
                  (A) to provide efficiency, innovation, and 
                low prices; and
                  (B) to decide on the variety and quality of, 
                and determine prices for, air transportation 
                services.
          (13) encouraging entry into air transportation 
        markets by new and existing air carriers and the 
        continued strengthening of small air carriers to ensure 
        a more effective and competitive airline industry.
          (14) promoting, encouraging, and developing civil 
        aeronautics and a viable, privately-owned United States 
        air transport industry.
          (15) strengthening the competitive position of air 
        carriers to at least ensure equality with foreign air 
        carriers, including the attainment of the opportunity 
        for air carriers to maintain and increase their 
        profitability in foreign air transportation.
          (16) ensuring that consumers in all regions of the 
        United States, including those in small communities and 
        rural and remote areas, have access to affordable, 
        regularly scheduled air service.
          (17) preventing the undermining of labor standards.
  (b) All-Cargo Air Transportation Considerations.--In carrying 
out subpart II of this part and those provisions of subpart IV 
applicable in carrying out subpart II, the Secretary of 
Transportation shall consider the following matters, among 
others and in addition to the matters referred to in subsection 
(a) of this section, as being in the public interest for all-
cargo air transportation:
          (1) encouraging and developing an expedited all-cargo 
        air transportation system provided by private 
        enterprise and responsive to--
                  (A) the present and future needs of shippers;
                  (B) the commerce of the United States; and
                  (C) the national defense.
          (2) encouraging and developing an integrated 
        transportation system relying on competitive market 
        forces to decide the extent, variety, quality, and 
        price of services provided.
          (3) providing services without unreasonable 
        discrimination, unfair or deceptive practices, or 
        predatory pricing.
  (c) General Safety Considerations.--In carrying out subpart 
III of this part and those provisions of subpart IV applicable 
in carrying out subpart III, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall consider the following matters:
          (1) the requirements of national defense and 
        commercial and general aviation.
          (2) the public right of freedom of transit through 
        the navigable airspace.
  (d) Safety Considerations in Public Interest.--In carrying 
out subpart III of this part and those provisions of subpart IV 
applicable in carrying out subpart III, the Administrator shall 
consider the following matters, among others, as being in the 
public interest:
          (1) assigning, maintaining, and enhancing safety and 
        security as the highest priorities in air commerce.
          (2) regulating air commerce in a way that best 
        promotes safety and fulfills national defense 
        requirements.
          (3) encouraging and developing civil aeronautics, 
        including new aviation technology.
          (4) controlling the use of the navigable airspace and 
        regulating civil and military operations in that 
        airspace in the interest of the safety and efficiency 
        of both of those operations.
          (5) consolidating research and development for air 
        navigation facilities and the installation and 
        operation of those facilities.
          (6) developing and operating a common system of air 
        traffic control and navigation for military and civil 
        aircraft.
          (7) providing assistance to law enforcement agencies 
        in the enforcement of laws related to regulation of 
        controlled substances, to the extent consistent with 
        aviation safety.
  (e) International Air Transportation.--In formulating United 
States international air transportation policy, the Secretaries 
of State and Transportation shall develop a negotiating policy 
emphasizing the greatest degree of competition compatible with 
a well-functioning international air transportation system, 
including the following:
          (1) strengthening the competitive position of air 
        carriers to ensure at least equality with foreign air 
        carriers, including the attainment of the opportunity 
        for air carriers to maintain and increase their 
        profitability in foreign air transportation.
          (2) freedom of air carriers and foreign air carriers 
        to offer prices that correspond to consumer demand.
          (3) the fewest possible restrictions on charter air 
        transportation.
          (4) the maximum degree of multiple and permissive 
        international authority for air carriers so that they 
        will be able to respond quickly to a shift in market 
        demand.
          (5) eliminating operational and marketing 
        restrictions to the greatest extent possible.
          (6) integrating domestic and international air 
        transportation.
          (7) increasing the number of nonstop United States 
        gateway cities.
          (8) opportunities for carriers of foreign countries 
        to increase their access to places in the United States 
        if exchanged for benefits of similar magnitude for air 
        carriers or the traveling public with permanent linkage 
        between rights granted and rights given away.
          (9) eliminating discrimination and unfair competitive 
        practices faced by United States airlines in foreign 
        air transportation, including--
                  (A) excessive landing and user fees;
                  (B) unreasonable ground handling 
                requirements;
                  (C) unreasonable restrictions on operations;
                  (D) prohibitions against change of gauge; and
                  (E) similar restrictive practices.
          (10) promoting, encouraging, and developing civil 
        aeronautics and a viable, privately-owned United States 
        air transport industry.
          (11) preventing the undermining of labor standards.
  (f) Strengthening Competition.--In selecting an air carrier 
to provide foreign air transportation from among competing 
applicants, the Secretary of Transportation shall consider, in 
addition to the matters specified in subsections (a) and (b) of 
this section, the strengthening of competition among air 
carriers operating in the United States to prevent unreasonable 
concentration in the air carrier industry.

Sec. 40102. Definitions

  (a) General Definitions.--In this part--
          (1) ``aeronautics'' means the science and art of 
        flight.
          (2) ``air carrier'' means a citizen of the United 
        States undertaking by any means, directly or 
        indirectly, to provide air transportation.
          (3) ``air commerce'' means foreign air commerce, 
        interstate air commerce, the transportation of mail by 
        aircraft, the operation of aircraft within the limits 
        of a Federal airway, or the operation of aircraft that 
        directly affects, or may endanger safety in, foreign or 
        interstate air commerce.
          (4) ``air navigation facility'' means a facility 
        used, available for use, or designed for use, in aid of 
        air navigation, including--
                  (A) a landing area;
                  (B) runway lighting and airport surface 
                visual and other navigation aids;
                  (C) apparatus, equipment, software, or 
                service for distributing aeronautical and 
                meteorological information to air traffic 
                control facilities or aircraft;
                  (D) communication, navigation, or 
                surveillance equipment for air-to-ground or 
                air-to-air applications;
                  (E) any structure, equipment, or mechanism 
                for guiding or controlling flight in the air or 
                the landing and takeoff of aircraft; and
                  (F) buildings, equipment, and systems 
                dedicated to the national airspace system.
          (5) ``air transportation'' means foreign air 
        transportation, interstate air transportation, or the 
        transportation of mail by aircraft.
          (6) ``aircraft'' means any contrivance invented, 
        used, or designed to navigate, or fly in, the air.
          (7) ``aircraft engine'' means an engine used, or 
        intended to be used, to propel an aircraft, including a 
        part, appurtenance, and accessory of the engine, except 
        a propeller.
          (8) ``airman'' means an individual--
                  (A) in command, or as pilot, mechanic, or 
                member of the crew, who navigates aircraft when 
                under way;
                  (B) except to the extent the Administrator of 
                the Federal Aviation Administration may provide 
                otherwise for individuals employed outside the 
                United States, who is directly in charge of 
                inspecting, maintaining, overhauling, or 
                repairing aircraft, aircraft engines, 
                propellers, or appliances; or
                  (C) who serves as an aircraft dispatcher or 
                air traffic control-tower operator.
          (9) ``airport'' means a landing area used regularly 
        by aircraft for receiving or discharging passengers or 
        cargo.
          (10) ``all-cargo air transportation'' means the 
        transportation by aircraft in interstate air 
        transportation of only property or only mail, or both.
          (11) ``appliance'' means an instrument, equipment, 
        apparatus, a part, an appurtenance, or an accessory 
        used, capable of being used, or intended to be used, in 
        operating or controlling aircraft in flight, including 
        a parachute, communication equipment, and another 
        mechanism installed in or attached to aircraft during 
        flight, and not a part of an aircraft, aircraft engine, 
        or propeller.
          (12) ``cargo'' means property, mail, or both.
          (13) ``charter air carrier'' means an air carrier 
        holding a certificate of public convenience and 
        necessity that authorizes it to provide charter air 
        transportation.
          (14) ``charter air transportation'' means charter 
        trips in air transportation authorized under this part.
          (15) ``citizen of the United States'' means--
                  (A) an individual who is a citizen of the 
                United States;
                  (B) a partnership each of whose partners is 
                an individual who is a citizen of the United 
                States; or
                  (C) a corporation or association organized 
                under the laws of the United States or a State, 
                the District of Columbia, or a territory or 
                possession of the United States, of which the 
                president and at least two-thirds of the board 
                of directors and other managing officers are 
                citizens of the United States, which is under 
                the actual control of citizens of the United 
                States, and in which at least 75 percent of the 
                voting interest is owned or controlled by 
                persons that are citizens of the United States.
          (16) ``civil aircraft'' means an aircraft except a 
        public aircraft.
          (17) ``civil aircraft of the United States'' means an 
        aircraft registered under chapter 441 of this title.
          (18) ``conditional sales contract'' means a 
        contract--
                  (A) for the sale of an aircraft, aircraft 
                engine, propeller, appliance, or spare part, 
                under which the buyer takes possession of the 
                property but title to the property vests in the 
                buyer at a later time on--
                          (i) paying any part of the purchase 
                        price;
                          (ii) performing another condition; or
                          (iii) the happening of a contingency; 
                        or
                  (B) to bail or lease an aircraft, aircraft 
                engine, propeller, appliance, or spare part, 
                under which the bailee or lessee--
                          (i) agrees to pay an amount 
                        substantially equal to the value of the 
                        property; and
                          (ii) is to become, or has the option 
                        of becoming, the owner of the property 
                        on complying with the contract.
          (19) ``conveyance'' means an instrument, including a 
        conditional sales contract, affecting title to, or an 
        interest in, property.
          (20) ``Federal airway'' means a part of the navigable 
        airspace that the Administrator designates as a Federal 
        airway.
          (21) ``foreign air carrier'' means a person, not a 
        citizen of the United States, undertaking by any means, 
        directly or indirectly, to provide foreign air 
        transportation.
          (22) ``foreign air commerce'' means the 
        transportation of passengers or property by aircraft 
        for compensation, the transportation of mail by 
        aircraft, or the operation of aircraft in furthering a 
        business or vocation, between a place in the United 
        States and a place outside the United States when any 
        part of the transportation or operation is by aircraft.
          (23) ``foreign air transportation'' means the 
        transportation of passengers or property by aircraft as 
        a common carrier for compensation, or the 
        transportation of mail by aircraft, between a place in 
        the United States and a place outside the United States 
        when any part of the transportation is by aircraft.
          (24) ``interstate air commerce'' means the 
        transportation of passengers or property by aircraft 
        for compensation, the transportation of mail by 
        aircraft, or the operation of aircraft in furthering a 
        business or vocation--
                  (A) between a place in--
                          (i) a State, territory, or possession 
                        of the United States and a place in the 
                        District of Columbia or another State, 
                        territory, or possession of the United 
                        States;
                          (ii) a State and another place in the 
                        same State through the airspace over a 
                        place outside the State;
                          (iii) the District of Columbia and 
                        another place in the District of 
                        Columbia; or
                          (iv) a territory or possession of the 
                        United States and another place in the 
                        same territory or possession; and
                  (B) when any part of the transportation or 
                operation is by aircraft.
          (25) ``interstate air transportation'' means the 
        transportation of passengers or property by aircraft as 
        a common carrier for compensation, or the 
        transportation of mail by aircraft--
                  (A) between a place in--
                          (i) a State, territory, or possession 
                        of the United States and a place in the 
                        District of Columbia or another State, 
                        territory, or possession of the United 
                        States;
                          (ii) Hawaii and another place in 
                        Hawaii through the airspace over a 
                        place outside Hawaii;
                          (iii) the District of Columbia and 
                        another place in the District of 
                        Columbia; or
                          (iv) a territory or possession of the 
                        United States and another place in the 
                        same territory or possession; and
                  (B) when any part of the transportation is by 
                aircraft.
          (26) ``intrastate air carrier'' means a citizen of 
        the United States undertaking by any means to provide 
        only intrastate air transportation.
          (27) ``intrastate air transportation'' means the 
        transportation by a common carrier of passengers or 
        property for compensation, entirely in the same State, 
        by turbojet-powered aircraft capable of carrying at 
        least 30 passengers.
          (28) ``landing area'' means a place on land or water, 
        including an airport or intermediate landing field, 
        used, or intended to be used, for the takeoff and 
        landing of aircraft, even when facilities are not 
        provided for sheltering, servicing, or repairing 
        aircraft, or for receiving or discharging passengers or 
        cargo.
          (29) ``large hub airport'' means a commercial service 
        airport (as defined in section 47102) that has at least 
        1.0 percent of the passenger boardings.
          (30) ``mail'' means United States mail and foreign 
        transit mail.
          (31) ``medium hub airport'' means a commercial 
        service airport (as defined in section 47102) that has 
        at least 0.25 percent but less than 1.0 percent of the 
        passenger boardings.
          (32) ``navigable airspace'' means airspace above the 
        minimum altitudes of flight prescribed by regulations 
        under this subpart and subpart III of this part, 
        including airspace needed to ensure safety in the 
        takeoff and landing of aircraft.
          (33) ``navigate aircraft'' and ``navigation of 
        aircraft'' include piloting aircraft.
          (34) ``nonhub airport'' means a commercial service 
        airport (as defined in section 47102) that has less 
        than 0.05 percent of the passenger boardings.
          (35) ``operate aircraft'' and ``operation of 
        aircraft'' mean using aircraft for the purposes of air 
        navigation, including--
                  (A) the navigation of aircraft; and
                  (B) causing or authorizing the operation of 
                aircraft with or without the right of legal 
                control of the aircraft.
          (36) ``passenger boardings''--
                  (A) means, unless the context indicates 
                otherwise, revenue passenger boardings in the 
                United States in the prior calendar year on an 
                aircraft in service in air commerce, as the 
                Secretary determines under regulations the 
                Secretary prescribes; and
                  (B) includes passengers who continue on an 
                aircraft in international flight that stops at 
                an airport in the 48 contiguous States, Alaska, 
                or Hawaii for a nontraffic purpose.
          (37) ``person'', in addition to its meaning under 
        section 1 of title 1, includes a governmental authority 
        and a trustee, receiver, assignee, and other similar 
        representative.
          (38) ``predatory'' means a practice that violates the 
        antitrust laws as defined in the first section of the 
        Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 12).
          (39) ``price'' means a rate, fare, or charge.
          (40) ``propeller'' includes a part, appurtenance, and 
        accessory of a propeller.
          (41) ``public aircraft'' means any of the following:
                  (A) Except with respect to an aircraft 
                described in subparagraph (E), an aircraft used 
                only for the United States Government, except 
                as provided in section 40125(b).
                  (B) An aircraft owned by the Government and 
                operated by any person for purposes related to 
                crew training, equipment development, or 
                demonstration, except as provided in section 
                40125(b).
                  (C) An aircraft owned and operated by the 
                government of a State, the District of 
                Columbia, or a territory or possession of the 
                United States or a political subdivision of one 
                of these governments, except as provided in 
                section 40125(b).
                  (D) An aircraft exclusively leased for at 
                least 90 continuous days by the government of a 
                State, the District of Columbia, or a territory 
                or possession of the United States or a 
                political subdivision of one of these 
                governments, except as provided in section 
                40125(b).
                  (E) An aircraft owned or operated by the 
                armed forces or chartered to provide 
                transportation or other commercial air service 
                to the armed forces under the conditions 
                specified by section 40125(c). In the preceding 
                sentence, the term ``other commercial air 
                service'' means an aircraft operation that (i) 
                is within the United States territorial 
                airspace; (ii) the Administrator of the Federal 
                Aviation Administration determines is available 
                for compensation or hire to the public, and 
                (iii) must comply with all applicable civil 
                aircraft rules under title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations.
                  (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).
          (42) ``small hub airport'' means a commercial service 
        airport (as defined in section 47102) that has at least 
        0.05 percent but less than 0.25 percent of the 
        passenger boardings.
          (43) ``spare part'' means an accessory, appurtenance, 
        or part of an aircraft (except an aircraft engine or 
        propeller), aircraft engine (except a propeller), 
        propeller, or appliance, that is to be installed at a 
        later time in an aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, 
        or appliance.
          (44) ``State authority'' means an authority of a 
        State designated under State law--
                  (A) to receive notice required to be given a 
                State authority under subpart II of this part; 
                or
                  (B) as the representative of the State before 
                the Secretary of Transportation in any matter 
                about which the Secretary is required to 
                consult with or consider the views of a State 
                authority under subpart II of this part.
          (45) ``ticket agent'' means a person (except an air 
        carrier, a foreign air carrier, or an employee of an 
        air carrier or foreign air carrier) that as a principal 
        or agent sells, offers for sale, negotiates for, or 
        holds itself out as selling, providing, or arranging 
        for, air transportation.
          (46) ``United States'' means the States of the United 
        States, the District of Columbia, and the territories 
        and possessions of the United States, including the 
        territorial sea and the overlying airspace.
          (47) ``air traffic control system'' means the 
        combination of elements used to safely and efficiently 
        monitor, direct, control, and guide aircraft in the 
        United States and United States-assigned airspace, 
        including--
                  (A) allocated electromagnetic spectrum and 
                physical, real, personal, and intellectual 
                property assets making up facilities, 
                equipment, and systems employed to detect, 
                track, and guide aircraft movement;
                  (B) laws, regulations, orders, directives, 
                agreements, and licenses;
                  (C) published procedures that explain 
                required actions, activities, and techniques 
                used to ensure adequate aircraft separation; 
                [and]
                  (D) trained personnel with specific technical 
                capabilities to satisfy the operational, 
                engineering, management, and planning 
                requirements for air traffic control[.]; and
                  (E) systems, software, and hardware operated, 
                owned, and maintained by third parties that 
                support or directly provide air navigation 
                information and air traffic management services 
                with Administration approval.
  (b) Limited Definition.--In subpart II of this part, 
``control'' means control by any means.

Sec. 40103. Sovereignty and use of airspace

  (a) Sovereignty and Public Right of Transit.--(1) The United 
States Government has exclusive sovereignty of airspace of the 
United States.
  (2) A citizen of the United States has a public right of 
transit through the navigable airspace. To further that right, 
the Secretary of Transportation shall consult with the 
Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board 
established under section 502 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 
(29 U.S.C. 792) before prescribing a regulation or issuing an 
order or procedure that will have a significant impact on the 
accessibility of commercial airports or commercial air 
transportation for [handicapped individuals] individuals with 
disabilities.
  (b) Use of Airspace.--(1) The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall develop plans and policy for the 
use of the navigable airspace and assign by regulation or order 
the use of the airspace necessary to ensure the safety of 
aircraft and the efficient use of airspace. The Administrator 
may modify or revoke an assignment when required in the public 
interest.
  (2) The Administrator shall prescribe air traffic regulations 
on the flight of aircraft (including regulations on safe 
altitudes) for--
          (A) navigating, protecting, and identifying aircraft;
          (B) protecting individuals and property on the 
        ground;
          (C) using the navigable airspace efficiently; and
          (D) preventing collision between aircraft, between 
        aircraft and land or water vehicles, and between 
        aircraft and airborne objects.
  (3) To establish security provisions that will encourage and 
allow maximum use of the navigable airspace by civil aircraft 
consistent with national security, the Administrator, in 
consultation with the Secretary of Defense, shall--
          (A) establish areas in the airspace the Administrator 
        decides are necessary in the interest of national 
        defense; and
          (B) by regulation or order, restrict or prohibit 
        flight of civil aircraft that the Administrator cannot 
        identify, locate, and control with available facilities 
        in those areas.
  (4) Notwithstanding the military exception in section 
553(a)(1) of title 5, subchapter II of chapter 5 of title 5 
applies to a regulation prescribed under this subsection.
  (5)(A) In issuing a temporary flight restriction, the 
Administrator shall--
          (i) ensure there is a specific and articulable safety 
        or security basis for the size, scope, and duration of 
        such restriction;
          (ii) immediately distribute a notice of the temporary 
        flight restriction via the Notice to Air Missions 
        system; and
          (iii) detail in the notice required under clause 
        (ii)--
                  (I) the safety basis for the restriction; and
                  (II) how a covered person may lawfully and 
                expeditiously operate an aircraft within the 
                restriction.
  (B) In this paragraph, the term ``covered person'' means--
          (i) a public safety agency;
          (ii) a first responder;
          (iii) an accredited news representative; or
          (iv) any other person as determined appropriate by 
        the Administrator.
  (c) Foreign Aircraft.--A foreign aircraft, not part of the 
armed forces of a foreign country, may be navigated in the 
United States as provided in section 41703 of this title.
  (d) Aircraft of Armed Forces of Foreign Countries.--Aircraft 
of the armed forces of a foreign country may be navigated in 
the United States only when authorized by the Secretary of 
State.
  (e) No Exclusive Rights at Certain Facilities.--A person does 
not have an exclusive right to use an air navigation facility 
on which Government money has been expended. However, providing 
services at an airport by only one fixed-based operator is not 
an exclusive right if--
          (1) it is unreasonably costly, burdensome, or 
        impractical for more than one fixed-based operator to 
        provide the services; and
          (2) allowing more than one fixed-based operator to 
        provide the services requires a reduction in space 
        leased under an agreement existing on September 3, 
        1982, between the operator and the airport.

Sec. 40104. Promotion of civil aeronautics and safety of air commerce

  (a) Developing Civil Aeronautics and Safety of Air 
Commerce.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall encourage the development of civil 
aeronautics and safety of air commerce in and outside the 
United States. [In carrying out this subsection, the 
Administrator shall take action that the Administrator 
considers necessary to establish, within available resources, a 
program to distribute civil aviation information in each region 
served by the Administration. The program shall provide, on 
request, informational material and expertise on civil aviation 
to State and local school administrators, college and 
university officials, and officers of other interested 
organizations.]
  [(c)] (b) Airport Capacity Enhancement Projects at Congested 
Airports.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator 
shall take action to encourage the construction of airport 
capacity enhancement projects at congested airports as those 
terms are defined in section 47175.
  (c) Educational and Professional Development.--
          (1) In general.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
        Administrator shall support and undertake efforts, 
        including through the National Center for the 
        Advancement of Aerospace, to promote and support the 
        education of current and future aerospace 
        professionals.
          (2) Education materials.--Based on the availability 
        of resources, the Administrator shall distribute civil 
        aviation information, and educational materials, and 
        provide expertise to State and local school 
        administrators, college and university officials, and 
        officers of other interested organizations and 
        entities.
          (3) Support for professional development and 
        continuing education.--To the extent a nonprofit 
        organization, association, industry group, educational 
        institution, collective bargaining unit, governmental 
        organization, or other entity that organizes or hosts a 
        lecture, conference, convention, meeting, round table, 
        or any other type of program with the purpose of 
        sharing educational information related to aerospace 
        with a broad audience, the Administrator shall--
                  (A) strongly consider accepting an invitation 
                to attend, present, and contribute to content 
                generation; and
                  (B) make efforts to share information each 
                year, putting a particular emphasis on reaching 
                audiences consisting of representatives of the 
                Administrator and entities regulated entities 
                by the Administrator.
          (4) Content.--In planning for the opportunities under 
        paragraph (3), the Administrator shall maintain 
        presentations and content covering topics of broad 
        relevance, including--
                  (A) ethical decision-making and the 
                responsibilities of aerospace professionals;
                  (B) managing a workforce, encouraging proper 
                reporting of prospective safety issues, and 
                educating employees on safety management 
                systems; and
                  (C) responsibilities as a designee or 
                representative of the Administrator.
  [(b)] (d)
          (1) In general.--[The Administrator] In carrying out 
        subsection (a), the Administrator shall promote and 
        achieve global improvements in the safety, efficiency, 
        and environmental effect of air travel by exercising 
        leadership with the Administrator's foreign 
        counterparts, in the International Civil Aviation 
        Organization and its subsidiary organizations, and 
        other international organizations and fora, and with 
        the private sector.
          (2) International presence.--The Administrator shall 
        maintain an international presence to--
                  (A) assist foreign civil aviation authorities 
                in--
                          (i) establishing robust aerospace 
                        oversight practices and policies;
                          (ii) training staff, to include 
                        inspectors and accident investigators;
                          (iii) harmonizing international 
                        aerospace standards for air traffic 
                        management, operator certification, 
                        aircraft certification, airports, and 
                        certificated or credentialed 
                        individuals;
                          (iv) validating and accepting foreign 
                        aircraft design and production 
                        approvals;
                          (v) maintaining appropriate levels of 
                        air navigation services;
                          (vi) preparing for new aerospace 
                        technologies; and
                          (vii) appropriately adopting 
                        continuing airworthiness information, 
                        such as airworthiness directives;
                  (B) encourage the adoption of United States 
                standards, regulations, and policies;
                  (C) establish, maintain, and update bilateral 
                or multilateral aviation safety agreements and 
                the aviation safety information contained 
                within such agreements;
                  (D) engage in bilateral and multilateral 
                discussions and provide technical assistance as 
                described in paragraph (5);
                  (E) validate foreign aerospace products and 
                ensure reciprocal validation of products for 
                which the United States is the state of design 
                or production;
                  (F) support accident and incident 
                investigations, particularly such 
                investigations that involve United States 
                persons and certified products and such 
                investigations where the National 
                Transportation Safety Board is supporting an 
                investigation pursuant to annex 13 of the 
                International Civil Aviation Organization;
                  (G) support the international activities of 
                the United States aerospace sector;
                  (H) maintain valuable relationships with 
                entities with aerospace equities, including 
                civil aviation authorities, other governmental 
                bodies, non-governmental organizations, and 
                foreign manufacturers; and
                  (I) perform other activities as determined 
                necessary by the Administrator.
          (3) International offices.--In carrying out the 
        responsibilities described in subsection (a), the 
        Administrator shall--
                  (A) maintain international offices of the 
                Administration;
                  (B) every 3 years, review existing 
                international offices to determine--
                          (i) the effectiveness of such offices 
                        in fulfilling the mission described in 
                        paragraph (2); and
                          (ii) the adequacy of resources and 
                        staffing to achieve the mission 
                        described in paragraph (2);
                  (C) establish offices to address gaps 
                identified by the review under subparagraph (B) 
                and in furtherance of the mission described in 
                paragraph (2), putting an emphasis on 
                establishing such offices--
                          (i) where international civil 
                        aviation authorities are located;
                          (ii) where regional intergovernmental 
                        organizations are located;
                          (iii) in countries that have 
                        difficulty maintaining a category 1 
                        classification through the 
                        International Aviation Safety 
                        Assessment program; and
                          (iv) in regions that have experienced 
                        substantial growth in aerospace 
                        operations or manufacturing.
          [(2)] (4) Bilateral and multilateral engagement; 
        technical assistance.--The Administrator shall--
                  (A) in consultation with the Secretary of 
                State, engage bilaterally and multilaterally, 
                including with the International Civil Aviation 
                Organization, on an ongoing basis to bolster 
                international collaboration, data sharing, and 
                harmonization of international aviation safety 
                requirements including through--
                          (i) sharing of continued operational 
                        safety information;
                          (ii) prioritization of pilot training 
                        deficiencies, including manual flying 
                        skills and flight crew training, to 
                        discourage over reliance on automation, 
                        further bolstering the components of 
                        airmanship;
                          (iii) encouraging the consideration 
                        of the safety advantages of appropriate 
                        Federal regulations, which may include 
                        relevant Federal regulations pertaining 
                        to flight crew training requirements; 
                        and
                          (iv) prioritizing any other flight 
                        crew training areas that the 
                        Administrator believes will enhance all 
                        international aviation safety; and
                  (B) seek to expand technical assistance 
                provided by the Federal Aviation Administration 
                in support of enhancing international aviation 
                safety, including by--
                          (i) promoting and enhancing effective 
                        oversight systems, including 
                        operational safety enhancements 
                        identified through data collection and 
                        analysis;
                          (ii) promoting and encouraging 
                        compliance with international safety 
                        standards by counterpart civil aviation 
                        authorities;
                          (iii) minimizing cybersecurity 
                        threats and vulnerabilities across the 
                        aviation ecosystem;
                          (iv) supporting the sharing of safety 
                        information, best practices, risk 
                        assessments, and mitigations through 
                        established international aviation 
                        safety groups; and
                          (v) providing technical assistance on 
                        any other aspect of aviation safety 
                        that the Administrator determines is 
                        likely to enhance international 
                        aviation safety.
          (5) Bilateral aviation safety agreements.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administrator shall 
                negotiate, enter into, promote, enforce, 
                evaluate the effectiveness of, and seek to 
                update bilateral or multilateral aviation 
                safety agreements, and the parts of such 
                agreements, with international aviation 
                authorities.
                  (B) Purpose.--The Administrator shall seek to 
                enter into bilateral aviation safety agreements 
                under this section to, at a minimum--
                          (i) improve global aerospace safety;
                          (ii) increase harmonization of, and 
                        reduce duplicative, requirements, 
                        processes, and approvals to advance the 
                        aerospace interests of the United 
                        States;
                          (iii) ensure access to international 
                        markets for operators, service 
                        providers, and manufacturers from the 
                        United States; and
                          (iv) put in place procedures for 
                        recourse when a party to such 
                        agreements fails to meet the 
                        obligations of such party under such 
                        agreements.
                  (C) Scope.--The scope of a bilateral aviation 
                safety agreement entered into under this 
                section shall, as appropriate, cover existing 
                aerospace users and concepts and establish a 
                process by which bilateral aviation safety 
                agreements can be updated to include new and 
                novel concepts on an ongoing basis.
                  (D) Contents.--Bilateral aviation safety 
                agreements entered into under this section 
                shall, as appropriate and consistent with 
                United States law and regulation, include 
                topics such as--
                          (i) airworthiness, certification, and 
                        validation;
                          (ii) maintenance;
                          (iii) operations and pilot training;
                          (iv) airspace access, efficiencies, 
                        and navigation services;
                          (v) transport category aircraft;
                          (vi) fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, 
                        and powered-lift aircraft;
                          (vii) aerodrome certification;
                          (viii) unmanned aircraft and 
                        associated elements of such aircraft;
                          (ix) flight simulation training 
                        devices;
                          (x) new or emerging aerospace 
                        technologies and technology trends; and
                          (xi) other topics as determined 
                        appropriate by the Administrator.
                  (E) Rule of construction.--Bilateral or 
                multilateral aviation safety agreements entered 
                into under this subsection shall not be 
                construed to diminish or alter any authority of 
                the Administrator under any other provision of 
                law.
          (6) Strategic plan.--The Administrator shall maintain 
        a strategic plan for the international engagement of 
        the Administration that includes--
                  (A) all elements of the report required in 
                section 243(b)(1) of the FAA Reauthorization 
                Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44701 note);
                  (B) measures to fulfill the mission described 
                in paragraph (2);
                  (C) initiatives to attain greater expertise 
                among employees of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration in issues related to dispute 
                resolution, intellectual property, and expert 
                control laws;
                  (D) policy regarding the future direction and 
                strategy of the United States engagement with 
                the International Civil Aviation Organization;
                  (E) procedures for acceptance of mandatory 
                airworthiness information, such as 
                airworthiness directives, and other safety-
                related regulatory documents, including 
                procedures to implement the requirements of 
                section 44701(e)(5);
                  (F) all factors, including funding and 
                resourcing, necessary for the Administration to 
                maintain leadership in the global activities 
                related to aviation safety and air 
                transportation; and
                  (G) establishment of, and a process to 
                regularly track and update, metrics to measure 
                the effectiveness of, and foreign civil 
                aviation authority compliance with, bilateral 
                aviation safety agreements.
  [(d)] (e) Promotion of United States Aerospace Standards, 
Products, and Services Abroad.--The Secretary shall take 
appropriate actions to--
          (1) promote United States aerospace-related 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 certificated 
        aeronautical products, services, and appliances and 
        enhance mutual acceptance in order to eliminate 
        redundancies and unnecessary costs; and
          (4) with respect to the aeronautical safety 
        authorities of a foreign country, streamline validation 
        and coordination processes.
  (f) Travel.--The Administrator and the Secretary of 
Transportation shall, in carrying out the responsibilities 
described in subsection (a), delegate to the appropriate 
supervisors of offices of the Administration the ability to 
authorize the domestic and international travel of relevant 
personnel who are not in the Federal Aviation Administration 
Executive System, without any additional approvals required, 
for the purposes of--
          (1) promoting aviation safety, aircraft operations, 
        air traffic, airport, unmanned aircraft systems, 
        commercial space transportation, and other aviation 
        standards and regulations adopted by the United States;
          (2) facilitating the adoption of United States 
        approaches on standards and recommended practices at 
        the International Civil Aviation Organization;
          (3) promoting environmental standards adopted by the 
        United States and standards promulgated under section 
        44714;
          (4) supporting the acceptance of Administration 
        design and production approvals by other civil aviation 
        authorities;
          (5) training Administration personnel and training 
        provided to other persons;
          (6) engaging with regulated entities, including 
        performing site visits;
          (7) activities associated with subsections (c) 
        through (f) of this section; and
          (8) other activities as determined by the 
        Administrator.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 40109. Authority to exempt

  (a) Air Carriers and Foreign Air Carriers Not Engaged 
Directly in Operating Aircraft.--(1) The Secretary of 
Transportation may exempt from subpart II of this part--
          (A) an air carrier not engaged directly in operating 
        aircraft in air transportation; or
          (B) a foreign air carrier not engaged directly in 
        operating aircraft in foreign air transportation.
  (2) The exemption is effective to the extent and for periods 
that the Secretary decides are in the public interest.
  (b) Safety Regulation.--The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration may grant an exemption from a 
regulation prescribed in carrying out [sections 40103(b)(1) and 
(2) of this title] paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 40103(b) 
when the Administrator decides the exemption is in the public 
interest.
  (c) Other Economic Regulation.--Except as provided in this 
section, the Secretary may exempt to the extent the Secretary 
considers necessary a person or class of persons from a 
provision of chapter 411, chapter 413 (except sections 41307 
and 41310(b)-(f)), chapter 415 (except sections 41502, 41505, 
and 41507-41509), chapter 417 (except sections 41703, 41704, 
41710, 41713, and 41714), chapter 419, subchapter II of chapter 
421, and sections 44909(a), 44909(b), and 46301(b) of this 
title, or a regulation or term prescribed under any of those 
provisions, when the Secretary decides that the exemption is 
consistent with the public interest.
  (d) Labor Requirements.--The Secretary may not exempt an air 
carrier from section 42112 of this title. However, the 
Secretary may exempt from section 42112(b)(1) and (2) an air 
carrier not providing scheduled air transportation, and the 
operations conducted during daylight hours by an air carrier 
providing scheduled air transportation, when the Secretary 
decides that--
          (1) because of the limited extent of, or unusual 
        circumstances affecting, the operation of the air 
        carrier, the enforcement of section 42112(b)(1) and (2) 
        of this title is or would be an unreasonable burden on 
        the air carrier that would obstruct its development and 
        prevent it from beginning or continuing operations; and
          (2) the exemption would not affect adversely the 
        public interest.
  (e) Maximum Flying Hours.--The Secretary may not exempt an 
air carrier under this section from a provision referred to in 
subsection (c) of this section, or a regulation or term 
prescribed under any of those provisions, that sets maximum 
flying hours for pilots or copilots.
  (f) Smaller Aircraft.--(1) An air carrier is exempt from 
section 41101(a)(1) of this title, and the Secretary may exempt 
an air carrier from another provision of subpart II of this 
part, if the air carrier--
          (A)(i) provides passenger transportation only with 
        aircraft having a maximum capacity of 55 passengers; or
          (ii) provides the transportation of cargo only with 
        aircraft having a maximum payload of less than 18,000 
        pounds; and
          (B) complies with liability insurance requirements 
        and other regulations the Secretary prescribes.
  (2) The Secretary may increase the passenger or payload 
capacities when the public interest requires.
  (3)(A) An exemption under this subsection applies to an air 
carrier providing air transportation between 2 places in 
Alaska, or between Alaska and Canada, only if the carrier is 
authorized by Alaska to provide the transportation.
  (B) The Secretary may limit the number or location of places 
that may be served by an air carrier providing transportation 
only in Alaska under an exemption from section 41101(a)(1) of 
this title, or the frequency with which the transportation may 
be provided, only when the Secretary decides that providing the 
transportation substantially impairs the ability of an air 
carrier holding a certificate issued by the Secretary to 
provide its authorized transportation, including the minimum 
transportation requirement for Alaska specified under section 
41732(b)(1)(B) of this title.
  (g) Emergency Air Transportation by Foreign Air Carriers.--
(1) To the extent that the Secretary decides an exemption is in 
the public interest, the Secretary may exempt by order a 
foreign air carrier from the requirements and limitations of 
this part for not more than 30 days to allow the foreign air 
carrier to carry passengers or cargo in interstate air 
transportation in certain markets if the Secretary finds that--
          (A) because of an emergency created by unusual 
        circumstances not arising in the normal course of 
        business, air carriers holding certificates under 
        section 41102 of this title cannot accommodate traffic 
        in those markets;
          (B) all possible efforts have been made to 
        accommodate the traffic by using the resources of the 
        air carriers, including the use of--
                  (i) foreign aircraft, or sections of foreign 
                aircraft, under lease or charter to the air 
                carriers; and
                  (ii) the air carriers' reservations systems 
                to the extent practicable;
          (C) the exemption is necessary to avoid unreasonable 
        hardship for the traffic in the markets that cannot be 
        accommodated by the air carriers; and
          (D) granting the exemption will not result in an 
        unreasonable advantage to any party in a labor dispute 
        where the inability to accommodate traffic in a market 
        is a result of the dispute.
  (2) When the Secretary grants an exemption to a foreign air 
carrier under this subsection, the Secretary shall--
          (A) ensure that air transportation that the foreign 
        air carrier provides under the exemption is made 
        available on reasonable terms;
          (B) monitor continuously the passenger load factor of 
        air carriers in the market that hold certificates under 
        section 41102 of this title; and
          (C) review the exemption at least every 30 days (or, 
        in the case of an exemption that is necessary to 
        provide and sustain air transportation in American 
        Samoa between the islands of Tutuila and Manu'a, at 
        least every 180 days) to ensure that the unusual 
        circumstances that established the need for the 
        exemption still exist.
  (3) Renewal of exemptions.--
          (A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph 
        (B), the Secretary may renew an exemption (including 
        renewals) under this subsection for not more than 30 
        days.
          (B) Exception.--The Secretary may renew an exemption 
        (including renewals) under this subsection that is 
        necessary to provide and sustain air transportation in 
        American Samoa between the islands of Tutuila and 
        Manu'a for not more than 180 days.
  (4) Continuation of exemptions.--An exemption granted by the 
Secretary under this subsection may continue for not more than 
5 days after the unusual circumstances that established the 
need for the exemption cease.
  (h) Notice and Opportunity for Hearing.--The Secretary may 
act under subsections (d) and (f)(3)(B) of this section only 
after giving the air carrier notice and an opportunity for a 
hearing.

Sec. 40110. General procurement authority

  (a) General.--In carrying out this part, the Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration--
          (1) to the extent that amounts are available for 
        obligation, may acquire services or, by condemnation or 
        otherwise, an interest in property, including an 
        interest in airspace immediately adjacent to and needed 
        for airports and other air navigation facilities owned 
        by the United States Government and operated by the 
        Administrator;
          (2) may construct and improve laboratories and other 
        test facilities; and
          (3) may dispose of any interest in property for 
        adequate compensation, and the amount so received 
        shall--
                  (A) be credited to the appropriation current 
                when the amount is received;
                  (B) be merged with and available for the 
                purposes of such appropriation; and
                  (C) remain available until expended.
  (b) Purchase of Housing Units.--
          (1) Authority.--In carrying out this part, the 
        Administrator may purchase a housing unit (including a 
        condominium or a housing unit in a building owned by a 
        cooperative) that is located outside the contiguous 
        United States if the cost of the unit is $300,000 or 
        less.
          (2) Adjustments for inflation.--For fiscal years 
        beginning after September 30, 1997, the Administrator 
        may adjust the dollar amount specified in paragraph (1) 
        to take into account increases in local housing costs.
          (3) Continuing obligations.--Notwithstanding section 
        1341 of title 31, the Administrator may purchase a 
        housing unit under paragraph (1) even if there is an 
        obligation thereafter to pay necessary and reasonable 
        fees duly assessed upon such unit, including fees 
        related to operation, maintenance, taxes, and 
        insurance.
          (4) Certification to congress.--The Administrator may 
        purchase a housing unit under paragraph (1) only if, at 
        least 30 days before completing the purchase, the 
        Administrator transmits 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) a description of the housing unit and its 
                price;
                  (B) a certification that the price does not 
                exceed the median price of housing units in the 
                area; and
                  (C) a certification that purchasing the 
                housing unit is the most cost-beneficial means 
                of providing necessary accommodations in 
                carrying out this part.
          (5) Payment of fees.--The Administrator may pay, when 
        due, fees resulting from the purchase of a housing unit 
        under this subsection from any amounts made available 
        to the Administrator.
  (c) Duties and Powers.--When carrying out subsection (a) of 
this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration may--
          (1) notwithstanding section 1341(a)(1) of title 31, 
        lease an interest in property for not more than 20 
        years;
          (2) consider the reasonable probable future use of 
        the underlying land in making an award for a 
        condemnation of an interest in airspace;
          (3) construct, or acquire an interest in, a public 
        building (as defined in section 3301(a) of title 40) 
        only under a delegation of authority from the 
        Administrator of General Services; and
          (4) dispose of property under subsection (a)(2) of 
        this section, except for airport and airway property 
        and technical equipment used for the special purposes 
        of the Administration, only under sections 121, 123, 
        and 126 and chapter 5 of title 40.
  (d) Acquisition Management System.--
          (1) In general.--In consultation with such non-
        governmental experts in acquisition management systems 
        as the Administrator may employ, and notwithstanding 
        provisions of Federal acquisition law, the 
        Administrator shall develop [and implement], implement, 
        and periodically update an acquisition management 
        system for the Administration that addresses the unique 
        needs of the agency and, at a minimum, provides for--
                  (A) more timely and cost-effective 
                acquisitions of equipment, services, property, 
                and materials; and
                  (B) the resolution of bid protests and 
                contract disputes related thereto, using 
                consensual alternative dispute resolution 
                techniques to the maximum extent practicable.
          (2) Applicability of federal acquisition law.--The 
        following provisions of Federal acquisition law shall 
        not apply to [the new acquisition management system 
        developed and implemented] the acquisition management 
        system developed, implemented, and periodically updated 
        pursuant to paragraph (1):
                  (A) Division C (except sections 3302, 
                3501(b), 3509, 3906, 4710, and 4711) of 
                subtitle I of title 41.
                  (B) Division B (except sections 1704 and 
                2303) of subtitle I of title 41.
                  (C) The Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act 
                of 1994 (Public Law 103-355). However, section 
                4705 of title 41 shall apply to [the new 
                acquisition management system developed and 
                implemented] the acquisition management system 
                developed, implemented, and periodically 
                updated pursuant to paragraph (1). For the 
                purpose of applying section 4705 of title 41 to 
                the system, the term ``executive agency'' is 
                deemed to refer to the Federal Aviation 
                Administration.
                  (D) The Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et 
                seq.), except that all reasonable opportunities 
                to be awarded contracts shall be provided to 
                small business concerns and small business 
                concerns owned and controlled by socially and 
                economically disadvantaged individuals.
                  (E) The Competition in Contracting Act.
                  (F) Subchapter V of chapter 35 of title 31, 
                relating to the procurement protest system.
                  (G) The Federal Acquisition Regulation and 
                any laws not listed in subparagraphs (A) 
                through (F) providing authority to promulgate 
                regulations in the Federal Acquisition 
                Regulation.
          (3) Certain provisions of division b (except sections 
        1704 and 2303) of subtitle i of title 41.--
        Notwithstanding paragraph (2)(B), chapter 21 of title 
        41 shall apply to the [new] acquisition management 
        system developed [and implemented], implemented, and 
        periodically updated under paragraph (1) with the 
        following modifications:
                  (A) Sections 2101 and 2106 of title 41 shall 
                not apply.
                  (B) [Within 90 days after the date of the 
                enactment of the Wendell H. Ford Aviation 
                Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century, 
                the Administrator] The Administrator shall 
                adopt definitions for the acquisition 
                management system that are consistent with the 
                purpose and intent of the Office of Federal 
                Procurement Policy Act, as in effect on October 
                9, 1996.
                  (C) After the adoption of those definitions, 
                the criminal, civil, and administrative 
                remedies provided under [the Office of Federal 
                Procurement Policy Act] division B of subtitle 
                I of title 41   apply to the acquisition 
                management system.
                  (D) In the administration of the acquisition 
                management system, the Administrator may take 
                adverse personnel action under [section 
                27(e)(3)(A)(iv) of the Office of Federal 
                Procurement Policy Act] section 2105(c)(1)(D) 
                of title 41   in accordance with the procedures 
                contained in the Administration's personnel 
                management system.
          (4) Commercial products and services.--In 
        implementing and updating the acquisition management 
        system pursuant to paragraph (1), the Administrator 
        shall, whenever possible--
                  (A) describe the requirements with respect to 
                a solicitation for the procurement of supplies 
                or services in terms of--
                          (i) functions to be performed;
                          (ii) performance required; or
                          (iii) essential physical and system 
                        characteristics;
                  (B) ensure that commercial services or 
                commercial products may be procured to fulfill 
                such solicitation, or to the extent that 
                commercial products suitable to meet the needs 
                of the Administration are not available, ensure 
                that nondevelopmental items other than 
                commercial products may be procured to fulfill 
                such solicitation;
                  (C) provide offerors of commercial services, 
                commercial products, and nondevelopmental items 
                other than commercial products an opportunity 
                to compete in any solicitation for the 
                procurement of supplies or services;
                  (D) revise the procurement policies, 
                practices, and procedures of the Administration 
                to reduce any impediments to the acquisition of 
                commercial products and commercial services; 
                and
                  (E) ensure that procurement officials--
                          (i) acquire commercial services, 
                        commercial products, or 
                        nondevelopmental items other than 
                        commercial products to meet the needs 
                        of the Administration;
                          (ii) in a solicitation for the 
                        procurement of supplies or services, 
                        state the specifications for such 
                        supplies or services in terms that 
                        enable and encourage bidders and 
                        offerors to supply commercial services 
                        or commercial products, or to the 
                        extent that commercial products 
                        suitable to meet the needs of the 
                        Administration are not available, to 
                        supply nondevelopmental items other 
                        than commercial products;
                          (iii) require that prime contractors 
                        and subcontractors at all levels under 
                        contracts with the Administration 
                        incorporate commercial services, 
                        commercial products, or 
                        nondevelopmental items other than 
                        commercial products as components of 
                        items supplied to the Administration;
                          (iv) modify procurement requirements 
                        in appropriate circumstances to ensure 
                        that such requirements can be met by 
                        commercial services or commercial 
                        products, or to the extent that 
                        commercial products suitable to meet 
                        the needs of the Administration are not 
                        available, nondevelopmental items other 
                        than commercial products; and
                          (v) require training of appropriate 
                        personnel in the acquisition of 
                        commercial products and commercial 
                        services.
          [(4)] (5) Adjudication of certain bid protests and 
        contract disputes.--A bid protest or contract dispute 
        that is not addressed or resolved through alternative 
        dispute resolution shall be adjudicated by the 
        Administrator through Dispute Resolution Officers or 
        Special Masters of the Federal Aviation Administration 
        Office of Dispute Resolution for Acquisition, acting 
        pursuant to sections 46102, 46104, 46105, 46106 and 
        46107 and shall be subject to judicial review under 
        section 46110 and to section 504 of title 5.
          [(5) Annual report on the purchase of foreign 
        manufactured articles.--
                  [(A) Report.--(i) Not later than 90 days 
                after the end of the fiscal year, the Secretary 
                of Transportation shall submit a report to 
                Congress on the dollar amount of acquisitions 
                subject to the Buy American Act made by the 
                agency from entities that manufacture the 
                articles, materials, or supplies outside of the 
                United States in such fiscal year.
                  [(ii) The report required by clause (i) shall 
                only include acquisitions with total value 
                exceeding the micro-purchase level.
                  [(B) Contents.--The report required by 
                subparagraph (A) shall separately indicate--
                          [(i) the dollar value of any 
                        articles, materials, or supplies 
                        purchased that were manufactured 
                        outside of the United States; and
                          [(ii) a summary of the total 
                        procurement funds spent on goods 
                        manufactured in the United States 
                        versus funds spent on goods 
                        manufactured outside of the United 
                        States.
                  [(C) Availability of report.--The Secretary 
                shall make the report under subparagraph (A) 
                publicly available on the agency's website not 
                later than 30 days after submission to 
                Congress.]
  (e) Prohibition on Release of Offeror Proposals.--
          (1) General rule.--Except as provided in paragraph 
        (2), a proposal in the possession or control of the 
        Administrator may not be made available to any person 
        under section 552 of title 5.
          (2) Exception.--Paragraph (1) shall not apply to any 
        portion of a proposal of an offeror the disclosure of 
        which is authorized by the Administrator pursuant to 
        procedures published in the Federal Register. The 
        Administrator shall provide an opportunity for public 
        comment on the procedures for a period of not less than 
        30 days beginning on the date of such publication in 
        order to receive and consider the views of all 
        interested parties on the procedures. The procedures 
        shall not take effect before the 60th day following the 
        date of such publication.
          (3) Proposal defined.--In this subsection, the term 
        ``proposal'' means information contained in or 
        originating from any proposal, including a technical, 
        management, or cost proposal, submitted by an offeror 
        in response to the requirements of a solicitation for a 
        competitive proposal.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 40113. Administrative

  (a) General Authority.--The Secretary of Transportation (or 
the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration 
with respect to security duties and powers designated to be 
carried out by that Administrator or the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration with respect to aviation safety 
duties and powers designated to be carried out by that 
Administrator) may take action the Secretary, Administrator of 
the Transportation Security Administration, or Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration, as appropriate, considers 
necessary to carry out this part, including conducting 
investigations, prescribing regulations, standards, and 
procedures, and issuing orders.
  (b) Hazardous Material.--In carrying out this part, the 
Secretary has the same authority to regulate the transportation 
of hazardous material by air that the Secretary has under 
section 5103 of this title. However, this subsection does not 
prohibit or regulate the transportation of a firearm (as 
defined in section 232 of title 18) or ammunition for a 
firearm, when transported by an individual for personal use.
  (c) Governmental Assistance.--The Secretary (or the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration with 
respect to aviation safety duties and powers designated to be 
carried out by the Administrator) may use the assistance of the 
Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration and any research or technical department, 
agency, or instrumentality of the United States Government on 
matters related to aircraft fuel and oil, and to the design, 
material, workmanship, construction, performance, maintenance, 
and operation of aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, 
appliances, and air navigation facilities. Each department, 
agency, and instrumentality may conduct scientific and 
technical research, investigations, and tests necessary to 
assist the Secretary or Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration in carrying out this part. This part does not 
authorize duplicating laboratory research activities of a 
department, agency, or instrumentality.
  (d) Indemnification.--The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration may indemnify an officer or employee of 
the Federal Aviation Administration against a claim or judgment 
arising out of an act that the Administrator decides was 
committed within the scope of the official duties of the 
officer or employee.
  (e) Assistance to Foreign Aviation Authorities.--
          (1) Safety-related training and operational 
        services.--The Administrator may provide safety-related 
        training and operational services to foreign aviation 
        authorities (whether public or private) with or without 
        reimbursement, if the Administrator determines that 
        providing such services promotes aviation safety or 
        efficiency. The Administrator may also provide 
        technical assistance related to all aviation safety-
        related training and operational services in connection 
        with bilateral and multilateral agreements, including 
        further bolstering the components of airmanship. The 
        Administrator is authorized to participate in, and 
        submit offers in response to, competitions to provide 
        these services, and to contract with foreign aviation 
        authorities to provide these services consistent with 
        section 106(l)(6). To the extent practicable, air 
        travel reimbursed under this subsection shall be 
        conducted on United States air carriers.
          (2) Reimbursement sought.--The Administrator shall 
        actively seek reimbursement for services provided under 
        this subsection from foreign aviation authorities 
        capable of providing such reimbursement. The 
        Administrator is authorized, notwithstanding any other 
        provision of law or policy, to accept payments for 
        services provided under this subsection in arrears.
          (3) Crediting appropriations.--Funds received by the 
        Administrator pursuant to this section shall--
                  (A) be credited to the appropriation current 
                when the amount is received;
                  (B) be merged with and available for the 
                purposes of such appropriation; and
                  (C) remain available until expended.
          [(4) Reporting.--Not later than December 31, 1995, 
        and annually thereafter, the Administrator shall 
        transmit to Congress a list of the foreign aviation 
        authorities to which the Administrator provided 
        services under this subsection in the preceding fiscal 
        year. Such list shall specify the dollar value of such 
        services and any reimbursement received for such 
        services.]
          [(5)] (4) Authorization of appropriations.--There is 
        authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator, 
        $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2021 through 2023, 
        to carry out this subsection. Amounts appropriated 
        under the preceding sentence for any fiscal year shall 
        remain available until expended.
  (f) Application of Certain Regulations to Alaska.--In 
amending title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, or in 
administering the Airport Improvement Program under chapter 471 
in a manner affecting intrastate aviation in Alaska, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
consider the extent to which Alaska is not served by 
transportation modes other than aviation, and shall establish 
such regulatory or administrative distinctions as the 
Administrator considers appropriate.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 40117. Passenger facility charges

  (a) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
          (1) Airport, commercial service airport, and public 
        agency.--The terms ``airport'', ``commercial service 
        airport'', and ``public agency'' have the meaning those 
        terms have under section 47102.
          (2) Eligible agency.--The term ``eligible agency'' 
        means a public agency that controls a commercial 
        service airport.
          (3) Eligible airport-related project.--The term 
        ``eligible airport-related project'' means any of the 
        following projects:
                  (A) A project for airport development or 
                airport planning under subchapter I of chapter 
                471.
                  (B) A project for terminal development 
                described in section 47119(a).
                  (C) A project for costs of terminal 
                development referred to in subparagraph (B) 
                incurred after August 1, 1986, at an airport 
                that did not have more than .25 percent of the 
                total annual passenger boardings in the United 
                States in the most recent calendar year for 
                which data is available and at which total 
                passenger boardings declined by at least 16 
                percent between calendar year 1989 and calendar 
                year 1997.
                  (D) A project for airport noise capability 
                planning under section 47505.
                  (E) A project to carry out noise 
                compatibility measures eligible for assistance 
                under section 47504, whether or not a program 
                for those measures has been approved under 
                section 47504.
                  (F) A project for constructing gates and 
                related areas at which passengers board or exit 
                aircraft. In the case of a project required to 
                enable additional air service by an air carrier 
                with less than 50 percent of the annual 
                passenger boardings at an airport, the project 
                for constructing gates and related areas may 
                include structural foundations and floor 
                systems, exterior building walls and load-
                bearing interior columns or walls, windows, 
                door and roof systems, building utilities 
                (including heating, air conditioning, 
                ventilation, plumbing, and electrical service), 
                and aircraft fueling facilities adjacent to the 
                gate.
                  (G) A project for converting vehicles and 
                ground support equipment used at a commercial 
                service airport to low-emission technology (as 
                defined in section 47102) or to use cleaner 
                burning conventional fuels, retrofitting of any 
                such vehicles or equipment that are powered by 
                a diesel or gasoline engine with emission 
                control technologies certified or verified by 
                the Environmental Protection Agency to reduce 
                emissions, or acquiring for use at a commercial 
                service airport vehicles and ground support 
                equipment that include low-emission technology 
                or use cleaner burning fuels if the airport is 
                located in an air quality nonattainment area 
                (as defined in section 171(2) of the Clean Air 
                Act (42 U.S.C. 7501(2))) or a maintenance area 
                referred to in section 175A of such Act (42 
                U.S.C. 7505a) and if such project will result 
                in an airport receiving appropriate emission 
                credits as described in section 47139.
          (4) Ground support equipment.--The term ``ground 
        support equipment'' means service and maintenance 
        equipment used at an airport to support aeronautical 
        operations and related activities.
          (5) Passenger facility charge.--The term ``passenger 
        facility charge'' means a charge imposed under this 
        section.
          (6) Passenger facility revenue.--The term ``passenger 
        facility revenue'' means revenue derived from a 
        passenger facility charge.
  (b) General Authority.--(1) The Secretary of Transportation 
may authorize under this section an eligible agency to impose a 
passenger facility charge of $1, $2, or $3 on each paying 
passenger of an air carrier or foreign air carrier boarding an 
aircraft at an airport the agency controls to finance an 
eligible airport-related project, including making payments for 
debt service on indebtedness incurred to carry out the project, 
to be carried out in connection with the airport or any other 
airport the agency controls.
  (2) A State, political subdivision of a State, or authority 
of a State or political subdivision that is not the eligible 
agency may not regulate or prohibit the imposition or 
collection of a passenger facility charge or the use of the 
passenger facility revenue.
  (3) A passenger facility charge may be imposed on a passenger 
of an air carrier or foreign air carrier originating or 
connecting at the commercial service airport that the agency 
controls.
  (4) In lieu of authorizing a charge under paragraph (1), the 
Secretary may authorize under this section an eligible agency 
to impose a passenger facility charge of $4.00 or $4.50 on each 
paying passenger of an air carrier or foreign air carrier 
boarding an aircraft at an airport the agency controls to 
finance an eligible airport-related project, including making 
payments for debt service on indebtedness incurred to carry out 
the project.
  (5) Maximum cost for certain low-emission technology 
projects.--The maximum cost that may be financed by imposition 
of a passenger facility charge under this section for a project 
described in subsection (a)(3)(G) with respect to a vehicle or 
ground support equipment may not exceed the incremental amount 
of the project cost that is greater than the cost of acquiring 
a vehicle or equipment that is not low-emission and would be 
used for the same purpose, or the cost of low-emission 
retrofitting, as determined by the Secretary.
  (6) Debt service for certain projects.--In addition to the 
uses specified in paragraphs (1) and (4), the Secretary may 
authorize a passenger facility charge imposed under paragraph 
(1) or (4) to be used for making payments for debt service on 
indebtedness incurred to carry out at the airport a project 
that is not an eligible airport-related project if the 
Secretary determines that such use is necessary due to the 
financial need of the airport.
  (7) Noise mitigation for certain schools.--
          (A) In general.--In addition to the uses specified in 
        paragraphs (1), (4), and (6), the Secretary may 
        authorize a passenger facility charge imposed under 
        paragraph (1) or (4) at a large hub airport that is the 
        subject of an amended judgment and final order in 
        condemnation filed on January 7, 1980, by the Superior 
        Court of the State of California for the county of Los 
        Angeles, to be used for a project to carry out noise 
        mitigation for a building, or for the replacement of a 
        relocatable building with a permanent building, in the 
        noise impacted area surrounding the airport at which 
        such building is used primarily for educational 
        purposes, notwithstanding the air easement granted or 
        any terms to the contrary in such judgment and final 
        order, if--
                  (i) the Secretary determines that the 
                building is adversely affected by airport 
                noise;
                  (ii) the building is owned or chartered by 
                the school district that was the plaintiff in 
                case number 986,442 or 986,446, which was 
                resolved by such judgment and final order;
                  (iii) the project is for a school identified 
                in 1 of the settlement agreements effective 
                February 16, 2005, between the airport and each 
                of the school districts;
                  (iv) in the case of a project to replace a 
                relocatable building with a permanent building, 
                the eligible project costs are limited to the 
                actual structural construction costs necessary 
                to mitigate aircraft noise in instructional 
                classrooms to an interior noise level meeting 
                current standards of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration; and
                  (v) the project otherwise meets the 
                requirements of this section for authorization 
                of a passenger facility charge.
          (B) Eligible project costs.--In subparagraph (A)(iv), 
        the term ``eligible project costs'' means the 
        difference between the cost of standard school 
        construction and the cost of construction necessary to 
        mitigate classroom noise to the standards of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration.
  (c) Applications.--(1) An eligible agency must submit to the 
Secretary an application for authority to impose a passenger 
facility charge. The application shall contain information and 
be in the form that the Secretary may require by regulation.
  (2) Before submitting an application, the eligible agency 
must provide reasonable notice to, and an opportunity for 
consultation with, air carriers and foreign air carriers 
operating at the airport. The Secretary shall prescribe 
regulations that define reasonable notice and contain at least 
the following requirements:
          (A) The agency must provide written notice of 
        individual projects being considered for financing by a 
        passenger facility charge and the date and location of 
        a meeting to present the projects to air carriers and 
        foreign air carriers operating at the airport.
          (B) Not later than 30 days after written notice is 
        provided under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph, each 
        air carrier and foreign air carrier operating at the 
        airport must provide to the agency written notice of 
        receipt of the notice. Failure of a carrier to provide 
        the notice may be deemed certification of agreement 
        with the project by the carrier under subparagraph (D) 
        of this paragraph.
          (C) Not later than 45 days after written notice is 
        provided under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph, the 
        agency must conduct a meeting to provide air carriers 
        and foreign air carriers with descriptions of projects 
        and justifications and a detailed financial plan for 
        projects.
          (D) Not later than 30 days after the meeting, each 
        air carrier and foreign air carrier must provide to the 
        agency certification of agreement or disagreement with 
        projects (or total plan for the projects). Failure to 
        provide the certification is deemed certification of 
        agreement with the project by the carrier. A 
        certification of disagreement is void if it does not 
        contain the reasons for the disagreement.
          (E) The agency must include in its application or 
        notice submitted under subparagraph (A) copies of all 
        certifications of agreement or disagreement received 
        under subparagraph (D).
          (F) For the purpose of this section, an eligible 
        agency providing notice and an opportunity for 
        consultation to an air carrier or foreign air carrier 
        is deemed to have satisfied the requirements of this 
        paragraph if the eligible agency limits such notices 
        and consultations to air carriers and foreign air 
        carriers that have a significant business interest at 
        the airport. In the subparagraph, the term 
        ``significant business interest'' means an air carrier 
        or foreign air carrier that had no less than 1.0 
        percent of passenger boardings at the airport in the 
        prior calendar year, had at least 25,000 passenger 
        boardings at the airport in the prior calendar year, or 
        provides scheduled service at the airport.
  (3) Before submitting an application, the eligible agency 
must provide reasonable notice and an opportunity for public 
comment. The Secretary shall prescribe regulations that define 
reasonable notice and provide for at least the following under 
this paragraph:
          (A) A requirement that the eligible agency provide 
        public notice of intent to collect a passenger facility 
        charge so as to inform those interested persons and 
        agencies that may be affected. The public notice may 
        include--
                  (i) publication in local newspapers of 
                general circulation;
                  (ii) publication in other local media; and
                  (iii) posting the notice on the agency's 
                Internet website.
          (B) A requirement for submission of public comments 
        no sooner than 30 days, and no later than 45 days, 
        after the date of the publication of the notice.
          (C) A requirement that the agency include in its 
        application or notice submitted under subparagraph (A) 
        copies of all comments received under subparagraph (B).
  (4) After receiving an application, the Secretary may provide 
notice and an opportunity to air carriers, foreign air 
carriers, and other interested persons to comment on the 
application. The Secretary shall make a final decision on the 
application not later than 120 days after receiving it.
  (d) Limitations on Approving Applications.--The Secretary may 
approve an application that an eligible agency has submitted 
under subsection (c) of this section to finance a specific 
project only if the Secretary finds, based on the application, 
that--
          (1) the amount and duration of the proposed passenger 
        facility charge will result in revenue (including 
        interest and other returns on the revenue) that is not 
        more than the amount necessary to finance the specific 
        project;
          [(2) each project is an eligible airport-related 
        project that will--
                  [(A) preserve or enhance capacity, safety, or 
                security of the national air transportation 
                system;
                  [(B) reduce noise resulting from an airport 
                that is part of the system; or
                  [(C) provide an opportunity for enhanced 
                competition between or among air carriers and 
                foreign air carriers;]
          (2) each project is an eligible airport-related 
        project;
          (3) the application includes adequate justification 
        for each of the specific projects; and
          (4) in the case of an application to impose a charge 
        of more than $3.00 for an eligible surface 
        transportation or terminal project, the agency has made 
        adequate provision for financing the airside needs of 
        the airport, including runways, taxiways, aprons, and 
        aircraft gates.
  (e) Limitations on Imposing Charges.--(1) An eligible agency 
may impose a passenger facility charge only--
          (A) if the Secretary approves an application that the 
        agency has submitted under subsection (c) of this 
        section; and
          (B) subject to terms the Secretary may prescribe to 
        carry out the objectives of this section.
  (2) A passenger facility charge may not be collected from a 
passenger--
          (A) for more than 2 boardings on a one-way trip or a 
        trip in each direction of a round trip;
          (B) for the boarding to an eligible place under 
        subchapter II of chapter 417 of this title for which 
        essential air service compensation is paid under 
        subchapter II;
          (C) enplaning at an airport if the passenger did not 
        pay for the air transportation which resulted in such 
        enplanement, including any case in which the passenger 
        obtained the ticket for the air transportation with a 
        frequent flier award coupon without monetary payment;
          (D) on flights, including flight segments, between 2 
        or more points in Hawaii;
          (E) in Alaska aboard an aircraft having a seating 
        capacity of less than 60 passengers; and
          (F) enplaning at an airport if the passenger did not 
        pay for the air transportation which resulted in such 
        enplanement due to charter arrangements and payment by 
        the Department of Defense.
  (f) Limitations on Contracts, Leases, and Use Agreements.--
(1) A contract between an air carrier or foreign air carrier 
and an eligible agency made at any time may not impair the 
authority of the agency to impose a passenger facility charge 
or to use the passenger facility revenue as provided in this 
section.
  (2) A project financed with a passenger facility charge may 
not be subject to an exclusive long-term lease or use agreement 
of an air carrier or foreign air carrier, as defined by 
regulations of the Secretary.
  (3) A lease or use agreement of an air carrier or foreign air 
carrier related to a project whose construction or expansion 
was financed with a passenger facility charge may not restrict 
the eligible agency from financing, developing, or assigning 
new capacity at the airport with passenger facility revenue.
  (g) Treatment of Revenue.--(1) Passenger facility revenue is 
not airport revenue for purposes of establishing a price under 
a contract between an eligible agency and an air carrier or 
foreign air carrier.
  (2) An eligible agency may not include in its price base the 
part of the capital costs of a project paid for by using 
passenger facility revenue to establish a price under a 
contract between the agency and an air carrier or foreign air 
carrier.
  (3) For a project for terminal development, gates and related 
areas, or a facility occupied or used by at least one air 
carrier or foreign air carrier on an exclusive or preferential 
basis, a price payable by an air carrier or foreign air carrier 
using the facilities must at least equal the price paid by an 
air carrier or foreign air carrier using a similar facility at 
the airport that was not financed with passenger facility 
revenue.
  (4) Passenger facility revenues that are held by an air 
carrier or an agent of the carrier after collection of a 
passenger facility charge constitute a trust fund that is held 
by the air carrier or agent for the beneficial interest of the 
eligible agency imposing the charge. Such carrier or agent 
holds neither legal nor equitable interest in the passenger 
facility revenues except for any handling fee or retention of 
interest collected on unremitted proceeds as may be allowed by 
the Secretary.
  (h) Compliance.--(1) As necessary to ensure compliance with 
this section, the Secretary shall prescribe regulations 
requiring recordkeeping and auditing of accounts maintained by 
an air carrier or foreign air carrier and its agent collecting 
a passenger facility charge and by the eligible agency imposing 
the charge.
  (2) The Secretary periodically shall audit and review the use 
by an eligible agency of passenger facility revenue. After 
review and a public hearing, the Secretary may end any part of 
the authority of the agency to impose a passenger facility 
charge to the extent the Secretary decides that the revenue is 
not being used as provided in this section.
  (3) The Secretary may set off amounts necessary to ensure 
compliance with this section against amounts otherwise payable 
to an eligible agency under subchapter I of chapter 471 of this 
title if the Secretary decides a passenger facility charge is 
excessive or that passenger facility revenue is not being used 
as provided in this section.
  (i) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe regulations 
necessary to carry out this section. The regulations--
          (1) may prescribe the time and form by which a 
        passenger facility charge takes effect;
          (2) shall--
                  (A) require an air carrier or foreign air 
                carrier and its agent to collect a passenger 
                facility charge that an eligible agency imposes 
                under this section;
                  (B) establish procedures for handling and 
                remitting money collected;
                  (C) ensure that the money, less a uniform 
                amount the Secretary determines reflects the 
                average necessary and reasonable expenses (net 
                of interest accruing to the carrier and agent 
                after collection and before remittance) 
                incurred in collecting and handling the charge, 
                is paid promptly to the eligible agency for 
                which they are collected; and
                  (D) require that the amount collected for any 
                air transportation be noted on the ticket for 
                that air transportation; and
          (3) may permit an eligible agency to request that 
        collection of a passenger facility charge be waived 
        for--
                  (A) passengers enplaned by any class of air 
                carrier or foreign air carrier if the number of 
                passengers enplaned by the carriers in the 
                class constitutes not more than one percent of 
                the total number of passengers enplaned 
                annually at the airport at which the charge is 
                imposed; or
                  (B) passengers enplaned on a flight to an 
                airport--
                          (i) that has fewer than 2,500 
                        passenger boardings each year and 
                        receives scheduled passenger service; 
                        or
                          (ii) in a community which has a 
                        population of less than 10,000 and is 
                        not connected by a land highway or 
                        vehicular way to the land-connected 
                        National Highway System within a State.
  (j) Limitation on Certain Actions.--A State, political 
subdivision of a State, or authority of a State or political 
subdivision that is not the eligible agency may not tax, 
regulate, or prohibit or otherwise attempt to control in any 
manner, the imposition or collection of a passenger facility 
charge or the use of the revenue from the passenger facility 
charge.
  (k) Competition Plans.--
          (1) In general.--Beginning in fiscal year 2001, no 
        eligible agency may impose a passenger facility charge 
        under this section with respect to a covered airport 
        (as such term is defined in section 47106(f)) unless 
        the agency has submitted to the Secretary a written 
        competition plan in accordance with such section. This 
        subsection does not apply to passenger facility charges 
        in effect before the date of the enactment of this 
        subsection.
          (2) Secretary shall ensure implementation and 
        compliance.--The Secretary shall review any plan 
        submitted under paragraph (1) to ensure that it meets 
        the requirements of this section, and shall review its 
        implementation from time-to-time to ensure that each 
        covered airport successfully implements its plan.
  (l)  [Pilot Program] Alternative Procedures for Passenger 
Facility Charge Authorizations.--
          [(1) In general.--The Secretary shall establish a 
        pilot program to test alternative procedures for 
        authorizing eligible agencies for airports to impose 
        passenger facility charges. An eligible agency may 
        impose in accordance with the provisions of this 
        subsection a passenger facility charge under this 
        section. For purposes of the pilot program, the 
        procedures in this subsection shall apply instead of 
        the procedures otherwise provided in this section.]
          (1) In general.--In lieu of submitting an application 
        under subsection (c), an eligible agency may impose a 
        passenger facility charge in accordance with the 
        procedures under this subsection subject to the 
        limitations of this section.
          (2) Notice and opportunity for consultation.--The 
        eligible agency must provide reasonable notice and an 
        opportunity for consultation to air carriers and 
        foreign air carriers in accordance with subsection 
        (c)(2) and must provide reasonable notice and 
        opportunity for public comment in accordance with 
        subsection (c)(3).
          (3) Notice of intention.--The eligible agency must 
        submit to the Secretary a notice of intention to impose 
        a passenger facility charge under this subsection. The 
        notice shall include--
                  (A) information that the Secretary may 
                require by regulation on each project for which 
                authority to impose a passenger facility charge 
                is sought;
                  (B) the amount of revenue from passenger 
                facility charges that is proposed to be 
                collected for each project; and
                  (C) the level of the passenger facility 
                charge that is proposed.
          (4) Acknowledgement of receipt and indication of 
        objection.--The Secretary shall acknowledge receipt of 
        the notice and indicate any objection to the imposition 
        of a passenger facility charge under this subsection 
        for any project identified in the notice within 30 days 
        after receipt of the eligible agency's notice.
          (5) Authority to impose charge.--Unless the Secretary 
        objects within 30 days after receipt of the eligible 
        agency's notice, the eligible agency is authorized to 
        impose a passenger facility charge in accordance with 
        the terms of its notice under this subsection.
          (6) Regulations.--The Secretary shall propose such 
        regulations as may be necessary to carry out this 
        subsection.
          (7) Acknowledgement not an order.--An acknowledgement 
        issued under paragraph (4) shall not be considered an 
        order issued by the Secretary for purposes of section 
        46110.
  (m) Financial Management of Charges.--
          (1) Handling of charges.--A covered air carrier shall 
        segregate in a separate account passenger facility 
        revenue equal to the average monthly liability for 
        charges collected under this section by such carrier or 
        any of its agents for the benefit of the eligible 
        agencies entitled to such revenue.
          (2) Trust fund status.--If a covered air carrier or 
        its agent fails to segregate passenger facility revenue 
        in violation of the subsection, the trust fund status 
        of such revenue shall not be defeated by an inability 
        of any party to identify and trace the precise funds in 
        the accounts of the air carrier.
          (3) Prohibition.--A covered air carrier and its 
        agents may not grant to any third party any security or 
        other interest in passenger facility revenue.
          (4) Compensation to eligible entities.--A covered air 
        carrier that fails to comply with any requirement of 
        this subsection, or otherwise unnecessarily causes an 
        eligible entity to expend funds, through litigation or 
        otherwise, to recover or retain payment of passenger 
        facility revenue to which the eligible entity is 
        otherwise entitled shall be required to compensate the 
        eligible agency for the costs so incurred.
          (5) Interest on amounts.--A covered air carrier that 
        collects passenger facility charges is entitled to 
        receive the interest on passenger facility charge 
        accounts if the accounts are established and maintained 
        in compliance with this subsection.
          (6) Existing regulations.--The provisions of section 
        158.49 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, that 
        permit the commingling of passenger facility charges 
        with other air carrier revenue shall not apply to a 
        covered air carrier.
          (7) Covered air carrier defined.--In this section, 
        the term ``covered air carrier'' means an air carrier 
        that files for chapter 7 or chapter 11 of title 11 
        bankruptcy protection, or has an involuntary chapter 7 
        of title 11 bankruptcy proceeding commenced against it, 
        after the date of enactment of this subsection.
  (n) Use of Revenues at Previously Associated Airport.--
Notwithstanding the requirements relating to airport control 
under subsection (b)(1), the Secretary may authorize use of a 
passenger facility charge under subsection (b) to finance an 
eligible airport-related project if--
          (1) the eligible agency seeking to impose the new 
        charge controls an airport where a $2.00 passenger 
        facility charge became effective on January 1, 2013; 
        and
          (2) the location of the project to be financed by the 
        new charge is at an airport that was under the control 
        of the same eligible agency that had controlled the 
        airport described in paragraph (1).

Sec. 40118. Government-financed air transportation

  (a) Transportation by Air Carriers Holding Certificates.--A 
department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States 
Government shall take necessary steps to ensure that the 
transportation of passengers and property by air is provided by 
an air carrier holding a certificate under section 41102 of 
this title if--
          (1) the department, agency, or instrumentality--
                  (A) obtains the transportation for itself or 
                in carrying out an arrangement under which 
                payment is made by the Government or payment is 
                made from amounts provided for the use of the 
                Government; or
                  (B) provides the transportation to or for a 
                foreign country or international or other 
                organization without reimbursement;
          (2) the transportation is authorized by the 
        certificate or by regulation or exemption of the 
        Secretary of Transportation; and
          (3) the air carrier is--
                  (A) available, if the transportation is 
                between a place in the United States and a 
                place outside the United States; or
                  (B) reasonably available, if the 
                transportation is between 2 places outside the 
                United States.
  (b) Transportation by Foreign Air Carriers.--This section 
does not preclude the transportation of passengers and property 
by a foreign air carrier if the transportation is provided 
under a bilateral or multilateral air transportation agreement 
to which the Government and the government of a foreign country 
are parties if the agreement--
          (1) is consistent with the goals for international 
        aviation policy of section 40101(e) of this title; and
          (2) provides for the exchange of rights or benefits 
        of similar magnitude.
  (c) Proof.--The Administrator of General Services shall 
prescribe regulations under which agencies may allow the 
expenditure of an appropriation for transportation in violation 
of this section only when satisfactory proof is presented 
showing the necessity for the transportation.
  (d) Certain Transportation by Air Outside the United 
States.--Notwithstanding subsections (a) and (c) of this 
section, any amount appropriated to the Secretary of State or 
the Administrator of the Agency for International Development 
may be used to pay for the transportation of an officer or 
employee of the Department of State or one of those agencies, a 
dependent of the officer or employee, and accompanying baggage, 
by a foreign air carrier when the transportation is between 2 
places outside the United States.
  (e) Relationship to Other Laws.--This section does not affect 
the application of the antidiscrimination provisions of this 
part.
  (f) Prohibition of Certification or Contract Clause.--(1) No 
certification by a contractor, and no contract clause, may be 
required in the case of a contract for the transportation of 
commercial products in order to implement a requirement in this 
section.
  (2) In paragraph (1), the term ``commercial product'' has the 
meaning given such term in section 103 of title 41, except that 
it shall not include a contract for the transportation by air 
of passengers.
  (g) Training Requirements.--The Administrator of General 
Services shall ensure that any contract entered into for 
provision of air transportation with a domestic carrier under 
this section requires that the contracting air carrier submits 
to the Administrator of General Services, the Secretary of 
Transportation, the Administrator of the Transportation 
Security Administration, the Secretary of Labor and the 
Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection an annual 
report regarding--
          (1) the number of personnel trained in the [detection 
        and reporting of potential human trafficking (as 
        described in paragraphs (9) and (10)] detection and 
        reporting of potential severe forms of trafficking in 
        persons and sex trafficking (as such terms are defined 
        in paragraphs (11) and (12) of section 103 of the 
        Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (22 U.S.C. 
        7102)), including the training required under section 
        44734(a)(4);
          (2) the number of notifications of potential human 
        trafficking victims received from staff or other 
        passengers; and
          (3) whether the air carrier notified the National 
        Human Trafficking Hotline or law enforcement at the 
        relevant airport of the potential human trafficking 
        victim for each such notification of potential human 
        trafficking, and if so, when the notification was made.

Sec. 40119. Sensitive security information

  (a) In General.--Notwithstanding section 552 of title 5, the 
Secretary of Transportation shall issue regulations prohibiting 
the disclosure of information obtained or developed in the 
process of ensuring security under this title if the Secretary 
determines that disclosing the information would--
          (1) be an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy;
          (2) reveal a trade secret or privileged or 
        confidential commercial or financial information; or
          (3) be detrimental to transportation safety.
  (b) Withheld Information.--In carrying out subsection (a), 
the Secretary shall ensure that the prohibitions described in 
such subsection do not apply to any information provided to a 
committee of Congress authorized to have such information, 
including the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, 
Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
  (c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in subsection (a) shall be 
construed to authorize the designation of information as 
sensitive security information (as defined in section 15.5 of 
title 49, Code of Federal Regulations) to--
          (1) conceal--
                  (A) a violation of law;
                  (B) inefficiency; or
                  (C) an administrative error;
          (2) prevent embarrassment to a person, organization, 
        or governmental agency;
          (3) restrain competition; or
          (4) prevent or delay the release of information that 
        does not require protection in the interest of 
        transportation security, including basic scientific 
        research information not clearly related to 
        transportation security.
  (d) Nondisclosure.--Section 552a of title 5 shall not apply 
to disclosures that the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration may make from the systems of records of the 
Administration to any Federal law enforcement, intelligence, 
protective service, immigration, or national security official 
in order to assist the official receiving the information in 
the performance of official duties.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 40122. Federal Aviation Administration personnel management system

  (a) In General.--
          (1) Consultation and negotiation.--In developing and 
        making changes to the personnel management system 
        initially implemented by the Administrator of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration on April 1, 1996, the 
        Administrator shall negotiate with the exclusive 
        bargaining representatives of employees of the 
        Administration certified under section 7111 of title 5 
        and consult with other employees of the Administration.
          (2) Dispute resolution.--
                  (A) Mediation.--If the Administrator does not 
                reach an agreement under paragraph (1) or the 
                provisions referred to in subsection (g)(2)(C) 
                with the exclusive bargaining representative of 
                the employees, the Administrator and the 
                bargaining representative--
                          (i) shall use the services of the 
                        Federal Mediation and Conciliation 
                        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 the FAA Modernization 
                        and Reform Act of 2012); or
                          (ii) may by mutual agreement adopt 
                        alternative procedures for the 
                        resolution of disputes or impasses 
                        arising in the negotiation of the 
                        collective-bargaining agreement.
                  (B) Mid-term bargaining.--If the services of 
                the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service 
                under subparagraph (A)(i) do not lead to the 
                resolution of issues in controversy arising 
                from the negotiation of a mid-term collective-
                bargaining agreement, the Federal Service 
                Impasses Panel shall assist the parties in 
                resolving the impasse in accordance with 
                section 7119 of title 5.
                  (C) Binding arbitration for term 
                bargaining.--
                          (i) Assistance from federal service 
                        impasses panel.--If the services of the 
                        Federal Mediation and Conciliation 
                        Service under subparagraph (A)(i) do 
                        not lead to the resolution of issues in 
                        controversy arising from the 
                        negotiation of a term collective-
                        bargaining agreement, the Administrator 
                        and the exclusive bargaining 
                        representative of the employees (in 
                        this subparagraph referred to as the 
                        ``parties'') shall submit their issues 
                        in controversy to the Federal Service 
                        Impasses Panel. The Panel shall assist 
                        the parties in resolving the impasse by 
                        asserting jurisdiction and ordering 
                        binding arbitration by a private 
                        arbitration board consisting of 3 
                        members.
                          (ii) Appointment of arbitration 
                        board.--The Executive Director of the 
                        Panel shall provide for the appointment 
                        of the 3 members of a private 
                        arbitration board under clause (i) by 
                        requesting the Director of the Federal 
                        Mediation and Conciliation Service to 
                        prepare a list of not less than 15 
                        names of arbitrators with Federal 
                        sector experience and by providing the 
                        list to the parties. Not later than 10 
                        days after receiving the list, the 
                        parties shall each select one person 
                        from the list. The 2 arbitrators 
                        selected by the parties shall then 
                        select a third person from the list not 
                        later than 7 days after being selected. 
                        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 until one arbitrator 
                        remains.
                          (iii) 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.
                          (iv) Hearings.--The arbitration board 
                        shall give the parties a full and fair 
                        hearing, including an opportunity to 
                        present evidence in support of their 
                        claims and an opportunity to present 
                        their case in person, by counsel, or by 
                        other representative as they may elect.
                          (v) Decisions.--The arbitration board 
                        shall render its decision within 90 
                        days after the date of its appointment. 
                        Decisions of the arbitration board 
                        shall be conclusive and binding upon 
                        the parties.
                          (vi) Matters for consideration.--The 
                        arbitration board shall take into 
                        consideration such factors as--
                                  (I) the effect of its 
                                arbitration decisions on the 
                                Federal Aviation 
                                Administration's ability to 
                                attract and retain a qualified 
                                workforce;
                                  (II) the effect of its 
                                arbitration decisions on the 
                                Federal Aviation 
                                Administration's budget; and
                                  (III) any other factors whose 
                                consideration would assist the 
                                board in fashioning a fair and 
                                equitable award.
                          (vii) Costs.--The parties shall share 
                        costs of the arbitration equally.
          (3) Ratification of agreements.--Upon reaching a 
        voluntary agreement or at the conclusion of the binding 
        arbitration under paragraph (2)(C), the final 
        agreement, except for those matters decided by an 
        arbitration board, shall be subject to ratification by 
        the exclusive bargaining representative of the 
        employees, if so requested by the bargaining 
        representative, and the final agreement shall be 
        subject to approval by the head of the agency in 
        accordance with the provisions referred to in 
        subsection (g)(2)(C).
          (4) Cost savings and productivity goals.--The 
        Administration and the exclusive bargaining 
        representatives of the employees shall use every 
        reasonable effort to find cost savings and to increase 
        productivity within each of the affected bargaining 
        units.
          (5) Annual budget discussions.--The Administration 
        and the exclusive bargaining representatives of the 
        employees shall meet annually for the purpose of 
        finding additional cost savings within the 
        Administration's annual budget as it applies to each of 
        the affected bargaining units and throughout the 
        agency.
  (b) Expert Evaluation.--On the date that is 3 years after the 
personnel management system is implemented, the Administration 
shall employ outside experts to provide an independent 
evaluation of the effectiveness of the system within 3 months 
after such date. For this purpose, the Administrator may 
utilize the services of experts and consultants under section 
3109 of title 5 without regard to the limitation imposed by the 
last sentence of section 3109(b) of such title, and may 
contract on a sole source basis, notwithstanding any other 
provision of law to the contrary.
  (c) Pay Restriction.--No officer or employee of the 
Administration may receive an annual rate of basic pay in 
excess of the annual rate of basic pay payable to the 
Administrator.
  (d) Ethics.--The Administration shall be subject to Executive 
Order No. 12674 and regulations and opinions promulgated by the 
Office of Government Ethics, including those set forth in 
section 2635 of title 5 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
  (e) Employee Protections.--Until July 1, 1999, basic wages 
(including locality pay) and operational differential pay 
provided employees of the Administration shall not be 
involuntarily adversely affected by reason of the enactment of 
this section, except for unacceptable performance or by reason 
of a reduction in force or reorganization or by agreement 
between the Administration and the affected employees' 
exclusive bargaining representative.
  (f) Labor-Management Agreements.--Except as otherwise 
provided by this title, all labor-management agreements 
covering employees of the Administration that are in effect on 
the effective date of the Air Traffic Management System 
Performance Improvement Act of 1996 shall remain in effect 
until their normal expiration date, unless the Administrator 
and the exclusive bargaining representative agree to the 
contrary.
  (g) Personnel Management System.--
          (1) In general.--In consultation with the employees 
        of the Administration and such non-governmental experts 
        in personnel management systems as he may employ, and 
        notwithstanding the provisions of title 5 and other 
        Federal personnel laws, the Administrator shall develop 
        and implement, not later than January 1, 1996, a 
        personnel management system for the Administration that 
        addresses the unique demands on the agency's workforce. 
        Such a new system shall, at a minimum, provide for 
        greater flexibility in the hiring, training, 
        compensation, and location of personnel.
          (2) Applicability of title 5.--The provisions of 
        title 5 shall not apply to the new personnel management 
        system developed and implemented pursuant to paragraph 
        (1), with the exception of--
                  (A) section 2302(b), relating to 
                whistleblower protection, including the 
                provisions for investigation and enforcement as 
                provided in chapter 12 of title 5;
                  (B) sections 3304(f), to the extent 
                consistent with the Federal Aviation 
                Administration's status as an excepted service 
                agency, 3308-3320, 3330a, 3330b, 3330c, and 
                3330d, relating to veterans' preference;
                  (C) chapter 71, relating to labor-management 
                relations;
                  (D) section 7204, relating to 
                antidiscrimination;
                  (E) chapter 73, relating to suitability, 
                security, and conduct;
                  (F) chapter 81, relating to compensation for 
                work injury;
                  (G) chapters 83-85, 87, and 89, relating to 
                retirement, unemployment compensation, and 
                insurance coverage;
                  (H) sections 1204, 1211-1218, 1221, and 7701-
                7703, relating to the Merit Systems Protection 
                Board;
                  (I) subsections (b), (c), and (d) of section 
                4507 (relating to Meritorious Executive or 
                Distinguished Executive rank awards) and 
                subsections (b) and (c) of section 4507a 
                (relating to Meritorious Senior Professional or 
                Distinguished Senior Professional rank awards), 
                except that--
                          (i) for purposes of applying such 
                        provisions to the personnel management 
                        system--
                                  (I) the term ``agency'' means 
                                the Department of 
                                Transportation;
                                  (II) the term ``senior 
                                executive'' means a Federal 
                                Aviation Administration 
                                executive;
                                  (III) the term ``career 
                                appointee'' means a Federal 
                                Aviation Administration career 
                                executive; and
                                  (IV) the term ``senior career 
                                employee'' means a Federal 
                                Aviation Administration career 
                                senior professional;
                          (ii) receipt by a career appointee or 
                        a senior career employee of the rank of 
                        Meritorious Executive or Meritorious 
                        Senior Professional entitles the 
                        individual to a lump-sum payment of an 
                        amount equal to 20 percent of annual 
                        basic pay, which shall be in addition 
                        to the basic pay paid under the Federal 
                        Aviation Administration Executive 
                        Compensation Plan; and
                          (iii) receipt by a career appointee 
                        or a senior career employee of the rank 
                        of Distinguished Executive or 
                        Distinguished Senior Professional 
                        entitles the individual to a lump-sum 
                        payment of an amount equal to 35 
                        percent of annual basic pay, which 
                        shall be in addition to the basic pay 
                        paid under the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration Executive Compensation 
                        Plan; and
                  (J) subject to paragraph (4) of this 
                subsection, section 6329, relating to disabled 
                veteran leave.
          (3) Appeals to merit systems protection board.--Under 
        the new personnel management system developed and 
        implemented under paragraph (1), an employee of the 
        Administration may submit an appeal to the Merit 
        Systems Protection Board and may seek judicial review 
        of any resulting final orders or decisions of the Board 
        from any action that was appealable to the Board under 
        any law, rule, or regulation as of March 31, 1996. 
        Notwithstanding any other provision of law, retroactive 
        to April 1, 1996, the Board shall have the same 
        remedial authority over such employee appeals that it 
        had as of March 31, 1996.
          (4) Certification of disabled veteran leave.--In 
        order to verify that leave credited to an employee 
        pursuant to paragraph (2)(J) is used for treating a 
        service-connected disability, that employee shall, 
        notwithstanding section 6329(c) of title 5, submit to 
        the Assistant Administrator for Human Resource 
        Management of the Federal Aviation Administration 
        certification, in such form and manner as the 
        Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
        may prescribe, that the employee used that leave for 
        purposes of being furnished treatment for that 
        disability by a health care provider.
          (5) Paid parental leave.--The Administrator shall 
        implement a paid parental leave benefit for employees 
        of the Administration that is, at a minimum, consistent 
        with the paid parental leave benefits provided under 
        section 6382 of title 5.
          (6) Effective date.--This subsection shall take 
        effect on April 1, 1996.
          (7) Remote positions.--
                  (A) In general.--If the Administrator 
                determines that a covered position has not been 
                filled after multiple vacancy announcements and 
                that there are unique circumstances affecting 
                the ability of the Administrator to fill such 
                position, the Administrator may consider, in 
                consultation with the appropriate labor union, 
                applicants for the covered position who apply 
                under a vacancy announcement recruiting from 
                the State or territory in which the position is 
                based.
                  (B) Covered position defined.--In this 
                paragraph, the term ``covered position'' means 
                a safety-critical position based in Alaska, 
                Hawaii, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the 
                Northern Mariana Islands, and the Virgin 
                Islands.
  (h) Right To Contest Adverse Personnel Actions.--An employee 
of the Federal Aviation Administration who is the subject of a 
major adverse personnel action may contest the action either 
through any contractual grievance procedure that is applicable 
to the employee as a member of the collective bargaining unit 
or through the Administration's internal process relating to 
review of major adverse personnel actions of the 
Administration, known as Guaranteed Fair Treatment, or under 
section 40122(g)(3).
  (i) Election of Forum.--Where a major adverse personnel 
action may be contested through more than one of the indicated 
forums (such as the contractual grievance procedure, the 
Federal Aviation Administration's internal process, or that of 
the Merit Systems Protection Board), an employee must elect the 
forum through which the matter will be contested. Nothing in 
this section is intended to allow an employee to contest an 
action through more than one forum unless otherwise allowed by 
law.
  (j) Definition.--In this section, the term ``major adverse 
personnel action'' means a suspension of more than 14 days, a 
reduction in pay or grade, a removal for conduct or 
performance, a nondisciplinary removal, a furlough of 30 days 
or less (but not including placement in a nonpay status as the 
result of a lapse of appropriations or an enactment by 
Congress), or a reduction in force action.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 40125. Qualifications for public aircraft status

  (a) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
          (1) Commercial purposes.--The term ``commercial 
        purposes'' means the transportation of persons or 
        property for compensation or hire, but does not include 
        the operation of an aircraft by the armed forces for 
        reimbursement when that reimbursement is required by 
        any Federal statute, regulation, or directive, in 
        effect on November 1, 1999, or by one government on 
        behalf of another government under a cost reimbursement 
        agreement if the government on whose behalf the 
        operation is conducted certifies to the Administrator 
        of the Federal Aviation Administration that the 
        operation is necessary to respond to a significant and 
        imminent threat to life or property (including natural 
        resources) and that no service by a private operator is 
        reasonably available to meet the threat.
          (2) Governmental function.--The term ``governmental 
        function'' means an activity undertaken by a 
        government, such as national defense, intelligence 
        missions, firefighting, search and rescue, law 
        enforcement (including transport of prisoners, 
        detainees, and illegal aliens), aeronautical research, 
        [or] biological or geological resource management 
        (including data collection on civil aviation systems 
        undergoing research, development, test, or evaluation 
        at a test range (as such term is defined in section 
        44801)), infrastructure inspections, or any other 
        activity undertaken by a governmental entity that the 
        Administrator determines is inherently governmental.
          (3) Qualified non-crewmember.--The term ``qualified 
        non-crewmember'' means an individual, other than a 
        member of the crew, aboard an aircraft--
                  (A) operated by the armed forces or an 
                intelligence agency of the United States 
                Government; or
                  (B) whose presence is required to perform, or 
                is associated with the performance of, a 
                governmental function.
          (4) Armed forces.--The term ``armed forces'' has the 
        meaning given such term by section 101 of title 10.
  (b) Aircraft Owned by Governments.--An aircraft described in 
subparagraph (A), (B), (C), (D), or (F) of section 40102(a)(41) 
does not qualify as a public aircraft under such section when 
the aircraft is used for commercial purposes or to carry an 
individual other than a crewmember or a qualified non-
crewmember.
  (c) Aircraft Owned or Operated by the Armed Forces.--
          (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), an 
        aircraft described in section 40102(a)(41)(E) qualifies 
        as a public aircraft if--
                  (A) the aircraft is operated in accordance 
                with title 10;
                  (B) the aircraft is operated in the 
                performance of a governmental function under 
                title 14, 31, 32, or 50 and the aircraft is not 
                used for commercial purposes; or
                  (C) the aircraft is chartered to provide 
                transportation or other commercial air service 
                to the armed forces and the Secretary of 
                Defense (or the Secretary of the department in 
                which the Coast Guard is operating) designates 
                the operation of the aircraft as being required 
                in the national interest.
          (2) Limitation.--An aircraft that meets the criteria 
        set forth in paragraph (1) and that is owned or 
        operated by the National Guard of a State, the District 
        of Columbia, or any territory or possession of the 
        United States, qualifies as a public aircraft only to 
        the extent that it is operated under the direct control 
        of the Department of Defense.
  (d) Search and Rescue Purposes.--An aircraft described in 
section 40102(a)(41)(D) that is not exclusively leased for at 
least 90 continuous days by the government of a State, the 
District of Columbia, or a territory or possession of the 
United States or a political subdivision of 1 of those 
governments, qualifies as a public aircraft if the 
Administrator determines that--
          (1) there are extraordinary circumstances;
          (2) the aircraft will be used for the performance of 
        search and rescue missions;
          (3) a community would not otherwise have access to 
        search and rescue services; and
          (4) a government entity demonstrates that granting 
        the waiver is necessary to prevent an undue economic 
        burden on that government.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 40128. Overflights of national parks

  (a) In General.--
          (1) General requirements.--A commercial air tour 
        operator may not conduct commercial air tour operations 
        over a national park or tribal lands, as defined by 
        this section, except--
                  (A) in accordance with this section;
                  (B) in accordance with conditions and 
                limitations prescribed for that operator by the 
                Administrator; and
                  (C) in accordance with any applicable air 
                tour management plan or voluntary agreement 
                under subsection (b)(7) for the park or tribal 
                lands.
          (2) Application for operating authority.--
                  (A) Application required.--Before commencing 
                commercial air tour operations over a national 
                park or tribal lands, a commercial air tour 
                operator shall apply to the Administrator for 
                authority to conduct the operations over the 
                park or tribal lands.
                  (B) Competitive bidding for limited capacity 
                parks.--Whenever an air tour management plan 
                limits the number of commercial air tour 
                operations over a national park during a 
                specified time frame, the Administrator, in 
                cooperation with the Director, shall issue 
                operation specifications to commercial air tour 
                operators that conduct such operations. The 
                operation specifications shall include such 
                terms and conditions as the Administrator and 
                the Director find necessary for management of 
                commercial air tour operations over the park. 
                The Administrator, in cooperation with the 
                Director, shall develop an open competitive 
                process for evaluating proposals from persons 
                interested in providing commercial air tour 
                operations over the park. In making a selection 
                from among various proposals submitted, the 
                Administrator, in cooperation with the 
                Director, shall consider relevant factors, 
                including--
                          (i) the safety record of the person 
                        submitting the proposal or pilots 
                        employed by the person;
                          (ii) any quiet aircraft technology 
                        proposed to be used by the person 
                        submitting the proposal;
                          (iii) the experience of the person 
                        submitting the proposal with commercial 
                        air tour operations over other national 
                        parks or scenic areas;
                          (iv) the financial capability of the 
                        person submitting the proposal;
                          (v) any training programs for pilots 
                        provided by the person submitting the 
                        proposal; and
                          (vi) responsiveness of the person 
                        submitting the proposal to any relevant 
                        criteria developed by the National Park 
                        Service for the affected park.
                  (C) Number of operations authorized.--In 
                determining the number of authorizations to 
                issue to provide commercial air tour operations 
                over a national park, the Administrator, in 
                cooperation with the Director, shall take into 
                consideration the provisions of the air tour 
                management plan, the number of existing 
                commercial air tour operators and current level 
                of service and equipment provided by any such 
                operators, and the financial viability of each 
                commercial air tour operation.
                  (D) Cooperation with nps.--Before granting an 
                application under this paragraph, the 
                Administrator, in cooperation with the 
                Director, shall develop an air tour management 
                plan in accordance with subsection (b) and 
                implement such plan.
                  (E) Time limit on response to atmp 
                applications.--The Administrator shall make 
                every effort to act on any application under 
                this paragraph and issue a decision on the 
                application not later than 24 months after it 
                is received or amended.
                  (F) Priority.--In acting on applications 
                under this paragraph to provide commercial air 
                tour operations over a national park, the 
                Administrator shall give priority to an 
                application under this paragraph in any case in 
                which a new entrant commercial air tour 
                operator is seeking operating authority with 
                respect to that national park.
          (3) Exception.--Notwithstanding paragraph (1), 
        commercial air tour operators may conduct commercial 
        air tour operations over a national park under part 91 
        of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations if--
                  (A) such activity is permitted under part 119 
                of such title;
                  (B) the operator secures a letter of 
                agreement from the Administrator and the 
                national park superintendent for that national 
                park describing the conditions under which the 
                operations will be conducted; and
                  (C) the total number of operations under this 
                exception is limited to not more than five 
                flights in any 30-day period over a particular 
                park.
          (4) Special rule for safety requirements.--
        Notwithstanding subsection (c), an existing commercial 
        air tour operator shall apply, not later than 90 days 
        after the date of the enactment of this section, for 
        operating authority under part 119, 121, or 135 of 
        title 14, Code of Federal Regulations. A new entrant 
        commercial air tour operator shall apply for such 
        authority before conducting commercial air tour 
        operations over a national park or tribal lands. The 
        Administrator shall make every effort to act on any 
        such application for a new entrant and issue a decision 
        on the application not later than 24 months after it is 
        received or amended.
          (5) Exemption for national parks with 50 or fewer 
        flights each year.--
                  (A) In general.--Notwithstanding paragraph 
                (1), a national park that has 50 or fewer 
                commercial air tour operations over the park 
                each year shall be exempt from the requirements 
                of this section, except as provided in 
                subparagraph (B).
                  (B) Withdrawal of exemption.--If the Director 
                determines that an air tour management plan or 
                voluntary agreement is necessary to protect 
                park resources and values or park visitor use 
                and enjoyment, the Director shall withdraw the 
                exemption of a park under subparagraph (A).
                  (C) List of parks.--
                          (i) In general.--The Director and 
                        Administrator shall jointly publish a 
                        list each year of national parks that 
                        are covered by the exemption provided 
                        under this paragraph.
                          (ii) Notification of withdrawal of 
                        exemption.--The Director shall inform 
                        the Administrator, in writing, of each 
                        determination to withdraw an exemption 
                        under subparagraph (B).
                  (D) Annual report.--A commercial air tour 
                operator conducting commercial air tour 
                operations over a national park that is exempt 
                from the requirements of this section shall 
                submit to the Administrator and the Director a 
                report each year that includes the number of 
                commercial air tour operations the operator 
                conducted during the preceding 1-year period 
                over such park.
  (b) Air Tour Management Plans.--
          (1) Establishment.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administrator, in 
                cooperation with the Director, shall establish 
                an air tour management plan for any national 
                park or tribal land for which such a plan is 
                not in effect whenever a person applies for 
                authority to conduct a commercial air tour 
                operation over the park. The air tour 
                management plan shall be developed by means of 
                a public process in accordance with paragraph 
                (4).
                  (B) Objective.--The objective of any air tour 
                management plan shall be to develop acceptable 
                and effective measures to mitigate or prevent 
                the significant adverse impacts, if any, of 
                commercial air tour operations upon the natural 
                and cultural resources, visitor experiences, 
                and tribal lands.
                  (C) Exception.--An application to begin or 
                expand commercial air tour operations at Crater 
                Lake National Park or Great Smoky Mountains 
                National Park may be denied without the 
                establishment of an air tour management plan by 
                the Director of the National Park Service if 
                the Director determines that such operations 
                would adversely affect park resources or 
                visitor experiences.
          (2) Environmental determination.--In establishing an 
        air tour management plan under this subsection, the 
        Administrator and the Director shall each sign the 
        environmental decision document required by section 102 
        of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 
        U.S.C. 4332) which may include a finding of no 
        significant impact, an environmental assessment, or an 
        environmental impact statement and the record of 
        decision for the air tour management plan.
          (3) Contents.--An air tour management plan for a 
        national park--
                  (A) may prohibit commercial air tour 
                operations over a national park in whole or in 
                part;
                  (B) may establish conditions for the conduct 
                of commercial air tour operations over a 
                national park, including commercial air tour 
                routes, maximum or minimum altitudes, time-of-
                day restrictions, restrictions for particular 
                events, maximum number of flights per unit of 
                time, intrusions on privacy on tribal lands, 
                and mitigation of noise, visual, or other 
                impacts;
                  (C) shall apply to all commercial air tour 
                operations over a national park that are also 
                within 1/2 mile outside the boundary of a 
                national park;
                  (D) shall include incentives (such as 
                preferred commercial air tour routes and 
                altitudes, relief from caps and curfews) for 
                the adoption of quiet aircraft technology by 
                commercial air tour operators conducting 
                commercial air tour operations over a national 
                park;
                  (E) shall provide for the initial allocation 
                of opportunities to conduct commercial air tour 
                operations over a national park if the plan 
                includes a limitation on the number of 
                commercial air tour operations for any time 
                period; and
                  (F) shall justify and document the need for 
                measures taken pursuant to subparagraphs (A) 
                through (E) and include such justifications in 
                the record of decision.
          (4) Procedure.--In establishing an air tour 
        management plan for a national park or tribal lands, 
        the Administrator and the Director shall--
                  (A) hold at least one public meeting with 
                interested parties to develop the air tour 
                management plan;
                  (B) publish the proposed plan in the Federal 
                Register for notice and comment and make copies 
                of the proposed plan available to the public;
                  (C) comply with the regulations set forth in 
                sections 1501.3 and 1501.5 through 1501.8 of 
                title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (for 
                purposes of complying with the regulations, the 
                Federal Aviation Administration shall be the 
                lead agency and the National Park Service is a 
                cooperating agency); [and]
                  (D) solicit the participation of any Indian 
                tribe whose tribal lands are, or may be, 
                overflown by aircraft involved in a commercial 
                air tour operation over the park or tribal 
                lands to which the plan applies, as a 
                cooperating agency under the regulations 
                referred to in subparagraph (C)[.]; and
                  (E) consult with the advisory group 
                established under section 805 of the National 
                Parks Air Tour Management Act of 2000 (49 
                U.S.C. 40128 note) and consider all advice, 
                information, and recommendations provided by 
                the advisory group to the Administrator and the 
                Director.
          (5) Judicial review.--An air tour management plan 
        developed under this subsection shall be subject to 
        judicial review.
          (6) Amendments.--The Administrator, in cooperation 
        with the Director, may make amendments to an air tour 
        management plan. Any such amendments shall be published 
        in the Federal Register for notice and comment. A 
        request for amendment of an air tour management plan 
        shall be made in such form and manner as the 
        Administrator may prescribe.
          (7) Voluntary agreements.--
                  (A) In general.--As an alternative to an air 
                tour management plan, the Director and the 
                Administrator may enter into a voluntary 
                agreement with a commercial air tour operator 
                (including a new entrant commercial air tour 
                operator and an operator that has interim 
                operating authority) that has applied to 
                conduct commercial air tour operations over a 
                national park to manage commercial air tour 
                operations over such national park.
                  (B) Park protection.--A voluntary agreement 
                under this paragraph with respect to commercial 
                air tour operations over a national park shall 
                address the management issues necessary to 
                protect the resources of such park and visitor 
                use of such park without compromising aviation 
                safety or the air traffic control system and 
                may--
                          (i) include provisions such as those 
                        described in subparagraphs (B) through 
                        (E) of paragraph (3);
                          (ii) include provisions to ensure the 
                        stability of, and compliance with, the 
                        voluntary agreement; and
                          (iii) provide for fees for such 
                        operations.
                  (C) Public review.--The Director and the 
                Administrator shall provide an opportunity for 
                public review of a proposed voluntary agreement 
                under this paragraph and shall consult with any 
                Indian tribe whose tribal lands are, or may be, 
                flown over by a commercial air tour operator 
                under a voluntary agreement under this 
                paragraph. After such opportunity for public 
                review and consultation, the voluntary 
                agreement may be implemented without further 
                administrative or environmental process beyond 
                that described in this subsection.
                  (D) Termination.--
                          (i) In general.--A voluntary 
                        agreement under this paragraph may be 
                        terminated at any time at the 
                        discretion of--
                                  (I) the Director, if the 
                                Director determines that the 
                                agreement is not adequately 
                                protecting park resources or 
                                visitor experiences; or
                                  (II) the Administrator, if 
                                the Administrator determines 
                                that the agreement is adversely 
                                affecting aviation safety or 
                                the national aviation system.
                          (ii) Effect of termination.--If a 
                        voluntary agreement with respect to a 
                        national park is terminated under this 
                        subparagraph, the operators shall 
                        conform to the requirements for interim 
                        operating authority under subsection 
                        (c) until an air tour management plan 
                        for the park is in effect.
  (c) Interim Operating Authority.--
          (1) In general.--Upon application for operating 
        authority, the Administrator shall grant interim 
        operating authority under this subsection to a 
        commercial air tour operator for commercial air tour 
        operations over a national park or tribal lands for 
        which the operator is an existing commercial air tour 
        operator.
          (2) Requirements and limitations.--Interim operating 
        authority granted under this subsection--
                  (A) shall provide annual authorization only 
                for the greater of--
                          (i) the number of flights used by the 
                        operator to provide the commercial air 
                        tour operations over a national park 
                        within the 12-month period prior to the 
                        date of the enactment of this section; 
                        or
                          (ii) the average number of flights 
                        per 12-month period used by the 
                        operator to provide such operations 
                        within the 36-month period prior to 
                        such date of enactment, and, for 
                        seasonal operations, the number of 
                        flights so used during the season or 
                        seasons covered by that 12-month 
                        period;
                  (B) may not provide for an increase in the 
                number of commercial air tour operations over a 
                national park conducted during any time period 
                by the commercial air tour operator above the 
                number that the air tour operator was 
                originally granted unless such an increase is 
                agreed to by the Administrator and the 
                Director;
                  (C) shall be published in the Federal 
                Register to provide notice and opportunity for 
                comment;
                  (D) may be revoked by the Administrator for 
                cause;
                  (E) shall terminate 180 days after the date 
                on which an air tour management plan is 
                established for the park or tribal lands;
                  (F) shall promote protection of national park 
                resources, visitor experiences, and tribal 
                lands;
                  (G) shall promote safe commercial air tour 
                operations;
                  (H) shall promote the adoption of quiet 
                technology, as appropriate; and
                  (I) may allow for modifications of the 
                interim operating authority without further 
                environmental review beyond that described in 
                this subsection, if--
                          (i) adequate information regarding 
                        the existing and proposed operations of 
                        the operator under the interim 
                        operating authority is provided to the 
                        Administrator and the Director;
                          (ii) the Administrator determines 
                        that there would be no adverse impact 
                        on aviation safety or the air traffic 
                        control system; and
                          (iii) the Director agrees with the 
                        modification, based on the professional 
                        expertise of the Director regarding the 
                        protection of the resources, values, 
                        and visitor use and enjoyment of the 
                        park.
          (3) New entrant air tour operators.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administrator, in 
                cooperation with the Director, may grant 
                interim operating authority under this 
                paragraph to an air tour operator for a 
                national park or tribal lands for which that 
                operator is a new entrant air tour operator 
                without further environmental process beyond 
                that described in this paragraph, if--
                          (i) adequate information on the 
                        proposed operations of the operator is 
                        provided to the Administrator and the 
                        Director by the operator making the 
                        request;
                          (ii) the Administrator agrees that 
                        there would be no adverse impact on 
                        aviation safety or the air traffic 
                        control system; and
                          (iii) the Director agrees, based on 
                        the Director's professional expertise 
                        regarding the protection of park 
                        resources and values and visitor use 
                        and enjoyment.
                  (B) Safety limitation.--The Administrator may 
                not grant interim operating authority under 
                subparagraph (A) if the Administrator 
                determines that it would create a safety 
                problem at the park or on the tribal lands, or 
                the Director determines that it would create a 
                noise problem at the park or on the tribal 
                lands.
                  (C) ATMP limitation.--The Administrator may 
                grant interim operating authority under 
                subparagraph (A) of this paragraph only if the 
                air tour management plan for the park or tribal 
                lands to which the application relates has not 
                been developed within 24 months after the date 
                of the enactment of this section.
  (d) Commercial Air Tour Operator Reports.--
          (1) Report.--Each commercial air tour operator 
        conducting a commercial air tour operation over a 
        national park under interim operating authority granted 
        under subsection (c) or in accordance with an air tour 
        management plan or voluntary agreement under subsection 
        (b) shall submit to the Administrator and the Director 
        a report regarding the number of commercial air tour 
        operations over each national park that are conducted 
        by the operator and such other information as the 
        Administrator and Director may request in order to 
        facilitate administering the provisions of this 
        section.
          (2) Report submission.--Not later than 90 days after 
        the date of enactment of the FAA Modernization and 
        Reform Act of 2012, the Administrator and the Director 
        shall jointly issue an initial request for reports 
        under this subsection. The reports shall be submitted 
        to the Administrator and the Director with a frequency 
        and in a format prescribed by the Administrator and the 
        Director.
  (e) Exemptions.--This section shall not apply to--
          (1) the Grand Canyon National Park; or
          (2) tribal lands within or abutting the Grand Canyon 
        National Park.
  (f) Lake Mead.--This section shall not apply to any air tour 
operator while flying over or near the Lake Mead National 
Recreation Area, solely as a transportation route, to conduct 
an air tour over the Grand Canyon National Park. For purposes 
of this subsection, an air tour operator flying over the Hoover 
Dam in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area en route to the 
Grand Canyon National Park shall be deemed to be flying solely 
as a transportation route.
  (g) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
          (1) Commercial air tour operator.--The term 
        ``commercial air tour operator'' means any person who 
        conducts a commercial air tour operation over a 
        national park.
          (2) Existing commercial air tour operator.--The term 
        ``existing commercial air tour operator'' means a 
        commercial air tour operator that was actively engaged 
        in the business of providing commercial air tour 
        operations over a national park at any time during the 
        12-month period ending on the date of the enactment of 
        this section.
          (3) New entrant commercial air tour operator.--The 
        term ``new entrant commercial air tour operator'' means 
        a commercial air tour operator that--
                  (A) applies for operating authority as a 
                commercial air tour operator for a national 
                park or tribal lands; and
                  (B) has not engaged in the business of 
                providing commercial air tour operations over 
                the national park or tribal lands in the 12-
                month period preceding the application.
          (4) Commercial air tour operation over a national 
        park.--
                  (A) In general.--The term ``commercial air 
                tour operation over a national park'' means any 
                flight, conducted for compensation or hire in a 
                powered aircraft where a purpose of the flight 
                is sightseeing over a national park, within 1/2 
                mile outside the boundary of any national park 
                (except the Grand Canyon National Park), or 
                over tribal lands (except those within or 
                abutting the Grand Canyon National Park), 
                during which the aircraft flies--
                          (i) below a minimum altitude, 
                        determined by the Administrator in 
                        cooperation with the Director, above 
                        ground level (except solely for 
                        purposes of takeoff or landing, or 
                        necessary for safe operation of an 
                        aircraft as determined under the rules 
                        and regulations of the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration requiring the pilot-in-
                        command to take action to ensure the 
                        safe operation of the aircraft); or
                          (ii) less than 1 mile laterally from 
                        any geographic feature within the park 
                        (unless more than 1/2 mile outside the 
                        boundary).
                  (B) Factors to consider.--In making a 
                determination of whether a flight is a 
                commercial air tour operation over a national 
                park for purposes of this section, the 
                Administrator may consider--
                          (i) whether there was a holding out 
                        to the public of willingness to conduct 
                        a sightseeing flight for compensation 
                        or hire;
                          (ii) whether a narrative that 
                        referred to areas or points of interest 
                        on the surface below the route of the 
                        flight was provided by the person 
                        offering the flight;
                          (iii) the area of operation;
                          (iv) the frequency of flights 
                        conducted by the person offering the 
                        flight;
                          (v) the route of flight;
                          (vi) the inclusion of sightseeing 
                        flights as part of any travel 
                        arrangement package offered by the 
                        person offering the flight;
                          (vii) whether the flight would have 
                        been canceled based on poor visibility 
                        of the surface below the route of the 
                        flight; and
                          (viii) any other factors that the 
                        Administrator and the Director consider 
                        appropriate.
          (5) National park.--The term ``national park'' means 
        any unit of the National Park System.
          (6) Tribal lands.--The term ``tribal lands'' means 
        Indian country (as that term is defined in section 1151 
        of title 18) that is within or abutting a national 
        park.
          (7) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means 
        the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
          (8) Director.--The term ``Director'' means the 
        Director of the National Park Service.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 40130. FAA authority to conduct criminal history record checks

  (a) Criminal History Background Checks.--
          (1) Access to information.--The Administrator of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration, for certification 
        purposes of the Administration only, is authorized--
                  (A) to conduct, in accordance with the 
                established request process, a criminal history 
                background check of an airman in the criminal 
                repositories of the Federal Bureau of 
                Investigation and States by submitting positive 
                identification of the airman to a fingerprint-
                based repository in compliance with section 217 
                of the National Crime Prevention and Privacy 
                Compact Act of 1998 [(42 U.S.C. 14616)] (34 
                U.S.C. 40316); and
                  (B) to receive relevant criminal history 
                record information regarding the airman 
                checked.
          (2) Release of information.--In accessing a 
        repository referred to in paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator shall be subject to the conditions and 
        procedures established by the Department of Justice or 
        the State, as appropriate, for other governmental 
        agencies conducting background checks for noncriminal 
        justice purposes.
          (3) Limitation.--The Administrator may not use the 
        authority under paragraph (1) to conduct criminal 
        investigations.
          (4) Reimbursement.--The Administrator may collect 
        reimbursement to process the fingerprint-based checks 
        under this subsection, to be used for expenses 
        incurred, including Federal Bureau of Investigation 
        fees, in providing these services.
  (b) Designated Employees.--The Administrator shall designate, 
by order, employees of the Administration who may carry out the 
authority described in subsection (a).

Sec. 40131. Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and 
                    Employment Readiness Program

  (a) Establishment.--Not later than September 30, 2026, the 
Secretary of Transportation, through the National Center for 
the Advancement of Aerospace (in this section referred to as 
the ``Center''), shall establish an aviation workforce 
cooperative development program to be known as the Cooperative 
Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and Employment Readiness 
Program (in this section referred to as the ``CAREER Program'') 
to support the education, recruitment, training, and retention 
of future aviation professionals and the development of a 
robust United States aviation workforce by--
          (1) using relevant workforce forecasts to predict and 
        identify aviation-related workforce challenges; and
          (2) funding projects that address such challenges and 
        help to sustain the long-term growth of civil aviation.
  (b) Implementation.--
          (1) Partnership with ncaa.--In implementing the 
        CAREER Program established under subsection (a), the 
        Secretary shall partner with the CAREER Council 
        established in subsection (j) of section 120.
          (2) Nondelegation.--Except as provided in paragraph 
        (3), the Secretary may not delegate any of the 
        authorities or responsibilities under this section to 
        the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
          (3) Support.--To support the administration of the 
        CAREER Program, the Secretary may assign employees of 
        the Department of Transportation, including employees 
        of the Federal Aviation Administration, on detail to 
        the Center.
  (c) Solicitation, Review, and Evaluation Process.--In 
carrying out the CAREER Program, the Secretary shall establish 
a solicitation, review, and evaluation process that ensures 
funds made available to carry out this section are awarded to 
eligible entities with proposals that have adequate merit and 
relevancy to the mission of the program.
  (d) Eligible Entities.--An eligible entity under this section 
is--
          (1) an air carrier;
          (2) an entity that holds management specifications 
        under subpart K of title 91 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations;
          (3) a holder of a certificate issued under parts 139, 
        145, or 147 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations;
          (4) an institution of higher education (as defined in 
        section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 
        U.S.C. 1001)), a postsecondary vocational institution 
        (as defined in section 102(c) of the Higher Education 
        Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002)), or a high school or 
        secondary school (as such terms are defined in section 
        8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 
        1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801));
          (5) a flight school that provides flight training, as 
        defined in part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, or that holds a pilot school certificate 
        under part 141 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations;
          (6) an aviation labor organization;
          (7) a State, local, territorial, or Tribal 
        government, including a political subdivision thereof;
          (8) an aviation-related nonprofit organization 
        described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue 
        Code of 1986 that is exempt from taxation under section 
        501(a) of such Code; or
          (9) an entity that--
                  (A) actively designs or manufactures any 
                aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or 
                appliance, or a component, part, or system 
                thereof, covered under a type or production 
                certificate issued under section 44704; and
                  (B) has significant operations in the United 
                States and a majority of the employees of such 
                entity that are engaged in aviation 
                manufacturing or development activities and 
                services are based in the United States.
  (e) Reporting and Monitoring Requirements.--The Secretary 
shall establish reasonable reporting and monitoring 
requirements for grant recipients under this section to measure 
relevant outcomes of the program maintained pursuant to 
subsection (a).
  (f) Report.--Not later than September 30, 2027, and annually 
through fiscal year 2028, 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 program that 
includes--
          (1) a summary of projects awarded grants under this 
        section and the progress of each recipient towards 
        fulfilling program expectations;
          (2) an evaluation of how such projects cumulatively 
        impact the future supply of individuals in the U.S. 
        aviation workforce, including best practices or 
        programs to incentivize, recruit, and retain 
        individuals in aviation professions; and
          (3) recommendations for better coordinating actions 
        by governmental entities, educational institutions, and 
        businesses, aviation labor organizations, or other 
        stakeholders to support aviation workforce growth.
  (g) Notice of Grants.--
          (1) Timely public notice.--The Secretary shall 
        provide public notice of any grant awarded under the 
        CAREER Program in a timely fashion after the Secretary 
        awards such grant.
          (2) Notice to congress.--The Secretary shall provide 
        advance notice of a grant to be made under the CAREER 
        Program to the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
        the Senate.
  (h) Authorization of Appropriations.--Of the amounts made 
available under section 48105, $50,000,000 for each of fiscal 
years 2027 and 2028 is authorized to be expended to provide 
grants under the program established under subsection (a).

Sec. 40132. National airspace system cyber threat management process

  (a) Establishment.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration, in consultation with other agencies as the 
Administrator determines necessary, shall establish a national 
airspace system cyber threat management process to protect the 
national airspace system cyber environment, including the 
safety, security, and efficiency of the air navigation services 
provided by the Administration.
  (b) Issues to Be Addressed.--In establishing the national 
airspace system cyber threat management process under 
subsection (a), the Administrator shall, at a minimum--
          (1) monitor the national airspace system for 
        cybersecurity incidents;
          (2) in consultation with appropriate Federal 
        agencies, evaluate the cyber threat landscape for the 
        national airspace system, including updating such 
        evaluation on both annual and threat-based timelines;
          (3) conduct national airspace system cyber incident 
        analyses;
          (4) create a cyber common operating picture for the 
        national airspace system cyber environment;
          (5) coordinate national airspace system cyber 
        incident responses with other appropriate Federal 
        agencies;
          (6) track cyber incident detection, response, 
        mitigation implementation, recovery, and closure;
          (7) establish a process, or utilize existing 
        processes, to collect relevant interagency and 
        stakeholder national airspace system cyber incident 
        data, including data from other Federal agencies and 
        private persons; and
          (8) consider any other matter the Administrator 
        determines appropriate.
  (c) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Cyber common operating picture.--The term ``cyber 
        common operating picture'' means the correlation of a 
        detected cyber incident or cyber threat in the national 
        airspace system and other operational anomalies to 
        provide a holistic view of potential cause and impact.
          (2) Cyber environment.--The term ``cyber 
        environment'' means the information environment 
        consisting of the interdependent networks of 
        information technology infrastructures and resident 
        data, including the internet, telecommunications 
        networks, computer systems, and embedded processors and 
        controllers.
          (3) Cyber incident.--The term ``cyber incident'' 
        means an action that creates noticeable degradation, 
        disruption, or destruction to the cyber environment and 
        causes a safety or other negative impact on operations 
        of--
                  (A) the national airspace system;
                  (B) civil aircraft; or
                  (C) aeronautical products and articles.
          (4) Cyber threat.--The term ``cyber threat'' means 
        the threat of an action that, if carried out, would 
        constitute a cyber incident or an electronic attack.
          (5) Electronic attack.--The term ``electronic 
        attack'' means the use of electromagnetic spectrum 
        energy to impede operations in the cyber environment, 
        including through techniques such as jamming or 
        spoofing.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SUBPART ii--ECONOMIC REGULATION

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 413--FOREIGN AIR TRANSPORTATION

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 41302. Permits of foreign air carriers

  The Secretary of Transportation may issue a permit to a 
person (except a citizen of the United States) authorizing the 
person to provide foreign air transportation as a foreign air 
carrier if the Secretary finds that--
          (1) the person is fit, willing, and able to provide 
        the foreign air transportation to be authorized by the 
        permit and to comply with this part and regulations of 
        the Secretary; and
          (2)(A) the person is qualified, and has been 
        designated by the government of its country, to provide 
        the foreign air transportation under an agreement with 
        the United States Government; or
          (B) [the foreign air transportation] after 
        considering the totality of the circumstances, 
        including the matters described in section 40101(a), 
        the foreign air transportation to be provided under the 
        permit will be in the public interest.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 41313. Plans to address needs of families of passengers involved 
                    in foreign air carrier accidents

  (a) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
          (1) Aircraft accident.--The term ``aircraft 
        accident'' means any aviation disaster, regardless of 
        its cause or suspected cause, that occurs within the 
        United States; and
          (2) Passenger.--The term ``passenger'' has the 
        meaning given such term by section 1136.
  (b) Submission of Plans.--A foreign air carrier providing 
foreign air transportation under this chapter shall transmit to 
the Secretary of Transportation and the Chairman of the 
National Transportation Safety Board a plan for addressing the 
needs of the families of passengers involved in an aircraft 
accident that involves an aircraft under the control of the 
foreign air carrier and results in any loss of life.
  (c) Contents of Plans.--To the extent permitted by foreign 
law which was in effect on the date of the enactment of this 
section, a plan submitted by a foreign air carrier under 
subsection (b) shall include the following:
          (1) Telephone number.--A plan for publicizing a 
        reliable, toll-free telephone number and staff to take 
        calls to such number from families of passengers 
        involved in an aircraft accident that involves an 
        aircraft under the control of the foreign air carrier 
        and results in any loss of life.
          (2) Notification of families.--A process for 
        notifying, in person to the extent practicable, the 
        families of passengers involved in an aircraft accident 
        that involves an aircraft under the control of the 
        foreign air carrier and results in any loss of life 
        before providing any public notice of the names of such 
        passengers. Such notice shall be provided by using the 
        services of--
                  (A) the organization designated for the 
                accident under section 1136(a)(2); or
                  (B) other suitably trained individuals.
          (3) Notice provided as soon as possible.--An 
        assurance that the notice required by paragraph (2) 
        shall be provided as soon as practicable after the 
        foreign air carrier has verified the identity of a 
        passenger on the foreign aircraft, whether or not the 
        names of all of the passengers have been verified.
          (4) List of passengers.--An assurance that the 
        foreign air carrier shall provide, immediately upon 
        request, and update a list (based on the best available 
        information at the time of the request) of the names of 
        the passengers aboard the aircraft (whether or not such 
        names have been verified), to--
                  (A) the director of family support services 
                designated for the accident under section 
                1136(a)(1); and
                  (B) the organization designated for the 
                accident under section 1136(a)(2).
          (5) Consultation regarding disposition of remains and 
        effects.--An assurance that the family of each 
        passenger will be consulted about the disposition of 
        any remains and personal effects of the passenger that 
        are within the control of the foreign air carrier.
          (6) Return of possessions.--An assurance that, if 
        requested by the family of a passenger, any possession 
        (regardless of its condition) of that passenger that is 
        within the control of the foreign air carrier will be 
        returned to the family unless the possession is needed 
        for the accident investigation or a criminal 
        investigation.
          (7) Unclaimed possessions retained.--An assurance 
        that any unclaimed possession of a passenger within the 
        control of the foreign air carrier will be retained by 
        the foreign air carrier for not less than 18 months 
        after the date of the accident.
          (8) Monuments.--An assurance that the family of each 
        passenger will be consulted about construction by the 
        foreign air carrier of any monument to the passengers 
        built in the United States, including any inscription 
        on the monument.
          (9) Equal treatment of passengers.--An assurance that 
        the treatment of the families of nonrevenue passengers 
        (and any other victim of the accident, including any 
        victim on the ground) will be the same as the treatment 
        of the families of revenue passengers.
          (10) Service and assistance to families of 
        passengers.--An assurance that the foreign air carrier 
        will work with any organization designated under 
        section 1136(a)(2) on an ongoing basis to ensure that 
        families of passengers receive an appropriate level of 
        services and assistance following an accident.
          (11) Compensation to service organizations.--An 
        assurance that the foreign air carrier will provide 
        reasonable compensation to any organization designated 
        under section 1136(a)(2) for services and assistance 
        provided by the organization.
          (12) Travel and care expenses.--An assurance that the 
        foreign air carrier will assist the family of any 
        passenger in traveling to the location of the accident 
        and provide for the physical care of the family while 
        the family is staying at such location.
          (13) Resources for plan.--An assurance that the 
        foreign air carrier will commit sufficient resources to 
        carry out the plan.
          (14) Substitute measures.--If a foreign air carrier 
        does not wish to comply with paragraph (10), (11), or 
        (12), a description of proposed adequate substitute 
        measures for the requirements of each paragraph with 
        which the foreign air carrier does not wish to comply.
          (15) Training of employees and agents.--An assurance 
        that the foreign air carrier will provide adequate 
        training to the employees and agents of the carrier to 
        meet the needs of survivors and family members 
        following an accident.
          (16) Consultation on carrier response not covered by 
        plan.--An assurance that, in the event that the foreign 
        air carrier volunteers assistance to United States 
        citizens within the United States with respect to an 
        aircraft accident outside the United States involving 
        any loss of life, [will consult] the foreign air 
        carrier shall consult with the Board and the Department 
        of State on the provision of the assistance.
          (17) Notice concerning liability for manmade 
        structures.--
                  (A) In general.--An assurance that, in the 
                case of an accident that results in any damage 
                to a manmade structure or other property on the 
                ground that is not government-owned, the 
                foreign air carrier will promptly provide 
                notice, in writing, to the extent practicable, 
                directly to the owner of the structure or other 
                property about liability for any property 
                damage and means for obtaining compensation.
                  (B) Minimum contents.--At a minimum, the 
                written notice shall advise an owner (i) to 
                contact the insurer of the property as the 
                authoritative source for information about 
                coverage and compensation; (ii) to not rely on 
                unofficial information offered by foreign air 
                carrier representatives about compensation by 
                the foreign air carrier for accident-site 
                property damage; and (iii) to obtain 
                photographic or other detailed evidence of 
                property damage as soon as possible after the 
                accident, consistent with restrictions on 
                access to the accident site.
          (18) Simultaneous electronic transmission of ntsb 
        hearing.--An assurance that, in the case of an accident 
        in which the National Transportation Safety Board 
        conducts a public hearing or comparable proceeding at a 
        location greater than 80 miles from the accident site, 
        the foreign air carrier will ensure that the proceeding 
        is made available simultaneously by electronic means at 
        a location open to the public at both the origin city 
        and destination city of the foreign air carrier's 
        flight if that city is located in the United States.
  (d) Permit and Exemption Requirement.--The Secretary shall 
not approve an application for a permit under section 41302 
unless the applicant has included as part of the application or 
request for exemption a plan that meets the requirements of 
subsection (c).
  (e) Limitation on Liability.--A foreign air carrier shall not 
be liable for damages in any action brought in a Federal or 
State court arising out of the performance of the foreign air 
carrier in preparing or providing a passenger list pursuant to 
a plan submitted by the foreign air carrier under subsection 
(c), unless the liability was caused by conduct of the foreign 
air carrier which was grossly negligent or which constituted 
intentional misconduct.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 415--PRICING

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 41511. Special prices for foreign air transportation

  (a) Free and Reduced Pricing.--This chapter does not prohibit 
an air carrier or foreign air carrier, under terms the 
Secretary of Transportation prescribes, from issuing or 
interchanging tickets or passes for free or reduced-price 
foreign air transportation to or for the following:
          (1) a director, officer, or employee of the carrier 
        (including a retired director, officer, or employee who 
        is receiving retirement benefits from an air carrier or 
        foreign air carrier).
          (2) a parent or the immediate family of such an 
        officer or employee or the immediate family of such a 
        director.
          (3) a widow, widower, or minor child of an employee 
        of the carrier who died as a direct result of a 
        personal injury sustained when performing a duty in the 
        service of the carrier.
          (4) a witness or attorney attending a legal 
        investigation in which the air carrier is interested.
          (5) an individual injured in an aircraft accident and 
        a physician or nurse attending the individual.
          (6) a parent or the immediate family of an individual 
        injured or killed in an aircraft accident when the 
        transportation is related to the accident.
          (7) an individual or property to provide relief in a 
        general epidemic, pestilence, or other emergency.
          (8) other individuals under other circumstances the 
        Secretary prescribes by regulation.
  (b) Space-Available Basis.--Under terms the Secretary 
prescribes, an air carrier or foreign air carrier may grant 
reduced-price foreign air transportation on a space-available 
basis to the following:
          (1) a minister of religion.
          (2) an individual who is at least 60 years of age and 
        no longer gainfully employed.
          (3) an individual who is at least 65 years of age.
          (4) an individual who has severely impaired vision or 
        hearing or another physical or mental [handicap] 
        disability and an accompanying attendant needed by that 
        individual.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


                  CHAPTER 417--OPERATIONS OF CARRIERS

                       SUBCHAPTER I--REQUIREMENTS

Sec.
     * * * * * * *
[41705. Discrimination against handicapped individuals.]
41705. Discrimination against individuals with disabilities.
     * * * * * * *
41727. Passenger rights.
41728. Airline passengers with disabilities bill of rights.
41729. Formal sexual assault and harassment policies.

SUBCHAPTER I--REQUIREMENTS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 41705. Discrimination against [handicapped individuals]  
                    individuals with disabilities

  (a) In General.--In providing air transportation, an air 
carrier, including (subject to section 40105(b)) any foreign 
air carrier, may not discriminate against an otherwise 
qualified individual on the following grounds:
          (1) the individual has a physical or mental 
        impairment that substantially limits one or more major 
        life activities.
          (2) the individual has a record of such an 
        impairment.
          (3) the individual is regarded as having such an 
        impairment.
  (b) Each Act Constitutes Separate Offense.--For purposes of 
section 46301, a separate violation occurs under this section 
for each individual act of discrimination prohibited by 
subsection (a).
  (c) Investigation of Complaints.--
          [(1) In general.--The Secretary shall investigate 
        each complaint of a violation of subsection (a).]
          (1) In general.--The Secretary shall--
                  (A) not later than 120 days after the receipt 
                of any complaint of a violation of this section 
                or a regulation prescribed under this section, 
                investigate such complaint; and
                  (B) provide, in writing, to the individual 
                that filed the complaint and the air carrier or 
                foreign air carrier alleged to have violated 
                this section or a regulation prescribed under 
                this section, the determination of the 
                Secretary with respect to--
                          (i) whether the air carrier or 
                        foreign air carrier violated this 
                        section or a regulation prescribed 
                        under this section;
                          (ii) the facts underlying the 
                        complaint; and
                          (iii) any action the Secretary is 
                        taking in response to the complaint.
          (2) Publication of data.--The Secretary shall publish 
        disability-related complaint data in a manner 
        comparable to other consumer complaint data.
          (3) Review and report.--The Secretary shall regularly 
        review all complaints received by air carriers alleging 
        discrimination on the basis of disability and shall 
        report annually to Congress on the results of such 
        review.
          (4) Technical assistance.--Not later than 180 days 
        after the date of the enactment of this subsection, the 
        Secretary shall--
                  (A) implement a plan, in consultation with 
                the Department of Justice, the United States 
                Architectural and Transportation Barriers 
                Compliance Board, and the National Council on 
                Disability, to provide technical assistance to 
                air carriers and individuals with disabilities 
                in understanding the rights and 
                responsibilities set forth in this section; and
                  (B) ensure the availability and provision of 
                appropriate technical assistance manuals to 
                individuals and entities with rights or 
                responsibilities under this section.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 41712. Unfair and deceptive practices and unfair methods of 
                    competition

  (a) In General.--On the initiative of the Secretary of 
Transportation or the complaint of an air carrier, foreign air 
carrier, air ambulance consumer (as defined by the Secretary of 
Transportation), or ticket agent, and if the Secretary 
considers it is in the public interest, the Secretary may 
investigate and decide whether an air carrier, foreign air 
carrier, or ticket agent has been or is engaged in an unfair or 
deceptive practice or an unfair method of competition in air 
transportation or the sale of air transportation. If the 
Secretary, after notice and an opportunity for a hearing, finds 
that an air carrier, foreign air carrier, or ticket agent is 
engaged in an unfair or deceptive practice or unfair method of 
competition, the Secretary shall order the air carrier, foreign 
air carrier, or ticket agent to stop the practice or method.
  (b) E-Ticket Expiration Notice.--It shall be an unfair or 
deceptive practice under subsection (a) for any air carrier, 
foreign air carrier, or ticket agent utilizing electronically 
transmitted tickets for air transportation to fail to notify 
the purchaser of such a ticket of its expiration date, if any.
  (c) Disclosure Requirement for Sellers of Tickets for 
Flights.--
          (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 on a flight of 
        an air carrier to fail to disclose, whether verbally in 
        oral communication or in writing in written or 
        electronic communication, prior to the purchase of a 
        ticket--
                  (A) the name of the air carrier providing the 
                air transportation; and
                  (B) if the flight has more than one flight 
                segment, the name of each air carrier providing 
                the air transportation for each such flight 
                segment.
          (2) Internet offers.--In the case of an offer to sell 
        tickets described in paragraph (1) on an Internet Web 
        site, disclosure of the information required by 
        paragraph (1) shall be provided on the first display of 
        the Web site following a search of a requested 
        itinerary in a format that is easily visible to a 
        viewer.
  (e) Full Fare Advertising.--
          (1) In general.--It shall not be an unfair or 
        deceptive practice under subsection (a) for a covered 
        entity to state in an advertisement or solicitation for 
        passenger air transportation the base airfare for such 
        air transportation if the covered entity clearly and 
        separately discloses--
                  (A) the government-imposed taxes and fees 
                associated with the air transportation; and
                  (B) the total cost of the air transportation.
          (2) Form of disclosure.--
                  (A) In general.--For purposes of paragraph 
                (1), the information described in paragraphs 
                (1)(A) and (1)(B) shall be disclosed in the 
                advertisement or solicitation in a manner that 
                clearly presents the information to the 
                consumer.
                  (B) Internet advertisements and 
                solicitations.--For purposes of paragraph (1), 
                with respect to an advertisement or 
                solicitation for passenger air transportation 
                that appears on a website, the information 
                described in paragraphs (1)(A) and (1)(B) may 
                be disclosed through a link or pop-up, as such 
                terms may be defined by the Secretary, in a 
                manner that is easily accessible and viewable 
                by the consumer.
          (3) Definitions.--In this subsection:
                  (A) Base airfare.--The term ``base airfare'' 
                means the cost of passenger air transportation, 
                excluding government-imposed taxes and fees.
                  (B) Covered entity.--The term ``covered 
                entity'' means an air carrier, including an 
                indirect air carrier, foreign carrier, ticket 
                agent, or other person offering to sell tickets 
                for passenger air transportation or a tour, or 
                tour component, that must be purchased with air 
                transportation.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 41727. Passenger rights

  (a) Guidelines.--The Secretary of Transportation shall 
require each air carrier and foreign air carrier to submit a 
summarized 1-page document that describes the rights of 
passengers in air transportation, including guidelines for the 
following:
          (1) Compensation (regarding rebooking options, 
        refunds, meals, and lodging) for flight delays of 
        various lengths.
          (2) Compensation (regarding rebooking options, 
        refunds, meals, and lodging) for flight diversions.
          (3) Compensation (regarding rebooking options, 
        refunds, meals, and lodging) for flight cancellations.
          (4) Compensation for mishandled baggage, wheelchairs, 
        mobility aids and other assistive devices, including 
        delayed, damaged, pilfered, or lost baggage, 
        wheelchairs, mobility aids and other assistive devices.
          (5) Voluntary relinquishment of a ticketed seat due 
        to overbooking or priority of other passengers.
          (6) Involuntary denial of boarding and forced removal 
        for whatever reason, including for safety and security 
        reasons.
  (b) Filing of Summarized Guidelines.--Not later than 90 days 
after each air carrier and foreign air carrier submits the 1-
page document to the Secretary under subsection (a), each such 
air carrier and foreign air carrier shall make available such 
1-page document in a prominent location on its website.

Sec. 41728. Airline passengers with disabilities bill of rights

  (a) Airline Passengers With Disabilities Bill of Rights.--The 
Secretary of Transportation shall develop a document, to be 
known as the ``Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of 
Rights'', using plain language to describe the basic 
protections and responsibilities of air carriers and foreign 
air carriers, their employees and contractors, and people with 
disabilities under section 41705.
  (b) Content.--In developing the Airline Passengers with 
Disabilities Bill of Rights under subsection (a), the Secretary 
shall include, at a minimum, plain language descriptions of 
protections and responsibilities provided in law related to the 
following:
          (1) The right of passengers with disabilities to be 
        treated with dignity and respect.
          (2) The right of passengers with disabilities to 
        receive timely assistance, if requested, from properly 
        trained air carrier, foreign air carrier, and 
        contractor personnel.
          (3) The right of passengers with disabilities to 
        travel with wheelchairs, mobility aids, and other 
        assistive devices, including necessary medications and 
        medical supplies, including stowage of such 
        wheelchairs, aids, and devices.
          (4) The right of passengers with disabilities to 
        receive seating accommodations, if requested, to 
        accommodate a disability
          (5) The right of passengers with disabilities to 
        receive announcements in an accessible format.
          (6) The right of passengers with disabilities to 
        speak with a complaint resolution officer or to file a 
        complaint with an air carrier, a foreign air carrier, 
        or the Department of Transportation.
  (c) Rule of Construction.--The development of the Airline 
Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights under subsections 
(a) and (b) shall not be construed as expanding or restricting 
the rights available to passengers with disabilities on the day 
before the date of the enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act 
of 2018 (Public Law 115-254) pursuant to any statute or 
regulation.
  (d) Consultations.--In developing the Airline Passengers with 
Disabilities Bill of Rights under subsection (a), the Secretary 
shall consult with stakeholders, including disability 
organizations and air carriers, foreign air carriers, and their 
contractors.
  (e) Display.--Each air carrier and foreign air carrier shall 
include the Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of 
Rights--
          (1) on a publicly available internet website of the 
        carrier; and
          (2) in any pre-flight notifications or communications 
        provided to passengers who alert the carrier in advance 
        of the need for accommodations relating to a 
        disability.
  (f) Training.--
          (1) In general.--Air carriers, foreign air carriers, 
        and contractors of such carriers shall submit to the 
        Secretary plans that ensure that employees of such 
        carriers and their contractors receive training on the 
        protections and responsibilities described in the 
        Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights.
          (2) Review.--The Secretary shall review such plans to 
        ensure the plans address the matters described in 
        subsection (b).

Sec. 41729. Formal sexual assault and harassment policies

  (a) Requirement.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, each air carrier and foreign air 
carrier transporting passengers for compensation shall issue, 
in consultation with labor unions representing personnel of the 
air carrier or foreign air carrier, a formal policy with 
respect to transportation sexual assault or harassment 
incidents.
  (b) Contents.--The policy required under subsection (a) shall 
include--
          (1) a statement indicating that no transportation 
        sexual assault or harassment incident is acceptable 
        under any circumstance;
          (2) procedures that facilitate the reporting of a 
        transportation sexual assault or harassment incident, 
        including--
                  (A) appropriate public outreach activities; 
                and
                  (B) confidential phone and internet-based 
                opportunities for reporting;
          (3) procedures that personnel should follow upon the 
        reporting of a transportation sexual assault or 
        harassment incident, including actions to protect 
        affected individuals from continued sexual assault or 
        harassment and to notify law enforcement when 
        appropriate;
          (4) procedures that may limit or prohibit, to the 
        extent practicable, future travel with the air carrier 
        or foreign air carrier by any passenger who causes a 
        transportation sexual assault or harassment incident; 
        and
          (5) training that is required for all appropriate 
        personnel with respect to the policy required under 
        subsection (a), including--
                  (A) specific training for personnel who may 
                receive reports of transportation sexual 
                assault or harassment incidents; and
                  (B) recognizing and responding to potential 
                human trafficking victims, in the same manner 
                as required under section 44734(a)(4).
  (c) Passenger Information.--An air carrier or foreign air 
carrier described in subsection (a) shall prominently display, 
on the internet website of the air carrier or foreign air 
carrier and through the use of appropriate signage, a written 
statement that informs passengers and personnel of the 
procedure for reporting a transportation sexual assault or 
harassment incident.
  (d) Standard of Care.--Compliance with the requirements of 
this section, and any policy issued thereunder, shall not 
determine whether the air carrier or foreign air carrier 
described in subsection (a) has acted with any requisite 
standard of care.
  (e) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Personnel.--The term ``personnel'' means an 
        employee or contractor of an air carrier or foreign air 
        carrier.
          (2) Sexual assault.--The term ``sexual assault'' 
        means the occurrence of an act that constitutes any 
        nonconsensual sexual act proscribed by Federal, tribal, 
        or State law, including when the victim lacks capacity 
        to consent.
          (3) Transportation sexual assault or harassment 
        incident.--The term ``transportation sexual assault or 
        harassment incident'' means the occurrence, or 
        reasonably suspected occurrence, of an act that--
                  (A) constitutes sexual assault or sexual 
                harassment; and
                  (B) is committed--
                          (i) by a passenger or member of 
                        personnel of an air carrier or foreign 
                        air carrier against another passenger 
                        or member of personnel of an air 
                        carrier or foreign air carrier; and
                          (ii) within an aircraft or in an area 
                        in which passengers are entering or 
                        exiting an aircraft.

               SUBCHAPTER II--SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE

Sec. 41731. Definitions

  (a) General.--In this subchapter--
          (1) ``eligible place'' means a place in the United 
        States that--
                  (A)(i)(I) was an eligible point under section 
                419 of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 before 
                October 1, 1988;
                  (II) received scheduled air transportation at 
                any time after January 1, 1990; and
                  (III) is not listed in Department of 
                Transportation Orders 89-9-37 and 89-12-52 as a 
                place ineligible for compensation under this 
                subchapter; or
                  (ii) was determined, on or after October 1, 
                1988, and before the date of the enactment of 
                the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 
                2016 (Public Law 114-190), under this 
                subchapter by the Secretary of Transportation 
                to be eligible to receive subsidized small 
                community air service under section 41736(a);
                  (B) had an average of 10 enplanements per 
                service day or more, as determined by the 
                Secretary, during the most recent fiscal year 
                beginning after September 30, 2012;
                  [(C) had an average subsidy per passenger of 
                less than $1,000 during the most recent fiscal 
                year, as determined by the Secretary; and]
                  (C) had an average subsidy per passenger--
                          (i) of less than $1,000 during the 
                        most recent fiscal year beginning 
                        before October 1, 2026, as determined 
                        in subparagraph (D) by the Secretary; 
                        or
                          (ii) of $500 or less during the most 
                        recent fiscal year beginning on or 
                        after October 1, 2026; and
                  (D) is a community that, at any time during 
                the period between September 30, 2010, and 
                September 30, 2011, inclusive--
                          (i) received essential air service 
                        for which compensation was provided to 
                        an air carrier under this subchapter; 
                        or
                          (ii) received a 90-day notice of 
                        intent to terminate essential air 
                        service and the Secretary required the 
                        air carrier to continue to provide such 
                        service to the community.
          (2) ``enhanced essential air service'' means 
        scheduled air transportation to an eligible place of a 
        higher level or quality than basic essential air 
        service described in section 41732 of this title.
  (b) Limitation on Authority To Decide a Place Not an Eligible 
Place.--The Secretary may not decide that a place described in 
subsection (a)(1) of this section is not an eligible place on 
any basis that is not specifically stated in this subchapter.
  (c) Exception for Locations in Alaska and Hawaii.--
Subparagraphs (B), (C), and (D) of subsection (a)(1) and 
section 41737(a)(1)(F) shall not apply with respect to 
locations in the State of Alaska or the State of Hawaii.
  (d) Exceptions for Locations More Than 175 Driving Miles From 
the Nearest Large or Medium Hub Airport.--Subsection (a)(1)(B) 
and section 41737(a)(1)(F) shall not apply with respect to 
locations that are more than 175 driving miles from the nearest 
large or medium hub airport.
  (e) Waivers.--For fiscal year 2013 and each fiscal year 
thereafter, the Secretary may waive, on an annual basis, 
subsection (a)(1)(B) with respect to a location if the location 
demonstrates to the Secretary's satisfaction that the reason 
the location averages fewer than 10 enplanements per day is due 
to a temporary decline in enplanements.
  (f) Definition.--For purposes of subsection (a)(1)(B), the 
term ``enplanements'' means the number of passengers enplaning, 
at an eligible place, on flights operated by the subsidized 
essential air service carrier.

Sec. 41732. Basic essential air service

  (a) General.--Basic essential air service provided under 
section 41733 of this title is scheduled air transportation of 
passengers and cargo--
          (1) to a hub airport less than 650 miles from an 
        eligible place (unless such airport or eligible place 
        are located in a non-contiguous State) that has 
        convenient connecting or single-plane air service to a 
        substantial number of destinations beyond that airport; 
        or
          (2) to a small hub or nonhub airport, when in Alaska 
        or when the nearest hub airport is more than 400 miles 
        from an eligible place.
  (b) Minimum Requirements.--Basic essential air service shall 
include at least the following:
          (1)(A) for a place not in Alaska, 2 daily round trips 
        6 days a week, with not more than one intermediate stop 
        on each flight; or
          (B) for a place in Alaska, a level of service at 
        least equal to that provided in 1976 or 2 round trips a 
        week, whichever is greater, except that the Secretary 
        of Transportation and the appropriate State authority 
        of Alaska may agree to a different level of service 
        after consulting with the affected community.
          (2) flights at reasonable times considering the needs 
        of passengers with connecting flights at the airport 
        and at prices that are not excessive compared to the 
        generally prevailing prices of other air carriers for 
        like service between similar places.
          (3) for a place not in Alaska, service provided in an 
        aircraft with an effective capacity of at least 15 
        passengers if the average daily boardings at the place 
        in any calendar year from 1976-1986 were more than 11 
        passengers unless--
                  (A) that level-of-service requirement would 
                require paying compensation in a fiscal year 
                under section 41733(d) or 41734(d) or (e) of 
                this title for the place when compensation 
                otherwise would not have been paid for that 
                place in that year; or
                  (B) the affected community agrees with the 
                Secretary in writing to the use of smaller 
                aircraft to provide service to the place.
          (4) service accommodating the estimated passenger and 
        property traffic at an average load factor, for each 
        class of traffic considering seasonal demands for the 
        service, of not more than--
                  (A) 50 percent; or
                  (B) 60 percent when service is provided by 
                aircraft with more than 14 passenger seats.
          (5) service provided in aircraft with at least 2 
        engines and using 2 pilots, unless scheduled air 
        transportation has not been provided to the place in 
        aircraft with at least 2 engines and using 2 pilots for 
        at least 60 consecutive operating days at any time 
        since October 31, 1978.
          (6) service provided by pressurized aircraft when the 
        service is provided by aircraft that regularly fly 
        above 8,000 feet in altitude.
  (c) Waivers.--Notwithstanding section 41733(e), upon request 
by an eligible place, the Secretary may waive, in whole or in 
part, subsections (a) and (b) of this section or subsections 
(a) through (c) of section 41734. A waiver issued under this 
subsection shall remain in effect for a limited period of time, 
as determined by the Secretary.

Sec. 41733. Level of basic essential air service

  (a) Decisions Made Before October 1, 1988.--For each eligible 
place for which a decision was made before October 1, 1988, 
under section 419 of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, 
establishing the level of essential air transportation, the 
level of basic essential air service for that place shall be 
the level established by the Secretary of Transportation for 
that place by not later than December 29, 1988.
  (b) Decisions Not Made Before October 1, 1988.--(1) The 
Secretary shall decide on the level of basic essential air 
service for each eligible place for which a decision was not 
made before October 1, 1988, establishing the level of 
essential air transportation, when the Secretary receives 
notice that service to that place will be provided by only one 
air carrier. The Secretary shall make the decision by the last 
day of the 6-month period beginning on the date the Secretary 
receives the notice. The Secretary may impose notice 
requirements necessary to carry out this subsection. Before 
making a decision, the Secretary shall consider the views of 
any interested community and the appropriate State authority of 
the State in which the community is located.
  (2) Until the Secretary has made a decision on a level of 
basic essential air service for an eligible place under this 
subsection, the Secretary, on petition by an appropriate 
representative of the place, shall prohibit an air carrier from 
ending, suspending, or reducing air transportation to that 
place that appears to deprive the place of basic essential air 
service.
  (c) Availability of Compensation.--(1) If the Secretary 
decides that basic essential air service will not be provided 
to an eligible place without compensation, the Secretary shall 
provide notice that an air carrier may apply to provide basic 
essential air service to the place for compensation under this 
section. In selecting an applicant, the Secretary shall 
consider, among other factors--
          (A) the demonstrated reliability of the applicant in 
        providing scheduled air service;
          (B) the contractual and marketing arrangements the 
        applicant has made with a larger carrier to ensure 
        service beyond the hub airport;
          (C) the interline arrangements that the applicant has 
        made with a larger carrier to allow passengers and 
        cargo of the applicant at the hub airport to be 
        transported by the larger carrier through one 
        reservation, ticket, and baggage check-in;
          (D) the preferences of the actual and potential users 
        of air transportation at the eligible place, [giving 
        substantial weight to] including the views of the 
        elected officials representing the users;
          (E) whether the air carrier has included a plan in 
        its proposal to market its services to the community; 
        [and]
          (F) for an eligible place in Alaska, the experience 
        of the applicant in providing, in Alaska, scheduled air 
        service, or significant patterns of non-scheduled air 
        service under an exemption granted under section 
        40109(a) and (c)-(h) of this title[.]; and
          (G) the total compensation proposed by the air 
        carrier for providing scheduled air service under this 
        section.
  (2) Under guidelines prescribed under section 41737(a) of 
this title, the Secretary shall pay the rate of compensation 
for providing basic essential air service under this section 
and section 41734 of this title.
  (d) Compensation Payments.--The Secretary shall pay 
compensation under this section at times and in the way the 
Secretary decides is appropriate. The Secretary shall end 
payment of compensation to an air carrier for providing basic 
essential air service to an eligible place when the Secretary 
decides the compensation is no longer necessary to maintain 
basic essential air service to the place.
  (e) Review.--The Secretary shall review periodically the 
level of basic essential air service for each eligible place. 
Based on the review and consultations with an interested 
community and the appropriate State authority of the State in 
which the community is located, the Secretary may make 
appropriate adjustments in the level of service, to the extent 
such adjustments are to a level not less than the basic 
essential air service level established under subsection (a) 
for the airport that serves the community.
  (f) Notice to Communities Prior to Termination of 
Eligibility.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary shall notify each 
        community receiving basic essential air service for 
        which compensation is being paid under this subchapter 
        on or before the 45th day before issuing any final 
        decision to end the payment of such compensation due to 
        a determination by the Secretary that providing such 
        service requires a rate of subsidy per passenger in 
        excess of the subsidy cap.
          (2) Procedures to avoid termination.--The Secretary 
        shall establish, by order, procedures by which each 
        community notified of an impending loss of subsidy 
        under paragraph (1) may work directly with an air 
        carrier to ensure that the air carrier is able to 
        submit a proposal to the Secretary to provide essential 
        air service to such community for an amount of 
        compensation that would not exceed the subsidy cap.
          (3) Assistance provided.--The Secretary shall 
        provide, by order, information to each community 
        notified under paragraph (1) regarding--
                  (A) the procedures established pursuant to 
                paragraph (2); and
                  (B) the maximum amount of compensation that 
                could be provided under this subchapter to an 
                air carrier serving such community that would 
                comply with basic essential air service and the 
                subsidy cap.
  (g) Proposals of State and Local Governments to Restore 
Eligibility.--
          (1) In general.--If the Secretary, after the date of 
        enactment of this subsection, ends payment of 
        compensation to an air carrier for providing basic 
        essential air service to an eligible place because the 
        Secretary has determined that providing such service 
        requires a rate of subsidy per passenger in excess of 
        the subsidy cap or that the place is no longer an 
        eligible place pursuant to section 41731(a)(1)(B), a 
        State or local government may submit to the Secretary a 
        proposal for restoring compensation for such service. 
        Such proposal shall be a joint proposal of the State or 
        local government and an air carrier.
          (2) Determination by secretary.--The Secretary shall 
        issue an order restoring the eligibility of the 
        otherwise eligible place to receive basic essential air 
        service by an air carrier for compensation under 
        subsection (c) if--
                  (A) a State or local government submits to 
                the Secretary a proposal under paragraph (1); 
                and
                  (B) the Secretary determines that--
                          (i) the rate of subsidy per passenger 
                        under the proposal does not exceed the 
                        subsidy cap;
                          (ii) the proposal is likely to result 
                        in an average number of enplanements 
                        per day that will satisfy the 
                        requirement in section 41731(a)(1)(B); 
                        and
                          (iii) the proposal is consistent with 
                        the legal and regulatory requirements 
                        of the essential air service program.
  (h) Subsidy Cap Defined.--In this section, the term ``subsidy 
cap'' means the subsidy-per-passenger cap established by 
section 332 of the Department of Transportation and Related 
Agencies Appropriations Act, 2000 (Public Law 106-69; 113 Stat. 
1022).

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 41737. Compensation guidelines, limitations, and claims

  (a) Compensation Guidelines.--(1) The Secretary of 
Transportation shall prescribe guidelines governing the rate of 
compensation payable under this subchapter. The guidelines 
shall be used to determine the reasonable amount of 
compensation required to ensure the continuation of air service 
or air transportation under this subchapter. The guidelines 
shall--
          (A) provide for a reduction in compensation when an 
        air carrier does not provide service or transportation 
        agreed to be provided;
          (B) consider amounts needed by an air carrier to 
        promote public use of the service or transportation for 
        which compensation is being paid;
          (C) include expense elements based on representative 
        costs of air carriers providing scheduled air 
        transportation of passengers, property, and mail on 
        aircraft of the type the Secretary decides is 
        appropriate for providing the service or transportation 
        for which compensation is being provided;
          (D) include provisions under which the Secretary may 
        encourage an air carrier to improve air service for 
        which compensation is being paid under this subchapter 
        by incorporating financial incentives in an essential 
        air service contract based on specified performance 
        goals, including goals related to improving on-time 
        performance, reducing the number of flight 
        cancellations, establishing reasonable fares (including 
        joint fares beyond the hub airport), establishing 
        convenient connections to flights providing service 
        beyond hub airports, and increasing marketing efforts; 
        [and]
          (E) include provisions under which the Secretary may 
        execute a long-term essential air service contract to 
        encourage an air carrier to provide air service to an 
        eligible place if it would be in the public interest to 
        do so[.]; and
          (F) require that, for a contract to provide air 
        service that is entered into or renewed under this 
        subchapter after September 30, 2026, the Government's 
        share of the compensation is 95 percent.
  (2) Promotional amounts described in paragraph (1)(B) of this 
subsection shall be a special, segregated element of the 
compensation provided to a carrier under this subchapter.
  (b) Required Finding.--The Secretary may pay compensation to 
an air carrier for providing air service or air transportation 
under this subchapter only if the Secretary finds the carrier 
is able to provide the service or transportation in a reliable 
way.
  (c) Claims.--Not later than 15 days after receiving a written 
claim from an air carrier for compensation under this 
subchapter, the Secretary shall--
          (1) pay or deny the United States Government's share 
        of a claim; and
          (2) if denying the claim, notify the carrier of the 
        denial and the reasons for the denial.
  (d) Authority To Make Agreements and Incur Obligations.--(1) 
The Secretary may make agreements and incur obligations from 
the Airport and Airway Trust Fund established under section 
9502 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C. 9502) to 
pay compensation under this subchapter. An agreement by the 
Secretary under this subsection is a contractual obligation of 
the Government to pay the Government's share of the 
compensation.
  (2) Not more than $38,600,000 is available to the Secretary 
out of the Fund for each of the fiscal years ending September 
30, 1993-1998, to incur obligations under this section. Amounts 
made available under this section remain available until 
expended.
  (e) Adjustments to Account for Significantly Increased 
Costs.--
          (1) In general.--If the Secretary determines that air 
        carriers are experiencing significantly increased costs 
        in providing air service or air transportation for 
        which compensation is being paid under this subchapter, 
        the Secretary may increase the rates of compensation 
        payable under this subchapter without regard to any 
        agreement or requirement relating to the renegotiation 
        of contracts or any notice requirement under section 
        41734.
          (2) Readjustment if costs subsequently decline.--If 
        an adjustment is made under paragraph (1), and total 
        unit costs subsequently decrease to at least the total 
        unit cost reflected in the compensation rate, then the 
        Secretary may reverse the adjustment previously made 
        under paragraph (1) without regard to any agreement or 
        requirement relating to the renegotiation of contracts 
        or any notice requirement under section 41734.
          (3) Significantly increased costs defined.--In this 
        subsection, the term ``significantly increased costs'' 
        means a total unit cost increase (but not increases in 
        individual unit costs) of 10 percent or more in 
        relation to the total unit cost reflected in the 
        compensation rate, based on the carrier's internal 
        audit of its financial statements if such cost increase 
        is incurred for a period of at least 2 consecutive 
        months.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 41742. Essential air service authorization

  (a) In General.--
          (1) Authorization.--Out of the amounts received by 
        the Federal Aviation Administration credited to the 
        account established under section 45303 of this title 
        or otherwise provided to the Administration, the sum of 
        $50,000,000 for each fiscal year is authorized and 
        shall be made available immediately for obligation and 
        expenditure to carry out the essential air service 
        program under this subchapter.
          (2) Additional funds.--In addition to amounts 
        authorized under paragraph (1), there is authorized to 
        be appropriated out of the Airport and Airway Trust 
        Fund (established under section 9502 of the Internal 
        Revenue Code of 1986) [$155,000,000 for fiscal year 
        2018, $158,000,000 for fiscal year 2019, $161,000,000 
        for fiscal year 2020, $165,000,000 for fiscal year 
        2021, $168,000,000 for fiscal year 2022, and 
        $172,000,000 for fiscal year 2023] $332,000,000 for 
        fiscal year 2024, $312,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, 
        $300,000,000 for fiscal year 2026, $265,000,000 for 
        fiscal year 2027, and $252,000,000 for fiscal year 2028 
        to carry out the essential air service program under 
        this subchapter of which not more than $12,000,000 per 
        fiscal year may be used for the marketing incentive 
        program for communities and for State marketing 
        assistance.
          (3) Authorization for additional employees.--In 
        addition to amounts authorized under paragraphs (1) and 
        (2), there are authorized to be appropriated such sums 
        as may be necessary for the Secretary of Transportation 
        to hire and employ 4 additional employees for the 
        office responsible for carrying out the essential air 
        service program.
  (b) Distribution of Additional Funds.--Notwithstanding any 
other provision of law, in any fiscal year in which funds 
credited to the account established under section 45303, 
including the funds derived from fees imposed under the 
authority contained in section 45301(a), exceed the $50,000,000 
made available under subsection (a)(1), such funds shall be 
made available immediately for obligation and expenditure to 
carry out the essential air service program under this 
subchapter.
  (c) Availability of Funds.--The funds made available under 
this section shall remain available until expended.

Sec. 41743. Airports not receiving sufficient service

  (a) Small Community Air Service Development Program.--The 
Secretary of Transportation shall establish a program that 
meets the requirements of this section for improving air 
carrier service to airports not receiving sufficient air 
carrier service.
  (b) Application Required.--In order to participate in the 
program established under subsection (a), a community or 
consortium of communities shall submit an application to the 
Secretary in such form, at such time, and containing such 
information as the Secretary may require, including--
          (1) an assessment of the need of the community or 
        consortium for access, or improved access, to the 
        national air transportation system; and
          (2) an analysis of the application of the criteria in 
        subsection (c) to that community or consortium.
  (c) Criteria for Participation.--In selecting communities, or 
consortia of communities, for participation in the program 
established under subsection (a), the Secretary shall apply the 
following criteria:
          (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.
          (2) Characteristics.--The airport presents 
        characteristics, such as geographic diversity or unique 
        circumstances, that will demonstrate the need for, and 
        feasibility of, the program established under 
        subsection (a).
          (3) State limit.--Not more than 4 communities or 
        consortia of communities, or a combination thereof, 
        from the same State may be selected to participate in 
        the program in any fiscal year.
          (4) Overall limit.--
                  (A) In general.--No more than 40 communities 
                or consortia of communities, or a combination 
                thereof, may be selected to participate in the 
                program in each year for which funds are 
                appropriated for the program.
                  (B) Same projects.--Except as provided in 
                subparagraph (C), no community, consortia of 
                communities, or combination thereof may 
                participate in the program in support of the 
                same project more than once in a [10-year] 6-
                year period, but any community, consortia of 
                communities, or combination thereof may apply, 
                subsequent to such participation, to 
                participate in the program in support of a 
                different project at any time.
                  (C) Exception.--The Secretary may waive the 
                limitation under subparagraph (B) related to 
                projects that are the same if the Secretary 
                determines that the community or consortium 
                spent little or no money on its previous 
                project or encountered industry or 
                environmental challenges, due to circumstances 
                that were reasonably beyond the control of the 
                community or consortium.
          (5) Priorities.--The Secretary shall give priority to 
        communities or consortia of communities where--
                  (A) air fares are higher than the average air 
                fares for all communities;
                  (B) the community has demonstrated support 
                from at least 1 air carrier to provide service;
                  [(B)] (C) the community or consortium will 
                provide a portion of the cost of the activity 
                to be assisted under the program from local 
                sources other than airport revenues;
                  [(C)] (D) the community or consortium has 
                established, or will establish, a public-
                private partnership to facilitate air carrier 
                service to the public;
                  [(D)] (E) the assistance will provide 
                material benefits to a broad segment of the 
                travelling public, including business, 
                educational institutions, and other 
                enterprises, whose access to the national air 
                transportation system is limited;
                  [(E)] (F) the assistance will be used to help 
                restore scheduled passenger air service that 
                has been terminated;
                  [(F)] (G) the assistance will be used in a 
                timely fashion; and
                  [(G)] (H) multiple communities cooperate to 
                submit a regional or multistate application to 
                consolidate air service into one regional 
                airport.
  (d) Types of Assistance.--The Secretary may use amounts made 
available under this section--
          (1) to provide assistance to an air carrier to 
        subsidize service to and from an underserved airport 
        for a period not to exceed 3 years;
          (2) to provide assistance to an underserved airport 
        to obtain service to and from the underserved airport; 
        and
          (3) to provide assistance to an underserved airport 
        to implement such other measures as the Secretary, in 
        consultation with such airport, considers appropriate 
        to improve air service both in terms of the cost of 
        such service to consumers and the availability of such 
        service, including improving air service through 
        marketing and promotion of air service and enhanced 
        utilization of airport facilities.
  (e) Authority To Make Agreements.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary may make agreements to 
        provide assistance under this section. The Secretary 
        may amend the scope of a grant agreement at the request 
        of the community or consortium and any participating 
        air carrier, and may limit the scope of a grant 
        agreement to only the elements using grant assistance 
        or to only the elements achieved, if the Secretary 
        determines that the amendment is reasonably consistent 
        with the original purpose of the project.
          (2) Authorization of appropriations.--There is 
        authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary 
        $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2018 through 
        [2023] 2028 to carry out this section. Such sums shall 
        remain available until expended.
  (f) Additional Action.--Under the program established under 
subsection (a), the Secretary shall work with air carriers 
providing service to participating communities and major air 
carriers (as defined in section 41716(a)(2)) serving large hub 
airports to facilitate joint-fare arrangements consistent with 
normal industry practice.
  (g) Designation of Responsible Official.--The Secretary shall 
designate an employee of the Department of Transportation--
          (1) to function as a facilitator between small 
        communities and air carriers;
          (2) to carry out this section;
          (3) to ensure that the Bureau of Transportation 
        Statistics collects data on passenger information to 
        assess the service needs of small communities;
          (4) to work with and coordinate efforts with other 
        Federal, State, and local agencies to increase the 
        viability of service to small communities and the 
        creation of aviation development zones; and
          (5) to provide policy recommendations to the 
        Secretary and Congress that will ensure that small 
        communities have access to quality, affordable air 
        transportation services.
  (h) Air Service Development Zone.--The Secretary shall 
designate an airport in the program as an Air Service 
Development Zone and work with the community or consortium on 
means to attract business to the area surrounding the airport, 
to develop land use options for the area, and provide data, 
working with the Department of Commerce and other agencies.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 421--LABOR-MANAGEMENT PROVISIONS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


            SUBCHAPTER III--WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION PROGRAM

Sec. 42121. Protection of employees providing air safety information

  (a) Prohibited Discrimination.--A holder of a certificate 
under section 44704 or 44705 of this title, or a contractor, 
subcontractor, or supplier of such holder, may not discharge an 
employee or otherwise discriminate against an employee with 
respect to compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of 
employment because the employee (or any person acting pursuant 
to a request of the employee)--
          (1) provided, caused to be provided, or is about to 
        provide (with any knowledge of the employer) or cause 
        to be provided to the employer or Federal Government 
        information relating to any violation or alleged 
        violation of any order, regulation, or standard of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration or any other provision 
        of Federal law relating to aviation safety under this 
        subtitle or any other law of the United States;
          (2) has filed, caused to be filed, or is about to 
        file (with any knowledge of the employer) or cause to 
        be filed a proceeding relating to any violation or 
        alleged violation of any order, regulation, or standard 
        of the Federal Aviation Administration or any other 
        provision of Federal law relating to aviation safety 
        under this subtitle or any other law of the United 
        States;
          (3) testified or is about to testify in such a 
        proceeding; or
          (4) assisted or participated or is about to assist or 
        participate in such a proceeding.
  (b) Department of Labor Complaint Procedure.--
          (1) Filing and notification.--A person who believes 
        that he or she has been discharged or otherwise 
        discriminated against by any person in violation of 
        subsection (a) may, not later than 90 days after the 
        date on which such violation occurs, file (or have any 
        person file on his or her behalf) a complaint with the 
        Secretary of Labor alleging such discharge or 
        discrimination. Upon receipt of such a complaint, the 
        Secretary of Labor shall notify, in writing, the person 
        named in the complaint and the Administrator of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration of the filing of the 
        complaint, of the allegations contained in the 
        complaint, of the substance of evidence supporting the 
        complaint, and of the opportunities that will be 
        afforded to such person under paragraph (2).
          (2) Investigation; preliminary order.--
                  (A) In general.--Not later than 60 days after 
                the date of receipt of a complaint filed under 
                paragraph (1) and after affording the person 
                named in the complaint an opportunity to submit 
                to the Secretary of Labor a written response to 
                the complaint and an opportunity to meet with a 
                representative of the Secretary to present 
                statements from witnesses, the Secretary of 
                Labor shall conduct an investigation and 
                determine whether there is reasonable cause to 
                believe that the complaint has merit and 
                notify, in writing, the complainant and the 
                person alleged to have committed a violation of 
                subsection (a) of the Secretary's findings. If 
                the Secretary of Labor concludes that there is 
                a reasonable cause to believe that a violation 
                of subsection (a) has occurred, the Secretary 
                shall accompany the Secretary's findings with a 
                preliminary order providing the relief 
                prescribed by paragraph (3)(B). Not later than 
                30 days after the date of notification of 
                findings under this paragraph, either the 
                person alleged to have committed the violation 
                or the complainant may file objections to the 
                findings or preliminary order, or both, and 
                request a hearing on the record. The filing of 
                such objections shall not operate to stay any 
                reinstatement remedy contained in the 
                preliminary order. Such hearings shall be 
                conducted expeditiously. If a hearing is not 
                requested in such 30-day period, the 
                preliminary order shall be deemed a final order 
                that is not subject to judicial review.
                  (B) Requirements.--
                          (i) Required showing by 
                        complainant.--The Secretary of Labor 
                        shall dismiss a complaint filed under 
                        this subsection and shall not conduct 
                        an investigation otherwise required 
                        under subparagraph (A) unless the 
                        complainant makes a prima facie showing 
                        that any behavior described in 
                        paragraphs (1) through (4) of 
                        subsection (a) was a contributing 
                        factor in the unfavorable personnel 
                        action alleged in the complaint.
                          (ii) Showing by employer.--
                        Notwithstanding a finding by the 
                        Secretary that the complainant has made 
                        the showing required under clause (i), 
                        no investigation otherwise required 
                        under subparagraph (A) shall be 
                        conducted if the employer demonstrates, 
                        by clear and convincing evidence, that 
                        the employer would have taken the same 
                        unfavorable personnel action in the 
                        absence of that behavior.
                          (iii) Criteria for determination by 
                        secretary.--The Secretary may determine 
                        that a violation of subsection (a) has 
                        occurred only if the complainant 
                        demonstrates that any behavior 
                        described in paragraphs (1) through (4) 
                        of subsection (a) was a contributing 
                        factor in the unfavorable personnel 
                        action alleged in the complaint.
                          (iv) Prohibition.--Relief may not be 
                        ordered under subparagraph (A) if the 
                        employer demonstrates by clear and 
                        convincing evidence that the employer 
                        would have taken the same unfavorable 
                        personnel action in the absence of that 
                        behavior.
          (3) Final order.--
                  (A) Deadline for issuance; settlement 
                agreements.--Not later than 120 days after the 
                date of conclusion of a hearing under paragraph 
                (2), the Secretary of Labor shall issue a final 
                order providing the relief prescribed by this 
                paragraph or denying the complaint. At any time 
                before issuance of a final order, a proceeding 
                under this subsection may be terminated on the 
                basis of a settlement agreement entered into by 
                the Secretary of Labor, the complainant, and 
                the person alleged to have committed the 
                violation.
                  (B) Remedy.--If, in response to a complaint 
                filed under paragraph (1), the Secretary of 
                Labor determines that a violation of subsection 
                (a) has occurred, the Secretary of Labor shall 
                order the person who committed such violation 
                to--
                          (i) take affirmative action to abate 
                        the violation;
                          (ii) reinstate the complainant to his 
                        or her former position together with 
                        the compensation (including back pay) 
                        and restore the terms, conditions, and 
                        privileges associated with his or her 
                        employment; and
                          (iii) provide compensatory damages to 
                        the complainant.
                If such an order is issued under this 
                paragraph, the Secretary of Labor, at the 
                request of the complainant, shall assess 
                against the person against whom the order is 
                issued a sum equal to the aggregate amount of 
                all costs and expenses (including attorneys' 
                and expert witness fees) reasonably incurred, 
                as determined by the Secretary of Labor, by the 
                complainant for, or in connection with, the 
                bringing the complaint upon which the order was 
                issued.
                  (C) Frivolous complaints.--If the Secretary 
                of Labor finds that a complaint under paragraph 
                (1) is frivolous or has been brought in bad 
                faith, the Secretary of Labor may award to the 
                prevailing employer a reasonable attorney's fee 
                not exceeding $1,000.
          (4) Review.--
                  (A) Appeal to court of appeals.--Any person 
                adversely affected or aggrieved by an order 
                issued under paragraph (3) may obtain review of 
                the order in the United States Court of Appeals 
                for the circuit in which the violation, with 
                respect to which the order was issued, 
                allegedly occurred or the circuit in which the 
                complainant resided on the date of such 
                violation. The petition for review must be 
                filed not later than 60 days after the date of 
                the issuance of the final order of the 
                Secretary of Labor. Review shall conform to 
                chapter 7 of title 5, United States Code. The 
                commencement of proceedings under this 
                subparagraph shall not, unless ordered by the 
                court, operate as a stay of the order.
                  (B) Limitation on collateral attack.--An 
                order of the Secretary of Labor with respect to 
                which review could have been obtained under 
                subparagraph (A) shall not be subject to 
                judicial review in any criminal or other civil 
                proceeding.
          [(5) Enforcement of order by secretary of labor.--
        Whenever any person has failed to comply with an order 
        issued under paragraph (3), the Secretary of Labor may 
        file a civil action in the United States district court 
        for the district in which the violation was found to 
        occur to enforce such order. In actions brought under 
        this paragraph, the district courts shall have 
        jurisdiction to grant all appropriate relief including, 
        but not limited to, injunctive relief and compensatory 
        damages.]
          (5) Enforcement of order.--Whenever any person has 
        failed to comply with an order issued under paragraph 
        (3), the Secretary of Labor and the Administrator of 
        the Federal Aviation Administration shall consult with 
        each other to determine the most appropriate action to 
        be taken, in which--
                  (A) the Secretary of Labor may file a civil 
                action in the United States district court for 
                the district in which the violation was found 
                to occur to enforce such order, for which, in 
                actions brought under this paragraph, the 
                district courts shall have jurisdiction to 
                grant all appropriate relief including, 
                injunctive relief and compensatory damages; and
                  (B) the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration may assess a civil penalty 
                pursuant to section 46301.
          (6) Enforcement of order by parties.--
                  (A) Commencement of action.--A person on 
                whose behalf an order was issued under 
                paragraph (3) may commence a civil action 
                against the person to whom such order was 
                issued to require compliance with such order. 
                The appropriate United States district court 
                shall have jurisdiction, without regard to the 
                amount in controversy or the citizenship of the 
                parties, to enforce such order.
                  (B) Attorney fees.--The court, in issuing any 
                final order under this paragraph, may award 
                costs of litigation (including reasonable 
                attorney and expert witness fees) to any party 
                whenever the court determines such award is 
                appropriate.
  (c) Mandamus.--Any nondiscretionary duty imposed by this 
section shall be enforceable in a mandamus proceeding brought 
under section 1361 of title 28, United States Code.
  (d) Nonapplicability to Deliberate Violations.--Subsection 
(a) shall not apply with respect to an employee of a holder of 
a certificate issued under section 44704 or 44705, or a 
contractor or subcontractor thereof, who, acting without 
direction from such certificate-holder, contractor, or 
subcontractor (or such person's agent), deliberately causes a 
violation of any requirement relating to aviation safety under 
this subtitle or any other law of the United States.
  (e) Contractor Defined.--In this section, the term 
``contractor'' means--
          (1) a person that performs safety-sensitive functions 
        by contract for an air carrier or commercial operator; 
        or
          (2) a person that performs safety-sensitive functions 
        related to the design or production of an aircraft, 
        aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, or component 
        thereof by contract for a holder of a certificate 
        issued under section 44704.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 423--PASSENGER AIR SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


[Sec. 42302. Consumer complaints

  [(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall 
establish a consumer complaints toll-free hotline telephone 
number for the use of passengers in air transportation 
(including transportation by air ambulance (as defined by the 
Secretary of Transportation)) and shall take actions to notify 
the public of--
          [(1) that telephone number; and
          [(2) the Internet Web site of the Aviation Consumer 
        Protection Division of the Department of 
        Transportation.
  [(b) Notice to Passengers on the Internet.--An air carrier or 
foreign air carrier providing scheduled air transportation 
using any aircraft that as originally designed has a passenger 
capacity of 30 or more passenger seats shall include on the 
Internet Web site of the carrier--
          [(1) the hotline telephone number established under 
        subsection (a);
          [(2) the e-mail address, telephone number, and 
        mailing address of the air carrier for the submission 
        of complaints by passengers about air travel service 
        problems; and
          [(3) the Internet Web site and mailing address of the 
        Aviation Consumer Protection Division of the Department 
        of Transportation for the submission of complaints by 
        passengers about air travel service problems.
  [(c) Notice to Passengers on Boarding Documentation.--Each 
air carrier and foreign air carrier shall include the hotline 
telephone number established under subsection (a) on--
          [(1) prominently displayed signs of the carrier at 
        the airport ticket counters in the United States where 
        the carrier operates; and
          [(2) any electronic confirmation of the purchase of a 
        passenger ticket for air transportation issued by the 
        carrier.
  [(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.
  [(e) Air Ambulance Providers.--Each air ambulance provider 
shall include the hotline telephone number, link to the 
Internet website established under subsection (a), and contact 
information for the Aviation Consumer Advocate established 
under section 425 on--
          [(1) any invoice, bill, or other communication 
        provided to a passenger or customer of the provider; 
        and
          [(2) its Internet Web site, and any related mobile 
        device application.]

Sec. 42302. Consumer complaints

  (a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall--
          (1) maintain an accessible website through the Office 
        of Aviation Consumer Protection to accept the 
        submission of complaints from airline passengers 
        regarding air travel service problems; and
          (2) take appropriate actions to notify the public of 
        such accessible website.
  (b) Notice to Passengers on the Internet.--An air carrier or 
foreign air carrier providing scheduled air transportation 
using any aircraft that as originally designed has a passenger 
capacity of 30 or more passenger seats shall include on the 
accessible website of the carrier--
          (1) the accessible website, e-mail address, or 
        telephone number of the air carrier for the submission 
        of complaints by passengers about air travel service 
        problems; and
          (2) the accessible website maintained pursuant to 
        subsection (a).
  (c) Use of Additional or Alternative Technologies.--The 
Secretary shall periodically evaluate the benefits of using 
mobile phone applications or other widely used technologies 
to--
          (1) provide additional or alternative means for air 
        passengers to submit complaints; and
          (2) provide such additional or alternative means as 
        the Secretary determines appropriate.
  (d) Air Ambulance Providers.--Each air ambulance provider 
shall include the accessible website, or a link to such 
accessible website, maintained pursuant to subsection (a) and 
the contact information for the Aviation Consumer Advocate 
established by section 424 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 
2018 (49 U.S.C. 42302 note) on--
          (1) any invoice, bill, or other communication 
        provided to a passenger or customer of such provider; 
        and
          (2) the accessible website and any related mobile 
        device application of such provider.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SUBPART iii--SAFETY

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


         CHAPTER 441--REGISTRATION AND RECORDATION OF AIRCRAFT

Sec.
     * * * * * * *
44114. Privacy.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44103. Registration of aircraft

  (a) General.--(1) On application of the owner of an aircraft 
that meets the requirements of section 44102 of this title, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall--
          (A) register the aircraft; and
          (B) issue a certificate of registration to its owner.
  (2) The Administrator may prescribe the extent to which an 
aircraft owned by the holder of a dealer's certificate of 
registration issued under section 44104(2) of this title also 
is registered under this section.
  (b) Controlled Substance Violations.--(1) The Administrator 
may not issue an owner's certificate of registration under 
subsection (a)(1) of this section to a person whose certificate 
is revoked under section 44106 of this title during the 5-year 
period beginning on the date of the revocation, except--
          (A) as provided in section 44106(e)(2) of this title; 
        or
          (B) that the Administrator may issue the certificate 
        to the person after the one-year period beginning on 
        the date of the revocation if the Administrator decides 
        that the aircraft otherwise meets the requirements of 
        section 44102 of this title and that denial of a 
        certificate for the 5-year period--
                  (i) would be excessive considering the nature 
                of the offense or the act committed and the 
                burden the denial places on the person; or
                  (ii) would not be in the public interest.
  (2) A decision of the Administrator under paragraph (1)(B)(i) 
or (ii) of this subsection is within the discretion of the 
Administrator. That decision or failure to make a decision is 
not subject to administrative or judicial review.
  (c) Certificates as Evidence.--A certificate of registration 
issued under this section is--
          (1) conclusive evidence of the nationality of an 
        aircraft for international purposes, but not conclusive 
        evidence in a proceeding under the laws of the United 
        States; and
          (2) not evidence of ownership of an aircraft in a 
        proceeding in which ownership is or may be in issue.
  (d) Certificates Available for Inspection.--An operator of an 
aircraft shall make available for inspection a certificate of 
registration for the aircraft when requested by a United States 
Government, State, or local law enforcement officer.
  (e) Prohibition on N-number Profiteering.--
          (1) In general.--No person may reserve an aircraft 
        registration number without certifying that such person 
        intends to use such registration number--
                  (A) immediately on a specific aircraft; or
                  (B) for future use on an aircraft owned or 
                controlled, or intended to be owned or 
                controlled, by such person.
          (2) Transfers.--A person may transfer a reserved 
        aircraft registration number to another person if--
                  (A) the transferor certifies that the 
                aircraft registration number is relinquished 
                willingly and at a cost to the transferee that 
                does not otherwise exceed the amount paid by 
                the transferor to reserve such number; and
                  (B) the transferee--
                          (i) certifies that the transferor did 
                        not impose a dollar cost on the 
                        transfer that exceeds the amount 
                        provided for in subparagraph (A); and
                          (ii) complies with the certification 
                        requirement under paragraph (1).
  (f) Validity of Aircraft Registration During Renewal.--
          (1) In general.--An aircraft may be operated on or 
        after the expiration date found on the certificate of 
        registration issued for such aircraft under this 
        section as if it were not expired if the operator of 
        such aircraft has aboard the aircraft--
                  (A) documentation validating that--
                          (i) an aircraft registration renewal 
                        application form (AC Form 8050-1B, or a 
                        succeeding form) has been submitted to 
                        the Administrator for such aircraft but 
                        not yet approved or denied; and
                          (ii) such aircraft is compliant with 
                        maintenance, inspections, and any other 
                        requirements for the aircraft's 
                        airworthiness certificate issued under 
                        section 44704(d); and
                  (B) the most recent aircraft registration.
          (2) Proof of pending renewal application.--The 
        Administrator shall provide an applicant for renewal of 
        registration under this section with documentation 
        described in paragraph (1)(A). Such documentation 
        shall--
                  (A) be made electronically available to the 
                applicant immediately upon submitting an 
                aircraft registration renewal application to 
                the Civil Aviation Registry for an aircraft;
                  (B) notify the applicant of the operational 
                allowance described in paragraph (1);
                  (C) deem an aircraft's airworthiness 
                certificate issued under section 44704(d) as 
                valid provided that the applicant confirms 
                acknowledgment of the requirements of paragraph 
                (1)(A)(ii);
                  (D) confirm the applicant acknowledged the 
                limitations described in paragraph (3)(A) and 
                (3)(B); and
                  (E) include identifying information 
                pertaining to such aircraft and to the 
                registered owner.
          (3) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection 
        shall be construed to permit any person to operate an 
        aircraft--
                  (A) with an expired registration, except as 
                specifically provided for under this 
                subsection; or
                  (B) if the Administrator has denied an 
                application to renew the registration of such 
                aircraft.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44114. Privacy

  (a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
establish and continuously improve a process by which, upon 
request of a private aircraft owner or operator, the 
Administrator blocks the registration number and other similar 
identifiable data or information, except for physical markings 
required by law, of the aircraft of the owner or operator from 
any public dissemination or display (except in furnished data 
or information made available to or from a Government agency 
pursuant to a government contract, subcontract, or agreement) 
for the noncommercial flights of the owner or operator.
  (b) Withholding Personally Identifiable Information on 
Aircraft Registry.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this section and notwithstanding any other 
provision of law, the Administrator shall establish a procedure 
by which, upon request of a private aircraft owner or operator, 
the Administrator shall withhold from public disclosure (except 
in furnished data or information made available to or from a 
Government agency pursuant to a government contract, 
subcontract, or agreement) the personally identifiable 
information of such individual on the Civil Aviation Registry 
website.
  (c) ICAO Aircraft Identification Code.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall establish a 
        program for aircraft owners and operators to apply for 
        a new ICAO aircraft identification code.
          (2) Limitations.--In carrying out the program 
        described in paragraph (1), the Administrator shall 
        require--
                  (A) each applicant to substantiate the safety 
                or security need in applying for a new ICAO 
                aircraft identification code; and
                  (B) each approved applicant who obtains a new 
                ICAO aircraft identification code to comply 
                with all applicable aspects of, or related to, 
                part 45 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations, including updating an aircraft's 
                registration number and N-Number to reflect 
                such aircraft's new ICAO aircraft 
                identification code.
  (d) Decoupling Mode S Codes.--The Administrator shall develop 
a plan for which the Administrator could allow for a process to 
disassociate an assigned Mode S code with the number assigned 
to an aircraft that is registered pursuant to section 44103.
  (e) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) ADS-B.--The term ``ADS-B'' means automatic 
        dependent surveillance-broadcast.
          (2) ICAO.--The term ``ICAO'' means the International 
        Civil Aviation Organization.
          (3) Personally identifiable information.--The term 
        ``personally identifiable information'' means--
                  (A) the mailing address or registration 
                address of an individual;
                  (B) an electronic address (including an e-
                mail address) of an individual; or
                  (C) the telephone number of an individual.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


            CHAPTER 445--FACILITIES, PERSONNEL, AND RESEARCH

Sec.
     * * * * * * *
[44510. Airway science curriculum grants.]
     * * * * * * *
[44515. Advanced training facilities for maintenance technicians for air 
          carrier aircraft.]

Sec. 44501. Plans and policy

  (a) Long Range Plans and Policy Requirements.--The 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall make 
long range plans and policy for the orderly development and use 
of the navigable airspace, and the orderly [development and 
location of air navigation facilities] development of air 
navigation facilities and services, that will best meet the 
needs of, and serve the interests of, civil aeronautics and the 
national defense, except for needs of the armed forces that are 
peculiar to air warfare and primarily of military concern.
  (b) Airway Capital Investment Plan.--The Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall review, revise, and 
publish a national airways system plan, known as the Airway 
Capital Investment Plan, before the beginning of each fiscal 
year. The plan shall set forth--
          (1) for a 10-year period, the research, engineering, 
        [and development] procurement, and development programs 
        and the [facilities and equipment] facilities, 
        services, and equipment that the Administrator 
        considers necessary for a system of airways, air 
        traffic services, and navigation aids that will--
                  (A) meet the forecasted needs of civil 
                aeronautics;
                  (B) meet the requirements that the Secretary 
                of Defense establishes for the support of the 
                national defense; and
                  (C) provide the highest degree of safety in 
                air commerce;
          (2) for the [first and 2d years] first and second 
        years of the plan, detailed annual estimates of--
                  (A) the number, type, location, and cost of 
                acquiring, operating, and maintaining required 
                facilities and services;
                  (B) the cost of research, engineering, [and 
                development] procurement, and development 
                required to improve safety, system capacity, 
                and efficiency; and
                  (C) personnel levels required for the 
                activities described in [subclauses (A) and (B) 
                of this clause] subparagraphs (A) and (B);
          (3) for [the 3d, 4th, and 5th] the third, fourth, and 
        fifth years of the plan, estimates of the total cost of 
        each major program for the 3-year period, and 
        additional major research programs, acquisition of 
        [systems and facilities] systems, services, and 
        facilities, and changes in personnel levels that may be 
        required to meet long range objectives and that may 
        have significant impact on future funding requirements;
          (4) a 10-year investment plan that considers long 
        range objectives that the Administrator considers 
        necessary to--
                  (A) ensure that safety is given the highest 
                priority in providing for a safe and efficient 
                airway system; and
                  (B) meet the current and projected [growth of 
                aviation] growth of the aerospace industry and 
                the requirements of interstate commerce, the 
                United States Postal Service, and the national 
                defense; and
          (5) a list of capital projects that are part of the 
        Next Generation Air Transportation System and funded by 
        amounts appropriated under section 48101(a).
  (c) National Aviation Research Plan.--(1) The Administrator 
of the Federal Aviation Administration shall prepare and 
publish annually a national aviation research plan and submit 
the plan to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Science of 
the House of Representatives. The plan shall be submitted not 
later than the date of submission of the President's budget to 
Congress.
  (2)(A) The plan shall describe, for a 5-year period, the 
research, engineering, and development that the Administrator 
of the Federal Aviation Administration considers necessary--
          (i) to ensure the continued capacity, safety, and 
        efficiency of aviation in the United States, 
        considering emerging technologies and forecasted needs 
        of civil aeronautics; and
          (ii) to provide the highest degree of safety in air 
        travel.
  (B) The plan shall--
          (i) provide estimates by year of the schedule, cost, 
        and work force levels for each active and planned major 
        research and development project under sections 
        [40119,] 44504, 44505, 44507, 44509, 44511-44513, and 
        44912 of this title, including activities carried out 
        under cooperative agreements with other Federal 
        departments and agencies;
          (ii) specify the goals and the priorities for 
        allocation of resources among the major categories of 
        research and development activities, including the 
        rationale for the priorities identified;
          (iii) identify the allocation of resources among 
        long-term research, near-term research, and development 
        activities;
          (iv) identify the individual research and development 
        projects in each funding category that are described in 
        the annual budget request;
          (v) highlight the research and development activities 
        that address specific recommendations of the research 
        advisory committee established under section 44508 of 
        this title, and document the recommendations of the 
        committee that are not accepted, specifying the reasons 
        for nonacceptance; and
          (vi) highlight the research and development 
        technology transfer activities that promote technology 
        sharing among government, industry, and academia 
        through the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act 
        of 1980.
  (3) [Subject to section 40119(b)   of this title and 
regulations prescribed under section 40119(b),] Subject to 
section 44912(d)(2) and regulations prescribed under such 
section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall submit to the committees named in 
paragraph (1) of this subsection an annual report on the 
accomplishments of the research completed during the prior 
fiscal year, including a description of the dissemination to 
the private sector of research results and a description of any 
new technologies developed. The report shall be submitted with 
the plan required under paragraph (1) and be organized to allow 
comparison with the plan in effect for the prior fiscal year. 
The report shall be prepared in accordance with requirements of 
section 1116 of title 31.

Sec. 44502. General facilities and personnel authority

  (a) General Authority.--(1) The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration may--
          (A) acquire, establish, improve, operate, and 
        maintain air navigation facilities; and
          (B) provide facilities and personnel to regulate and 
        protect air traffic.
  (2) The cost of site preparation work associated with 
acquiring, establishing, or improving an air navigation 
facility under paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection shall be 
charged to amounts available for that purpose appropriated 
under section 48101(a) of this title. The Secretary of 
Transportation may make an agreement with an airport owner or 
sponsor (as defined in section 47102 of this title) so that the 
owner or sponsor will provide the work and be paid or 
reimbursed by the Secretary from the appropriated amounts.
  (3) The Secretary of Transportation may authorize a 
department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States 
Government to carry out any duty or power under this subsection 
with the consent of the head of the department, agency, or 
instrumentality.
  (4) Purchase of instrument landing system.--
          (A) Establishment of program.--The Secretary shall 
        purchase precision approach instrument landing system 
        equipment for installation at airports on an expedited 
        basis.
          (B) Authorization.--No less than $30,000,000 of the 
        amounts appropriated under section 48101(a) for each of 
        fiscal years 2000 through 2002 shall be used for the 
        purpose of carrying out this paragraph, including 
        acquisition under new or existing contracts, site 
        preparation work, installation, and related 
        expenditures.
  (5) Improvements on leased properties.--The Administrator may 
make improvements to real property leased for no or nominal 
consideration for an air navigation facility, regardless of 
whether the cost of making the improvements exceeds the cost of 
leasing the real property, if--
          (A) the improvements primarily benefit the 
        Government;
          (B) the improvements are essential for accomplishment 
        of the mission of the Federal Aviation Administration; 
        and
          (C) the interest of the United States Government in 
        the improvements is protected.
  (b) Certification of Necessity.--Except for Government money 
expended under this part or for a military purpose, Government 
money may be expended to acquire, establish, construct, 
operate, repair, alter, or maintain an air navigation facility 
only if the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration certifies in writing that the facility is 
reasonably necessary for use in air commerce or for the 
national defense. An interested person may apply for a 
certificate for a facility to be acquired, established, 
constructed, operated, repaired, altered, or maintained by or 
for the person.
  (c) Ensuring Conformity With Plans and Policies.--(1) To 
ensure conformity with plans and policies for, and allocation 
of, airspace by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration under section 40103(b)(1) of this title, a 
military airport, military landing area, or missile or rocket 
site may be acquired, established, or constructed, or a runway 
may be altered substantially, only if the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration is given reasonable prior 
notice so that the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration may advise the appropriate committees of 
Congress and interested departments, agencies, and 
instrumentalities of the Government on the effect of the 
acquisition, establishment, construction, or alteration on the 
use of airspace by aircraft. A disagreement between the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and the 
Secretary of Defense or the Administrator of the National 
Aeronautics and Space Administration may be appealed to the 
President for a final decision.
  (2) To ensure conformity, an airport or landing area not 
involving the expenditure of Government money may be 
established or constructed, or a runway may be altered 
substantially, only if the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration is given reasonable prior notice so 
that the Administrator may provide advice on the effects of the 
establishment, construction, or alteration on the use of 
airspace by aircraft.
  (d) Public Use and Emergency Assistance.--(1) The head of a 
department, agency, or instrumentality of the Government having 
jurisdiction over an air navigation facility owned or operated 
by the Government may provide, under regulations the head of 
the department, agency, or instrumentality prescribes, for 
public use of the facility.
  (2) The head of a department, agency, or instrumentality of 
the Government having jurisdiction over an airport or emergency 
landing field owned or operated by the Government may provide, 
under regulations the head of the department, agency, or 
instrumentality prescribes, for assistance, and the sale of 
fuel, oil, equipment, and supplies, to an aircraft, but only 
when necessary, because of an emergency, to allow the aircraft 
to continue to the nearest airport operated by private 
enterprise. The head of the department, agency, or 
instrumentality shall provide for the assistance and sale at 
the prevailing local fair market value as determined by the 
head of the department, agency, or instrumentality. An amount 
that the head decides is equal to the cost of the assistance 
provided and the fuel, oil, equipment, and supplies sold shall 
be credited to the appropriation from which the cost was paid. 
The balance shall be credited to miscellaneous receipts.
  (e) Transfers of Air Traffic Systems.--
          (1) In general.--An airport in a noncontiguous State 
        may transfer, without consideration, to the 
        Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, 
        an eligible air traffic system or equipment that 
        conforms to performance specifications of the 
        Administrator if a Government airport aid program, 
        airport development aid program, or airport improvement 
        project grant was used to assist in purchasing the 
        system or equipment.
          (2) Acceptance.--The Administrator shall accept the 
        eligible air traffic system or equipment and operate 
        and maintain it under criteria of the Administrator.
          (3) Definition.--In this subsection, the term 
        ``eligible air traffic system or equipment'' means--
                  (A) an instrument landing system consisting 
                of a glide slope and localizer (if the 
                Administrator has determined that a satellite 
                navigation system cannot provide a suitable 
                approach to an airport);
                  (B) an Automated Weather Observing System 
                weather observation system; [or]
                  (C) a Remote Communication Air/Ground and 
                Remote Communication Outlet communications 
                facility[.]; or
                  (D) a Medium Intensity Approach Lighting 
                System with Runway Alignment Indicator Lights.
          (4) Exception.--The requirement under paragraph (1) 
        that an eligible air traffic system or equipment be 
        purchased in part using a Government airport aid 
        program, airport development aid program, or airport 
        improvement project grant shall not apply if the system 
        or equipment is installed at an airport that is 
        categorized as a basic or local general aviation 
        airport under the most recently published national plan 
        of integrated airport systems under section 47103.
  (f) Airport Space.--
          (1) Restriction.--The Administrator may not require 
        an airport owner or sponsor (as defined in section 
        47102) to provide to the Federal Aviation 
        Administration without cost any of the following:
                  (A) Building construction, maintenance, 
                utilities, or expenses for services relating to 
                air traffic control, air navigation, or weather 
                reporting.
                  (B) Space in a facility owned by the airport 
                owner or sponsor for services relating to air 
                traffic control, air navigation, or weather 
                reporting.
          (2) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection 
        may be construed to affect--
                  (A) any agreement the Secretary may have or 
                make with an airport owner or sponsor for the 
                airport owner or sponsor to provide any of the 
                items described in paragraph (1)(A) or (1)(B) 
                at below-market rates; or
                  (B) any grant assurance that requires an 
                airport owner or sponsor to provide land to the 
                Administration without cost for an air traffic 
                control facility.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44505. Systems, procedures, facilities, and devices

  (a) General Requirements.--(1) The Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall--
          (A) [develop, alter] develop when necessary, alter, 
        test, and evaluate systems, procedures, facilities, 
        [and devices] services, and devices, and define their 
        performance characteristics, to meet the needs for safe 
        and efficient navigation and traffic control of civil 
        and military aviation, except for needs of the armed 
        forces that are peculiar to air warfare and primarily 
        of military concern; and
          (B) select systems, procedures, facilities, [and 
        devices] services, and devices that will best serve 
        those needs and promote maximum coordination of air 
        traffic control and air defense systems.
  (2) The Administrator may make contracts to carry out this 
subsection without regard to section 3324(a) and (b) of title 
31.
  (3) When a substantial question exists under paragraph (1) of 
this subsection about whether a matter is of primary concern to 
the armed forces, the Administrator shall decide whether the 
Administrator or the Secretary of the appropriate military 
department has responsibility. The Administrator shall be given 
technical information related to each research and development 
project of the armed forces that potentially applies to, or 
potentially conflicts with, the common system to ensure that 
potential application to the common system is considered 
properly and that potential conflicts with the system are 
eliminated.
  (b) Research on Human Factors and Simulation Models.--The 
Administrator shall conduct or supervise research--
          (1) to develop a better understanding of the 
        relationship between human factors and aviation 
        accidents and between human factors and air safety;
          (2) to enhance air traffic controller, mechanic, and 
        flight crew performance;
          (3) to develop a human-factor analysis of the hazards 
        associated with new technologies to be used by air 
        traffic controllers, mechanics, and flight crews;
          (4) to identify innovative and effective corrective 
        measures for human errors that adversely affect air 
        safety;
          (5) to [develop dynamic simulation models] develop or 
        procure dynamic simulation models and tools of the air 
        traffic control system and airport design and operating 
        procedures that will provide analytical technology--
                  (A) to predict airport and air traffic 
                control safety and capacity problems;
                  (B) to evaluate planned research projects; 
                and
                  (C) to test proposed revisions in airport and 
                air traffic control operations programs;
          (6) to develop a better understanding of the 
        relationship between human factors and unmanned 
        aircraft system safety; and
          (7) to [develop dynamic simulation models] develop or 
        procure dynamic simulation models and tools for 
        integrating all classes of unmanned aircraft systems 
        into the national airspace system without any 
        degradation of existing levels of safety for all 
        national airspace system users.
  (c) Research on Developing and Maintaining a Safe and 
Efficient System.--The Administrator shall conduct or supervise 
research on--
          (1) airspace and airport planning and design;
          (2) airport capacity enhancement techniques;
          (3) human performance in the air transportation 
        environment;
          (4) aviation safety and security;
          (5) the supply of trained air transportation 
        personnel, including pilots and mechanics; and
          (6) other aviation issues related to developing and 
        maintaining a safe and efficient air transportation 
        system.
  (d) Research on Design for Certification.--
          (1) Research.--Not later than 1 year after the date 
        of enactment of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 
        2012, the Administrator shall conduct research on 
        methods and procedures to improve both confidence in 
        and the timeliness of certification of new technologies 
        for their introduction into the national airspace 
        system.
          (2) Research plan.--Not later than 6 months after the 
        date of enactment of the FAA Modernization and Reform 
        Act of 2012, the Administrator shall develop a plan for 
        the research under paragraph (1) that contains 
        objectives, proposed tasks, milestones, and a 5-year 
        budgetary profile.
          (3) Review.--The Administrator shall enter into an 
        arrangement with the National Research Council to 
        conduct an independent review of the plan developed 
        under paragraph (2) and shall provide the results of 
        that review to the Committee on Science, Space, and 
        Technology of the House of Representatives and the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
        the Senate not later than 18 months after the date of 
        enactment of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 
        2012.
  (e) Cooperative Agreements.--The Administrator may enter into 
cooperative agreements on a cost-shared basis with Federal and 
non-Federal entities that the Administrator may select in order 
to conduct, encourage, and promote aviation research, 
engineering, and development, including the development of 
prototypes and demonstration models.

Sec. 44506. Air traffic controllers

  (a) Research on Effect of Automation on Performance.--To 
develop the means necessary to establish appropriate selection 
criteria and training methodologies for the next generation of 
air traffic controllers, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall conduct research to study the 
effect of automation on the performance of the next generation 
of air traffic controllers and the air traffic control system. 
The research shall include investigating--
          (1) methods for improving and accelerating future air 
        traffic controller training through the application of 
        advanced training techniques, including the use of 
        simulation technology;
          (2) the role of automation in the air traffic control 
        system and its physical and psychological effects on 
        air traffic controllers;
          (3) the attributes and aptitudes needed to function 
        well in a highly automated air traffic control system 
        and the development of appropriate testing methods for 
        identifying individuals with those attributes and 
        aptitudes;
          (4) innovative methods for training potential air 
        traffic controllers to enhance the benefits of 
        automation and maximize the effectiveness of the air 
        traffic control system; and
          (5) new technologies and procedures for exploiting 
        automated communication systems, including Mode S 
        Transponders, to improve information transfers between 
        air traffic controllers and aircraft pilots.
  (b) Research on Human Factor Aspects of Automation.--The 
Administrators of the Federal Aviation Administration and 
National Aeronautics and Space Administration may make an 
agreement for the use of the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration's unique human factor facilities and expertise 
in conducting research activities to study the human factor 
aspects of the highly automated environment for the next 
generation of air traffic controllers. The research activities 
shall include investigating--
          (1) human perceptual capabilities and the effect of 
        computer-aided decision making on the workload and 
        performance of air traffic controllers;
          (2) information management techniques for advanced 
        air traffic control display systems; and
          (3) air traffic controller workload and performance 
        measures, including the development of predictive 
        models.
  (c) Collegiate Training Initiative.--(1) The Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration may maintain the Collegiate 
Training Initiative program by making new agreements and 
continuing existing agreements with institutions of higher 
education (as defined by the Administrator) under which the 
institutions prepare students for the position of air traffic 
controller with the Department of Transportation (as defined in 
section 2109 of title 5). The Administrator may establish 
standards for the entry of institutions into the program and 
for their continued participation.
  (2)(A) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration may appoint an individual who has successfully 
completed a course of training in a program described in 
paragraph (1) of this subsection to the position of air traffic 
controller noncompetitively in the excepted service (as defined 
in section 2103 of title 5). An individual appointed under this 
paragraph serves at the pleasure of the Administrator, subject 
to section 7511 of title 5. However, an appointment under this 
paragraph may be converted from one in the excepted service to 
a career conditional or career appointment in the competitive 
civil service (as defined in section 2102 of title 5) when the 
individual achieves full performance level air traffic 
controller status, as decided by the Administrator.
  (B) The authority under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph to 
make appointments in the excepted service expires on October 6, 
1997, except that the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration may extend the authority for one or more 
successive one-year periods.
  (d) Air Traffic Control Specialist Qualification Training.--
          (1) Appointment of air traffic control specialists.--
        The Administrator is authorized to appoint a qualified 
        air traffic control specialist candidate for placement 
        in an airport traffic control facility if the candidate 
        has--
                  (A) received a control tower operator 
                certification (referred to in this subsection 
                as a ``CTO'' certificate); and
                  (B) satisfied all other applicable 
                qualification requirements for an air traffic 
                control specialist position, including 
                successful completion of orientation training 
                at the Federal Aviation Administration Academy.
          (2) Compensation and benefits.--An individual 
        appointed under paragraph (1) shall receive the same 
        compensation and benefits, and be treated in the same 
        manner as, any other individual appointed as a 
        developmental air traffic controller.
          (3) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
        enactment of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 
        2012, the Administrator shall submit to Congress a 
        report that evaluates the effectiveness of the air 
        traffic control specialist qualification training 
        provided pursuant to this section, including the 
        graduation rates of candidates who received a CTO 
        certificate and are working in airport traffic control 
        facilities.
          (4) Additional appointments.--If the Administrator 
        determines that air traffic control specialists 
        appointed pursuant to this subsection are more 
        successful in carrying out the duties of an air traffic 
        controller than air traffic control specialists hired 
        from the general public without any such certification, 
        the Administrator shall increase, to the maximum extent 
        practicable, the number of appointments of candidates 
        who possess such certification.
          (5) Reimbursement for travel expenses associated with 
        certifications.--
                  (A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), 
                the Administrator may accept reimbursement from 
                an educational entity that provides training to 
                an air traffic control specialist candidate to 
                cover reasonable travel expenses of the 
                Administrator associated with issuing 
                certifications to such candidates.
                  (B) Treatment of reimbursements.--
                Notwithstanding section 3302 of title 31, any 
                reimbursement authorized to be collected under 
                subparagraph (A) shall--
                          (i) be credited as offsetting 
                        collections to the account that 
                        finances the activities and services 
                        for which the reimbursement is 
                        accepted;
                          (ii) be available for expenditure 
                        only to pay the costs of activities and 
                        services for which the reimbursement is 
                        accepted, including all costs 
                        associated with collecting such 
                        reimbursement; and
                          (iii) remain available until 
                        expended.
  (e) Staffing Report.--The [Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration] Chief Operating Officer of the Air 
Traffic Organization of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall submit annually 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 staffing standards used to determine the 
        number of air traffic controllers needed to operate the 
        air traffic control system of the United States;
          (2) a 3-year projection of the number of controllers 
        needed to be employed to operate the system to meet the 
        standards; and
          (3) a detailed plan for employing the controllers, 
        including projected budget requests.
  (f) Hiring of Certain Air Traffic Control Specialists.--
          (1) Consideration of applicants.--
                  (A) Ensuring selection of most qualified 
                applicants.--In appointing individuals to the 
                position of air traffic controller, the 
                Administrator shall give preferential 
                consideration to qualified individuals 
                maintaining 52 consecutive weeks of air traffic 
                control experience involving the full-time 
                active separation of air traffic after receipt 
                of an air traffic certification or air traffic 
                control facility rating within 5 years of 
                application while serving at--
                          (i) a Federal Aviation Administration 
                        air traffic control facility;
                          (ii) a civilian or military air 
                        traffic control facility of the 
                        Department of Defense (including a 
                        facility of the National Guard); or
                          (iii) a tower operating under 
                        contract with the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration under section 47124.
                  (B) Consideration of additional applicants.--
                          (i) In general.--After giving 
                        preferential consideration to 
                        applicants under subparagraph (A), the 
                        Administrator shall consider additional 
                        applicants for the position of air 
                        traffic controller by giving further 
                        preferential consideration, within each 
                        qualification category based upon pre-
                        employment testing results (including 
                        application of veterans' preference as 
                        required under section 40122(g)(2)(B)), 
                        to pool 1 applicants described in 
                        clause (ii) before pool 2 applicants 
                        described in clause (iii).
                          (ii) Pool 1.--Pool 1 applicants are 
                        individuals who--
                                  (I) have successfully 
                                completed air traffic 
                                controller training and 
                                graduated from an institution 
                                participating in the Collegiate 
                                Training Initiative program 
                                maintained under subsection 
                                (c)(1) and who have received 
                                from the institution--
                                          (aa) an appropriate 
                                        recommendation; or
                                          (bb) an endorsement 
                                        certifying that the 
                                        individual would have 
                                        met the requirements in 
                                        effect as of December 
                                        31, 2013, for an 
                                        appropriate 
                                        recommendation;
                                  (II) are eligible for a 
                                veterans recruitment 
                                appointment pursuant to section 
                                4214 of title 38 and provide a 
                                Certificate of Release or 
                                Discharge from Active Duty 
                                within 120 days of the 
                                announcement closing;
                                  (III) are eligible veterans 
                                (as defined in section 4211 of 
                                title 38) maintaining aviation 
                                experience obtained in the 
                                course of the individual's 
                                military experience; or
                                  (IV) are preference eligible 
                                veterans (as defined in section 
                                2108 of title 5).
                          (iii) Pool 2.--Pool 2 applicants are 
                        individuals who apply under a vacancy 
                        announcement recruiting from all United 
                        States citizens.
                  (C) Special rule.--
                          (i) In general.--Notwithstanding 
                        subparagraph (B), after giving 
                        preferential consideration to 
                        applicants under subparagraph (A) and 
                        if, after consulting with the labor 
                        organization recognized as the 
                        exclusive representative of air traffic 
                        controllers under section 7111 of title 
                        5, the Administrator determines there 
                        are unique circumstances affecting a 
                        covered facility that warrant a vacancy 
                        announcement with a limited area of 
                        consideration, the Administrator may 
                        consider applicants for the position of 
                        air traffic controller who apply under 
                        a vacancy announcement recruiting from 
                        the local commuting area for that 
                        covered facility.
                          (ii) Biographical assessments.--The 
                        Administrator shall not use any 
                        biographical assessment with respect to 
                        an applicant under this subparagraph 
                        who would otherwise qualify as a Pool 1 
                        applicant under subparagraph (B)(ii).
                          (iii) Covered facility defined.--In 
                        this subparagraph the term ``covered 
                        facility'' means a radar facility with 
                        at least 1,000,000 operations annually 
                        that is located in a metropolitan 
                        statistical area (as defined by the 
                        Office of Management and Budget) with a 
                        population estimate by the Bureau of 
                        the Census of more than 15,000,000 (as 
                        of July 1, 2016).
          (2) Use of biographical assessments.--
                  (A) Biographical assessments.--The 
                Administrator shall not use any biographical 
                assessment when hiring under paragraph (1)(A) 
                or [paragraph (1)(B)(ii)] paragraph (1)(B).
                  (B) Reconsideration of applicants 
                disqualified on basis of biographical 
                assessments.--
                          (i) In general.--If an individual 
                        described in paragraph (1)(A) or 
                        paragraph (1)(B)(ii), who applied for 
                        the position of air traffic controller 
                        with the Administration in response to 
                        Vacancy Announcement FAA-AMC-14-
                        ALLSRCE-33537 (issued on February 10, 
                        2014), was disqualified from the 
                        position as the result of a 
                        biographical assessment, the 
                        Administrator shall provide the 
                        applicant an opportunity to reapply for 
                        the position as soon as practicable 
                        under the revised hiring practices.
                          (ii) Waiver of age restriction.--The 
                        Administrator shall waive any maximum 
                        age restriction for the position of air 
                        traffic controller with the 
                        Administration that would otherwise 
                        disqualify an individual from the 
                        position if the individual--
                                  (I) is reapplying for the 
                                position pursuant to clause (i) 
                                on or before December 31, 2017; 
                                and
                                  (II) met the maximum age 
                                requirement on the date of the 
                                individual's previous 
                                application for the position 
                                during the interim hiring 
                                process.
          (3) Maximum entry age for experienced controllers.--
        Notwithstanding section 3307 of title 5, except for 
        individuals covered by the program described in 
        paragraph (4), the maximum limit of age for an original 
        appointment to a position as an air traffic controller 
        shall be 35 years of age for those maintaining 52 weeks 
        of air traffic control experience involving the full-
        time active separation of air traffic after receipt of 
        an air traffic certification or air traffic control 
        facility rating in a civilian or military air traffic 
        control facility.
          (4) Retired military controllers.--The Administrator 
        may establish a program to provide an original 
        appointment to a position as an air traffic controller 
        for individuals who--
                  (A) are on terminal leave pending retirement 
                from active duty military service or have 
                retired from active duty military service 
                within 5 years of applying for the appointment; 
                and
                  (B) have held either an air traffic 
                certification or air traffic control facility 
                rating according to Administration standards 
                within 5 years of applying for the appointment.

Sec. 44507. Regions and centers

  [(a) Civil Aeromedical Institute.--The Civil Aeromedical 
Institute established] The Civil Aeromedical Institute 
established by section 106(j) of this title may--
          (1) conduct civil aeromedical research, including 
        research related to--
                  (A) the protection and survival of aircraft 
                occupants;
                  (B) medical accident investigation and airman 
                medical certification;
                  (C) toxicology and the effects of drugs on 
                human performance;
                  (D) the impact of disease and disability on 
                human performance;
                  (E) vision and its relationship to human 
                performance and equipment design;
                  (F) human factors of flight crews, air 
                traffic controllers, mechanics, inspectors, 
                airway facility technicians, and other 
                individuals involved in operating and 
                maintaining aircraft and air traffic control 
                equipment; and
                  (G) agency work force optimization, including 
                training, equipment design, reduction of 
                errors, and identification of candidate tasks 
                for automation;
          (2) make comments to the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration on human factors aspects of 
        proposed air safety regulations;
          (3) make comments to the Administrator on human 
        factors aspects of proposed training programs, 
        equipment requirements, standards, and procedures for 
        aviation personnel;
          (4) advise, assist, and represent the Federal 
        Aviation Administration in the human factors aspects of 
        joint projects between the Administration and the 
        National Aeronautics and Space Administration, other 
        departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the 
        United States Government, industry, and governments of 
        foreign countries; and
          (5) provide medical consultation services to the 
        Administrator about medical certification of airmen.
  [(b) William J. Hughes Technical Center.--The Secretary of 
Transportation shall define the roles and responsibilities of 
the William J. Hughes Technical Center in a manner that is 
consistent with the defined roles and responsibilities of the 
Civil Aeromedical Institute under subsection (a).]

Sec. 44508. Research advisory committee

  (a) Establishment and Duties.--(1) There is a research 
advisory committee in the Federal Aviation Administration. The 
committee shall--
          (A) provide advice and recommendations to the 
        Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
        and Congress about needs, objectives, plans, 
        approaches, content, and accomplishments of all 
        aviation research and development activities and 
        programs carried out, including those under sections 
        [40119,] 44504, 44505, 44507, 44511-44513, and 44912 of 
        this title;
          (B) assist in ensuring that the research is 
        coordinated with similar research being conducted 
        outside the Administration;
          (C) review the operations of the regional centers of 
        air transportation excellence established under section 
        44513 of this title; and
          (D) annually review the allocation made by the 
        Administrator of the amounts authorized by section 
        48102(a) of this title among the major categories of 
        research and development activities carried out by the 
        Administration and provide advice and recommendations 
        to the Administrator on whether such allocation is 
        appropriate to meet the needs and objectives identified 
        under subparagraph (A).
  (2) The Administrator may establish subordinate committees to 
provide advice on specific areas of research conducted under 
sections [40119,] 44504, 44505, 44507, 44511-44513, and 44912 
of this title.
  (b) Members, Chairman, Pay, and Expenses.--(1) The committee 
is composed of not more than 30 members appointed by the 
Administrator from among individuals who are not employees of 
the Administration and who are specially qualified to serve on 
the committee because of their education, training, or 
experience. In appointing members of the committee, the 
Administrator shall ensure that the regional centers of air 
transportation excellence, universities, corporations, 
associations, consumers, and other departments, agencies, and 
instrumentalities of the United States Government are 
represented.
  (2) The Administrator shall designate the chairman of the 
committee.
  (3) A member of the committee serves without pay. However, 
the Administrator may allow a member, when attending meetings 
of the committee or a subordinate committee, expenses as 
authorized under section 5703 of title 5.
  (c) Support Staff, Information, and Services.--The 
Administrator shall provide support staff for the committee. On 
request of the committee, the Administrator shall provide 
information, administrative services, and supplies that the 
Administrator considers necessary for the committee to carry 
out its duties and powers.
  (d) Nonapplication.--Section 1013 of title 5 does not apply 
to the committee.
  (e) Use and Limitation of Amounts.--(1) Not more than .1 
percent of the amounts made available to conduct research under 
sections [40119,] 44504, 44505, 44507, 44511-44513, and 44912 
of this title may be used by the Administrator to carry out 
this section.
  (2) A limitation on amounts available for obligation by or 
for the committee does not apply to amounts made available to 
carry out this section.
  (f) Written Reply.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 60 days after 
        receiving any recommendation from the research advisory 
        committee, the Administrator shall provide a written 
        reply to the research advisory committee that, at a 
        minimum--
                  (A) clearly states whether the Administrator 
                accepts or rejects the recommendation;
                  (B) explains the rationale for the 
                Administrator's decision;
                  (C) sets forth the timeframe in which the 
                Administrator will implement the 
                recommendation; and
                  (D) describes the steps the Administrator 
                will take to implement the recommendation.
          (2) Transparency.--The written reply to the research 
        advisory committee, when transmitted to the research 
        advisory committee, shall be--
                  (A) made publicly available on the research 
                advisory committee website; and
                  (B) transmitted to the Committee on Science, 
                Space, and Technology of the House of 
                Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, 
                Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
          (3) National aviation research plan.--The national 
        aviation research plan required under section 44501(c) 
        shall include a summary of all research advisory 
        committee recommendations and a description of the 
        status of their implementation.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


[Sec. 44510. Airway science curriculum grants

  [(a) General Authority.--The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration may make competitive grant agreements 
with institutions of higher education having airway science 
curricula for the United States Government's share of the 
allowable direct costs of the following categories of items to 
the extent that the items are in support of airway science 
curricula:
          [(1) the construction, purchase, or lease with an 
        option to purchase, of buildings and associated 
        facilities.
          [(2) instructional material and equipment.
  [(b) Cost Guidelines.--The Administrator shall establish 
guidelines to determine the direct costs allowable under a 
grant to be made under this section. The Government's share of 
the allowable cost of a project assisted by a grant under this 
section may not be more than 65 percent.]

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


[Sec. 44515. Advanced training facilities for maintenance technicians 
                    for air carrier aircraft

  [(a) General Authority.--The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration may make grants to not more than 4 
vocational technical educational institutions to acquire or 
construct facilities to be used for the advanced training of 
maintenance technicians for air carrier aircraft.
  [(b) Eligibility.--The Administrator may make a grant under 
this section to a vocational technical educational institution 
only if the institution has a training curriculum that prepares 
aircraft maintenance technicians who hold airframe and power 
plant certificates under subpart D of part 65 of title 14, Code 
of Federal Regulations, to maintain, without direct 
supervision, air carrier aircraft.
  [(c) Limitation.--A vocational technical educational 
institution may not receive more than a total of $5,000,000 in 
grants under this section.]

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


                     CHAPTER 447--SAFETY REGULATION

Sec.
     * * * * * * *
[44733. Inspection of repair stations located outside the United 
          States.]
44733. Oversight of repair stations located outside the United States.
     * * * * * * *
44745. Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative.
44746. Cockpit recording device.
44747. Aircraft dispatching.

Sec. 44701. General requirements

  (a) Promoting Safety.--The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall promote safe flight of civil 
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing--
          (1) minimum standards required in the interest of 
        safety for appliances and for the design, material, 
        construction, quality of work, cybersecurity, and 
        performance of aircraft, aircraft engines, and 
        propellers;
          (2) regulations and minimum standards in the interest 
        of safety for--
                  (A) inspecting, servicing, and overhauling 
                aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and 
                appliances;
                  (B) equipment and facilities for, and the 
                timing and manner of, the inspecting, 
                servicing, and overhauling; and
                  (C) a qualified private person, instead of an 
                officer or employee of the Administration, to 
                examine and report on the inspecting, 
                servicing, and overhauling;
          (3) regulations required in the interest of safety 
        for the reserve supply of aircraft, aircraft engines, 
        propellers, appliances, and aircraft fuel and oil, 
        including the reserve supply of fuel and oil carried in 
        flight;
          (4) regulations in the interest of safety for the 
        maximum hours or periods of service of airmen and other 
        employees of air carriers; and
          (5) regulations and minimum standards for 
        cybersecurity and other practices, methods, and 
        [procedure] procedures the Administrator finds 
        necessary for safety in air commerce and national 
        security.
  (b) Prescribing Minimum Safety Standards.--The Administrator 
may prescribe minimum safety standards for--
          (1) an air carrier to whom a certificate is issued 
        under section 44705 of this title; and
          (2) operating an airport serving any passenger 
        operation of air carrier aircraft designed for at least 
        31 passenger seats.
  (c) Reducing and Eliminating Accidents.--The Administrator 
shall carry out this chapter in a way that best tends to reduce 
or eliminate the possibility or recurrence of accidents in air 
transportation. However, the Administrator is not required to 
give preference either to air transportation or to other air 
commerce in carrying out this chapter.
  (d) Considerations and Classification of Regulations and 
Standards.--When prescribing a regulation or standard under 
subsection (a) or (b) of this section or any of sections 44702-
44716 of this title, the Administrator shall--
          (1) consider--
                  (A) the duty of an air carrier to provide 
                service with the highest possible degree of 
                safety in the public interest; and
                  (B) differences between air transportation 
                and other air commerce; and
          (2) classify a regulation or standard appropriate to 
        the differences between air transportation and other 
        air commerce.
  (e) Bilateral Exchanges of Safety Oversight 
Responsibilities.--
          (1) In general.--Notwithstanding the provisions of 
        this chapter, the Administrator, pursuant to Article 83 
        bis of the Convention on International Civil Aviation 
        and by a bilateral agreement with the aeronautical 
        authorities of another country, may exchange with that 
        country all or part of their respective functions and 
        duties with respect to registered aircraft under the 
        following articles of the Convention: Article 12 (Rules 
        of the Air); Article 31 (Certificates of 
        Airworthiness); or Article 32a (Licenses of Personnel).
          (2) Relinquishment and acceptance of 
        responsibility.--The Administrator relinquishes 
        responsibility with respect to the functions and duties 
        transferred by the Administrator as specified in the 
        bilateral agreement, under the Articles listed in 
        paragraph (1) for United States-registered aircraft 
        described in paragraph (4)(A) transferred abroad and 
        accepts responsibility with respect to the functions 
        and duties under those Articles for aircraft registered 
        abroad and described in paragraph (4)(B) that are 
        transferred to the United States.
          (3) Conditions.--The Administrator may predicate, in 
        the agreement, the transfer of functions and duties 
        under this subsection on any conditions the 
        Administrator deems necessary and prudent, except that 
        the Administrator may not transfer responsibilities for 
        United States registered aircraft described in 
        paragraph (4)(A) to a country that the Administrator 
        determines is not in compliance with its obligations 
        under international law for the safety oversight of 
        civil aviation.
          (4) Registered aircraft defined.--In this subsection, 
        the term ``registered aircraft'' means--
                  (A) aircraft registered in the United States 
                and operated pursuant to an agreement for the 
                lease, charter, or interchange of the aircraft 
                or any similar arrangement by an operator that 
                has its principal place of business or, if it 
                has no such place of business, its permanent 
                residence in another country; and
                  (B) aircraft registered in a foreign country 
                and operated under an agreement for the lease, 
                charter, or interchange of the aircraft or any 
                similar arrangement by an operator that has its 
                principal place of business or, if it has no 
                such place of business, its permanent residence 
                in the United States.
          (5) Foreign airworthiness directives.--
                  (A) Acceptance.--Subject to subparagraph (D), 
                the Administrator may accept an airworthiness 
                directive, as defined in section 39.3 of title 
                14, Code of Federal Regulations, 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 an 
                        aircraft certification system relating 
                        to safety that produces a level of 
                        safety equivalent to the level produced 
                        by the system of the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration;
                          (iv) the aeronautical safety 
                        authority of the country utilizes an 
                        open and transparent notice and comment 
                        process in the issuance of 
                        airworthiness directives; and
                          (v) the airworthiness directive is 
                        necessary to provide for the safe 
                        operation of the aircraft subject to 
                        the directive.
                  (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 Federal Aviation 
                Administration 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.
                  (D) Limitation.--The Administrator may not 
                accept an airworthiness directive issued by an 
                aeronautical safety authority of a foreign 
                country if the airworthiness directive 
                addresses matters other than those involving 
                the safe operation of an aircraft.
  (f) Exemptions.--The Administrator may grant an exemption 
from a requirement of a regulation prescribed under subsection 
(a) or (b) of this section or any of sections 44702-44716 of 
this title if the Administrator finds the exemption is in the 
public interest.
  (g) Policies, orders, and guidance.
          (1) Consistency of application.--The Administrator 
        shall ensure consistency in the application of 
        policies, orders, and guidance of the Administration 
        by--
                  (A) regular audits of the application and 
                interpretation of such material by 
                Administration personnel from person to person 
                and office to office;
                  (B) updating policies, orders, and guidance 
                to resolve inconsistencies and clarify 
                demonstrated ambiguities, such as through 
                repeated inconsistent interpretation; and
                  (C) ensuring officials are properly 
                documenting findings and decisions throughout a 
                project to decrease the occurrence of 
                duplicative work and inconsistent findings by 
                subsequent officials assigned to the same 
                project.
          (2) Alterations.--The Administrator shall consult as 
        appropriate with regulated entities who will be 
        impacted by proposed changes to the content or 
        application of policies, orders, and guidance before 
        making such changes.
          (3) Authorities and regulations.--The Administrator 
        shall issue policies, orders, and guidance documents 
        that are related to a law or regulation or clarify the 
        intent of or compliance with specific laws and 
        regulations.
  (h) Exclusive Rulemaking Authority.--Notwithstanding any 
other provision of law and except as provided in section 40132, 
the Administrator, in consultation with the heads of such other 
agencies as the Administrator determines necessary, shall have 
exclusive authority to prescribe regulations for purposes of 
assuring civil aircraft, including unmanned aircraft systems, 
aircraft engine, propeller, and appliance cybersecurity.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44703. Airman certificates

  (a) General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall issue an airman certificate to an 
individual when the Administrator finds, after investigation, 
that the individual is qualified for, and physically able to 
perform the duties related to, the position to be authorized by 
the certificate.
  (b) Contents.--(1) An airman certificate shall--
          (A) be numbered and recorded by the Administrator of 
        the Federal Aviation Administration;
          (B) contain the name, address, and description of the 
        individual to whom the certificate is issued;
          (C) contain terms the Administrator decides are 
        necessary to ensure safety in air commerce, including 
        terms on the duration of the certificate, periodic or 
        special examinations, and tests of physical fitness;
          (D) specify the capacity in which the holder of the 
        certificate may serve as an airman with respect to an 
        aircraft; and
          (E) designate the class the certificate covers.
  (2) A certificate issued to a pilot serving in scheduled air 
transportation shall have the designation ``airline transport 
pilot'' of the appropriate class.
  (c) Public Information.--
          (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2) and 
        notwithstanding any other provision of law, the 
        information contained in the records of contents of any 
        airman certificate issued under this section that is 
        limited to an airman's name, address, and ratings held 
        shall be made available to the public after the 120th 
        day following the date of the enactment of the Wendell 
        H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st 
        Century.
          (2) Opportunity to withhold information.--Before 
        making any information concerning an airman available 
        to the public under paragraph (1), the airman shall be 
        given an opportunity to elect that the information not 
        be made available to the public.
          (3) Development and implementation of program.--Not 
        later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of 
        the Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act 
        for the 21st Century, the Administrator shall develop 
        and implement, in cooperation with representatives of 
        the aviation industry, a one-time written notification 
        to airmen to set forth the implications of making 
        information concerning an airman available to the 
        public under paragraph (1) and to carry out paragraph 
        (2). The Administrator shall also provide such written 
        notification to each individual who becomes an airman 
        after such date of enactment.
  (d) Appeals.--(1) An individual whose application for the 
issuance or renewal of an airman certificate has been denied 
may appeal the denial to the National Transportation Safety 
Board, except if the individual holds a certificate that--
          (A) is suspended at the time of denial; or
          (B) was revoked within one year from the date of the 
        denial.
  (2) The Board shall conduct a hearing on the appeal at a 
place convenient to the place of residence or employment of the 
applicant. The Board is not bound by findings of fact of the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration. At the 
end of the hearing, the Board shall decide whether the 
individual meets the applicable regulations and standards. The 
Administrator is bound by that decision.
  (3) A person who is substantially affected by an order of the 
Board under this subsection, or the Administrator if the 
Administrator decides that an order of the Board will have a 
significant adverse impact on carrying out this subtitle, may 
seek judicial review of the order under section 46110. The 
Administrator shall be made a party to the judicial review 
proceedings. The findings of fact of the Board in any such case 
are conclusive if supported by substantial evidence.
  (e) Restrictions and Prohibitions.--The Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration may--
          (1) restrict or prohibit issuing an airman 
        certificate to an alien; or
          (2) make issuing the certificate to an alien 
        dependent on a reciprocal agreement with the government 
        of a foreign country.
  (f) Controlled Substance Violations.--The Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration may not issue an airman 
certificate to an individual whose certificate is revoked under 
section 44710 of this title except--
          (1) when the Administrator decides that issuing the 
        certificate will facilitate law enforcement efforts; 
        and
          (2) as provided in section 44710(e)(2) of this title.
  (g) Modifications in System.--(1) The Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall make modifications in the 
system for issuing airman certificates necessary to make the 
system more effective in serving the needs of airmen and 
officials responsible for enforcing laws related to the 
regulation of controlled substances (as defined in section 102 
of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 
1970 (21 U.S.C. 802)) and related to combating acts of 
terrorism. The modifications shall ensure positive and 
verifiable identification of each individual applying for or 
holding a certificate and shall address at least each of the 
following deficiencies in, and abuses of, the existing system:
          (A) the use of fictitious names and addresses by 
        applicants for those certificates.
          (B) the use of stolen or fraudulent identification in 
        applying for those certificates.
          (C) the use by an applicant of a post office box or 
        ``mail drop'' as a return address to evade 
        identification of the applicant's address.
          (D) the use of counterfeit and stolen airman 
        certificates by pilots.
          (E) the absence of information about physical 
        characteristics of holders of those certificates.
  (2) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall prescribe regulations to carry out paragraph (1) of this 
subsection and provide a written explanation of how the 
regulations address each of the deficiencies and abuses 
described in paragraph (1). In prescribing the regulations, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
consult with the Administrator of Drug Enforcement, the 
Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, other law 
enforcement officials of the United States Government, 
representatives of State and local law enforcement officials, 
representatives of the general aviation aircraft industry, 
representatives of users of general aviation aircraft, and 
other interested persons.
  (3) For purposes of this section, the term ``acts of 
terrorism'' means an activity that involves a violent act or an 
act dangerous to human life that is a violation of the criminal 
laws of the United States or of any State, or that would be a 
criminal violation if committed within the jurisdiction of the 
United States or of any State, and appears to be intended to 
intimidate or coerce a civilian population to influence the 
policy of a government by intimidation or coercion or to affect 
the conduct of a government by assassination or kidnaping.
  (4) The Administrator is authorized and directed to work with 
State and local authorities, and other Federal agencies, to 
assist in the identification of individuals applying for or 
holding airmen certificates.
  (h) Records of Employment of Pilot Applicants.--
          (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (14), before 
        allowing an individual to begin service as a pilot, an 
        air carrier shall request and receive the following 
        information:
                  (A) FAA records.--From the Administrator of 
                the Federal Aviation Administration, records 
                pertaining to the individual that are 
                maintained by the Administrator concerning--
                          (i) current airman certificates 
                        (including airman medical certificates) 
                        and associated type ratings, including 
                        any limitations to those certificates 
                        and ratings; and
                          (ii) summaries of legal enforcement 
                        actions resulting in a finding by the 
                        Administrator of a violation of this 
                        title or a regulation prescribed or 
                        order issued under this title that was 
                        not subsequently overturned.
                  (B) Air carrier and other records.--From any 
                air carrier or other person (except a branch of 
                the United States Armed Forces, the National 
                Guard, or a reserve component of the United 
                States Armed Forces) that has employed the 
                individual as a pilot of a civil or public 
                aircraft at any time during the 5-year period 
                preceding the date of the employment 
                application of the individual, or from the 
                trustee in bankruptcy for such air carrier or 
                person--
                          (i) records pertaining to the 
                        individual that are maintained by an 
                        air carrier (other than records 
                        relating to flight time, duty time, or 
                        rest time) under regulations set forth 
                        in--
                                  (I) section 121.683 of title 
                                14, Code of Federal 
                                Regulations;
                                  (II) paragraph (A) of section 
                                VI, appendix I, part 121 of 
                                such title;
                                  (III) paragraph (A) of 
                                section IV, appendix J, part 
                                121 of such title;
                                  (IV) section 125.401 of such 
                                title; and
                                  (V) section 135.63(a)(4) of 
                                such title; and
                          (ii) other records pertaining to the 
                        individual's performance as a pilot 
                        that are maintained by the air carrier 
                        or person concerning--
                                  (I) the training, 
                                qualifications, proficiency, or 
                                professional competence of the 
                                individual, including comments 
                                and evaluations made by a check 
                                airman designated in accordance 
                                with section 121.411, 125.295, 
                                or 135.337 of such title;
                                  (II) any disciplinary action 
                                taken with respect to the 
                                individual that was not 
                                subsequently overturned; and
                                  (III) any release from 
                                employment or resignation, 
                                termination, or 
                                disqualification with respect 
                                to employment.
                  (C) National driver register records.--In 
                accordance with section 30305(b)(8) of this 
                title, from the chief driver licensing official 
                of a State, information concerning the motor 
                vehicle driving record of the individual.
          (2) Written consent; release from liability.--An air 
        carrier making a request for records under paragraph 
        (1)--
                  (A) shall be required to obtain written 
                consent to the release of those records from 
                the individual that is the subject of the 
                records requested; and
                  (B) may, notwithstanding any other provision 
                of law or agreement to the contrary, require 
                the individual who is the subject of the 
                records to request to execute a release from 
                liability for any claim arising from the 
                furnishing of such records to or the use of 
                such records by such air carrier (other than a 
                claim arising from furnishing information known 
                to be false and maintained in violation of a 
                criminal statute).
          (3) 5-year reporting period.--A person shall not 
        furnish a record in response to a request made under 
        paragraph (1) if the record was entered more than 5 
        years before the date of the request, unless the 
        information concerns a revocation or suspension of an 
        airman certificate or motor vehicle license that is in 
        effect on the date of the request.
          (4) Requirement to maintain records.--The 
        Administrator and air carriers shall maintain pilot 
        records described in paragraphs (1)(A) and (1)(B) for a 
        period of at least 5 years.
          (5) Receipt of consent; provision of information.--A 
        person shall not furnish a record in response to a 
        request made under paragraph (1) without first 
        obtaining a copy of the written consent of the 
        individual who is the subject of the records requested; 
        except that, for purposes of paragraph (15), the 
        Administrator may allow an individual designated by the 
        Administrator to accept and maintain written consent on 
        behalf of the Administrator for records requested under 
        paragraph (1)(A). A person who receives a request for 
        records under this subsection shall furnish a copy of 
        all of such requested records maintained by the person 
        not later than 30 days after receiving the request.
          (6) Right to receive notice and copy of any record 
        furnished.--A person who receives a request for records 
        under paragraph (1) shall provide to the individual who 
        is the subject of the records--
                  (A) on or before the 20th day following the 
                date of receipt of the request, written notice 
                of the request and of the individual's right to 
                receive a copy of such records; and
                  (B) in accordance with paragraph (10), a copy 
                of such records, if requested by the 
                individual.
          (7) Reasonable charges for processing requests and 
        furnishing copies.--A person who receives a request 
        under paragraph (1) or (6) may establish a reasonable 
        charge for the cost of processing the request and 
        furnishing copies of the requested records.
          (8) Standard forms.--The Administrator shall 
        promulgate--
                  (A) standard forms that may be used by an air 
                carrier to request records under paragraph (1); 
                and
                  (B) standard forms that may be used by an air 
                carrier to--
                          (i) obtain the written consent of the 
                        individual who is the subject of a 
                        request under paragraph (1); and
                          (ii) inform the individual of--
                                  (I) the request; and
                                  (II) the individual right of 
                                that individual to receive a 
                                copy of any records furnished 
                                in response to the request.
          (9) Right to correct inaccuracies.--An air carrier 
        that maintains or requests and receives the records of 
        an individual under paragraph (1) shall provide the 
        individual with a reasonable opportunity to submit 
        written comments to correct any inaccuracies contained 
        in the records before making a final hiring decision 
        with respect to the individual.
          (10) Right of pilot to review certain records.--
        Notwithstanding any other provision of law or 
        agreement, an air carrier shall, upon written request 
        from a pilot who is or has been employed by such 
        carrier, make available, within a reasonable time, but 
        not later than 30 days after the date of the request, 
        to the pilot for review, any and all employment records 
        referred to in paragraph (1)(B)(i) or (ii) pertaining 
        to the employment of the pilot.
          (11) Privacy protections.--An air carrier that 
        receives the records of an individual under paragraph 
        (1) may use such records only to assess the 
        qualifications of the individual in deciding whether or 
        not to hire the individual as a pilot. The air carrier 
        shall take such actions as may be necessary to protect 
        the privacy of the pilot and the confidentiality of the 
        records, including ensuring that information contained 
        in the records is not divulged to any individual that 
        is not directly involved in the hiring decision.
          (12) Periodic review.--Not later than 18 months after 
        the date of the enactment of the Pilot Records 
        Improvement Act of 1996, and at least once every 3 
        years thereafter, the Administrator shall transmit to 
        Congress a statement that contains, taking into account 
        recent developments in the aviation industry--
                  (A) recommendations by the Administrator 
                concerning proposed changes to Federal Aviation 
                Administration records, air carrier records, 
                and other records required to be furnished 
                under subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph 
                (1); or
                  (B) reasons why the Administrator does not 
                recommend any proposed changes to the records 
                referred to in subparagraph (A).
          (13) Regulations.--The Administrator shall prescribe 
        such regulations as may be necessary--
                  (A) to protect--
                          (i) the personal privacy of any 
                        individual whose records are requested 
                        under paragraph (1) and disseminated 
                        under paragraph (15); and
                          (ii) the confidentiality of those 
                        records;
                  (B) to preclude the further dissemination of 
                records received under paragraph (1) by the 
                person who requested those records; and
                  (C) to ensure prompt compliance with any 
                request made under paragraph (1).
          (14) Special rules with respect to certain pilots.--
                  (A) Pilots of certain small aircraft.--
                Notwithstanding paragraph (1), an air carrier, 
                before receiving information requested about an 
                individual under paragraph (1), may allow the 
                individual to begin service for a period not to 
                exceed 90 days as a pilot of an aircraft with a 
                maximum payload capacity (as defined in section 
                119.3 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations) 
                of 7,500 pounds or less, or a helicopter, on a 
                flight that is not a scheduled operation (as 
                defined in such section). Before the end of the 
                90-day period, the air carrier shall obtain and 
                evaluate such information. The contract between 
                the carrier and the individual shall contain a 
                term that provides that the continuation of the 
                individual's employment, after the last day of 
                the 90-day period, depends on a satisfactory 
                evaluation.
                  (B) Good faith exception.--Notwithstanding 
                paragraph (1), an air carrier, without 
                obtaining information about an individual under 
                paragraph (1)(B) from an air carrier or other 
                person that no longer exists or from a foreign 
                government or entity that employed the 
                individual, may allow the individual to begin 
                service as a pilot if the air carrier required 
                to request the information has made a 
                documented good faith attempt to obtain such 
                information.
          (15) Electronic access to faa records.--For the 
        purpose of increasing timely and efficient access to 
        Federal Aviation Administration records described in 
        paragraph (1), the Administrator may allow, under terms 
        established by the Administrator, an individual 
        designated by the air carrier to have electronic access 
        to a specified database containing information about 
        such records. The terms shall limit such access to 
        instances in which information in the database is 
        required by the designated individual in making a 
        hiring decision concerning a pilot applicant and shall 
        require that the designated individual provide 
        assurances satisfactory to the Administrator that 
        information obtained using such access will not be used 
        for any purpose other than making the hiring decision.
          (16) Applicability.--This subsection shall cease to 
        be effective on the date specified in regulations 
        issued under subsection (i).
  (i) FAA Pilot Records Database.--
          (1) In general.--Before allowing an individual to 
        begin service as a pilot, an air carrier shall access 
        and evaluate, in accordance with the requirements of 
        this subsection, information pertaining to the 
        individual from the pilot records database established 
        under paragraph (2).
          (2) Pilot records database.--Not later than April 30, 
        2017, the Administrator shall establish and make 
        available for use an electronic database (in this 
        subsection referred to as the ``database'') containing 
        the following records:
                  (A) FAA records.--From the Administrator--
                          (i) records that are maintained by 
                        the Administrator concerning current 
                        airman certificates, including airman 
                        medical certificates and associated 
                        type ratings and information on any 
                        limitations to those certificates and 
                        ratings;
                          (ii) records that are maintained by 
                        the Administrator concerning any failed 
                        attempt of an individual to pass a 
                        practical test required to obtain a 
                        certificate or type rating under part 
                        61 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                        Regulations; and
                          (iii) summaries of legal enforcement 
                        actions resulting in a finding by the 
                        Administrator of a violation of this 
                        title or a regulation prescribed or 
                        order issued under this title that was 
                        not subsequently overturned.
                  (B) Air carrier and other records.--From any 
                air carrier or other person (except a branch of 
                the Armed Forces, the National Guard, or a 
                reserve component of the Armed Forces) that has 
                employed an individual as a pilot of a civil or 
                public aircraft, or from the trustee in 
                bankruptcy for the air carrier or person--
                          (i) records pertaining to the 
                        individual that are maintained by the 
                        air carrier (other than records 
                        relating to flight time, duty time, or 
                        rest time) or person, including records 
                        under regulations set forth in--
                                  (I) section 121.683 of title 
                                14, Code of Federal 
                                Regulations;
                                  (II) section 121.111(a) of 
                                such title;
                                  (III) section 121.219(a) of 
                                such title;
                                  (IV) section 125.401 of such 
                                title; and
                                  (V) section 135.63(a)(4) of 
                                such title; and
                          (ii) other records pertaining to the 
                        individual's performance as a pilot 
                        that are maintained by the air carrier 
                        or person concerning--
                                  (I) the training, 
                                qualifications, proficiency, or 
                                professional competence of the 
                                individual, including comments 
                                and evaluations made by a check 
                                airman designated in accordance 
                                with section 121.411, 125.295, 
                                or 135.337 of such title;
                                  (II) any disciplinary action 
                                taken with respect to the 
                                individual that was not 
                                subsequently overturned; and
                                  (III) any release from 
                                employment or resignation, 
                                termination, or 
                                disqualification with respect 
                                to employment.
                  (C) National driver register records.--In 
                accordance with section 30305(b)(8) of this 
                title, from the chief driver licensing official 
                of a State, information concerning the motor 
                vehicle driving record of the individual.
          (3) Written consent; release from liability.--An air 
        carrier--
                  (A) shall obtain the written consent of an 
                individual before accessing records pertaining 
                to the individual under paragraph (1); and
                  (B) may, notwithstanding any other provision 
                of law or agreement to the contrary, require an 
                individual with respect to whom the carrier is 
                accessing records under paragraph (1) to 
                execute a release from liability for any claim 
                arising from accessing the records or the use 
                of such records by the air carrier in 
                accordance with this section (other than a 
                claim arising from furnishing information known 
                to be false and maintained in violation of a 
                criminal statute).
          (4) Reporting.--
                  (A) Reporting by administrator.--The 
                Administrator shall enter data described in 
                paragraph (2)(A) into the database promptly to 
                ensure that an individual's records are 
                current.
                  (B) Reporting by air carriers and other 
                persons.--
                          (i) In general.--Air carriers and 
                        other persons shall report data 
                        described in paragraphs (2)(B) and 
                        (2)(C) to the Administrator promptly 
                        for entry into the database.
                          (ii) Data to be reported.--Air 
                        carriers and other persons shall 
                        report, at a minimum, under clause (i) 
                        the following data described in 
                        paragraph (2)(B):
                                  (I) Records that are 
                                generated by the air carrier or 
                                other person after the date of 
                                enactment of this paragraph.
                                  (II) Records that the air 
                                carrier or other person is 
                                maintaining, on such date of 
                                enactment, pursuant to 
                                subsection (h)(4).
          (5) Requirement to maintain records.--The 
        Administrator--
                  (A) shall maintain all records entered into 
                the database under paragraph (2) pertaining to 
                an individual until the date of receipt of 
                notification that the individual is deceased; 
                and
                  (B) may remove the individual's records from 
                the database after that date.
          (6) Receipt of consent.--The Administrator shall not 
        permit an air carrier to access records pertaining to 
        an individual from the database under paragraph (1) 
        without the air carrier first demonstrating to the 
        satisfaction of the Administrator that the air carrier 
        has obtained the written consent of the individual.
          (7) Right of pilot to review certain records and 
        correct inaccuracies.--Notwithstanding any other 
        provision of law or agreement, the Administrator, upon 
        receipt of written request from an individual--
                  (A) shall make available, not later than 30 
                days after the date of the request, to the 
                individual for review all records referred to 
                in paragraph (2) pertaining to the individual; 
                and
                  (B) shall provide the individual with a 
                reasonable opportunity to submit written 
                comments to correct any inaccuracies contained 
                in the records.
          (8) Reasonable charges for processing requests and 
        furnishing copies.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administrator may 
                establish a reasonable charge for the cost of 
                processing a request under paragraph (1) or (7) 
                and for the cost of furnishing copies of 
                requested records under paragraph (7).
                  (B) Crediting appropriations.--Funds received 
                by the Administrator pursuant to this paragraph 
                shall--
                          (i) be credited to the appropriation 
                        current when the amount is received;
                          (ii) be merged with and available for 
                        the purposes of such appropriation; and
                          (iii) remain available until 
                        expended.
          (9) Privacy protections.--
                  (A) Use of records.--An air carrier that 
                accesses records pertaining to an individual 
                under paragraph (1) may use the records only to 
                assess the qualifications of the individual in 
                deciding whether or not to hire the individual 
                as a pilot. The air carrier shall take such 
                actions as may be necessary to protect the 
                privacy of the individual and the 
                confidentiality of the records accessed, 
                including ensuring that information contained 
                in the records is not divulged to any 
                individual that is not directly involved in the 
                hiring decision.
                  (B) Disclosure of information.--
                          (i) In general.--Except as provided 
                        by clause (ii), information collected 
                        by the Administrator under paragraph 
                        (2) shall be exempt from the disclosure 
                        requirements of section 552(b)(3)(B) of 
                        title 5.
                          (ii) Exceptions.--Clause (i) shall 
                        not apply to--
                                  (I) deidentified, summarized 
                                information to explain the need 
                                for changes in policies and 
                                regulations;
                                  (II) information to correct a 
                                condition that compromises 
                                safety;
                                  (III) information to carry 
                                out a criminal investigation or 
                                prosecution;
                                  (IV) information to comply 
                                with section 44905, regarding 
                                information about threats to 
                                civil aviation; and
                                  (V) such information as the 
                                Administrator determines 
                                necessary, if withholding the 
                                information would not be 
                                consistent with the safety 
                                responsibilities of the Federal 
                                Aviation Administration.
          (10) Periodic review.--Not later than 18 months after 
        the date of enactment of this paragraph, and at least 
        once every 3 years thereafter, the Administrator shall 
        transmit to Congress a statement that contains, taking 
        into account recent developments in the aviation 
        industry--
                  (A) recommendations by the Administrator 
                concerning proposed changes to Federal Aviation 
                Administration records, air carrier records, 
                and other records required to be included in 
                the database under paragraph (2); or
                  (B) reasons why the Administrator does not 
                recommend any proposed changes to the records 
                referred to in subparagraph (A).
          (11) Regulations for protection and security of 
        records.--The Administrator shall prescribe such 
        regulations as may be necessary--
                  (A) to protect and secure--
                          (i) the personal privacy of any 
                        individual whose records are accessed 
                        under paragraph (1); and
                          (ii) the confidentiality of those 
                        records; and
                  (B) to preclude the further dissemination of 
                records received under paragraph (1) by the 
                person who accessed the records.
          (12) Good faith exception.--Notwithstanding paragraph 
        (1), an air carrier may allow an individual to begin 
        service as a pilot, without first obtaining information 
        described in paragraph (2)(B) from the database 
        pertaining to the individual, if--
                  (A) the air carrier has made a documented 
                good faith attempt to access the information 
                from the database; and
                  (B) the air carrier has received written 
                notice from the Administrator that the 
                information is not contained in the database 
                because the individual was employed by an air 
                carrier or other person that no longer exists 
                or by a foreign government or other entity that 
                has not provided the information to the 
                database.
          (13) Limitations on electronic access to records.--
                  (A) Access by individuals designated by air 
                carriers.--For the purpose of increasing timely 
                and efficient access to records described in 
                paragraph (2), the Administrator may allow, 
                under terms established by the Administrator, 
                an individual designated by an air carrier to 
                have electronic access to the database.
                  (B) Terms.--The terms established by the 
                Administrator under subparagraph (A) for 
                allowing a designated individual to have 
                electronic access to the database shall limit 
                such access to instances in which information 
                in the database is required by the designated 
                individual in making a hiring decision 
                concerning a pilot applicant and shall require 
                that the designated individual provide 
                assurances satisfactory to the Administrator 
                that--
                          (i) the designated individual has 
                        received the written consent of the 
                        pilot applicant to access the 
                        information; and
                          (ii) information obtained using such 
                        access will not be used for any purpose 
                        other than making the hiring decision.
          (14) Authorized expenditures.--Of amounts 
        appropriated under section 106(k)(1), a total of 
        $6,000,000 for fiscal years 2010 through 2013 may be 
        used to carry out this subsection.
          (15) Regulations.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administrator shall 
                issue regulations to carry out this subsection.
                  (B) Effective date.--The regulations shall 
                specify the date on which the requirements of 
                this subsection take effect and the date on 
                which the requirements of subsection (h) cease 
                to be effective.
                  (C) Exceptions.--Notwithstanding subparagraph 
                (B)--
                          (i) the Administrator shall begin to 
                        establish the database under paragraph 
                        (2) not later than 90 days after the 
                        date of enactment of this paragraph;
                          (ii) the Administrator shall maintain 
                        records in accordance with paragraph 
                        (5) beginning on the date of enactment 
                        of this paragraph; and
                          (iii) air carriers and other persons 
                        shall maintain records to be reported 
                        to the database under paragraph (4)(B) 
                        in the period beginning on such date of 
                        enactment and ending on the date that 
                        is 5 years after the requirements of 
                        subsection (h) cease to be effective 
                        pursuant to subparagraph (B).
          (16) Special rule.--During the one-year period 
        beginning on the date on which the requirements of this 
        section become effective pursuant to paragraph (15)(B), 
        paragraph (7)(A) shall be applied by substituting ``45 
        days'' for ``30 days''.
  (j) Limitations on Liability; Preemption of State Law.--
          (1) Limitation on liability.--No action or proceeding 
        may be brought by or on behalf of an individual who has 
        applied for or is seeking a position with an air 
        carrier as a pilot and who has signed a release from 
        liability, as provided for under subsection (h)(2) or 
        (i)(3), against--
                  (A) the air carrier requesting the records of 
                that individual under subsection (h)(1) or 
                accessing the records of that individual under 
                subsection (i)(1);
                  (B) a person who has complied with such 
                request;
                  (C) a person who has entered information 
                contained in the individual's records; or
                  (D) an agent or employee of a person 
                described in subparagraph (A) or (B);
        in the nature of an action for defamation, invasion of 
        privacy, negligence, interference with contract, or 
        otherwise, or under any Federal or State law with 
        respect to the furnishing or use of such records in 
        accordance with subsection (h) or (i).
          (2) Preemption.--No State or political subdivision 
        thereof may enact, prescribe, issue, continue in 
        effect, or enforce any law (including any regulation, 
        standard, or other provision having the force and 
        effect of law) that prohibits, penalizes, or imposes 
        liability for furnishing or using records in accordance 
        with subsection (h) or (i).
          (3) Provision of knowingly false information.--
        Paragraphs (1) and (2) shall not apply with respect to 
        a person who furnishes information in response to a 
        request made under subsection (h)(1) or who furnished 
        information to the database established under 
        subsection (i)(2), that--
                  (A) the person knows is false; and
                  (B) was maintained in violation of a criminal 
                statute of the United States.
          (4) Prohibition on actions and proceedings against 
        air carriers.--
                  (A) Hiring decisions.--An air carrier may 
                refuse to hire an individual as a pilot if the 
                individual did not provide written consent for 
                the air carrier to receive records under 
                subsection (h)(2)(A) or (i)(3)(A) or did not 
                execute the release from liability requested 
                under subsection (h)(2)(B) or (i)(3)(B).
                  (B) Actions and proceedings.--No action or 
                proceeding may be brought against an air 
                carrier by or on behalf of an individual who 
                has applied for or is seeking a position as a 
                pilot with the air carrier if the air carrier 
                refused to hire the individual after the 
                individual did not provide written consent for 
                the air carrier to receive records under 
                subsection (h)(2)(A) or (i)(3)(A) or did not 
                execute a release from liability requested 
                under subsection (h)(2)(B) or (i)(3)(B).
  (k) Limitation on Statutory Construction.--Nothing in 
subsection (h) or (i) shall be construed as precluding the 
availability of the records of a pilot in an investigation or 
other proceeding concerning an accident or incident conducted 
by the Administrator, the National Transportation Safety Board, 
or a court.
  (l) Temporary Airman Certificate.--An individual may obtain a 
temporary airman certificate from the Administrator after 
requesting a permanent replacement airman certificate issued 
under this section. A temporary airman certificate shall be--
          (1) made available--
                  (A) electronically to the individual 
                immediately upon submitting an online 
                application for a replacement certificate to 
                the Administrator; or
                  (B) physically to the individual at a flight 
                standards district office--
                          (i) if the individual submits an 
                        online application for a replacement 
                        certificate; or
                          (ii) if the individual applies for a 
                        permanent replacement certificate other 
                        than by online application and such 
                        application has been received by the 
                        Federal Aviation Administration; and
          (2) destroyed upon receipt of the permanent 
        replacement airman certificate from the Administrator.

Sec. 44704. Type certificates, production certificates, airworthiness 
                    certificates, and design and production 
                    organization certificates

  (a) Type Certificates.--
          (1) Issuance, investigations, and tests.--The 
        Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
        shall issue a type certificate for an aircraft, 
        aircraft engine, or propeller, or for an appliance 
        specified under paragraph (2)(A) of this subsection 
        when the Administrator finds that the aircraft, 
        aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance is properly 
        designed and manufactured, performs properly, and meets 
        the regulations and minimum standards prescribed under 
        section 44701(a) of this title. On receiving an 
        application for a type certificate, the Administrator 
        shall investigate the application and may conduct a 
        hearing. The Administrator shall make, or require the 
        applicant to make, tests the Administrator considers 
        necessary in the interest of safety.
          (2) Specifications.--The Administrator may--
                  (A) specify in regulations those appliances 
                that reasonably require a type certificate in 
                the interest of safety;
                  (B) include in a type certificate terms 
                required in the interest of safety; and
                  (C) record on the certificate a numerical 
                specification of the essential factors related 
                to the performance of the aircraft, aircraft 
                engine, or propeller for which the certificate 
                is issued.
          (3) Special rules for new aircraft and appliances.--
        Except as provided in paragraph (4), if the holder of a 
        type certificate agrees to permit another person to use 
        the certificate to manufacture a new aircraft, aircraft 
        engine, propeller, or appliance, the holder shall 
        provide the other person with written evidence, in a 
        form acceptable to the Administrator, of that 
        agreement. Such other person may manufacture a new 
        aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance 
        based on a type certificate only if such other person 
        is the holder of the type certificate or has permission 
        from the holder.
          (4) Limitation for aircraft manufactured before 
        august 5, 2004.--Paragraph (3) shall not apply to a 
        person who began the manufacture of an aircraft before 
        August 5, 2004, and who demonstrates to the 
        satisfaction of the Administrator that such manufacture 
        began before August 5, 2004, if the name of the holder 
        of the type certificate for the aircraft does not 
        appear on the airworthiness certificate or 
        identification plate of the aircraft. The holder of the 
        type certificate for the aircraft shall not be 
        responsible for the continued airworthiness of the 
        aircraft. A person may invoke the exception provided by 
        this paragraph with regard to the manufacture of only 
        one aircraft.
          (5) Release of data.--
                  (A) In general.--Notwithstanding any other 
                provision of law, the Administrator may make 
                available upon request, to a person seeking to 
                maintain the airworthiness or develop product 
                improvements of an aircraft, engine, propeller, 
                or appliance, engineering data in the 
                possession of the Administration relating to a 
                type certificate or a supplemental type 
                certificate for such aircraft, engine, 
                propeller, or appliance, without the consent of 
                the owner of record, if the Administrator 
                determines that--
                          (i) the certificate containing the 
                        requested data has been inactive for 3 
                        or more years, except that the 
                        Administrator may reduce this time if 
                        required to address an unsafe condition 
                        associated with the product;
                          (ii) after using due diligence, the 
                        Administrator is unable to find the 
                        owner of record, or the owner of 
                        record's heir, of the type certificate 
                        or supplemental type certificate; and
                          (iii) making such data available will 
                        enhance aviation safety.
                  (B) Engineering data defined.--In this 
                section, the term ``engineering data'' as used 
                with respect to an aircraft, engine, propeller, 
                or appliance means type design drawing and 
                specifications for the entire aircraft, engine, 
                propeller, or appliance or change to the 
                aircraft, engine, propeller, or appliance, 
                including the original design data, and any 
                associated supplier data for individual parts 
                or components approved as part of the 
                particular certificate for the aircraft, 
                engine, propeller, or appliance.
                  (C) Requirement to maintain data.--The 
                Administrator shall maintain engineering data 
                in the possession of the Administration 
                relating to a type certificate or a 
                supplemental type certificate that has been 
                inactive for 3 or more years.
  (b) Supplemental Type Certificates.--
          (1) Issuance.--The Administrator may issue a type 
        certificate designated as a supplemental type 
        certificate for a change to an aircraft, aircraft 
        engine, propeller, or appliance.
          (2) Contents.--A supplemental type certificate issued 
        under paragraph (1) shall consist of the change to the 
        aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance with 
        respect to the previously issued type certificate for 
        the aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance.
          (3) Requirement.--If the holder of a supplemental 
        type certificate agrees to permit another person to use 
        the certificate to modify an aircraft, aircraft engine, 
        propeller, or appliance, the holder shall provide the 
        other person with written evidence, in a form 
        acceptable to the Administrator, of that agreement. A 
        person may change an aircraft, aircraft engine, 
        propeller, or appliance based on a supplemental type 
        certificate only if the person requesting the change is 
        the holder of the supplemental type certificate or has 
        permission from the holder to make the change.
  (c) Production Certificates.--The Administrator shall issue a 
production certificate authorizing the production of a 
duplicate of an aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or 
appliance for which a type certificate has been issued when the 
Administrator finds the duplicate will conform to the 
certificate. On receiving an application, the Administrator 
shall inspect, and may require testing of, a duplicate to 
ensure that it conforms to the requirements of the certificate. 
The Administrator may include in a production certificate terms 
required in the interest of safety.
  (d) Airworthiness Certificates.--(1) The registered owner of 
an aircraft may apply to the Administrator for an airworthiness 
certificate for the aircraft. The Administrator shall issue an 
airworthiness certificate when the Administrator finds that the 
aircraft conforms to its type certificate and, after 
inspection, is in condition for safe operation. The 
Administrator shall register each airworthiness certificate and 
may include appropriate information in the certificate. The 
certificate number or other individual designation the 
Administrator requires shall be displayed on the aircraft. The 
Administrator may include in an airworthiness certificate terms 
required in the interest of safety.
  (2) A person applying for the issuance or renewal of an 
airworthiness certificate for an aircraft for which ownership 
has not been recorded under section 44107 or 44110 of this 
title must submit with the application information related to 
the ownership of the aircraft the Administrator decides is 
necessary to identify each person having a property interest in 
the aircraft and the kind and extent of the interest.
  (3) Nonconformity with approved type design.--
          (A) In general.--Consistent with the requirements of 
        paragraph (1), a holder of a production certificate for 
        an aircraft may not present a nonconforming aircraft, 
        either directly or through the registered owner of such 
        aircraft or a person described in paragraph (2), to the 
        Administrator for issuance of an initial airworthiness 
        certificate.
          (B) Civil penalty.--Notwithstanding section 46301, a 
        production certificate holder who knowingly violates 
        subparagraph (A) shall be liable to the Administrator 
        for a civil penalty of not more than $1,000,000 for 
        each nonconforming aircraft.
          (C) Penalty considerations.--In determining the 
        amount of a civil penalty under subparagraph (B), the 
        Administrator shall consider--
                  (i) the nature, circumstances, extent, and 
                gravity of the violation, including the length 
                of time the nonconformity was known by the 
                holder of a production certificate but not 
                disclosed; and
                  (ii) with respect to the violator, the degree 
                of culpability, any history of prior 
                violations, and the size of the business 
                concern.
          (D) Nonconforming aircraft defined.--In this 
        paragraph, the term ``nonconforming aircraft'' means an 
        aircraft that does not conform to the approved type 
        design for such aircraft type.
  (e) Disclosure of Safety Critical Information.--
          (1) In general.--Notwithstanding a delegation 
        described in section 44702(d), the Administrator shall 
        require an applicant for, or holder of, a type 
        certificate for a transport category airplane covered 
        under part 25 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        to submit safety critical information with respect to 
        such airplane to the Administrator in such form, 
        manner, or time as the Administrator may require. Such 
        safety critical information shall include--
                  (A) any design and operational details, 
                intended functions, and failure modes of any 
                system that, without being commanded by the 
                flight crew, commands the operation of any 
                safety critical function or feature required 
                for control of an airplane during flight or 
                that otherwise changes the flight path or 
                airspeed of an airplane;
                  (B) the design and operational details, 
                intended functions, failure modes, and mode 
                annunciations of autopilot and autothrottle 
                systems, if applicable;
                  (C) any failure or operating condition that 
                the applicant or holder anticipates or has 
                concluded would result in an outcome with a 
                severity level of hazardous or catastrophic, as 
                defined in the appropriate Administration 
                airworthiness requirements and guidance 
                applicable to transport category airplanes 
                defining risk severity;
                  (D) any adverse handling quality that fails 
                to meet the requirements of applicable 
                regulations without the addition of a software 
                system to augment the flight controls of the 
                airplane to produce compliant handling 
                qualities; and
                  (E) a system safety assessment with respect 
                to a system described in subparagraph (A) or 
                (B) or with respect to any component or other 
                system for which failure or erroneous operation 
                of such component or system could result in an 
                outcome with a severity level of hazardous or 
                catastrophic, as defined in the appropriate 
                Administration airworthiness requirements and 
                guidance applicable to transport category 
                airplanes defining risk severity.
          (2) Ongoing communications.--
                  (A) Newly discovered information.--The 
                Administrator shall require that an applicant 
                for, or holder of, a type certificate disclose 
                to the Administrator, in such form, manner, or 
                time as the Administrator may require, any 
                newly discovered information or design or 
                analysis change that would materially alter any 
                submission to the Administrator under paragraph 
                (1).
                  (B) System development changes.--The 
                Administrator shall establish multiple 
                milestones throughout the certification process 
                at which a proposed airplane system will be 
                assessed to determine whether any change to 
                such system during the certification process is 
                such that such system should be considered 
                novel or unusual by the Administrator.
          (3) Flight manuals.--The Administrator shall ensure 
        that an airplane flight manual and a flight crew 
        operating manual (as appropriate or applicable) for an 
        airplane contains a description of the operation of a 
        system described in paragraph (1)(A) and flight crew 
        procedures for responding to a failure or aberrant 
        operation of such system.
          (4) Civil penalty.--
                  (A) Amount.--Notwithstanding section 46301, 
                an applicant for, or holder of, a type 
                certificate that knowingly violates paragraph 
                (1), (2), or (3) of this subsection shall be 
                liable to the Administrator for a civil penalty 
                of not more than $1,000,000 for each violation.
                  (B) Penalty considerations.--In determining 
                the amount of a civil penalty under 
                subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall 
                consider--
                          (i) the nature, circumstances, 
                        extent, and gravity of the violation, 
                        including the length of time that such 
                        safety critical information was known 
                        but not disclosed; and
                          (ii) with respect to the violator, 
                        the degree of culpability, any history 
                        of prior violations, and the size of 
                        the business concern.
          (5) Revocation and civil penalty for individuals.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administrator shall 
                revoke any airline transport pilot certificate 
                issued under section 44703 held by any 
                individual who, while acting on behalf of an 
                applicant for, or holder of, a type 
                certificate, knowingly makes a false statement 
                with respect to any of the matters described in 
                subparagraphs (A) through (E) of paragraph (1).
                  (B) Authority to impose civil penalty.--The 
                Administrator may impose a civil penalty under 
                section 46301 for each violation described in 
                subparagraph (A).
          (6) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection 
        shall be construed to affect or otherwise inhibit the 
        authority of the Administrator to deny an application 
        by an applicant for a type certificate or to revoke or 
        amend a type certificate of a holder of such 
        certificate.
          (7) Definition of type certificate.--In this 
        subsection, the term ``type certificate''--
                  (A) means a type certificate issued under 
                subsection (a) or an amendment to such 
                certificate; and
                  (B) does not include a supplemental type 
                certificate issued under subsection (b).
  (f) Hearing Requirement.--The Administrator may find that a 
person has violated subsection (a)(6) or paragraph (1), (2), or 
(3) of subsection (e) and impose a civil penalty under the 
applicable subsection only after notice and an opportunity for 
a hearing. The Administrator shall provide a person--
          (1) written notice of the violation and the amount of 
        penalty; and
          (2) the opportunity for a hearing under subpart G of 
        part 13 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  (g) Certification Dispute Resolution.--
          (1) Dispute resolution process and appeals.--
                  (A) In general.--Not later than 60 days after 
                the date of enactment of this subsection, the 
                Administrator shall issue an order 
                establishing--
                          (i) an effective, timely, and 
                        milestone-based issue resolution 
                        process for type certification 
                        activities under subsection (a); and
                          (ii) a process by which a decision, 
                        finding of compliance or noncompliance, 
                        or other act of the Administration, 
                        with respect to compliance with design 
                        requirements, may be appealed by a 
                        covered person directly involved with 
                        the certification activities in dispute 
                        on the basis that such decision, 
                        finding, or act is erroneous or 
                        inconsistent with this chapter, 
                        regulations, or guidance materials 
                        promulgated by the Administrator, or 
                        other requirements.
                  (B) Escalation.--The order issued under 
                subparagraph (A) shall provide processes 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 
                        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;
                          (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;
                          (iv) initial review by appropriate 
                        Administration employees of any appeal 
                        described in subparagraph (A)(ii); and
                          (v) subsequent review of any further 
                        appeal by appropriate management 
                        personnel of the Administration and the 
                        Associate Administrator for Aviation 
                        Safety.
                  (C) Disposition.--
                          (i) Written decision.--The Associate 
                        Administrator for Aviation Safety shall 
                        issue a written decision that states 
                        the grounds for the decision of the 
                        Associate Administrator on--
                                  (I) each appeal submitted 
                                under subparagraph (A)(ii); and
                                  (II) An appeal to the 
                                Associate Administrator 
                                submitted under subparagraph 
                                (B)(v).
                          (ii) Report to congress.--Not later 
                        than December 31 of each calendar year 
                        through calendar year [2025] 2028, 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 summarizing each 
                        appeal resolved under this subsection.
                  (D) Final review.--
                          (i) In general.--A written decision 
                        of the Associate Administrator under 
                        subparagraph (C) may be appealed to the 
                        Administrator for a final review and 
                        determination.
                          (ii) Decline to review.--The 
                        Administrator may decline to review an 
                        appeal initiated pursuant to clause 
                        (i).
                          (iii) Judicial review.--No decision 
                        under this paragraph (including a 
                        decision to decline to review an 
                        appeal) shall be subject to judicial 
                        review.
          (2) Prohibited contacts.--
                  (A) Prohibition generally.--During the course 
                of an appeal under this subsection, no covered 
                official may engage in an ex parte 
                communication (as defined in section 551 of 
                title 5) with an individual representing or 
                acting on behalf of an applicant for, or holder 
                of, a certificate under this section in 
                relation to such appeal unless such 
                communication is disclosed pursuant to 
                subparagraph (B).
                  (B) Disclosure.--If, during the course of an 
                appeal under this subsection, a covered 
                official engages in, receives, or is otherwise 
                made aware of an ex parte communication, the 
                covered official shall disclose such 
                communication in the public record at the time 
                of the issuance of the written decision under 
                paragraph (1)(C), including the time and date 
                of the communication, subject of communication, 
                and all persons engaged in such communication.
          (3) Definitions.--In this subsection:
                  (A) Covered person.--The term ``covered 
                person'' means either--
                          (i) an employee of the Administration 
                        whose responsibilities relate to the 
                        certification of aircraft, engines, 
                        propellers, or appliances; or
                          (ii) an applicant for, or holder of, 
                        a type certificate or amended type 
                        certificate issued under this section.
                  (B) Covered official.--The term ``covered 
                official'' means the following officials:
                          (i) The Executive Director or any 
                        Deputy Director of the Aircraft 
                        Certification Service.
                          (ii) The Deputy Executive Director 
                        for Regulatory Operations of the 
                        Aircraft Certification Service.
                          (iii) The Director or Deputy Director 
                        of the Compliance and Airworthiness 
                        Division of the Aircraft Certification 
                        Service.
                          (iv) The Director or Deputy Director 
                        of the System Oversight Division of the 
                        Aircraft Certification Service.
                          (v) The Director or Deputy Director 
                        of the Policy and Innovation Division 
                        of the Aircraft Certification Service.
                          (vi) The Executive Director or any 
                        Deputy Executive Director of the Flight 
                        Standards Service.
                          (vii) The Associate Administrator or 
                        Deputy Associate Administrator for 
                        Aviation Safety.
                          (viii) The Deputy Administrator of 
                        the Federal Aviation Administration.
                          (ix) The Administrator of the Federal 
                        Aviation Administration.
                          (x) Any similarly situated or 
                        successor FAA management position to 
                        those described in clauses (i) through 
                        (ix), as determined by the 
                        Administrator.
                  (C) Major certification process milestone.--
                The term ``major certification process 
                milestone'' means a milestone related to the 
                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.
          (4) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection 
        shall apply to the communication of a good-faith 
        complaint by any individual alleging--
                  (A) gross misconduct;
                  (B) a violation of title 18; or
                  (C) a violation of any of the provisions of 
                part 2635 or 6001 of title 5, Code of Federal 
                Regulations.
  (h) Incremental Safety Improvement.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator may consider and 
        approve a proposed incremental design change request 
        from a type certificate holder, if such holder is 
        required by the Administrator to make a safety-related 
        design change to bring a product into compliance, even 
        if the proposed incremental design change does not 
        eliminate all noncompliant conditions.
          (2) Proposed incremental design change.--A proposed 
        incremental design change under paragraph (1) shall--
                  (A) be related to the required safety-related 
                change described in this subsection; and
                  (B) improve safety.
          (3) Full compliance.--An approval issued under this 
        subsection shall not be construed to relieve a type 
        certificate holder from addressing all noncompliant 
        conditions under paragraph (1).

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44711. Prohibitions and exemption

  (a) Prohibitions.--A person may not--
          (1) operate a civil aircraft in air commerce without 
        an airworthiness certificate in effect or in violation 
        of a term of the certificate;
          (2) serve in any capacity as an airman with respect 
        to a civil aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or 
        appliance used, or intended for use, in air commerce--
                  (A) without an airman certificate authorizing 
                the airman to serve in the capacity for which 
                the certificate was issued; or
                  (B) in violation of a term of the certificate 
                or a regulation prescribed or order issued 
                under section 44701(a) or (b) or any of 
                sections 44702-44716 of this title;
          (3) employ for service related to civil aircraft used 
        in air commerce an airman who does not have an airman 
        certificate authorizing the airman to serve in the 
        capacity for which the airman is employed;
          (4) operate as an air carrier without an air carrier 
        operating certificate or in violation of a term of the 
        certificate;
          (5) operate aircraft in air commerce in violation of 
        a regulation prescribed or certificate issued under 
        section 44701(a) or (b) or any of sections 44702-44716 
        of this title;
          (6) operate a seaplane or other aircraft of United 
        States registry on the high seas in violation of a 
        regulation under section 3 of the International 
        Navigational Rules Act of 1977 (33 U.S.C. 1602);
          (7) violate a term of an air agency, design 
        organization certificate, or production certificate or 
        a regulation prescribed or order issued under section 
        44701(a) or (b) or any of sections 44702-44716 of this 
        title related to the holder of the certificate;
          (8) operate an airport without an airport operating 
        certificate required under section 44706 of this title 
        or in violation of a term of the certificate;
          (9) manufacture, deliver, sell, or offer for sale any 
        aviation fuel or additive in violation of a regulation 
        prescribed under section 44714 of this title; [or]
          (10) violate section 44732 or any regulation issued 
        thereunder[.]; or
          (11) work as an aircraft dispatcher outside of a 
        physical location designated as a dispatching center or 
        flight following center of an air carrier, except as 
        provided under section 44747.
  (b) Exemption.--On terms the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration prescribes as being in the public 
interest, the Administrator may exempt a foreign aircraft and 
airmen serving on the aircraft from subsection (a) of this 
section. However, an exemption from observing air traffic 
regulations may not be granted.
  (c) Prohibition on Employment of Convicted Counterfeit Part 
Traffickers.--No person subject to this chapter may knowingly 
employ anyone to perform a function related to the procurement, 
sale, production, or repair of a part or material, or the 
installation of a part into a civil aircraft, who has been 
convicted in a court of law of a violation of any Federal law 
relating to the installation, production, repair, or sale of a 
counterfeit or fraudulently-represented aviation part or 
material.
  (d) Post-employment Restrictions for Inspectors and 
Engineers.--
          (1) Prohibition.--A person holding a certificate 
        issued under part 21 or 119 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, may not knowingly employ, or make 
        a contractual arrangement that permits, an individual 
        to act as an agent or representative of such person in 
        any matter before the Administration if the individual, 
        in the preceding 2-year period--
                  (A) served as, or was responsible for 
                oversight of--
                          (i) a flight standards inspector of 
                        the Administration; or
                          (ii) an employee of the 
                        Administration with responsibility for 
                        certification functions with respect to 
                        a holder of a certificate issued under 
                        section 44704(a); and
                  (B) had responsibility to inspect, or oversee 
                inspection of, the operations of such person.
          (2) Written and oral communications.--For purposes of 
        paragraph (1), an individual shall be considered to be 
        acting as an agent or representative of a certificate 
        holder in a matter before the Administration if the 
        individual makes any written or oral communication on 
        behalf of the certificate holder to the Administration 
        (or any of its officers or employees) in connection 
        with a particular matter, whether or not involving a 
        specific party and without regard to whether the 
        individual has participated in, or had responsibility 
        for, the particular matter while serving as an 
        individual covered under paragraph (1).

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44718. Structures interfering with air commerce or national 
                    security

  (a) Notice.--By regulation or by order when necessary, the 
Secretary of Transportation shall require a person to give 
adequate public notice, in the form and way the Secretary 
prescribes, of the construction, alteration, establishment, or 
expansion, or the proposed construction, alteration, 
establishment, or expansion, of a structure or sanitary 
landfill when the notice will promote--
          (1) safety in air commerce;
          (2) the efficient use and preservation of the 
        navigable airspace and of airport traffic capacity at 
        public-use airports; or
          (3) the interests of national security, as determined 
        by the Secretary of Defense.
  (b) Studies.--
          (1) In general.--Under regulations prescribed by the 
        Secretary, if the Secretary decides that constructing 
        or altering a structure may result in an obstruction of 
        the navigable airspace, an interference with air or 
        space navigation facilities and equipment or the 
        navigable airspace, or, after consultation with the 
        Secretary of Defense, an adverse impact on military 
        operations and readiness, the Secretary of 
        Transportation shall conduct an aeronautical study to 
        decide the extent of any adverse impact on the safe and 
        efficient use of the airspace, facilities, or 
        equipment. In conducting the study, the Secretary 
        shall--
                  (A) consider factors relevant to the 
                efficient and effective use of the navigable 
                airspace, including--
                          (i) the impact on arrival, departure, 
                        and en route procedures for aircraft 
                        operating under visual flight rules;
                          (ii) the impact on arrival, 
                        departure, and en route procedures for 
                        aircraft operating under instrument 
                        flight rules;
                          (iii) the impact on existing public-
                        use airports and aeronautical 
                        facilities;
                          (iv) the impact on planned public-use 
                        airports and aeronautical facilities;
                          (v) the cumulative impact resulting 
                        from the proposed construction or 
                        alteration of a structure when combined 
                        with the impact of other existing or 
                        proposed structures;
                          (vi) the impact on launch and reentry 
                        for launch and reentry vehicles 
                        arriving or departing from a launch 
                        site or reentry site licensed by the 
                        Secretary of Transportation; and
                          (vii) other factors relevant to the 
                        efficient and effective use of 
                        navigable airspace; and
                  (B) include the finding made by the Secretary 
                of Defense under subsection (f).
          (2) Report.--On completing the study, the Secretary 
        of Transportation shall issue a report disclosing the 
        extent of the--
                  (A) adverse impact on the safe and efficient 
                use of the navigable airspace that the 
                Secretary finds will result from constructing 
                or altering the structure; and
                  (B) unacceptable risk to the national 
                security of the United States, as determined by 
                the Secretary of Defense under subsection (f).
          (3) Severability.--A determination by the Secretary 
        of Transportation on hazard to air navigation under 
        this section shall remain independent of a 
        determination of unacceptable risk to the national 
        security of the United States by the Secretary of 
        Defense under subsection (f).
  (c) Broadcast Applications and Tower Studies.--In carrying 
out laws related to a broadcast application and conducting an 
aeronautical study related to broadcast towers, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and the 
Federal Communications Commission shall take action necessary 
to coordinate efficiently--
          (1) the receipt and consideration of, and action on, 
        the application; and
          (2) the completion of any associated aeronautical 
        study.
  (d) Limitation on Construction of Landfills.--
          (1) In general.--No person shall construct or 
        establish a municipal solid waste landfill (as defined 
        in section 258.2 of title 40, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, as in effect on the date of the enactment 
        of this subsection) that receives putrescible waste (as 
        defined in section 257.3-8 of such title) within 6 
        miles of a public airport that has received grants 
        under chapter 471 and is primarily served by general 
        aviation aircraft and regularly scheduled flights of 
        aircraft designed for 60 passengers or less unless the 
        State aviation agency of the State in which the airport 
        is located requests that the Administrator of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration exempt the landfill 
        from the application of this subsection and the 
        Administrator determines that such exemption would have 
        no adverse impact on aviation safety.
          (2) Limitation on applicability.--Paragraph (1) shall 
        not apply in the State of Alaska and shall not apply to 
        the construction, establishment, expansion, or 
        modification of, or to any other activity undertaken 
        with respect to, a municipal solid waste landfill if 
        the construction or establishment of the landfill was 
        commenced on or before the date of the enactment of 
        this subsection.
  (e) Review of Aeronautical Studies.--The Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall develop procedures to 
allow the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland 
Security to review and comment on an aeronautical study 
conducted pursuant to subsection (b) prior to the completion of 
the study.
  (f) National Security Finding.--As part of an aeronautical 
study conducted under subsection (b) and in accordance with 
section 183a(e) of title 10, the Secretary of Defense shall--
          (1) make a finding on whether the construction, 
        alteration, establishment, or expansion of a structure 
        or sanitary landfill included in the study would result 
        in an unacceptable risk to the national security of the 
        United States; and
          (2) transmit the finding to the Secretary of 
        Transportation for inclusion in the report required 
        under subsection (b)(2).
  (g) Special Rule for Identified Geographic Areas.--In the 
case of a proposed structure to be located within a geographic 
area identified under section 183a(d)(2)(B) of title 10, the 
Secretary of Transportation may not issue a determination 
pursuant to this section until the Secretary of Defense issues 
a finding under section 183a(e) of title 10, the Secretary of 
Defense advises the Secretary of Transportation that no finding 
under section 183a(e) of title 10 will be forthcoming, or 180 
days have lapsed since the project was filed with the Secretary 
of Transportation pursuant to this section, whichever occurs 
first.
  [(h) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
          [(1) Adverse impact on military operations and 
        readiness.--The term ``adverse impact on military 
        operations and readiness'' has the meaning given the 
        term in section 183a(h)(1) of title 10.
          [(2) Unacceptable risk to the national security of 
        the united states.--The term ``unacceptable risk to the 
        national security of the United States'' has the 
        meaning given the term in section 183a(h)(7) of title 
        10.]
  (h) Definitions.--In this section, the terms ``adverse impact 
on military operations and readiness'' and ``unacceptable risk 
to the national security of the United States'' have the 
meaning given those terms in section 183a(h) of title 10.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44720. Meteorological services

  (a) Recommendations.--The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall make recommendations to the 
Secretary of Commerce on providing meteorological services 
necessary for the safe and efficient movement of aircraft in 
air commerce. In providing the services, the Secretary shall 
cooperate with the Administrator and give complete 
consideration to those recommendations.
  (b) Promoting Safety and Efficiency.--To promote safety and 
efficiency in air navigation to the highest possible degree, 
the Secretary shall--
          (1) observe, measure, investigate, and study 
        atmospheric phenomena, and maintain meteorological 
        stations and offices, that are necessary or best suited 
        for finding out in advance information about probable 
        weather conditions;
          (2) provide reports to [the Administrator to persons] 
        the Administrator, to persons engaged in civil 
        aeronautics that are designated by [the Administrator 
        and to] the Administrator, and to other persons 
        designated by the Secretary in a way and with a 
        frequency that best will result in safety in, and 
        facilitating, air navigation;
          (3) cooperate with persons engaged in air commerce in 
        meteorological services, maintain reciprocal 
        arrangements with those persons in carrying out this 
        clause, and collect and distribute weather reports 
        available from aircraft in flight;
          (4) maintain and coordinate international exchanges 
        of meteorological information required for the safety 
        and efficiency of air navigation;
          (5) in cooperation with other departments, agencies, 
        and instrumentalities of the United States Government, 
        meteorological services of foreign countries, and 
        persons engaged in air commerce, participate in 
        developing an international basic meteorological 
        reporting network, including the establishment, 
        operation, and maintenance of reporting stations on the 
        high seas, in polar regions, and in foreign countries;
          (6) coordinate meteorological requirements in the 
        United States to maintain standard observations, to 
        promote efficient use of facilities, and to avoid 
        duplication of services unless the duplication tends to 
        promote the safety and efficiency of air navigation; 
        and
          (7) promote and develop meteorological science and 
        foster and support research projects in meteorology 
        through the use of private and governmental research 
        facilities and provide for publishing the results of 
        the projects unless publication would not be in the 
        public interest.

Sec. 44721. Aeronautical charts and related products and services

  (a) Publication.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration may arrange for the publication 
        of aeronautical maps and charts necessary for the safe 
        and efficient movement of aircraft in air navigation, 
        using the facilities and assistance of departments, 
        agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States 
        Government as far as practicable.
          (2) Navigation routes.--In carrying out paragraph 
        (1), the Administrator shall update and arrange for the 
        publication of clearly defined routes for navigating 
        through a complex terminal airspace area and to and 
        from an airport located in such an area, if the 
        Administrator decides that publication of the routes 
        would promote safety in air navigation. The routes 
        shall be developed in consultation with pilots and 
        other users of affected airports and shall be for the 
        optional use of pilots operating under visual flight 
        rules.
  (b) Indemnification.--The Government shall make an agreement 
to indemnify any person that publishes a map or chart for use 
in aeronautics from any part of a claim arising out of the 
depiction by the person on the map or chart of a defective or 
deficient flight procedure or airway if the flight procedure or 
airway was--
          (1) prescribed by the Administrator;
          (2) depicted accurately on the map or chart; and
          (3) not obviously defective or deficient.
  (c) Authority of Office of Aeronautical Charting and 
Cartography.--Effective October 1, 2000, the Administrator is 
vested with and shall exercise the functions, powers, and 
duties of the Secretary of Commerce and other officers of the 
Department of Commerce that relate to the Office of 
Aeronautical Charting and Cartography to provide aeronautical 
charts and related products and services for the safe and 
efficient navigation of air commerce, under the following 
authorities:
          (1) Sections 1 through 9 of the Act entitled ``An Act 
        to define the functions and duties of the Coast and 
        Geodetic Survey, and for other purposes'', approved 
        August 6, [1947,] 1947 (33 U.S.C. 883a-883h).
          (2) Section 6082 of the Consolidated Omnibus Budget 
        Reconciliation Act of 1985 (33 U.S.C. 883j).
  (d) Authority.--In order that full public benefit may be 
derived from the dissemination of data resulting from 
activities under this section and of related data from other 
sources, the Administrator may--
          (1) develop, process, disseminate and publish digital 
        and analog data, information, compilations, and 
        reports;
          (2) compile, print, and disseminate aeronautical 
        charts and related products and services of the United 
        States and its territories and possessions;
          (3) compile, print, and disseminate aeronautical 
        charts and related products and services covering 
        international airspace as are required primarily by 
        United States civil aviation; and
          (4) compile, print, and disseminate nonaeronautical 
        navigational, transportation or public-safety-related 
        products and services when in the best interests of the 
        Government.
  (e) Contracts, Cooperative Agreements, Grants, and Other 
Agreements.--
          (1) Contracts.--The Administrator is authorized to 
        contract with qualified organizations for the 
        performance of any part of the authorized functions of 
        the Office of Aeronautical Charting and Cartography 
        when the Administrator deems such procedure to be in 
        the public interest and will not compromise public 
        safety.
          (2) Cooperative agreements, grants, and other 
        agreements.--The Administrator is authorized to enter 
        into cooperative agreements, grants, reimbursable 
        agreements, memoranda of understanding and other 
        agreements, with a State, subdivision of a State, 
        Federal agency, public or private organization, or 
        individual, to carry out the purposes of this section.
  (f) Special Services and Products.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator is authorized, at 
        the request of a State, subdivision of a State, Federal 
        agency, public or private organization, or individual, 
        to conduct special services, including making special 
        studies, or developing special publications or products 
        on matters relating to navigation, transportation, or 
        public safety.
          (2) Fees.--The Administrator shall assess a fee for 
        any special service provided under paragraph (1). A fee 
        shall be not more than the actual or estimated full 
        cost of the service. A fee may be reduced or waived for 
        research organizations, educational organizations, or 
        non-profit organizations, when the Administrator 
        determines that reduction or waiver of the fee is in 
        the best interest of the Government by furthering 
        public safety.
  (g) Sale and Dissemination of Aeronautical Products.--
          (1) In general.--Aeronautical products created or 
        maintained under the authority of this section shall be 
        sold at prices established annually by the 
        Administrator consistent with the following:
                  (A) Maximum price.--Subject to subparagraph 
                (B), the price of an aeronautical product sold 
                to the public shall be not more than necessary 
                to recover all costs attributable to: (i) data 
                base management and processing; (ii) 
                compilation; (iii) printing or other types of 
                reproduction; and (iv) dissemination of the 
                product.
                  (B) Adjustment of price.--The Administrator 
                shall adjust the price of an aeronautical 
                product and service sold to the public as 
                necessary to avoid any adverse impact on 
                aviation safety attributable to the price 
                specified under this paragraph.
                  (C) Costs attributable to acquisition of 
                aeronautical data.--A price established under 
                this paragraph may not include costs 
                attributable to the acquisition of aeronautical 
                data.
                  (D) Continuation of prices.--The price of any 
                product created under subsection (d) may 
                correspond to the price of a comparable product 
                produced by a department of the United States 
                Government as that price was in effect on 
                September 30, 2000, and may remain in effect 
                until modified by regulation under section 9701 
                of title 31, United States Code.
          (2) Publication of prices.--The Administrator shall 
        publish annually the prices at which aeronautical 
        products are sold to the public.
          (3) Distribution.--The Administrator may distribute 
        aeronautical products and provide aeronautical 
        services--
                  (A) without charge to each foreign government 
                or international organization with which the 
                Administrator or a Federal department or agency 
                has an agreement for exchange of these products 
                or services without cost;
                  (B) at prices the Administrator establishes, 
                to the departments and officers of the United 
                States requiring them for official use; and
                  (C) at reduced or no charge where, in the 
                judgment of the Administrator, furnishing the 
                aeronautical product or service to a recipient 
                is a reasonable exchange for voluntary 
                contribution of information by the recipient to 
                the activities under this section.
          (4) Fees.--The fees provided for in this subsection 
        are for the purpose of reimbursing the Government for 
        the costs of creating, printing and disseminating 
        aeronautical products and services under this section. 
        The collection of fees authorized by this section does 
        not alter or expand any duty or liability of the 
        Government under existing law for the performance of 
        functions for which fees are collected, nor does the 
        collection of fees constitute an express or implied 
        undertaking by the Government to perform any activity 
        in a certain manner.
          (5) Crediting amounts received.--Notwithstanding any 
        other provision of law, amounts received for the sale 
        of products created and services performed under this 
        section shall be fully credited to the account of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration that funded the 
        provision of the products or services and shall remain 
        available until expended.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44728. Flight attendant certification

  (a) Certificate Required.--
          (1) In general.--No person may serve as a flight 
        attendant aboard an aircraft of an air carrier unless 
        that person holds a certificate of demonstrated 
        proficiency from the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration. Upon the request of the 
        Administrator or an authorized representative of the 
        National Transportation Safety Board or another Federal 
        agency, a person who holds such a certificate shall 
        present the certificate for inspection within a 
        reasonable period of time after the date of the 
        request.
          (2) Special rule for current flight attendants.--An 
        individual serving as a flight attendant on the 
        effective date of this section may continue to serve 
        aboard an aircraft as a flight attendant until 
        completion by that individual of the required recurrent 
        or requalification training and subsequent 
        certification under this section.
          (3) Treatment of flight attendant after 
        notification.--On the date that the Administrator is 
        notified by an air carrier that an individual has the 
        demonstrated proficiency to be a flight attendant, the 
        individual shall be treated for purposes of this 
        section as holding a certificate issued under the 
        section.
  (b) Issuance of Certificate.--The Administrator shall issue a 
certificate of demonstrated proficiency under this section to 
an individual after the Administrator is notified by the air 
carrier that the individual has successfully completed all the 
training requirements for flight attendants approved by the 
Administrator.
  (c) Designation of Person To Determine Successful Completion 
of Training.--In accordance with part 183 of title 14, Code of 
Federal [Regulation,] Regulations, the director of operations 
of an air carrier is designated to determine that an individual 
has successfully completed the training requirements approved 
by the Administrator for such individual to serve as a flight 
attendant.
  (d) Specifications Relating to Certificates.--Each 
certificate issued under this section shall--
          (1) be numbered and recorded by the Administrator;
          (2) contain the name, address, and description of the 
        individual to whom the certificate is issued;
          (3) be similar in size and appearance to certificates 
        issued to airmen;
          (4) contain the airplane group for which the 
        certificate is issued; and
          (5) be issued not later than 120 days after the 
        Administrator receives notification from the air 
        carrier of demonstrated proficiency and, in the case of 
        an individual serving as flight attendant on the 
        effective date of this section, not later than 1 year 
        after such effective date.
  (e) Approval of Training Programs.--Air carrier flight 
attendant training programs shall be subject to approval by the 
Administrator. All flight attendant training programs approved 
by the Administrator in the 1-year period ending on the date of 
enactment of this section shall be treated as providing a 
demonstrated proficiency for purposes of meeting the 
certification requirements of this section.
  (f) Minimum Language Skills.--
          (1) In general.--No person may serve as a flight 
        attendant aboard an aircraft of an air carrier, unless 
        that person has demonstrated to an individual qualified 
        to determine proficiency the ability to read, speak, 
        and write English well enough to--
                  (A) read material written in English and 
                comprehend the information;
                  (B) speak and understand English sufficiently 
                to provide direction to, and understand and 
                answer questions from, English-speaking 
                individuals;
                  (C) write incident reports and statements and 
                log entries and statements; and
                  (D) carry out written and oral instructions 
                regarding the proper performance of their 
                duties.
          (2) Foreign flights.--The requirements of paragraph 
        (1) do not apply to a flight attendant serving solely 
        between points outside the United States.
  (g) Flight Attendant Defined.--In this section, the term 
``flight attendant'' means an individual working as a flight 
attendant in the cabin of an aircraft that has 20 or more seats 
and is being used by an air carrier to provide air 
transportation.

Sec. 44729. Age standards for pilots

  (a) In General.--[Subject to the limitation in subsection 
(c), a] A pilot may serve in multicrew covered operations 
described in subsection (b)(1) until attaining [65] 67 years of 
age. Air carriers that employ pilots who serve in covered 
operations described in subsection (b)(2) may elect to 
implement an age restriction to prohibit employed pilots from 
serving in such covered operations after attaining 70 years of 
age by delivering written notice to the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration. Such election--
          (1) shall take effect 1 year after the date of 
        delivery of written notice of the election; and
          (2) may not be terminated after the date on which 
        such election takes effect by the air carrier.
  (b) Covered Operations Defined.--In this section, the term 
``covered operations'' means--
          (1) operations under part 121 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations[; or], unless the operation takes 
        place in airspace where such operations are not 
        permitted; or
          (2) operations by a person that--
                  (A) holds an air carrier certificate issued 
                pursuant to part 119 of title 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations, to conduct operations 
                under part 135 of such title;
                  (B) holds management specifications under 
                subpart K of title 91 of title 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations; and
                  (C) performed an aggregate total of at least 
                75,000 turbojet operations in calendar year 
                2019 or any subsequent year.
  [(c) Limitation for International Flights.--
          [(1) Applicability of icao standard.--A pilot who has 
        attained 60 years of age may serve as pilot-in-command 
        in covered operations between the United States and 
        another country only if there is another pilot in the 
        flight deck crew who has not yet attained 60 years of 
        age.
          [(2) Sunset of limitation.--Paragraph (1) shall cease 
        to be effective on such date as the Convention on 
        International Civil Aviation provides that a pilot who 
        has attained 60 years of age may serve as pilot-in-
        command in international commercial operations without 
        regard to whether there is another pilot in the flight 
        deck crew who has not attained age 60.]
  [(d)] (c) Sunset of Age [60] 65 Retirement Rule.--On and 
after [the date of enactment of this section,] the date of 
enactment of the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in 
American Aviation Act, [section 121.383(c)] subsections (d) and 
(e) of section 121.383 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations 
(or any successor regulations), shall cease to be effective.
  [(e)] (d) Applicability.--
          [(1) Nonretroactivity.--No person who has attained 60 
        years of age before the date of enactment of this 
        section may serve as a pilot for an air carrier engaged 
        in covered operations unless--
                  [(A) such person is in the employment of that 
                air carrier in such operations on such date of 
                enactment as a required flight deck crew 
                member; or
                  [(B) such person is newly hired by an air 
                carrier as a pilot on or after such date of 
                enactment without credit for prior seniority or 
                prior longevity for benefits or other terms 
                related to length of service prior to the date 
                of rehire under any labor agreement or 
                employment policies of the air carrier.]
          (1) Retroactivity.--A person who has attained 65 
        years of age on or before the date of enactment of the 
        Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American 
        Aviation Act may return to service as a pilot for an 
        air carrier engaged in covered operations.
          (2) Protection for compliance.--An action taken in 
        conformance with this [section, taken in conformance 
        with a regulation issued to carry out this section, or 
        taken prior to the date of enactment of this section in 
        conformance with section 121.383(c) of title 14, Code 
        of Federal Regulations (as in effect before such date 
        of enactment), may] section or taken in conformance 
        with a regulation issued to carry out this section, may 
        not serve as a basis for liability or relief in a 
        proceeding, brought under any employment law or 
        regulation, before any court or agency of the United 
        States or of any State or locality.
  [(f)] (e) Amendments to Labor Agreements and Benefit Plans.--
Any amendment to a labor agreement or benefit plan of an air 
carrier that is required to conform with the requirements of 
this section or a regulation issued to carry out this section, 
and is applicable to pilots represented for collective 
bargaining, shall be made by agreement of the air carrier and 
the designated bargaining representative of the pilots of the 
air carrier.
  [(g)] (f) Medical Standards and Records.--
          (1) Medical examinations and standards.--Except as 
        provided by paragraph (2), a person serving as a pilot 
        for an air carrier engaged in covered operations shall 
        not be subject to different medical standards, or 
        different, greater, or more frequent medical 
        examinations, on account of age unless the Secretary 
        determines (based on data received or studies published 
        after the date of enactment of this section) that 
        different medical standards, or different, greater, or 
        more frequent medical examinations, are needed to 
        ensure an adequate level of safety in flight.
          (2) Duration of first-class medical certificate.--No 
        person who has attained 60 years of age may serve as a 
        pilot of an air carrier engaged in covered operations 
        unless the person has a first-class medical 
        certificate. Such a certificate shall expire on the 
        last day of the 6-month period following the date of 
        examination shown on the certificate.
  [(h)] (g) Safety.--
          (1) Training.--Each air carrier engaged in covered 
        operations shall continue to use pilot training and 
        qualification programs approved by the Federal Aviation 
        Administration, with specific emphasis on initial and 
        recurrent training and qualification of pilots who have 
        attained 60 years of age, to ensure continued 
        acceptable levels of pilot skill and judgment.
          (2) GAO report.--Not later than 24 months after the 
        date of enactment of this section, 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 concerning the effect, if any, 
        on aviation safety of the modification to pilot age 
        standards made by subsection (a).
  (h) Savings Clause.--An air carrier engaged in covered 
operations described in subsection (b)(1) on or after the date 
of enactment of the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in 
American Aviation Act may not require employed pilots to serve 
in such covered operations after attaining 65 years of age.

Sec. 44730. Helicopter air ambulance operations

  (a) Compliance Regulations.--
          (1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), 
        [not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
        this section,] a part 135 certificate holder providing 
        air ambulance services shall comply, whenever medical 
        personnel are onboard the aircraft, with regulations 
        pertaining to weather minimums and flight and duty time 
        under part 135.
          (2) Exception.--If a certificate holder described in 
        paragraph (1) is operating, or carrying out training, 
        under instrument flight rules, the weather reporting 
        requirement at the destination shall not apply if 
        authorized by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
  (b) Final Rule.--Not later than June 1, 2012, the 
Administrator shall issue a final rule, with respect to the 
notice of proposed rulemaking published in the Federal Register 
on October 12, 2010 (75 Fed. Reg. 62640), to improve the safety 
of flight crewmembers, medical personnel, and passengers 
onboard helicopters providing air ambulance services under part 
135.
  (c) Matters To Be Addressed.--In conducting the rulemaking 
proceeding under subsection (b), the Administrator shall 
[address the following] consider, or address through other 
means, the following:
          (1) Flight request and dispatch procedures, including 
        performance-based flight dispatch procedures.
          (2) Pilot training standards, including establishment 
        of training standards in--
                  (A) preventing controlled flight into 
                terrain; and
                  (B) recovery from inadvertent flight into 
                instrument meteorological conditions.
          (3) Safety-enhancing technology and equipment, 
        including--
                  (A) helicopter terrain awareness and warning 
                systems;
                  (B) radar altimeters; and
                  (C) devices that perform the function of 
                flight data recorders and cockpit voice 
                recorders, to the extent feasible.
          (4) Such other matters as the Administrator considers 
        appropriate.
  (d) Minimum Requirements.--In issuing a final rule under 
subsection (b), the Administrator, at a minimum, shall [provide 
for the following] consider, or address through other means, 
the following:
          (1) Flight risk evaluation program.--The 
        Administrator shall ensure that a part 135 certificate 
        holder providing helicopter air ambulance services--
                  (A) establishes a flight risk evaluation 
                program, based on FAA Notice 8000.301 issued by 
                the Administration on August 1, 2005, including 
                any updates thereto;
                  (B) as part of the flight risk evaluation 
                program, develops a checklist for use by pilots 
                in determining whether a flight request should 
                be accepted; and
                  (C) requires the pilots of the certificate 
                holder to use the checklist.
          (2) Operational control center.--The Administrator 
        shall ensure that a part 135 certificate holder 
        providing helicopter air ambulance services using 10 or 
        more helicopters has an operational control center that 
        meets such requirements as the Administrator may 
        prescribe.
  (e)  [Subsequent Rulemaking] Subsequent Actions.--
          (1) In general.--Upon completion of the rulemaking 
        required under subsection (b), the Administrator [shall 
        conduct a follow-on rulemaking to address the 
        following:] shall address through a follow-on 
        rulemaking, or through such other means that the 
        Administrator considers appropriate, the following:
                  (A) Pilot training standards, including--
                          (i) mandatory training requirements, 
                        including a minimum time for completing 
                        the training requirements;
                          (ii) training subject areas, such as 
                        communications procedures and 
                        appropriate technology use; and
                          (iii) establishment of training 
                        standards in--
                                  (I) crew resource management;
                                  (II) flight risk evaluation;
                                  (III) operational control of 
                                the pilot in command; and
                                  (IV) use of flight simulation 
                                training devices and line-
                                oriented flight training.
                  (B) Use of safety equipment that should be 
                worn or used by flight crewmembers and medical 
                personnel on a flight, including the possible 
                use of shoulder harnesses, helmets, seatbelts, 
                and fire resistant clothing to enhance crash 
                survivability.
          [(2) Deadlines.--Not later than 180 days after the 
        date of issuance of a final rule under subsection (b), 
        the Administrator shall initiate the rulemaking under 
        this subsection.]
          [(3)] (2) Limitation on construction.--Nothing in 
        this subsection shall be construed to require the 
        Administrator to propose or finalize any rule that 
        would derogate or supersede the rule required to be 
        finalized under subsection (b).
  (f) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
          (1) Part 135.--The term ``part 135'' means part 135 
        of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (2) Part 135 certificate holder.--The term ``part 135 
        certificate holder'' means a person holding an 
        operating certificate issued under part 119 of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations, that is authorized to 
        conduct civil helicopter air ambulance operations under 
        part 135.

Sec. 44731. Collection of data on helicopter air ambulance operations

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall require a part 135 certificate holder 
providing helicopter air ambulance services to submit to the 
Administrator, annually, a report containing, at a minimum, the 
following data:
          (1) The number of helicopters that the certificate 
        holder uses to provide helicopter air ambulance 
        services and the base locations of the helicopters.
          (2) The number of hours flown by the helicopters 
        operated by the certificate holder.
          (3) The number of patients transported and the number 
        of patient transport requests for a helicopter 
        providing air ambulance services that were accepted or 
        declined by the certificate holder and the type of each 
        such flight request (such as scene response, 
        interfacility transport, or organ transport).
          (4) The number of accidents, if any, involving 
        helicopters operated by the certificate holder while 
        providing air ambulance services and a description of 
        the accidents.
          (5) The number of hours flown under instrument flight 
        rules by helicopters operated by the certificate 
        holder.
          (6) The number of hours flown at night by helicopters 
        operated by the certificate holder.
          (7) The number of incidents, if any, in which a 
        helicopter was not directly dispatched and arrived to 
        transport patients but was not utilized for patient 
        transport.
  (b) Reporting Period.--Data contained in a report submitted 
by a part 135 certificate holder under subsection (a) shall 
relate to such reporting period as the Administrator determines 
appropriate.
  (c) Database.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Administrator shall develop a 
method to collect and store the data collected under subsection 
(a), including a method to protect the confidentiality of any 
trade secret or proprietary information provided in response to 
this section.
  [(d) Report to Congress.--The Administrator shall submit 
annually 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 
summary of the data collected under subsection (a). The report 
shall include the number of accidents experienced by helicopter 
air ambulance operations, the number of fatal accidents 
experienced by helicopter air ambulance operations, and the 
rate, per 100,000 flight hours, of accidents and fatal 
accidents experienced by operators providing helicopter air 
ambulance services.]
  [(e)] (d) Implementation.--In carrying out this section, the 
Administrator, in collaboration with part 135 certificate 
holders providing helicopter air ambulance services, shall--
          (1) propose and develop a method to collect and store 
        the data submitted under subsection (a), including a 
        method to protect the confidentiality of any trade 
        secret or proprietary information submitted; [and]
          [(2) ensure that the database under subsection (c) 
        and the report under subsection (d) include data and 
        analysis that will best inform efforts to improve the 
        safety of helicopter air ambulance operations.]
          (2) make publicly available, in part or in whole, on 
        the website of the Federal Aviation Administration 
        website, the database developed pursuant to subsection 
        (c); and
          (3) analyze the data submitted under subsection (a) 
        periodically and use such data to inform efforts to 
        improve the safety of helicopter air ambulance 
        operations.
  [(f)] (e) Definitions.--In this section, the terms ``part 
135'' and ``part 135 certificate holder'' have the meanings 
given such terms in section 44730.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44733. [Inspection]  Oversight of repair stations located outside 
                    the United States

  (a) In General.--[Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this section, the] The Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall establish and implement a 
safety assessment system for all part 145 repair stations based 
on the type, scope, and complexity of work being performed. The 
system shall--
          (1) ensure that repair stations located outside the 
        United States are subject to appropriate inspections 
        based on identified risks and consistent with existing 
        United States requirements;
          (2) consider inspection results and findings 
        submitted by foreign civil aviation authorities 
        operating under a maintenance safety or maintenance 
        implementation agreement with the United States; and
          (3) require all maintenance safety or maintenance 
        implementation agreements to provide an opportunity for 
        the Administration to conduct independent inspections 
        of [covered part 145 repair stations] part 145 repair 
        stations when safety concerns warrant such inspections.
  (b) Notice to Congress of Negotiations.--The Administrator 
shall notify the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives not later than 30 days after initiating formal 
negotiations with foreign aviation authorities or other 
appropriate foreign government agencies on a new maintenance 
safety or maintenance implementation agreement.
  (c) Annual Report.--The Administrator shall publish an annual 
report on the Administration's oversight of part 145 repair 
stations and implementation of the safety assessment system 
required under subsection (a). The report shall--
          (1) describe in detail any improvements in the 
        Administration's ability to identify and track where 
        part 121 air carrier repair work is performed;
          (2) include a staffing model to determine the best 
        placement of inspectors and the number of inspectors 
        needed;
          (3) describe the training provided to inspectors; and
          (4) include an assessment of the quality of 
        monitoring and surveillance by the Administration of 
        work performed by its inspectors and the inspectors of 
        foreign authorities operating under a maintenance 
        safety or maintenance implementation agreement.
  (d) Alcohol and Controlled Substances Testing Program 
Requirements.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary of State and the 
        Secretary of Transportation, acting jointly, shall 
        request the governments of foreign countries that are 
        members of the International Civil Aviation 
        Organization to establish international standards for 
        alcohol and controlled substances testing of persons 
        that perform safety-sensitive maintenance functions on 
        commercial air carrier aircraft.
          (2) Application to part 121 aircraft work.--Not later 
        than 1 year after the date of enactment of this 
        section, the Administrator shall promulgate a proposed 
        rule requiring that all part 145 repair station 
        employees responsible for safety-sensitive maintenance 
        functions on part 121 air carrier aircraft are subject 
        to an alcohol and controlled substances testing program 
        determined acceptable by the Administrator and 
        consistent with the applicable laws of the country in 
        which the repair station is located.
  (e) Annual Inspections.--The Administrator shall ensure that 
part 145 repair stations located outside the United States are 
inspected annually, without prior notice to such repair 
stations, by Federal Aviation Administration safety inspectors, 
without regard to where the station is located, in a manner 
consistent with United States obligations under international 
agreements and the applicable laws of the country in which the 
repair station is located. [The Administrator may carry out 
inspections in addition to the annual inspection required under 
this subsection based on identified risks.] The Administrator 
may carry out announced or unannounced inspections in addition 
to the annual unannounced inspection required under this 
subsection based on identified risks and in a manner consistent 
with United States obligations under international agreements 
and the applicable laws of the country in which the part 145 
repair station is located.
  (f) Risk-Based Oversight.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the 
        date of enactment of the FAA Extension, Safety, and 
        Security 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 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).
  (g) Data Analysis.--
          (1) In general.--Each fiscal year in which a part 121 
        air carrier has had heavy maintenance work performed on 
        an aircraft owned or operated by such carrier, such 
        carrier shall provide to the Administrator, not later 
        than the end of the following fiscal year, a report 
        containing the information described in paragraph (2).
          (2) Information required.--A report under paragraph 
        (1) shall contain the following:
                  (A) The location where any heavy maintenance 
                work on aircraft was performed outside the 
                United States.
                  (B) A description of the work performed at 
                each such location.
                  (C) The date of completion of the work 
                performed at each such location.
                  (D) A list of all failures, malfunctions, or 
                defects affecting the safe operation of such 
                aircraft identified by the air carrier not 
                later than 30 days after the date on which an 
                aircraft is returned to service, organized by 
                reference to aircraft registration number, 
                that--
                          (i) requires corrective action after 
                        the aircraft is approved for return to 
                        service; and
                          (ii) results from such work performed 
                        on such aircraft.
                  (E) The certificate number of the person 
                approving such aircraft or on-wing aircraft 
                engine, for return to service following 
                completion of the work performed at each such 
                location.
          (3) Analysis.--The Administrator shall--
                  (A) analyze information provided under this 
                subsection and sections 121.703, 121.705, 
                121.707, and 145.221 of title 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations, or any successor 
                provisions of such title, to detect safety 
                issues associated with heavy maintenance work 
                on aircraft performed outside the United 
                States; and
                  (B) require appropriate actions by an air 
                carrier or repair station in response to any 
                safety issue identified by the analysis 
                conducted under subparagraph (A).
          (4) Confidentiality.--Information provided under this 
        subsection shall be subject to the same protections 
        given to voluntarily provided safety or security 
        related information under section 40123.
  (h) Applications and Prohibition.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator may not approve 
        any new application under part 145 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, from a person located or 
        headquartered in a country that the Administration, 
        through the International Aviation Safety Assessment 
        program, has classified as Category 2.
          (2) Exception.--Paragraph (1) shall not apply to an 
        application for the renewal of a certificate issued 
        under part 145 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations.
          (3) Maintenance implementation procedures 
        agreement.--The Administrator may elect not to enter 
        into a new maintenance implementation procedures 
        agreement with a country classified as Category 2, for 
        as long as the country remains classified as Category 
        2.
          (3) Prohibition on continued heavy maintenance 
        work.--No part 121 air carrier may enter into a new 
        contract for heavy maintenance work with a person 
        located or headquartered in a country that the 
        Administrator, through the International Aviation 
        Safety Assessment program, has classified as Category 
        2, for as long as such country remains classified as 
        Category 2.
  (i) Minimum Qualifications for Mechanics and Others Working 
on U.S. Registered Aircraft.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the 
        date of enactment of this subsection, the Administrator 
        shall require that, at each covered repair station--
                  (A) all supervisory personnel of such station 
                are appropriately certificated as a mechanic or 
                repairman under part 65 of title 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations, or under an equivalent 
                certification or licensing regime, as 
                determined by the Administrator; and
                  (B) all personnel of such station authorized 
                to approve an article for return to service are 
                appropriately certificated as a mechanic or 
                repairman under part 65 of such title, or under 
                an equivalent certification or licensing 
                regime, as determined by the Administrator.
          (2) Available for consultation.--Not later than 2 
        years after the date of enactment of this subsection, 
        the Administrator shall require any individual who is 
        responsible for approving an article for return to 
        service or who is directly in charge of heavy 
        maintenance work performed on aircraft operated by a 
        part 121 air carrier be available for consultation 
        while work is being performed at a covered repair 
        station.
  [(g)] (j) Definitions.--In this section, the following 
definitions apply:
          (1) Covered repair station.--The term ``covered 
        repair station'' means a facility that--
                  (A) is located outside the United States;
                  (B) is a part 145 repair station; and
                  (C) performs heavy maintenance work on 
                aircraft operated by a part 121 air carrier.
          [(1)] (2) 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] aircraft 
        (including on-wing aircraft engines).
          [(2)] (3) Part 121 air carrier.--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.
          [(3)] (4) Part 145 repair station.--The term ``part 
        145 repair station'' means a repair station that holds 
        a certificate issued under part 145 of title 14, Code 
        of Federal Regulations.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44735. Limitation on disclosure of safety information

  (a) In General.--Except as provided by subsection (c), a 
report, data, or other information described in subsection (b) 
shall not be disclosed to the public by the Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration pursuant to section 
552(b)(3)(B) of title 5--
          (1) if the report, data, or other information is 
        submitted to the Federal Aviation Administration 
        voluntarily and is not required to be submitted to the 
        Administrator under any other provision of law[; or];
          (2) if the report, data, or other information is 
        submitted to the Federal Aviation Administration 
        pursuant to section 102(e) of the Aircraft 
        Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act[.]; or
          (3) if the report, data, or other information is 
        submitted for any purpose relating to the development, 
        implementation, and use of a safety management system, 
        including a system required by regulation, that is 
        acceptable to the Administrator.
  (b) Applicability.--The limitation established by subsection 
(a) shall apply to the following:
          (1) Reports, data, or other information developed 
        under the Aviation Safety Action Program.
          (2) Reports, data, or other information produced or 
        collected under the Flight Operational Quality 
        Assurance Program.
          (3) Reports, data, or other information developed 
        under the Line Operations Safety Audit Program.
          (4) Reports, data, or other information produced or 
        collected for purposes of developing and implementing a 
        safety management system acceptable to the 
        Administrator.
          (5) Reports, analyses, and directed studies, based in 
        whole or in part on reports, data, or other information 
        described in paragraphs (1) through (4), including 
        those prepared under the Aviation Safety Information 
        Analysis and Sharing Program (or any successor 
        program).
  (c) Exception for De-identified Information.--
          (1) In general.--The limitation established by 
        subsection (a) shall not apply to a report, data, or 
        other information if the information contained in the 
        report, data, or other information has been de-
        identified.
          (2) De-identified defined.--In this subsection, the 
        term ``de-identified'' means the process by which all 
        information that is likely to establish the identity of 
        the specific persons or entities submitting reports, 
        data, or other information is removed from the reports, 
        data, or other information.
  (d) Other Agencies.--
          (1) In general.--The limitation established under 
        subsection (a) shall apply to the head of any other 
        Federal agency who receives reports, data, or other 
        information described in such subsection from the 
        Administrator.
          (2) Rule of construction.--This section shall not be 
        construed to limit the accident or incident 
        investigation authority of the National Transportation 
        Safety Board under chapter 11, including the 
        requirement to not disclose voluntarily provided 
        safety-related information under section 1114.

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; 
                and
                  (B) conduct regular oversight activities by 
                inspecting the ODA holder's delegated functions 
                and taking action based on validated inspection 
                findings.
          (2) Duties of oda holders.--An ODA holder shall--
                  (A) perform each specified 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.--With regard to an ODA 
        holder operating under a procedures manual approved by 
        the Administrator before the date of enactment of the 
        FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, the Administrator 
        shall conduct regular oversight activities by 
        inspecting the ODA holder's delegated functions and 
        taking action based on validated inspection findings.
  (b) ODA Office.--
          (1) Establishment.--[Not later than 120 days after 
        the date of enactment of this section, the] 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 provide oversight and ensure the consistency of the 
        FAA's audit functions under the ODA program across the 
        FAA.
          (3) Functions.--The ODA Office shall--
                  (A)(i) require, as appropriate, an ODA holder 
                to establish a corrective action plan to regain 
                authority for any retained limitations;
                  (ii) require, as appropriate, an ODA holder 
                to notify the ODA Office when all corrective 
                actions have been accomplished; and
                  (iii) when appropriate, make a reassessment 
                to determine if subsequent performance in 
                carrying out any retained limitation warrants 
                continued retention and, if such reassessment 
                determines performance meets objectives, lift 
                such limitation immediately;
                  (B) develop 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;
                  (D) ensure national consistency in the 
                interpretation and application of the 
                requirements of the ODA program, including any 
                limitations, and in the performance of the ODA 
                program;
                  (E) at the request of an ODA holder, review 
                and, when appropriate, approve new limitations 
                to ODA functions; [and]
                  (F) ensure the ODA holders procedures manual 
                contains procedures and policies based on best 
                practices established by the Administrator[.]; 
                and
                  (G) convene a forum not less than every 2 
                years between ODA holders, unit members, and 
                other organizational representatives and 
                relevant experts, in order to--
                          (i) share best practices;
                          (ii) instill professionalism, ethics, 
                        and personal responsibilities in unit 
                        members; and
                          (iii) foster open and transparent 
                        communication between Administration 
                        safety specialists, ODA holders, and 
                        unit members.
  (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 
        entity authorized to perform functions pursuant to a 
        delegation made by the Administrator of the FAA under 
        section 44702(d).
          (3) ODA unit.--The term ``ODA unit'' means a group of 
        2 or more individuals who perform, under the 
        supervision of an ODA holder, 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 composed of 1 or more ODA 
        units to perform approved functions on behalf of the 
        FAA.
  (d) Audits.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall perform a 
        periodic audit of each ODA unit and its procedures.
          (2) Duration.--An audit required under paragraph (1) 
        shall be performed with respect to an ODA holder once 
        every 7 years (or more frequently as determined 
        appropriate by the Administrator).
          (3) Records.--The ODA holder shall maintain, for a 
        period to be determined by the Administrator, a record 
        of--
                  (A) each audit conducted under this 
                subsection; and
                  (B) any corrective actions resulting from 
                each such audit.
  (e) Federal Aviation Safety Advisors.--
          (1) In general.--In the case of an ODA holder, the 
        Administrator shall assign FAA aviation safety 
        personnel with appropriate expertise to be advisors to 
        the ODA unit members that are authorized to make 
        findings of compliance on behalf of the Administrator. 
        The advisors shall--
                  (A) communicate with assigned unit members on 
                an ongoing basis to ensure that the assigned 
                unit members are knowledgeable of relevant FAA 
                policies and acceptable methods of compliance; 
                and
                  (B) monitor the performance of the assigned 
                unit members to ensure consistency with such 
                policies.
          (2) Applicability.--Paragraph (1) shall only apply to 
        an ODA holder that is--
                  (A) a manufacturer that holds both a type and 
                a production certificate for--
                          (i) transport category airplanes with 
                        a maximum takeoff gross weight greater 
                        than 150,000 pounds; or
                          (ii) airplanes produced and delivered 
                        to operators operating under part 121 
                        of title 14, Code of Federal 
                        Regulations, for air carrier service 
                        under such part 121; or
                  (B) a manufacturer of engines for an airplane 
                described in subparagraph (A).
  (f) Communication With the FAA.--Neither the Administrator 
nor an ODA holder may prohibit--
          (1) an ODA unit member from communicating with, or 
        seeking the advice of, the Administrator or FAA staff; 
        or
          (2) the Administrator or FAA staff from communicating 
        with an ODA unit member.
  (g) Ethics Training Requirement for ODA Holders.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date 
        of enactment of this subsection, the Administrator of 
        the Federal Aviation Administration shall review and 
        ensure each ODA holder approved under section 44741 has 
        in effect a recurrent training program for all ODA unit 
        members that covers--
                  (A) unit member professional obligations and 
                responsibilities;
                  (B) the ODA holder's code of ethics as 
                required to be established under section 102(f) 
                of the Aircraft Certification, Safety, and 
                Accountability Act (49 U.S.C. 44701 note);
                  (C) procedures for reporting safety concerns, 
                as described in the respective approved 
                procedures manual for the delegation;
                  (D) the prohibition against and reporting 
                procedures for interference from a supervisor 
                or other ODA member described in section 44742; 
                and
                  (E) any additional information the 
                Administrator considers relevant to maintaining 
                ethical and professional standards across all 
                ODA holders and unit members.
          (2) FAA review.--
                  (A) Review of training program.--The 
                Organization Designation Authorization Office 
                of the Administration shall review each ODA 
                holders' recurrent training program to ensure 
                such program includes all elements described in 
                paragraph (1).
                  (B) Changes to program.--Such Office may 
                require changes to the training program 
                considered necessary to maintain ethical and 
                professional standards across all ODA holders 
                and unit members.
          (3) Training.--As part of the recurrent training 
        required under paragraph (1), not later than 60 
        business days after being designated as an ODA unit 
        member, and annually thereafter, each ODA unit member 
        shall complete the ethics training required by the ODA 
        holder of the respective ODA unit member in order to 
        exercise the functions delegated under the ODA.
          (4) Accountability.--The Administrator shall 
        establish such processes or requirements as are 
        necessary to ensure compliance with paragraph (3).

Sec. 44737. Helicopter fuel system safety

  (a) Prohibition.--
          (1) In general.--A person may not operate a covered 
        [rotorcraft] helicopter in United States airspace 
        unless the design of the [rotorcraft] helicopter is 
        certified by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration to--
                  (A) comply with the requirements applicable 
                to the category of the [rotorcraft] helicopter 
                under paragraphs (1), (2), (3), (5), and (6) of 
                section 27.952(a), section 27.952(c), section 
                27.952(f), section 27.952(g), section 27.963(g) 
                (but allowing for a minimum puncture force of 
                250 pounds if successfully drop tested in-
                structure), and section 27.975(b) or paragraphs 
                (1), (2), (3), (5), and (6) of section 
                29.952(a), section 29.952(c), section 
                29.952(f), section 29.952(g), section 29.963(b) 
                (but allowing for a minimum puncture force of 
                250 pounds if successfully drop tested in-
                structure), and 29.975(a)(7) of title 14, Code 
                of Federal Regulations, as in effect on the 
                date of enactment of this section; or
                  (B) employ other means acceptable to the 
                Administrator to provide an equivalent level of 
                fuel system crash resistance.
          (2) Covered rotorcraft defined.--In this subsection, 
        the term ``covered [rotorcraft] helicopter'' means a 
        [rotorcraft] helicopter not otherwise required to 
        comply with section 27.952, section 27.963, and section 
        27.975, or section 29.952, section 29.963, and section 
        29.975 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations as in 
        effect on the date of enactment of this section for 
        which manufacture was completed, as determined by the 
        Administrator, on or after the date that is 18 months 
        after the date of enactment of this section.
  (b) Administrative Provisions.--The Administrator shall--
          (1) expedite the certification and validation of 
        United States and foreign type designs and retrofit 
        kits that improve fuel system crashworthiness; and
          (2) not later than 180 days after the date of 
        enactment of this section, and periodically thereafter, 
        issue a bulletin to--
                  (A) inform [rotorcraft] helicopter owners and 
                operators of available modifications to improve 
                fuel system crashworthiness; and
                  (B) urge that such modifications be installed 
                as soon as practicable.
  (c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
construed to affect the operation of a [rotorcraft] helicopter 
by the Department of Defense.
  (d) Exemption.--A helicopter issued an experimental 
certificate under section 21.191 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations (or any successor regulations), or operating under 
a Special Flight Permit issued under section 21.197 of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulations), 
is exempt from the requirements of this section.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44741. Approval of organization designation authorization unit 
                    members

  (a) In General.--Beginning January 1, 2022, each individual 
who is selected on or after such date to become an ODA unit 
member by an ODA holder engaged in the design of an aircraft, 
aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance and performs an 
authorized function pursuant to a delegation by the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under 
section 44702(d)--
          (1) shall be--
                  (A) an employee, a contractor, or a 
                consultant of the ODA holder; or
                  (B) the employee of a supplier of the ODA 
                holder; and
          (2) may not become a member of such unit unless 
        approved by the Administrator pursuant to this section.
  (b) Process and Timeline.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall maintain an 
        efficient process for the review and approval of an 
        individual to become an ODA unit member under this 
        section.
          (2) Process.--An ODA holder described in subsection 
        (a) may submit to the Administrator an application for 
        an individual to be approved to become an ODA unit 
        member under this section. The application shall be 
        submitted in such form and manner as the Administrator 
        determines appropriate. The Administrator shall require 
        an ODA holder to submit with such an application 
        information sufficient to demonstrate an individual's 
        qualifications under subsection (c).
          (3) Timeline.--The Administrator shall approve or 
        reject an individual that is selected by an ODA holder 
        to become an ODA unit member under this section not 
        later than 30 days after the receipt of an application 
        by an ODA holder.
          (4) Documentation of approval.--Upon approval of an 
        individual to become an ODA unit member under this 
        section, the Administrator shall provide such 
        individual a letter confirming that such individual has 
        been approved by the Administrator under this section 
        to be an ODA unit member.
          (5) Reapplication.--An ODA holder may submit an 
        application under this subsection for an individual to 
        become an ODA unit member under this section regardless 
        of whether an application for such individual was 
        previously rejected by the Administrator.
  (c) Qualifications.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall issue 
        minimum qualifications for an individual to become an 
        ODA unit member under this section. In issuing such 
        qualifications, the Administrator shall consider 
        existing qualifications for Administration employees 
        with similar duties and whether such individual--
                  (A) is technically proficient and qualified 
                to perform the authorized functions sought;
                  (B) has no recent record of serious 
                enforcement action, as determined by the 
                Administrator, taken by the Administrator with 
                respect to any certificate, approval, or 
                authorization held by such individual;
                  (C) is of good moral character (as such 
                qualification is applied to an applicant for an 
                airline transport pilot certificate issued 
                under section 44703);
                  (D) possesses the knowledge of applicable 
                design or production requirements in this 
                chapter and in title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations, necessary for performance of the 
                authorized functions sought;
                  (E) possesses a high degree of knowledge of 
                applicable design or production principles, 
                system safety principles, or safety risk 
                management processes appropriate for the 
                authorized functions sought; and
                  (F) meets such testing, examination, 
                training, or other qualification standards as 
                the Administrator determines are necessary to 
                ensure the individual is competent and capable 
                of performing the authorized functions sought.
          (2) Previously rejected application.--In reviewing an 
        application for an individual to become an ODA unit 
        member under this section, if an application for such 
        individual was previously rejected, the Administrator 
        shall ensure that the reasons for the prior rejection 
        have been resolved or mitigated to the Administrator's 
        satisfaction before making a determination on the 
        individual's reapplication.
  (d) Rescission of Approval.--The Administrator may rescind an 
approval of an individual as an ODA unit member granted 
pursuant to this section at any time and for any reason the 
Administrator considers appropriate. The Administrator shall 
develop procedures to provide for notice and opportunity to 
appeal rescission decisions made by the Administrator. Such 
decisions by the Administrator are not subject to judicial 
review.
  (e) Conditional Selections.--
          (1) In general.--Subject to the requirements of this 
        subsection, the Administrator may authorize an ODA 
        holder to conditionally designate an individual to 
        perform the functions of an ODA unit member for a 
        period of not more than 30 days (beginning on the date 
        an application for such individual is submitted under 
        subsection (b)(2)).
          (2) Required determination.--The Administrator may 
        not make an authorization under paragraph (1) unless--
                  (A) the ODA holder has instituted, to the 
                Administrator's satisfaction, systems and 
                processes to ensure the integrity and 
                reliability of determinations by conditionally-
                designated ODA unit members; and
                  (B) the ODA holder has instituted a safety 
                management system in accordance with 
                regulations issued by the Administrator under 
                section 102 of the Aircraft Certification, 
                Safety, and Accountability Act.
          (3) Final determination.--The Administrator shall 
        approve or reject the application for an individual 
        designated under paragraph (1) in accordance with the 
        timeline and procedures described in subsection (b).
          (4) Rejection and review.--If the Administrator 
        rejects the application submitted under subsection 
        (b)(2) for an individual conditionally designated under 
        paragraph (1), the Administrator shall review and 
        approve or disapprove any decision pursuant to any 
        authorized function performed by such individual during 
        the period such individual served as a conditional 
        designee.
          (5) Prohibitions.--Notwithstanding the requirements 
        of paragraph (2), the Administrator may prohibit an ODA 
        holder from making conditional designations of 
        individuals as ODA unit members under this subsection 
        at any time for any reason the Administrator considers 
        appropriate. The Administrator may prohibit any 
        conditionally designated individual from performing an 
        authorized function at any time for any reason the 
        Administrator considers appropriate.
  (f) Records and Briefings.--
          (1) In general.--Beginning on the date described in 
        subsection (a), an ODA holder shall maintain, for a 
        period to be determined by the Administrator and with 
        proper protections to ensure the security of sensitive 
        and personal information--
                  (A) any data, applications, records, or 
                manuals required by the ODA holder's approved 
                procedures manual, as determined by the 
                Administrator;
                  (B) the names, responsibilities, 
                qualifications, and example signature of each 
                member of the ODA unit who performs an 
                authorized function pursuant to a delegation by 
                the Administrator under section 44702(d);
                  (C) training records for ODA unit members and 
                ODA administrators; and
                  (D) any other data, applications, records, or 
                manuals determined appropriate by the 
                Administrator.
          (2) Congressional briefing.--[Not later than 90 days 
        after the date of enactment of this section, and every 
        90 days thereafter through September 30, 2023, the 
        Administrator shall provide a briefing] The 
        Administrator shall provide an annual briefing each 
        fiscal year through fiscal year 2028 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 implementation 
        and effects of this section, including--
                  (A) the Administration's performance in 
                completing reviews of individuals and approving 
                or denying such individuals within the timeline 
                required under subsection (b)(3);
                  (B) for any individual rejected by the 
                Administrator under subsection (b) during the 
                preceding 90-day period, the reasoning or basis 
                for such rejection; and
                  (C) any resource, staffing, or other 
                challenges within the Administration associated 
                with implementation of this section.
  (g) Special Review of Qualifications.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 30 days after the 
        issuance of minimum qualifications under subsection 
        (c), the Administrator shall initiate a review of the 
        qualifications of each individual who on the date on 
        which such minimum qualifications are issued is an ODA 
        unit member of a holder of a type certificate for a 
        transport airplane to ensure such individual meets the 
        minimum qualifications issued by the Administrator 
        under subsection (c).
          (2) Unqualified individual.--For any individual who 
        is determined by the Administrator not to meet such 
        minimum qualifications pursuant to the review conducted 
        under paragraph (1), the Administrator--
                  (A) shall determine whether the lack of 
                qualification may be remedied and, if so, 
                provide such individual with an action plan or 
                schedule for such individual to meet such 
                qualifications; or
                  (B) may, if the Administrator determines the 
                lack of qualification may not be remedied, take 
                appropriate action, including prohibiting such 
                individual from performing an authorized 
                function.
          (3) Deadline.--The Administrator shall complete the 
        review required under paragraph (1) not later than 18 
        months after the date on which such review was 
        initiated.
          (4) Savings clause.--An individual approved to become 
        an ODA unit member of a holder of a type certificate 
        for a transport airplane under subsection (a) shall not 
        be subject to the review under this subsection.
  (h) Prohibition.--The Administrator may not authorize an 
organization or ODA holder to approve an individual selected by 
an ODA holder to become an ODA unit member under this section.
  (i) Definitions.--
          (1) General applicability.--The definitions contained 
        in section 44736(c) shall apply to this section.
          (2) Transport airplane.--The term ``transport 
        airplane'' means a transport category airplane designed 
        for operation by an air carrier or foreign air carrier 
        type-certificated with a passenger seating capacity of 
        30 or more or an all-cargo or combi derivative of such 
        an airplane.
  (j) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to 
be appropriated to carry out this section $3,000,000 for each 
of fiscal years 2021 through 2023.

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Sec. 44745. Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall redesignate the FAA Alaska Aviation Safety 
Initiative of the Administration as the Don Young Alaska 
Aviation Safety Initiative (in this section referred to as the 
``Initiative''), under which the Administrator shall carry out 
the provisions of this section and take such other actions as 
the Administrator determines appropriate to improve aviation 
safety in covered locations.
  (b) Objective.--The objective of the Initiative shall be to 
work cooperatively with aviation stakeholders and other 
stakeholders towards the goal of--
          (1) reducing the rate of fatal aircraft accidents in 
        covered locations by 90 percent from 2019 to 2033; and
          (2) by January 1, 2033, eliminating fatal accidents 
        of aircraft operated by an air carrier that operates 
        under part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations.
  (c) Leadership.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall designate 
        the Regional Administrator for the Alaskan Region of 
        the Administration to serve as the Director of the 
        Initiative.
          (2) Reporting chain.--In all matters relating to the 
        Initiative, the Director of the Initiative shall report 
        directly to the Administrator.
          (3) Coordination.--The Director of the Initiative 
        shall coordinate with the heads of other offices and 
        lines of business of the Administration, including the 
        other regional administrators, to carry out the 
        Initiative.
  (d) Automated Weather Systems.--
          (1) Requirement.--The Administrator shall ensure, to 
        the greatest extent practicable, that a covered 
        automated weather system is installed and operated at 
        each covered airport not later than December 31, 2030.
          (2) Waiver.--In complying with the requirement under 
        paragraph (1), the Administrator may waive any positive 
        benefit-cost ratio requirement for the installation and 
        operation of a covered automated weather system.
          (3) Prioritization.--In developing the installation 
        timeline of a covered automated weather system at a 
        covered airport pursuant to this subsection, the 
        Administrator shall--
                  (A) coordinate and consult with the 
                governments with jurisdiction over covered 
                locations, covered airports, air carriers 
                operating in covered locations, private pilots 
                based in covered locations, and such other 
                members of the aviation community in covered 
                locations; and
                  (B) prioritize early installation at covered 
                airports that would enable the greatest number 
                of instrument flight rule operations by air 
                carriers operating under part 121 or 135 of 
                title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (4) Reliability.--
                  (A) In general.--Pertaining to both Federal 
                and non-Federal systems, the Administrator 
                shall be responsible for ensuring--
                          (i) the reliability of covered 
                        automated weather systems; and
                          (ii) the availability of weather 
                        information from such systems.
                  (B) Specifications.--The Administrator shall 
                establish data availability and equipment 
                reliability specifications for covered 
                automated weather systems.
                  (C) System reliability and restoration 
                plan.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
                enactment of this section, the Administrator 
                shall establish an automated weather system 
                reliability and restoration plan. Such plan 
                shall document the Administrator's strategy for 
                ensuring covered automated weather system 
                reliability, including the availability of 
                weather information from such system, and for 
                restoring service in as little time as 
                possible.
                  (D) Telecommunications or other failures.--If 
                a covered automated weather system is unable to 
                broadly disseminate weather information due to 
                a telecommunications failure or a failure other 
                than an equipment failure, the Administrator 
                shall take such actions as may be necessary to 
                restore the full functionality and connectivity 
                of the covered automated weather system. The 
                Administrator shall take actions under this 
                subparagraph with the same urgency as the 
                Administrator would take an action to repair a 
                covered automated weather system equipment 
                failure or data fidelity issue.
                  (E) Reliability data.--In tabulating data 
                relating to the operational status of covered 
                automated weather systems (including 
                individually or collectively), the 
                Administrator may not consider a covered 
                automated weather system that is functioning 
                nominally but is unable to broadly disseminate 
                weather information telecommunications failure 
                or a failure other than an equipment failure as 
                functioning reliably.
          (5) Inventory.--The Administrator shall consider 
        storing excess inventory necessary for air traffic 
        control equipment, including commonly required 
        replacement parts, in covered locations to reduce the 
        amount of time necessary to acquire such equipment or 
        such parts necessary to replace or repair air traffic 
        control system components.
          (6) Visual weather observation system.--Not later 
        than 1 year after the date of enactment of this 
        section, the Administrator shall take such actions as 
        may be necessary to--
                  (A) deploy visual weather observation 
                systems; and
                  (B) ensure that such systems are capable of 
                meeting the definition of covered automated 
                weather systems.
  (e) Weather Cameras.--
          (1) In general.--The Director shall continuously 
        assess the state of the weather camera systems in 
        covered locations to ensure the operational sufficiency 
        and reliability of such systems.
          (2) Applications.--The Director shall--
                  (A) accept applications from persons to 
                install weather cameras; and
                  (B) consult with the governments with 
                jurisdiction over covered locations, covered 
                airports, air carriers operating in covered 
                locations, private pilots based in covered 
                locations, and such other members of the 
                aviation community in covered locations as the 
                Administrator determines appropriate to solicit 
                additional locations at which to install and 
                operate weather cameras.
          (3) Presumption.--Unless the Director has clear and 
        compelling evidence to the contrary, the Director shall 
        presume that the installation of a weather camera at a 
        covered airport, or that is recommended by a government 
        with jurisdiction over a covered location, is cost 
        beneficial and will improve aviation safety.
  (f) Cooperation With Other Agencies.--In carrying out this 
section, the Administrator shall cooperate with the heads of 
other Federal or State agencies with responsibilities affecting 
aviation safety in covered locations, including the collection 
and dissemination of weather data.
  (g) Surveillance and Communication.--
          (1) In general.--The Director shall take such actions 
        as may be necessary to--
                  (A) encourage and incentivize the equipage of 
                aircrafts that operate under part 135 of title 
                14, Code of Federal Regulations, with automatic 
                dependent surveillance and broadcast out 
                equipment; and
                  (B) improve aviation surveillance and 
                communications in covered locations.
          (2) Requirement.--Not later than December 31, 2030, 
        the Administrator shall ensure that automatic dependent 
        surveillance and broadcast coverage is available at 
        5,000 feet above ground level throughout each covered 
        location.
          (3) Waiver.--In complying with the requirement under 
        paragraph (2), the Administrator shall waive any 
        positive benefit-cost ratio requirement for the 
        installation and operation of equipment and facilities 
        necessary to implement such requirement.
          (4) Service areas.--The Director shall continuously 
        identify additional automatic dependent surveillance-
        broadcast service areas in which the deployment of 
        automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast receivers 
        and equipment would improve aviation safety.
  (h) Other Projects.--The Director shall continue to build 
upon other initiatives recommended in the reports of the FAA 
Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative of the Administration 
published before the date of enactment of this section.
  (i) Annual Report.--
          (1) In general.--The Director shall submit an annual 
        report on the status and progress of the Initiative to 
        the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
        the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
        Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
          (2) Objectives and requirements.--The report under 
        paragraph (1) shall include a detailed description of 
        the Director's progress in and plans for meeting the 
        objectives of the Initiative under subsection (b) and 
        the other requirements of this section.
          (3) Stakeholder comments.--The Director shall append 
        stakeholder comments, organized by topic, to each 
        report submitted under paragraph (1) in the same manner 
        as appendix 3 of the report titled ``FAA Alaska 
        Aviation Safety Initiative FY21 Final Report'', dated 
        September 30, 2021.
  (j) Funding.--
          (1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision 
        of law, in fiscal years 2024 through 2028--
                  (A) the Administrator may, upon application 
                from the government with jurisdiction over a 
                covered location, use amounts apportioned to a 
                covered location under subsection (d)(2)(B) or 
                subsection (e)(5) of section 47114 to carry out 
                the Initiative; or
                  (B) the sponsor of an airport in a covered 
                location that receives an apportionment under 
                subsection (d)(2)(B) or subsection (e) of 
                section 47114 may use such apportionment for 
                any purpose contained in this section.
          (2) Supplemental funding.--Out of amounts made 
        available under section 106(k) and section 48101, not 
        more than a total of $25,000,000 for each of fiscal 
        year 2024 through 2028 is authorized to be expended to 
        carry out the Initiative.
  (k) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Covered airport.--The term ``covered airport'' 
        means an airport in a covered location that is included 
        in the national plan of integrated airport systems 
        required under section 47103 and that has a status 
        other than unclassified in such plan.
          (2) Covered automated weather system.--The term 
        ``covered automated weather system'' means an automated 
        or visual weather reporting facility that enables a 
        pilot to begin an instrument procedure approach to an 
        airport under section 91.1039 or 135.225 of title 14, 
        Code of Federal Regulations.
          (3) Covered location.--The term ``covered location'' 
        means Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, 
        Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the United 
        States Virgin Islands.

Sec. 44746. Cockpit recording device

  (a) In General.--Not later than 18 months after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall complete a rulemaking proceeding 
to--
          (1) require that, not later than 4 years after the 
        date of enactment of this section, all applicable 
        aircraft are fitted with a cockpit voice recorder and a 
        flight data recorder that are each capable of recording 
        the most recent 25 hours of data;
          (2) prohibit any person from deliberately erasing or 
        tampering with any recording on such a cockpit voice 
        recorder or flight data recorder following a National 
        Transportation Safety Board reportable event under part 
        830 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, and 
        provide for civil and criminal penalties for such 
        deliberate erasing or tampering, which may be assessed 
        in accordance with section 1155 and section 32 of title 
        18;
          (3) require that such a cockpit voice recorder has 
        the capability for an operator to use an erasure 
        feature, such as an installed bulk erase function, 
        consistent with applicable law and regulations;
          (4) require that, in the case of such a cockpit voice 
        recorder or flight data recorder that uses a solid 
        state recording medium in which activation of a bulk 
        erase function assigns a random discrete code to the 
        deleted recording, only the manufacturer of the 
        recorder and National Transportation Safety Board have 
        access to the software necessary to determine the code 
        in order to extract the deleted recorded data; and
          (5) ensure that data on such a cockpit voice recorder 
        or a flight data recorder, through technical means 
        other than encryption (such as overwriting or the 
        substitution of a blank recording medium before the 
        recorder is returned to the owner) is not disclosed for 
        use other than for accident or incident investigation 
        purposes.
  (b) Prohibited Use.--A cockpit voice recorder recording shall 
not be used by the Administrator or any employer for any 
certificate action, civil penalty, or disciplinary proceedings 
against flight crewmembers.
  (c) Applicable Aircraft Defined.--In this section, the term 
``applicable aircraft'' means an aircraft that is--
          (1) operated under part 121 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations; and
          (2) required by regulation to have a cockpit voice 
        recorder or a flight data recorder.

Sec. 44747. Aircraft dispatching

  (a) Aircraft Dispatching Certificate.--No person may serve as 
an aircraft dispatcher for an air carrier unless that person 
holds the appropriate aircraft dispatcher certificate issued by 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.
  (b) Proof of Certificate.--Upon the request of the 
Administrator or an authorized representative of the National 
Transportation Safety Board, or other appropriate Federal 
agency, a person who holds such a certificate, and is 
performing dispatching shall present the certificate for 
inspection.
  (c) Dispatch Centers and Flight Following Centers.--
          (1) Establishment.--Air carriers shall establish and 
        maintain sufficient dispatch centers and flight 
        following centers necessary to maintain operational 
        control of each flight at all times.
          (2) Requirements.--Air carrier dispatch centers and 
        flight following centers shall--
                  (A) have a sufficient number of aircraft 
                dispatchers at dispatch centers and flight 
                following centers to ensure proper operational 
                control of each flight at all times;
                  (B) have the equipment necessary and in good 
                repair to maintain proper operational control 
                of each flight at all times; and
                  (C) include appropriate physical and 
                cybersecurity protections, as determined by the 
                Administrator.
          (3) Location limitation.--No air carrier may dispatch 
        aircraft from any location other than the designated 
        dispatch centers or flight following centers of such 
        air carrier.
  (d) Emergency Authority for Remote Dispatching.--
Notwithstanding subsection (c), an air carrier may dispatch 
aircraft from locations other than from designated dispatch 
centers or flight following centers for a limited period of 
time in the event of an emergency or other event that renders a 
center inoperable. An air carrier may not dispatch aircraft 
under the emergency authority under this subsection for longer 
than 30 consecutive days without the approval of the 
Administrator.

                 CHAPTER 448--UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

Sec.
     * * * * * * *
[44804. Small unmanned aircraft in the Arctic.]
44804. Unmanned aircraft in the Arctic.

     * * * * * * *
[44806. Public unmanned aircraft systems.]
44806. Public unmanned aircraft systems and public safety use of 
          unmanned aircraft systems.
     * * * * * * *

Sec. 44801. Definitions

  In this chapter, the following definitions apply:
          (1) Actively tethered unmanned aircraft system.--The 
        term ``actively tethered unmanned aircraft system'' 
        means an unmanned aircraft system in which the unmanned 
        aircraft component--
                  (A) weighs 4.4 pounds or less, including 
                payload but not including the tether;
                  (B) is physically attached to a ground 
                station with a taut, appropriately load-rated 
                tether that provides continuous power to the 
                unmanned aircraft and is unlikely to be 
                separated from the unmanned aircraft; [and]
                  (C) is controlled and retrieved by such 
                ground station through physical manipulation of 
                the tether[.];
                  (D) is able to maintain safe flight control 
                in the event of a power or flight control 
                failure during flight; and
                  (E) is programmed to initiate a controlled 
                landing in the event of a tether separation.
          (2) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term 
        ``appropriate committees of Congress'' means the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
        the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.
          (3) Arctic.--The term ``Arctic'' means the United 
        States zone of the Chukchi Sea, Beaufort Sea, and 
        Bering Sea north of the Aleutian chain.
          (4) 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.
          (5) Counter-UAS system.--The term ``counter-UAS 
        system'' means a system or device capable of lawfully 
        and safely disabling, disrupting, or seizing control of 
        an unmanned aircraft or unmanned aircraft system.
          (6) Permanent areas.--The term ``permanent areas'' 
        means areas on land or water that provide for launch, 
        recovery, and operation of small unmanned aircraft.
          (7) 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.
          (8) 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, structures on 
        the ground, and other objects.
          (9) Small unmanned aircraft.--The term ``small 
        unmanned aircraft'' means an unmanned aircraft weighing 
        less than 55 pounds, including the weight of anything 
        attached to or carried by the aircraft.
          (10) Test range.--The term ``test range'' means a 
        defined geographic area where research and development 
        are conducted as authorized by the Administrator of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration, and includes [any of 
        the 6 test ranges established by the Administrator 
        under section 332(c) of the FAA Modernization and 
        Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note), as in effect 
        on the day before the date of enactment of the FAA 
        Reauthorization Act of 2018, and any public entity 
        authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration as an 
        unmanned aircraft system flight test center before 
        January 1, 2009] the test ranges established by the 
        Administrator under section 44803.
          (11) 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.
          (12) 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 operator to operate safely and 
        efficiently in the national airspace system.
          (13) UTM.--The term ``UTM'' means an unmanned 
        aircraft system traffic management system or service.''

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


[Sec. 44803. Unmanned aircraft test ranges

  [(a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall carry out and update, as appropriate, a 
program for the use of the test ranges to facilitate the safe 
integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the national 
airspace system.
  [(b) Program Requirements.--In carrying out the program under 
subsection (a), the Administrator shall--
          [(1) designate airspace for safely testing the 
        integration of unmanned flight operations in the 
        national airspace system;
          [(2) develop operational standards and air traffic 
        requirements for unmanned flight operations at test 
        ranges;
          [(3) coordinate with, and leverage the resources of, 
        the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and 
        the Department of Defense;
          [(4) address both civil and public unmanned aircraft 
        systems;
          [(5) ensure that the program is coordinated with 
        relevant aspects of the Next Generation Air 
        Transportation System;
          [(6) provide for verification of the safety of 
        unmanned aircraft systems and related navigation 
        procedures as it relates to continued development of 
        standards for integration into the national airspace 
        system;
          [(7) engage test range operators, as necessary and 
        within available resources, in projects for research, 
        development, testing, and evaluation of unmanned 
        aircraft systems to facilitate the Federal Aviation 
        Administration's development of standards for the safe 
        integration of unmanned aircraft into the national 
        airspace system, which may include solutions for--
                  [(A) developing and enforcing geographic and 
                altitude limitations;
                  [(B) providing for alerts by the manufacturer 
                of an unmanned aircraft system regarding any 
                hazards or limitations on flight, including 
                prohibition on flight as necessary;
                  [(C) sense and avoid capabilities;
                  [(D) beyond-visual-line-of-sight operations, 
                nighttime operations, operations over people, 
                operation of multiple small unmanned aircraft 
                systems, and unmanned aircraft systems traffic 
                management, or other critical research 
                priorities; and
                  [(E) improving privacy protections through 
                the use of advances in unmanned aircraft 
                systems technology;
          [(8) coordinate periodically with all test range 
        operators to ensure test range operators know which 
        data should be collected, what procedures should be 
        followed, and what research would advance efforts to 
        safely integrate unmanned aircraft systems into the 
        national airspace system;
          [(9) streamline to the extent practicable the 
        approval process for test ranges when processing 
        unmanned aircraft certificates of waiver or 
        authorization for operations at the test sites;
          [(10) require each test range operator to protect 
        proprietary technology, sensitive data, or sensitive 
        research of any civil or private entity when using that 
        test range without the need to obtain an experimental 
        or special airworthiness certificate;
          [(11) allow test range operators to receive Federal 
        funding, other than from the Federal Aviation 
        Administration, including in-kind contributions, from 
        test range participants in the furtherance of research, 
        development, and testing objectives.
  [(c) Waivers.--In carrying out this section 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.
  [(d) Review of Operations by Test Range Operators.--The 
operator of each test range under subsection (a) shall--
          [(1) review the operations of unmanned aircraft 
        systems conducted at the test range, including--
                  [(A) ongoing or completed research; and
                  [(B) data regarding operations by private and 
                public operators; and
          [(2) submit to the Administrator, in such form and 
        manner as specified by the Administrator, the results 
        of the review, including recommendations to further 
        enable private research and development operations at 
        the test ranges that contribute to the Federal Aviation 
        Administration's safe integration of unmanned aircraft 
        systems into the national airspace system, on a 
        quarterly basis until the program terminates.
  [(e) Testing.--The Secretary of Transportation may authorize 
an operator of a test range described in subsection (a) to 
administer testing requirements established by the 
Administrator for unmanned aircraft systems operations.
  [(f) Collaborative Research and Development Agreements.--The 
Administrator may use the other transaction authority under 
section 106(l)(6) and enter into collaborative research and 
development agreements, to direct research related to unmanned 
aircraft systems, including at any test range under subsection 
(a), and in coordination with the Center of Excellence for 
Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
  [(g) Use of Center of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft 
Systems.--The Administrator, in carrying out research necessary 
to implement the consensus safety standards requirements in 
section 44805 shall, to the maximum extent practicable, 
leverage the research and testing capacity and capabilities of 
the Center of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems and the 
test ranges.
  [(h) Termination.--The program under this section shall 
terminate on September 30, 2023.]

Sec. 44803. Unmanned aircraft system test ranges

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall carry out and update, as appropriate, a 
program to enable a broad variety of testing and evaluation 
activities at unmanned aircraft system test ranges, as in 
effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Securing 
Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, to the 
extent consistent with aviation safety and efficiency, and for 
purposes of the safe integration of unmanned aircraft systems 
into the national airspace system.
  (b) Airspace Requirements.--In carrying out the program under 
subsection (a)--
          (1) the Administrator may establish nonregulatory 
        special use airspace areas upon the request of a test 
        range sponsor selected by the Administrator under 
        subsection (a), for purposes of accommodating hazardous 
        testing and evaluation activities to inform the safe 
        integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the 
        national airspace system, or for purposes of other 
        activities authorized by the Administrator under 
        subsection (g);
          (2) each selected test range sponsor for a designated 
        test range shall be considered the using agency for 
        purposes of the respective nonregulatory special use 
        airspace areas established by the Administrator under 
        this section; and
          (3) the Administrator may require that each selected 
        test range sponsor for a designated test range provide 
        a draft environmental review consistent with the 
        National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 
        4321 et seq.), subject to the supervision and adoption 
        of the Administrator, with respect to any request for 
        the establishment of a nonregulatory special use 
        airspace area under this section.
  (c) Program Requirement.--In carrying out the program under 
subsection (a), the Administrator--
          (1) may develop operational standards and air traffic 
        requirements for flight operations at test ranges;
          (2) shall coordinate with, and leverage the resources 
        of, other Federal agencies, as the Administrator 
        considers appropriate;
          (3) shall address both civil and public aircraft 
        operations;
          (4) shall provide for verification of the safety of 
        flight systems and related navigation procedures as it 
        relates to continued development of standards for 
        integration into the national airspace system;
          (5) shall engage test range sponsors, as necessary 
        and within available resources, in projects for testing 
        and evaluation of flight systems to facilitate the 
        validation of standards by the Administration for the 
        safe integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the 
        national airspace system, which may include solutions 
        for--
                  (A) developing and enforcing geographic and 
                altitude limitations;
                  (B) providing for alerts regarding any 
                hazards or limitations on flight, including 
                prohibitions on flight;
                  (C) sense and avoid capabilities;
                  (D) technology to support communications, 
                navigation, and surveillance;
                  (E) unmanned aircraft system operations 
                beyond visual line of sight, at nighttime, or 
                over people;
                  (F) operation of multiple unmanned aircraft 
                systems by a single remote pilot;
                  (G) unmanned aircraft systems traffic 
                management capabilities or services;
                  (H) counter unmanned aircraft system 
                capabilities;
                  (I) improving privacy protections through the 
                use of advances in unmanned aircraft systems; 
                and
                  (J) other critical priority areas for which 
                testing and evaluation is needed.
          (6) shall coordinate periodically with all test range 
        sponsors to ensure test range sponsors know which data 
        should be collected, how data can be de-identified to 
        flow more readily to the Administration, what 
        procedures should be followed, and what testing and 
        evaluations would advance efforts to safely integrate 
        unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace 
        system; and
          (7) shall allow test range sponsors to receive 
        Federal funding, other than from the Federal Aviation 
        Administration, including in-kind contributions, from 
        test range participants in the furtherance of testing 
        and evaluation objectives.
  (d) Exemption.--Except as provided in subsection (g), the 
requirements of section 44711, including related implementing 
regulations, shall not apply to persons approved by the test 
range sponsor for operation at a designated test range under 
this section.
  (e) Responsibilities of Test Range Sponsor.--The sponsor of 
each test range under subsection (a) shall--
          (1) provide access to all interested private and 
        public entities seeking to carry out testing and 
        evaluation activities at the test range designated 
        pursuant to this section, to the greatest extent 
        practicable, consistent with safety and any operating 
        procedures established by the test range sponsor, 
        including access by small business concerns (as that 
        term is described in section 3(a) of the Small Business 
        Act (15 U.S.C. 632(a));
          (2) ensure all activities remain within the 
        geographical boundaries and altitude limitations 
        established for the nonregulatory special use airspace 
        area covering the test range;
          (3) ensure no activity is conducted at the designated 
        test range in a careless or reckless manner;
          (4) establish safe operating procedures for all 
        operators approved for activities at the test range, 
        including provisions for maintaining operational 
        control and ensuring protection of persons and property 
        on the ground, subject to approval by the 
        Administrator;
          (5) exercise direct oversight of all operations 
        conducted at the test range;
          (6) consult with the Administrator on the nature of 
        planned activities at the test range and whether 
        temporary segregation through the use of a 
        nonregulatory special use airspace area is required to 
        contain such activities is consistent with aviation 
        safety;
          (7) protect proprietary technology, sensitive data, 
        or sensitive research of any civil or private entity 
        when using the test range;
          (8) maintain detailed records of all ongoing and 
        completed testing and evaluation activities conducted 
        at the test range and all operators conducting such 
        activities, for inspection by, and reporting to, the 
        Administrator, as required by agreement between the 
        Administrator and the test range sponsor;
          (9) make all original records available for 
        inspection upon request by the Administrator; and
          (10) provide recommendations to the Administrator to 
        further enable public and private testing and 
        evaluation activities at the test ranges that 
        contribute to the safe integration of unmanned aircraft 
        systems by the Administration into the national 
        airspace system, on a quarterly basis until the program 
        terminates.
  (f) Testing.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator may authorize a 
        sponsor of a test range designated under subsection (a) 
        to host testing and evaluation activities other than 
        those directly related to the integration of unmanned 
        aircraft systems into the national airspace system, 
        provided that the activity is necessary to inform the 
        development of standards or policy for integrating new 
        types of flight systems into the national airspace 
        system.
          (2) Waiver.--In carrying out this subsection, the 
        Administrator may waive the requirements of section 
        44711, including related regulations, to the extent 
        consistent with aviation safety.
  (g) Agreements.--The Administrator may use the transaction 
authority under section 106(l)(6) to enter into appropriate 
agreements to direct testing and evaluation activities related 
to unmanned aircraft systems at any test range designated under 
subsection (a).
  (h) Termination.--The program under this section shall 
terminate on September 30, 2028.

Sec. 44804. [Small unmanned]  Unmanned aircraft in the Arctic

  (a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation 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.
  (b) Plan Contents.--The plan under subsection (a) shall 
include the development of processes to facilitate the safe 
operation of [small] unmanned aircraft beyond the visual line 
of sight.
  (c) Requirements.--Each permanent area designated under 
subsection (a) 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.
  (d) Agreements.--To implement the plan under subsection (a), 
the Secretary may enter into an agreement with relevant 
national and international communities.
  (e) Aircraft Approval.--
          (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), not later 
        than 1 year after the entry into force of an agreement 
        necessary to effectuate the purposes of this section, 
        the Secretary shall work with relevant national and 
        international communities to establish and implement a 
        process for approving the use of a [small] unmanned 
        aircraft in the designated permanent areas in the 
        Arctic without regard to whether the [small] unmanned 
        aircraft is used as a public aircraft, a civil 
        aircraft, or a model aircraft.
          (2) Existing process.--The Secretary may implement an 
        existing process to meet the requirements under 
        paragraph (1).

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44806. Public unmanned aircraft systems  and public safety use of 
                    unmanned aircraft systems

  (a) Guidance.--The Secretary of Transportation shall issue 
guidance regarding the operation of a public unmanned aircraft 
system--
          (1) to streamline and expedite the process for the 
        issuance of a certificate of authorization or a 
        certificate of waiver;
          (2) to 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 public unmanned 
        aircraft systems; and
          (3) to provide guidance on a public agency's 
        responsibilities when operating an unmanned aircraft 
        without a civil airworthiness certificate issued by the 
        Administration.
  (b) Agreements With Government Agencies.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary shall enter into an 
        agreement with each appropriate public agency to 
        simplify the process for issuing a certificate of 
        waiver or a certificate of authorization with respect 
        to an application for authorization to operate a public 
        unmanned aircraft system in the national airspace 
        system.
          (2) Contents.--An agreement under paragraph (1) 
        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 not later than 60 business 
                        days after 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 an unmanned aircraft weighing 4.4 
                pounds or less if that unmanned aircraft is 
                operated--
                          (i) within or beyond the visual 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.
  (c) Public Safety Use of Actively Tethered Unmanned Aircraft 
Systems.--
          (1) In general.--[Not later than 180 days after the 
        date of enactment of this Act, the] The Administrator 
        of the Federal Aviation Administration shall [permit 
        the use of] permit, and may issue guidance regarding, 
        the use of [public] actively tethered unmanned aircraft 
        systems by a public safety organization for such 
        systems that are--
                  [(A) operated at an altitude of less than 150 
                feet above ground level;
                  [(B) operated--
                          [(i) within class G airspace; or
                          [(ii) at or below the ceiling 
                        depicted on the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration's published UAS facility 
                        maps for class B, C, D, or E surface 
                        area airspace;]
                  (A) operated--
                          (i) at or below an altitude of 150 
                        feet above ground level within class B, 
                        C, D, E, or G airspace, but not at a 
                        greater altitude than the ceiling 
                        depicted on the UAS facility maps 
                        published by the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration, where applicable;
                          (ii) within zero-grid airspaces as 
                        depicted on such UAS facility maps, 
                        only if operated in life-saving or 
                        emergency situations and with prior 
                        notification to the Administration in a 
                        manner determined by the Administrator; 
                        or
                          (iii) above 150 feet above ground 
                        level within class B, C, D, E, or G 
                        airspace only with prior authorization 
                        from the Administrator;
                  [(C)] (B) not flown directly over non-
                participating persons;
                  [(D)] (C) operated within visual line of 
                sight of the operator; and
                  [(E)] (D) operated in a manner that does not 
                interfere with and gives way to any other 
                aircraft.
          (2) Requirements.--Public actively tethered unmanned 
        aircraft systems may be operated--
                  (A) without any requirement to obtain a 
                certificate of authorization, certificate of 
                waiver, or other approval by the Federal 
                Aviation Administration;
                  (B) without requiring airman certification 
                under section 44703 of this title or any rule 
                or regulation relating to airman certification; 
                and
                  (C) without requiring airworthiness 
                certification under section 44704 of this title 
                or any rule or regulation relating to aircraft 
                certification.
          (3) Safety standards.--[Public actively] Actively 
        tethered unmanned aircraft systems operated within the 
        scope of the guidance issued pursuant to paragraph (1) 
        shall be exempt from the requirements of section 44805 
        of this title.
          (4) Savings provision.--Nothing in this subsection 
        shall be construed to preclude the Administrator of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration from issuing new 
        regulations for public actively tethered unmanned 
        aircraft systems in order to ensure the safety of the 
        national airspace system.
  (d) Federal Agency Coordination to Enhance the Public Health 
and Safety Capabilities of Public Unmanned Aircraft Systems.--
The Administrator shall assist Federal civilian Government 
agencies that operate unmanned aircraft systems within civil-
controlled airspace, in operationally deploying and integrating 
sense and avoid capabilities, as necessary to operate unmanned 
aircraft systems safely within the national airspace system.
  (e) Definition.--In this section, the term ``public safety 
organization'' means an entity that primarily engages in 
activities related to the safety and well-being of the general 
public, including law enforcement, fire departments, emergency 
medical services, and other organizations that protect and 
serve the public in matters of safety and security.

Sec. 44807. Special authority for certain unmanned aircraft systems

  (a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other requirement of 
this chapter or chapter 447, [the Secretary of Transportation] 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
use a risk-based approach to determine [if certain] how 
unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national 
airspace system notwithstanding completion of the comprehensive 
plan and rulemaking required by section 44802 or the guidance 
required by section 44806.
  (b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.--In making the 
determination under subsection (a), [the Secretary] the 
Administrator shall determine, at a minimum--
          (1) [which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if 
        any, as a result of their size] how the unmanned 
        aircraft, as a result of such aircraft's size, weight, 
        speed, operational capability, proximity to airports 
        and populated areas, operation over people, and 
        operation within or beyond the visual line of sight, or 
        operation during the day or night, [do not create] does 
        not create a hazard to users of the national airspace 
        system or the public; and
          (2) whether a certificate under section 44703 or 
        section 44704 of this title, or a certificate of waiver 
        or certificate of authorization, is required for the 
        operation of unmanned aircraft systems identified under 
        paragraph (1) of this subsection.
  [(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, 
including operation related to research, development, and 
testing of proprietary systems.]
  (c) Requirements for Safe Operation.--
          (1) In general.--For unmanned aircraft systems that 
        the Administrator determines under this section may 
        operate safely in the national airspace system, the 
        Administrator shall establish risk-based requirements, 
        or a process to accept risk-based proposed 
        requirements, for the safe operation of such aircraft 
        systems in the national airspace system, including 
        operation related to testing and evaluation of 
        proprietary systems.
          (2) Treatment of mitigation measures.--To the extent 
        that a proposed operation will be conducted exclusively 
        within the airspace of a Mode C Veil during the 
        entirety of the operation, such operation shall be 
        treated as satisfying the requirements of section 
        91.113(b) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, so 
        long as the operation employs--
                  (A) ADS-B In-based detect and avoid 
                capabilities;
                  (B) air traffic control communication and 
                coordination; and
                  (C) aeronautical information management 
                systems to notify other aircraft operators of 
                such operations.
          (3) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection 
        shall be construed to give an unmanned aircraft 
        operating pursuant to this section the right of way 
        over a manned aircraft.
  (d) Sunset.--The authority under this section for the 
Secretary to determine if certain unmanned aircraft systems may 
operate safely in the national airspace system terminates 
effective September 30, [2023] 2033.
  (e) Limitation.--In making determinations under this section, 
the Administrator may not consider unmanned aircraft systems to 
the extent that such systems may meet the requirements of 
established regulations applicable to the proposed operation of 
a system.
  (f) Exemption.--The Administrator may exercise the 
authorities described in this section without requiring a 
rulemaking or imposing the requirements of part 11 of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations, to the extent consistent with 
aviation safety.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44809. Exception for limited recreational operations of unmanned 
                    aircraft

  (a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (e), and 
notwithstanding chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, a 
person may operate a small unmanned aircraft without specific 
certification or operating authority from the Federal Aviation 
Administration if the operation adheres to all of the following 
limitations:
          (1) The aircraft is flown strictly for recreational 
        purposes.
          (2) The aircraft is operated in accordance with or 
        within the programming of a community-based 
        organization's set of safety guidelines that are 
        developed in coordination with the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
          (3) The aircraft is flown within the visual line of 
        sight of the person operating the aircraft or a visual 
        observer co-located and in direct communication with 
        the operator.
          (4) The aircraft is operated in a manner that does 
        not interfere with and gives way to any manned 
        aircraft.
          (5) In Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace or 
        within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of 
        Class E airspace designated for an airport, the 
        operator obtains prior authorization from the 
        Administrator or designee before operating and complies 
        with all airspace restrictions and prohibitions.
          [(6) In Class G airspace, the aircraft is flown from 
        the surface to not more than 400 feet above ground 
        level and complies with all airspace restrictions and 
        prohibitions.]
          (6) Except for circumstances when the Administrator 
        establishes alternative altitude ceilings or as 
        otherwise authorized in section (c), in Class G 
        airspace, the aircraft is flown from the surface to not 
        more than 400 feet above ground level and complies with 
        all airspace and flight restrictions and prohibitions 
        established under this subtitle, such as special use 
        airspace designations and temporary flight 
        restrictions.
          (7) The operator has passed an aeronautical knowledge 
        and safety test described in subsection (g) and 
        maintains proof of test passage to be made available to 
        the Administrator or law enforcement upon request.
          (8) The aircraft is registered and marked in 
        accordance with chapter 441 of this title and proof of 
        registration is made available to the Administrator or 
        a designee of the Administrator or law enforcement upon 
        request.
  (b) Other Operations.--Unmanned aircraft operations that do 
not conform to the limitations in subsection (a) must comply 
with all statutes and regulations generally applicable to 
unmanned aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems.
  [(c) Operations at Fixed Sites.--
          [(1) Operating procedure required.--Persons operating 
        unmanned aircraft under subsection (a) from a fixed 
        site within Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace or 
        within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of 
        Class E airspace designated for an airport, or a 
        community-based organization conducting a sanctioned 
        event within such airspace, shall make the location of 
        the fixed site known to the Administrator and shall 
        establish a mutually agreed upon operating procedure 
        with the air traffic control facility.
          [(2) Unmanned aircraft weighing more than 55 
        pounds.--A person may operate an unmanned aircraft 
        weighing more than 55 pounds, including the weight of 
        anything attached to or carried by the aircraft, under 
        subsection (a) if--
                  [(A) the unmanned aircraft complies with 
                standards and limitations developed by a 
                community-based organization and approved by 
                the Administrator; and
                  [(B) the aircraft is operated from a fixed 
                site as described in paragraph (1).]
  (c) Operations at Fixed Sites.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall establish a 
        process to approve, and publicly disseminate the 
        location of, fixed sites at which a person may carry 
        out recreational unmanned aircraft system operations.
          (2) Operating procedures.--
                  (A) Controlled airspace.--Persons operating 
                unmanned aircraft under paragraph (1) from a 
                fixed site within Class B, Class C, or Class D 
                airspace or within the lateral boundaries of 
                the surface area of Class E airspace designated 
                for an airport, or a community-based 
                organization sponsoring operations within such 
                airspace, shall make the location of the fixed 
                site known to the Administrator and shall 
                establish a mutually agreed upon operating 
                procedure with the air traffic control 
                facility.
                  (B) Altitude.--The Administrator, in 
                coordination with community-based organizations 
                sponsoring operations at fixed sites, shall 
                develop a process to approve requests for 
                recreational unmanned aircraft systems 
                operations at fixed sites that exceed the 
                maximum altitude contained in a UAS Facility 
                Map.
                  (C) Class g airspace.--Subject to compliance 
                with all airspace and flight restrictions and 
                prohibitions established under this subtitle, 
                such as special use airspace designations and 
                temporary flight restrictions, persons 
                operating drones under paragraph (1) from a 
                fixed site at which the operations are 
                sponsored by a community-based organization may 
                operate within Class G airspace--
                          (i) up to 400 feet above ground 
                        level, without prior authorization from 
                        the Administrator; and
                          (ii) above 400 feet above ground 
                        level, with prior authorization from 
                        the Administrator.
          (3) Unmanned aircraft weighing 55 pounds or 
        greater.--A person may operate an unmanned aircraft 
        weighing 55 pounds or greater, including the weight of 
        anything attached to or carried by the aircraft, under 
        paragraph (1) if--
                  (A) the unmanned aircraft complies with 
                standards and limitations developed by a 
                community-based organization and approved by 
                the Administrator; and
                  (B) the aircraft is operated from a fixed 
                site as described in paragraph (1).
          (4) Faa-recognized identification areas.--In 
        implementing subpart C of part 89 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, the Administrator shall prioritize 
        the review and adjudication of requests to establish 
        FAA Recognized Identification Areas at fixed sites 
        established under this section.
   (d)(d) [Updates.]Savings clause.--
          [(1) In general.--The Administrator, in consultation 
        with government, stakeholders, and community-based 
        organizations, shall initiate a process to periodically 
        update the operational parameters under subsection (a), 
        as appropriate.
          [(2) Considerations.--In updating an operational 
        parameter under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall 
        consider--
                  [(A) appropriate operational limitations to 
                mitigate risks to aviation safety and national 
                security, including risk to the uninvolved 
                public and critical infrastructure;
                  [(B) operations outside the membership, 
                guidelines, and programming of a community-
                based organization;
                  [(C) physical characteristics, technical 
                standards, and classes of aircraft operating 
                under this section;
                  [(D) trends in use, enforcement, or incidents 
                involving unmanned aircraft systems;
                  [(E) ensuring, to the greatest extent 
                practicable, that updates to the operational 
                parameters correspond to, and leverage, 
                advances in technology; and
                  [(F) equipage requirements that facilitate 
                safe, efficient, and secure operations and 
                further integrate all unmanned aircraft into 
                the national airspace system.]
          [(3) Savings clause.--]Nothing in this subsection 
        shall be construed as expanding the authority of the 
        Administrator to require a person operating an unmanned 
        aircraft under this section to seek permissive 
        authority of the Administrator, beyond that required in 
        [subsection (a) of] this section, prior to operation in 
        the national airspace system.
  (e) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed to limit the authority of the Administrator to pursue 
an enforcement action against a person operating any unmanned 
aircraft who endangers the safety of the national airspace 
system.
  (f) Exceptions.--Nothing in this section prohibits the 
Administrator from promulgating rules generally applicable to 
unmanned aircraft, including those unmanned aircraft eligible 
for the exception set forth in this section, relating to--
          (1) [updates to] the operational parameters for 
        unmanned aircraft in subsection (a);
          (2) the registration and marking of unmanned 
        aircraft;
          (3) the standards for remotely identifying owners and 
        operators of unmanned aircraft systems and associated 
        unmanned aircraft; and
          (4) other standards consistent with maintaining the 
        safety and security of the national airspace system.
  (g) Aeronautical Knowledge and Safety Test.--
          [(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the 
        date of enactment of this section, the Administrator, 
        in consultation with manufacturers of unmanned aircraft 
        systems, other industry stakeholders, and community-
        based organizations, shall develop an aeronautical 
        knowledge and safety test, which can then be 
        administered electronically by the Administrator, a 
        community-based organization, or a person designated by 
        the Administrator.]
          (1) In general.--The Administrator, in consultation 
        with manufacturers of unmanned aircraft systems, 
        community-based organizations, and other industry 
        stakeholders, shall develop, maintain, and update, as 
        necessary, an aeronautical knowledge and safety test. 
        Such test shall be administered electronically by the 
        Administrator or a person designated by the 
        Administrator.
          (2) Requirements.--The Administrator shall ensure the 
        aeronautical knowledge and safety test is designed to 
        adequately demonstrate an operator's--
                  (A) understanding of aeronautical safety 
                knowledge; and
                  (B) knowledge of Federal Aviation 
                Administration regulations and requirements 
                pertaining to the operation of an unmanned 
                aircraft system in the national airspace 
                system.
  (h) Community-based Organization Defined.--In this section, 
the term ``community-based organization'' means a membership-
based association entity that--
          (1) is recognized by the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration;
          [(1)] (2) is described in section 501(c)(3) of the 
        Internal Revenue Code of 1986;
          [(2)] (3) is exempt from tax under section 501(a) of 
        the Internal Revenue Code of 1986;
          [(3)] (4) the mission of which is demonstrably the 
        furtherance of model aviation;
          [(4)] (5) 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 aeromodelling operations within the 
        national airspace system and the protection and safety 
        of individuals and property on the ground, and may 
        provide a comprehensive set of safety rules and 
        programming for the operation of unmanned aircraft that 
        have the advanced flight capabilities enabling active, 
        sustained, and controlled navigation of the aircraft 
        beyond visual line of sight of the operator;
          [(5)] (6) provides programming and support for any 
        local charter organizations, affiliates, or clubs; and
          [(6)] (7) provides assistance and support in the 
        development and operation of locally designated model 
        aircraft flying sites.
  (i) Recognition of Community-based Organizations.--In 
collaboration with aeromodelling stakeholders, the 
Administrator shall publish an advisory circular within 180 
days of the date of enactment of this section that identifies 
the criteria and process required for recognition of community-
based organizations.

Sec. 44810. Airport safety and airspace hazard mitigation and 
                    enforcement

  (a) Coordination.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall work with the Secretary of Defense, the 
Secretary of Homeland Security, and the heads of other relevant 
Federal departments and agencies for the purpose of ensuring 
that technologies or systems that are developed, tested, or 
deployed by Federal departments and agencies to detect and 
mitigate potential risks posed by errant or hostile unmanned 
aircraft system operations do not adversely impact or interfere 
with safe airport operations, navigation, air traffic services, 
or the safe and efficient operation of the national airspace 
system.
  (b) Plan.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall develop a 
        plan for the certification, permitting, authorizing, or 
        allowing of the deployment of technologies or systems 
        for the detection and mitigation of unmanned aircraft 
        systems.
          (2) Contents.--The plan shall provide for the 
        development of policies, procedures, or protocols that 
        will allow appropriate officials of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration to utilize such technologies or 
        systems to take steps to detect and mitigate potential 
        airspace safety risks posed by unmanned aircraft system 
        operations.
          (3) Aviation rulemaking committee.--The Administrator 
        shall charter an aviation rulemaking committee to make 
        recommendations for such a plan and any standards that 
        the Administrator determines may need to be developed 
        with respect to such technologies or systems. The 
        Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) shall 
        not apply to an aviation rulemaking committee chartered 
        under this paragraph.
          (4) Non-delegation.--The plan shall not delegate any 
        authority granted to the Administrator under this 
        section to other Federal, State, local, territorial, or 
        tribal agencies, or an airport sponsor, as defined in 
        section 47102 of title 49, United States Code.
  (c) Airspace Hazard Mitigation Program.--In order to test and 
evaluate technologies or systems that detect and mitigate 
potential aviation safety risks posed by unmanned aircraft, the 
Administrator shall deploy such technologies or systems at 5 
airports, including 1 airport that ranks in the top 10 of the 
FAA's most recent Passenger Boarding Data.
  (d) Authority.--Under the testing and evaluation in 
subsection (c), the Administrator shall use unmanned aircraft 
detection and mitigation systems to detect and mitigate the 
unauthorized operation of an unmanned aircraft that poses a 
risk to aviation safety.
  (e) Aip Funding Eligibility.--Upon the certification, 
permitting, authorizing, or allowing of such technologies and 
systems that have been successfully tested under this section, 
an airport sponsor may apply for a grant under subchapter I of 
chapter 471 to purchase an unmanned aircraft detection and 
mitigation system. For purposes of this subsection, purchasing 
an unmanned aircraft detection and mitigation system shall be 
considered airport development (as defined in section 47102).
  (f) Briefing.--The Administrator shall annually brief the 
appropriate committees of Congress, including the Committee on 
Judiciary of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
the Judiciary of the Senate, on the implementation of this 
section.
  (g) Applicability of Other Laws.--Section 46502 of this 
title, section 32 of title 18, United States Code (commonly 
known as the Aircraft Sabotage Act), section 1031 of title 18, 
United States Code (commonly known as the Computer Fraud and 
Abuse Act of 1986),1 sections 2510-2522 of title 18, 
United States Code (commonly known as the Wiretap Act), and 
sections 3121-3127 of title 18, United States Code (commonly 
known as the Pen/Trap Statute), shall not apply to activities 
authorized by the Administrator pursuant to subsection (c) and 
(d).
  (h) Sunset.--This section ceases to be effective September 
30, [2023] 2028.
  (i) Non-delegation.--The Administrator shall not delegate any 
authority granted to the Administrator under this section to 
other Federal, State, local, territorial, or tribal agencies, 
or an airport sponsor, as defined in section 47102 of title 49, 
United States Code. The Administrator may partner with other 
Federal agencies under this section, subject to any 
restrictions contained in such agencies' authority to operate 
counter unmanned aircraft systems.

CHAPTER 449--SECURITY

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SUBCHAPTER I--REQUIREMENTS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 44918. Crew training

  (a) Basic Security Training.--
          (1) In general.--Each air carrier providing scheduled 
        passenger air transportation shall carry out a training 
        program for flight and cabin crew members to prepare 
        the crew members for potential threat conditions.
          (2) Program elements.--An air carrier training 
        program under this subsection shall include, at a 
        minimum, elements that address each of the following:
                  (A) Recognizing suspicious activities and 
                determining the seriousness of any occurrence.
                  (B) Crew communication and coordination.
                  (C) The proper commands to give passengers 
                and attackers.
                  (D) Appropriate responses to defend oneself.
                  (E) Use of protective devices assigned to 
                crew members (to the extent such devices are 
                required by the Administrator of the Federal 
                Aviation Administration or the Administrator of 
                the Transportation Security Administration).
                  (F) Psychology of terrorists to cope with 
                hijacker behavior and passenger responses.
                  (G) Situational training exercises regarding 
                various threat conditions.
                  (H) Flight deck procedures or aircraft 
                maneuvers to defend the aircraft and cabin crew 
                responses to such procedures and maneuvers.
                  (I) The proper conduct of a cabin search, 
                including explosive device recognition.
                  (J) Any other subject matter considered 
                appropriate by the Administrator of the 
                Transportation Security Administration.
          (3) Approval.--An air carrier training program under 
        this subsection shall be subject to approval by the 
        Administrator of the Transportation Security 
        Administration.
          (4) Minimum standards.--The Administrator of the 
        Transportation Security Administration may establish 
        minimum standards for the training provided under this 
        subsection and for recurrent training.
          (5) Existing programs.--Notwithstanding paragraphs 
        (3) and (4), any training program of an air carrier to 
        prepare flight and cabin crew members for potential 
        threat conditions that was approved by the 
        Administrator or the Administrator of the 
        Transportation Security Administration before December 
        12, 2003, may continue in effect until disapproved or 
        ordered modified by the Administrator of the 
        Transportation Security Administration.
          (6) Monitoring.--The Administrator of the 
        Transportation Security Administration, in consultation 
        with the Administrator, shall monitor air carrier 
        training programs under this subsection and 
        periodically shall review an air carrier's training 
        program to ensure that the program is adequately 
        preparing crew members for potential threat conditions. 
        In determining when an air carrier's training program 
        should be reviewed under this paragraph, the 
        Administrator of the Transportation Security 
        Administration shall consider complaints from crew 
        members. The Administrator of the Transportation 
        Security Administration shall ensure that employees 
        responsible for monitoring the training programs have 
        the necessary resources and knowledge.
          (7) Updates.--The Administrator of the Transportation 
        Security Administration, in consultation with the 
        Administrator, shall order air carriers to modify 
        training programs under this subsection to reflect new 
        or different security threats.
  (b) Advanced Self-Defense Training.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator of the 
        Transportation Security Administration shall develop 
        and provide a voluntary training program for flight and 
        cabin crew members of air carriers providing scheduled 
        passenger air transportation.
          (2) Program elements.--The training program under 
        this subsection shall include both classroom and 
        effective hands-on training in the following elements 
        of self-defense:
                  (A) Deterring a passenger who might present a 
                threat.
                  (B) Advanced control, striking, and restraint 
                techniques.
                  (C) Training to defend oneself against edged 
                or contact weapons.
                  (D) Methods to subdue and restrain an 
                attacker.
                  (E) Use of available items aboard the 
                aircraft for self-defense.
                  (F) Appropriate and effective responses to 
                defend oneself, including the use of force 
                against an attacker.
                  (G) Any other element of training that the 
                Administrator of the Transportation Security 
                Administration considers appropriate.
          (3) Participation not required.--A crew member shall 
        not be required to participate in the training program 
        under this subsection.
          (4) Compensation.--[Neither] Except as provided in 
        paragraph (8), neither the Federal Government nor an 
        air carrier shall be required to compensate a crew 
        member for participating in the training program under 
        this subsection.
          (5) Fees.--A crew member shall not be required to pay 
        a fee for the training program under this subsection.
          (6) Consultation.--In developing the training program 
        under this subsection, the Administrator of the 
        Transportation Security Administration shall consult 
        with law enforcement personnel and security experts who 
        have expertise in self-defense training, terrorism 
        experts, representatives of air carriers, the director 
        of self-defense training in the Federal Air Marshal 
        Service, flight attendants, labor organizations 
        representing flight attendants, and educational 
        institutions offering law enforcement training 
        programs.
          (7) Designation of tsa official.--The Administrator 
        of the Transportation Security Administration shall 
        designate an official in the Transportation Security 
        Administration to be responsible for implementing the 
        training program under this subsection. The official 
        shall consult with air carriers and labor organizations 
        representing crew members before implementing the 
        program to ensure that it is appropriate for situations 
        that may arise on board an aircraft during a flight.
          (8) Air carrier accommodation.--An air carrier with a 
        crew member participating in the training program under 
        this subsection shall provide a process through which 
        each such crew member may obtain reasonable 
        accommodations.
  (c) Limitation.--Actions by crew members under this section 
shall be subject to the provisions of section 44903(k).

                           CHAPTER 453--FEES

Sec.
     * * * * * * *
45306. Manual surcharge.
45307. Exemption of fees for traffic services.
 

Sec. 45301. General provisions

  (a) Schedule of Fees.--[The Administrator shall establish] 
The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
establish a schedule of new fees, and a collection process for 
such fees, for the following services provided by the 
Administration:
          (1) Air traffic control and related services provided 
        to aircraft other than military and civilian aircraft 
        of the United States Government or of a foreign 
        government that neither take off from, nor land in, the 
        United States.
          (2) Services (other than air traffic control 
        services) provided to a foreign government or services 
        provided to any entity obtaining services outside the 
        United States, except that the Administrator shall not 
        impose fees in any manner for production-certification 
        related service performed outside the United States 
        pertaining to aeronautical products manufactured 
        outside the United States.
  (b) Establishment and Adjustment of Fees.--
          (1) In general.--In establishing and adjusting fees 
        under this section, the Administrator shall ensure that 
        the fees are reasonably related to the Administration's 
        costs, as determined by the Administrator, of providing 
        the services rendered.
          (2) Services for which costs may be recovered.--
        Services for which costs may be recovered under this 
        section include the costs of air traffic control, 
        navigation, weather services, training, and emergency 
        services that are available to facilitate safe 
        transportation over the United States and the costs of 
        other services provided by the Administrator, or by 
        programs financed by the Administrator, to flights that 
        neither take off nor land in the United States.
          (3) Limitations on judicial review.--Notwithstanding 
        section 702 of title 5 or any other provision of law, 
        the following actions and other matters shall not be 
        subject to judicial review:
                  (A) The establishment or adjustment of a fee 
                by the Administrator under this section.
                  (B) The validity of a determination of costs 
                by the Administrator under paragraph (1), and 
                the processes and procedures applied by the 
                Administrator when reaching such determination.
                  (C) An allocation of costs by the 
                Administrator under paragraph (1) to services 
                provided, and the processes and procedures 
                applied by the Administrator when establishing 
                such allocation.
          (4) Aircraft altitude.--Nothing in this section shall 
        require the Administrator to take into account aircraft 
        altitude in establishing any fee for aircraft 
        operations in en route or oceanic airspace.
          (5) Costs defined.--In this subsection, the term 
        ``costs'' includes operation and maintenance costs, 
        leasing costs, and overhead expenses associated with 
        the services provided and the facilities and equipment 
        used in providing such services.
  (c) Use of Experts and Consultants.--In developing the 
system, the Administrator may consult with such nongovernmental 
experts as the Administrator may employ and the Administrator 
may utilize the services of experts and consultants under 
section 3109 of title 5 without regard to the limitation 
imposed by the last sentence of section 3109(b) of such title, 
and may contract on a sole source basis, notwithstanding any 
other provision of law to the contrary. Notwithstanding any 
other provision of law to the contrary, the Administrator may 
retain such experts under a contract awarded on a basis other 
than a competitive basis and without regard to any such 
provisions requiring competitive bidding or precluding sole 
source contract authority.
  (d) Production-Certification Related Service Defined.--In 
this section, the term ``production-certification related 
service'' has the meaning given that term in appendix C of part 
187 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  (e) Adjustment of Fees.--In addition to adjustments under 
subsection (b), the Administrator may periodically adjust the 
fees established under this section.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 45303. Administrative provisions

  (a) Fees Payable to Administrator.--All fees imposed and 
amounts collected under this chapter for services performed, or 
materials furnished, by the Federal Aviation Administration are 
payable to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration.
  (b) Refunds.--The Administrator may refund any fee paid by 
mistake or any amount paid in excess of that required.
  (c) Receipts Credited to Account.--Notwithstanding section 
3302 of title 31, all fees and amounts collected by the 
Administration, except insurance premiums and other fees 
charged for the provision of insurance and deposited in the 
Aviation Insurance Revolving Fund and interest earned on 
investments of such Fund, and except amounts which on September 
30, 1996, are required to be credited to the general fund of 
the Treasury (whether imposed under this section or not)--
          (1) shall be credited to a separate account 
        established in the Treasury and made available for 
        Administration activities;
          (2) shall be available immediately for expenditure 
        but only for congressionally authorized and intended 
        purposes; and
          (3) shall remain available until expended.
  (d) Annual Budget Report by Administrator.--The Administrator 
shall, on the same day each year as the President submits the 
annual budget to Congress, provide to the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives--
          (1) a list of fee collections by the Administration 
        during the preceding fiscal year;
          (2) a list of activities by the Administration during 
        the preceding fiscal year that were supported by fee 
        expenditures and appropriations;
          (3) budget plans for significant programs, projects, 
        and activities of the Administration, including out-
        year funding estimates;
          (4) any proposed disposition of surplus fees by the 
        Administration; and
          (5) such other information as those committees 
        consider necessary.
  (e) Development of Cost Accounting System.--The 
Administration shall develop a cost accounting system that 
adequately and accurately reflects the investments, operating 
and overhead costs, revenues, and other financial measurement 
and reporting aspects of its operations.
  (f) Compensation to Carriers for Acting as Collection 
Agents.--The Administration shall prescribe regulations to 
ensure that any air carrier required, pursuant to the Air 
Traffic Management System Performance Improvement Act of 1996 
or any amendments made by that Act, to collect a fee imposed on 
another party by the Administrator may collect from such other 
party an additional uniform amount that the Administrator 
determines reflects the necessary and reasonable expenses (net 
of interest accruing to the carrier after collection and before 
remittance) incurred in collecting and handling the fee.
  (g) Data Transparency.--
          (1) Air traffic services initial data report.--
                  (A) Initial report.--Not later than 6 months 
                after the date of enactment of the FAA 
                Reauthorization Act of 2018, the Administrator 
                and the Chief Operating Officer of the Air 
                Traffic Organization shall, based upon the most 
                recently available full fiscal year data, 
                complete the following calculations for each 
                segment of air traffic services users:
                          (i) The total costs allocable to the 
                        use of air traffic services for that 
                        segment during such fiscal year.
                          (ii) The total revenues received from 
                        that segment during such fiscal year.
                  (B) Validation of model.--
                          (i) Review and determination.--Not 
                        later than 3 months after completion of 
                        the initial report required under 
                        subparagraph (A), the inspector general 
                        of the Department of Transportation 
                        shall review and determine the validity 
                        of the model used by the Administrator 
                        and the Chief Operating Officer to 
                        complete the calculations required 
                        under subparagraph (A).
                          (ii) Validation process.--In the 
                        event that the inspector general 
                        determines that the model used by the 
                        Administrator and the Chief Operating 
                        Officer to complete the calculations 
                        required by subparagraph (A) is not 
                        valid--
                                  (I) the inspector general 
                                shall provide the Administrator 
                                and Chief Operating Officer 
                                recommendations on how to 
                                revise the model;
                                  (II) the Administrator and 
                                the Chief Operating Officer 
                                shall complete the calculations 
                                required by subparagraph (A) 
                                utilizing the revised model and 
                                resubmit the revised initial 
                                report required under 
                                subparagraph (A) to the 
                                inspector general; and
                                  (III) not later than 3 months 
                                after completion of the revised 
                                initial report required under 
                                subparagraph (A), the inspector 
                                general shall review and 
                                determine the validity of the 
                                revised model used by the 
                                Administrator and the Chief 
                                Operating Officer to complete 
                                the calculations required by 
                                subparagraph (A).
                          (iii) Access to data.--The 
                        Administrator and the Chief Operating 
                        Officer shall provide the inspector 
                        general of the Department of 
                        Transportation with unfettered access 
                        to all data produced by the cost 
                        accounting system operated and 
                        maintained pursuant to subsection (e).
                  (C) Report to congress.--Not later than 60 
                days after completion of the review and 
                receiving a determination that the model used 
                is valid under subparagraph (B), the 
                Administrator and the Chief Operating Officer 
                shall submit to the Committee on Transportation 
                and Infrastructure, the Committee on 
                Appropriations, and the Committee on Ways and 
                Means of the House of Representatives, and the 
                Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
                Transportation, the Committee on 
                Appropriations, and the Committee on Finance of 
                the Senate a report describing the results of 
                the calculations completed under subparagraph 
                (A).
                  (D) Publication.--Not later than 60 days 
                after submission of the report required under 
                subparagraph (C), the Administrator and Chief 
                Operating Officer shall publish the initial 
                report, including any revision thereto if 
                required as a result of the validation process 
                for the model.
          (2) Air traffic services biennial data reporting.--
                  (A) Biennial data reporting.--Not later than 
                March 31, 2019, and biennially thereafter for 
                [8 years] 14 years, the Administrator and the 
                Chief Operating Officer shall, using the 
                validated model, complete the following 
                calculations for each segment of air traffic 
                services users for the most recent full fiscal 
                year:
                          (i) The total costs allocable to the 
                        use of the air traffic services for 
                        that segment.
                          (ii) The total revenues received from 
                        that segment.
                  (B) Report to congress.--Not later than 15 
                days after completing the calculations under 
                subparagraph (A), the Administrator and the 
                Chief Operating Officer shall complete and 
                submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
                Infrastructure, the Committee on 
                Appropriations, and the Committee on Ways and 
                Means of the House of Representatives, and the 
                Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
                Transportation, the Committee on 
                Appropriations, and the Committee on Finance of 
                the Senate a report containing the results of 
                such calculations.
                  (C) Publication.--Not later than 60 days 
                after completing the calculations pursuant to 
                subparagraph (A), the Administrator and the 
                Chief Operating Officer shall publish the 
                results of such calculations.
          (3) Segments of air traffic services users.--
                  (A) In general.--For purposes of this 
                subsection, each of the following shall 
                constitute a separate segment of air traffic 
                services users:
                          (i) Passenger air carriers conducting 
                        operations under part 121 of title 14, 
                        Code of Federal Regulations.
                          (ii) All-cargo air carriers 
                        conducting operations under part 121 of 
                        such title.
                          (iii) Operators covered by part 125 
                        of such title.
                          (iv) Air carriers and operators of 
                        piston-engine aircraft operating under 
                        part 135 of such title.
                          (v) Air carriers and operators of 
                        turbine-engine aircraft operating under 
                        part 135 of such title.
                          (vi) Foreign air carriers providing 
                        passenger air transportation.
                          (vii) Foreign air carriers providing 
                        all-cargo air transportation.
                          (viii) Operators of turbine-engine 
                        aircraft operating under part 91 of 
                        such title, excluding those operating 
                        under subpart (K) of such part.
                          (ix) Operators of piston-engine 
                        aircraft operating under part 91 of 
                        such title, excluding those operating 
                        under subpart (K) of such part.
                          (x) Operators covered by subpart (K) 
                        of part 91 of such title.
                          (xi) Operators covered by part 133 of 
                        such title.
                          (xii) Operators covered by part 136 
                        of such title.
                          (xiii) Operators covered by part 137 
                        of such title.
                          (xiv) Operators of public aircraft 
                        that qualify under section 40125.
                          (xv) Operators of aircraft that 
                        neither take off from, nor land in, the 
                        United States.
                          (xvi) Operators of commercial space 
                        transportation launch and reentry 
                        vehicles.
                  (B) Additional segments.--The Secretary may 
                identify and include additional segments of air 
                traffic users under subparagraph (A) as revenue 
                and air traffic services cost data become 
                available for that additional segment of air 
                traffic services users.
          (4) Definitions.--For purposes of this subsection:
                  (A) Air traffic services.--The term ``air 
                traffic services'' means services--
                          (i) 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; and
                          (ii) provided directly, or contracted 
                        for, by the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration.
                  (B) Air traffic services user.--The term 
                ``air traffic services user'' means any 
                individual or entity using air traffic services 
                provided directly, or contracted for, by the 
                Federal Aviation Administration within United 
                States airspace or international airspace 
                delegated to the United States.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 45307. Exemption of fees for air traffic services

  (a) Requirement to Provide Services and Related Support.--The 
Administrator shall provide or ensure the provisioning of air 
traffic services and aviation safety support for large, 
multiday aviation events, including airshows and fly-ins, where 
the average daily number of manned operations were 1,000 or 
greater in at least 1 of the preceding 3 years, without the 
imposition or collection of any fee, tax, or other charge for 
that purpose. Amounts for the provision of such services and 
support shall be derived from amounts appropriated or otherwise 
available for the Administration.
  (b) Determination of Services and Support to Be Provided.--In 
determining the services and support to be provided for an 
aviation event for purposes of subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall take into account the following:
          (1) The services and support required to meet levels 
        of activity at prior events, if any, similar to the 
        event.
          (2) The anticipated need for services and support at 
        the event.

SUBPART iv--ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 461--INVESTIGATIONS AND PROCEEDINGS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 46101. Complaints and investigations

  (a) General.--(1) A person may file a complaint in writing 
with the Secretary of Transportation (or the Administrator of 
the Transportation Security Administration with respect to 
security duties and powers designated to be carried out by the 
Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration or 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration with 
respect to aviation safety duties and powers designated to be 
carried out by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration) about a person violating this part or a 
requirement prescribed under this part. Except as provided in 
subsection (b) of this section, the Secretary, Administrator of 
the Transportation Security Administration, or Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration shall investigate the 
complaint if a reasonable ground appears to the Secretary, 
Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration, or 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration for the 
investigation.
  (2) On the initiative of the Secretary, Administrator of the 
Transportation Security Administration, or Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration, as appropriate, the Secretary, 
Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration, or 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may 
conduct an investigation, if a reasonable ground appears to the 
Secretary, Administrator of the Transportation Security 
Administration, or Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration for the investigation, about--
          (A) a person violating this part or a requirement 
        prescribed under this part; or
          (B) any question that may arise under this part.
  (3) The Secretary of Transportation, Administrator of the 
Transportation Security Administration, or Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration may dismiss a complaint without 
a hearing when the Secretary, Administrator of the 
Transportation Security Administration, or Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration is of the opinion that the 
complaint does not state facts that warrant an investigation or 
action.
  (4) After notice and an opportunity for a hearing and subject 
to section 40105(b) of this title, the Secretary of 
Transportation, Administrator of the Transportation Security 
Administration, or Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall issue an order to compel compliance with 
this part if the Secretary, Administrator of the Transportation 
Security Administration, or Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration finds in an investigation under this 
subsection that a person is violating this part.
  (b) Complaints Against Members of Armed Forces.--The 
Secretary of Transportation, Administrator of the 
Transportation Security Administration, or Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall refer a complaint against 
a member of the armed forces of the United States performing 
official duties to the Secretary of the department concerned 
for action. Not later than 90 days after receiving the 
complaint, the Secretary of that department shall inform the 
Secretary of Transportation, Administrator of the 
Transportation Security Administration, or Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration of the action taken on the 
complaint, including any corrective or disciplinary action 
taken.
  (c) Prohibition on Using ADS-B Data to Initiate an 
Investigation.--
          (1) In general.--Notwithstanding any provision of 
        this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration may not initiate an investigation 
        (excluding a criminal investigation) of a person based 
        exclusively on automatic dependent surveillance-
        broadcast data.
          (2) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection 
        shall prohibit the use of automatic dependent 
        surveillance-broadcast data in an investigation that 
        was initiated for any reason other than the review of 
        automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast data, 
        including if such investigation was initiated as a 
        result of a report or complaint submitted to the 
        Administrator.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 46110. Judicial review

  (a) Filing and Venue.--Except for an order related to a 
foreign air carrier subject to disapproval by the President 
under section 41307 or 41509(f) of this title, a person 
disclosing a substantial interest in an order issued by the 
Secretary of Transportation (or the Administrator of the 
Transportation Security Administration with respect to security 
duties and powers designated to be carried out by the 
Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration or 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration with 
respect to aviation duties and powers designated to be carried 
out by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration) in whole or in part under this part, part B, or 
[subsection (l) or (s) of section 114] subsection (l) or (r) of 
section 114 may apply for review of the order by filing a 
petition for review in the United States Court of Appeals for 
the District of Columbia Circuit or in the court of appeals of 
the United States for the circuit in which the person resides 
or has its principal place of business. The petition must be 
filed not later than 60 days after the order is issued. The 
court may allow the petition to be filed after the 60th day 
only if there are reasonable grounds for not filing by the 60th 
day.
  (b) Judicial Procedures.--When a petition is filed under 
subsection (a) of this section, the clerk of the court 
immediately shall send a copy of the petition to the Secretary, 
Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration, or 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, as 
appropriate. The Secretary, Administrator of the Transportation 
Security Administration, or Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall file with the court a record of 
any proceeding in which the order was issued, as provided in 
section 2112 of title 28.
  (c) Authority of Court.--When the petition is sent to the 
Secretary, Administrator of the Transportation Security 
Administration, or Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration, the court has exclusive jurisdiction to affirm, 
amend, modify, or set aside any part of the order and may order 
the Secretary, Administrator of the Transportation Security 
Administration, or Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration to conduct further proceedings. After reasonable 
notice to the Secretary, Administrator of the Transportation 
Security Administration, or Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration, the court may grant interim relief by 
staying the order or taking other appropriate action when good 
cause for its action exists. Findings of fact by the Secretary, 
Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration, or 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, if 
supported by substantial evidence, are conclusive.
  (d) Requirement for Prior Objection.--In reviewing an order 
under this section, the court may consider an objection to an 
order of the Secretary, Administrator of the Transportation 
Security Administration, or Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration only if the objection was made in the 
proceeding conducted by the Secretary, Administrator of the 
Transportation Security Administration, or Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration or if there was a reasonable 
ground for not making the objection in the proceeding.
  (e) Supreme Court Review.--A decision by a court under this 
section may be reviewed only by the Supreme Court under section 
1254 of title 28.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 463--PENALTIES

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 46301. Civil penalties

  (a) General Penalty.--(1) A person is liable to the United 
States Government for a civil penalty of not more than $25,000 
(or $1,100 if the person is an individual or small business 
concern) for violating--
          (A) chapter 401 (except sections 40103(a) and (d), 
        40105, 40116, and 40117), chapter 411, chapter 413 
        (except sections 41307 and 41310(b)-(f)), chapter 415 
        (except sections 41502, 41505, and 41507-41509), 
        chapter 417 (except sections 41703, 41704, 41710, 
        41713, and 41714), chapter 419, subchapter II or III of 
        chapter 421, chapter 423, chapter 441 (except section 
        44109), section 44502(b) or (c), chapter 447 (except 
        sections 44717 and 44719-44723), chapter 448, chapter 
        449 (except sections 44902, 44903(d), 44904, 44907(a)-
        (d)(1)(A) and (d)(1)(C)-(f), and 44908), chapter 451, 
        section 47107(b) (including any assurance made under 
        such section), or section 47133 of this title;
          (B) a regulation prescribed or order issued under any 
        provision to which clause (A) of this paragraph 
        applies;
          (C) any term of a certificate or permit issued under 
        section 41102, 41103, or 41302 of this title; or
          (D) a regulation of the United States Postal Service 
        under this part.
  (2) A separate violation occurs under this subsection for 
each day the violation (other than a violation of section 
41719) continues or, if applicable, for each flight involving 
the violation (other than a violation of section 41719).
  (3) Penalty for diversion of aviation revenues.--The amount 
of a civil penalty assessed under this section for a violation 
of section 47107(b) of this title (or any assurance made under 
such section) or section 47133 of this title may be increased 
above the otherwise applicable maximum amount under this 
section to an amount not to exceed 3 times the amount of 
revenues that are used in violation of such section.
  (4) Aviation security violations.--Notwithstanding paragraph 
(1) of this subsection, the maximum civil penalty for violating 
chapter 449 shall be $10,000; except that the maximum civil 
penalty shall be $25,000 in the case of a person operating an 
aircraft for the transportation of passengers or property for 
compensation (except an individual serving as an airman).
  (5) Penalties applicable to individuals and small business 
concerns.--
          (A) An individual (except an airman serving as an 
        airman) or small business concern is liable to the 
        Government for a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 
        for violating--
                  (i) chapter 401 (except sections 40103(a) and 
                (d), 40105, 40106(b), 40116, and 40117), 
                section 44502 (b) or (c), chapter 447 (except 
                sections 44717-44723), chapter 448, chapter 449 
                (except sections 44902, 44903(d), 44904, and 
                44907-44909), chapter 451, or section 46314(a) 
                of this title; or
                  (ii) a regulation prescribed or order issued 
                under any provision to which clause (i) 
                applies.
          (B) A civil penalty of not more than $10,000 may be 
        imposed for each violation under paragraph (1) 
        committed by an individual or small business concern 
        related to--
                  (i) the transportation of hazardous material;
                  (ii) the registration or recordation under 
                chapter 441 of an aircraft not used to provide 
                air transportation;
                  (iii) a violation of section 44718(d), 
                relating to the limitation on construction or 
                establishment of landfills;
                  (iv) a violation of section 44725, relating 
                to the safe disposal of life-limited aircraft 
                parts; or
                  (v) a violation of section 40127 or section 
                41705, relating to discrimination.
          (C) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the maximum civil 
        penalty for a violation of section 41719 committed by 
        an individual or small business concern shall be $5,000 
        instead of $1,000.
          (D) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the maximum civil 
        penalty for a violation of section 41712 (including a 
        regulation prescribed or order issued under such 
        section) or any other regulation prescribed by the 
        Secretary of Transportation by an individual or small 
        business concern that is intended to afford consumer 
        protection to commercial air transportation passengers 
        shall be $2,500 for each violation.
  (6)  [Failure To Collect Airport Security Badges] Failure to 
collect airport security badges.--Notwithstanding paragraph 
(1), any employer (other than a governmental entity or airport 
operator) who employs an employee to whom an airport security 
badge or other identifier used to obtain access to a secure 
area of an airport is issued before, on, or after the date of 
enactment of this paragraph and who does not collect or make 
reasonable efforts to collect such badge from the employee on 
the date that the employment of the employee is terminated and 
does not notify the operator of the airport of such termination 
within 24 hours of the date of such termination shall be liable 
to the Government for a civil penalty not to exceed $10,000.
  (7)  [Penalties Relating to Harm to Passengers With 
Disabilities] Penalties relating to harm to passengers with 
disabilities.--
          (A) Penalty for bodily harm or damage to wheelchair 
        or other mobility aid.--The amount of a civil penalty 
        assessed under this section for a violation of section 
        41705 that involves damage to a passenger's wheelchair 
        or other mobility aid or injury to a passenger with a 
        disability may be increased above the otherwise 
        applicable maximum amount under this section for a 
        violation of section 41705 to an amount not to exceed 3 
        times the maximum penalty otherwise allowed.
          (B) Each act constitutes separate offense.--
        Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a separate violation of 
        section 41705 occurs for each act of discrimination 
        prohibited by that section.
  (b) Smoke Alarm Device Penalty.--(1) A passenger may not 
tamper with, disable, or destroy a smoke alarm device located 
in a lavatory on an aircraft providing air transportation or 
intrastate air transportation.
  (2) An individual violating this subsection is liable to the 
Government for a civil penalty of not more than $2,000.
  (c) Procedural Requirements.--(1) The Secretary of 
Transportation may impose a civil penalty for the following 
violations only after notice and an opportunity for a hearing:
          (A) a violation of subsection (b) of this section or 
        chapter 411, chapter 413 (except sections 41307 and 
        41310(b)-(f)), chapter 415 (except sections 41502, 
        41505, and 41507-41509), chapter 417 (except sections 
        41703, 41704, 41710, 41713, and 41714), chapter 419, 
        subchapter II of chapter 421, chapter 423, or section 
        44909 of this title.
          (B) a violation of a regulation prescribed or order 
        issued under any provision to which clause (A) of this 
        paragraph applies.
          (C) a violation of any term of a certificate or 
        permit issued under section 41102, 41103, or 41302 of 
        this title.
          (D) a violation under subsection (a)(1) of this 
        section related to the transportation of hazardous 
        material.
  (2) The Secretary shall give written notice of the finding of 
a violation and the civil penalty under paragraph (1) of this 
subsection.
  (d) Administrative Imposition of Penalties.--(1) In this 
subsection--
          (A) ``flight engineer'' means an individual who holds 
        a flight engineer certificate issued under part 63 of 
        title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (B) ``mechanic'' means an individual who holds a 
        mechanic certificate issued under part 65 of title 14, 
        Code of Federal Regulations.
          (C) ``pilot'' means an individual who holds a pilot 
        certificate issued under part 61 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations.
          (D) ``repairman'' means an individual who holds a 
        repairman certificate issued under part 65 of title 14, 
        Code of Federal Regulations.
  (2) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
may impose a civil penalty for a violation of chapter 401 
(except sections 40103(a) and (d), 40105, 40106(b), 40116, and 
40117), chapter 441 (except section 44109), section 44502(b) or 
(c), chapter 447 (except sections 44717 and 44719-44723), 
chapter 448, chapter 451, section 46301(b), section 46302 (for 
a violation relating to section 46504), section 46318, section 
46319, section 46320, or section 47107(b) (as further defined 
by the Secretary of Transportation under section 47107(k) and 
including any assurance made under section 47107(b)) of this 
title or a regulation prescribed or order issued under any of 
those provisions. The Secretary of Homeland Security may impose 
a civil penalty for a violation of chapter 449 (except sections 
44902, 44903(d), 44907(a)-(d)(1)(A), 44907(d)(1)(C)-(f), 44908, 
and 44909), section 46302 (except for a violation relating to 
section 46504), or section 46303 of this title or a regulation 
prescribed or order issued under any of those provisions. The 
Secretary of Homeland Security or Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall give written notice of the 
finding of a violation and the penalty.
  (3) In a civil action to collect a civil penalty imposed by 
the Secretary of Homeland Security or Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration under this subsection, the 
issues of liability and the amount of the penalty may not be 
reexamined.
  (4) Notwithstanding paragraph (2) of this subsection, the 
district courts of the United States have exclusive 
jurisdiction of a civil action involving a penalty the 
Secretary of Homeland Security or Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration initiates if--
          (A) the amount in controversy is more than--
                  (i) $50,000 if the violation was committed by 
                any person before the date of enactment of the 
                Vision 100--Century of Aviation Reauthorization 
                Act;
                  (ii) $400,000 if the violation was committed 
                by a person other than an individual or small 
                business concern on or after that date; or
                  (iii) $50,000 if the violation was committed 
                by an individual or small business concern on 
                or after that date;
          (B) the action is in rem or another action in rem 
        based on the same violation has been brought;
          (C) the action involves an aircraft subject to a lien 
        that has been seized by the Government; or
          (D) another action has been brought for an injunction 
        based on the same violation.
  (5)(A) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration may issue an order imposing a penalty under this 
subsection against an individual acting as a pilot, flight 
engineer, mechanic, or repairman only after advising the 
individual of the charges or any reason the Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration relied on for the proposed 
penalty and providing the individual an opportunity to answer 
the charges and be heard about why the order shall not be 
issued.
  (B) An individual acting as a pilot, flight engineer, 
mechanic, or repairman may appeal an order imposing a penalty 
under this subsection to the National Transportation Safety 
Board. After notice and an opportunity for a hearing on the 
record, the Board shall affirm, modify, or reverse the order. 
The Board may modify a civil penalty imposed to a suspension or 
revocation of a certificate.
  (C) When conducting a hearing under this paragraph, the Board 
is not bound by findings of fact of the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration but is bound by all validly 
adopted interpretations of laws and regulations the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration carries 
out and of written agency policy guidance available to the 
public related to sanctions to be imposed under this section 
unless the Board finds an interpretation is arbitrary, 
capricious, or otherwise not according to law.
  (D) When an individual files an appeal with the Board under 
this paragraph, the order of the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration is stayed.
  (6) An individual substantially affected by an order of the 
Board under paragraph (5) of this subsection, or the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration when the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration decides 
that an order of the Board under paragraph (5) will have a 
significant adverse impact on carrying out this part, may 
obtain judicial review of the order under section 46110 of this 
title. The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall be made a party to the judicial review proceedings. 
Findings of fact of the Board are conclusive if supported by 
substantial evidence.
  (7)(A) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration may impose a penalty on a person (except an 
individual acting as a pilot, flight engineer, mechanic, or 
repairman) only after notice and an opportunity for a hearing 
on the record.
  (B) In an appeal from a decision of an administrative law 
judge as the result of a hearing under subparagraph (A) of this 
paragraph, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall consider only whether--
          (i) each finding of fact is supported by a 
        preponderance of reliable, probative, and substantial 
        evidence;
          (ii) each conclusion of law is made according to 
        applicable law, precedent, and public policy; and
          (iii) the judge committed a prejudicial error that 
        supports the appeal.
  (C) Except for good cause, a civil action involving a penalty 
under this paragraph may not be initiated later than 2 years 
after the violation occurs.
  (D) In the case of a violation of section 47107(b) of this 
title or any assurance made under such section--
          (i) a civil penalty shall not be assessed against an 
        individual;
          (ii) a civil penalty may be compromised as provided 
        under subsection (f); and
          (iii) judicial review of any order assessing a civil 
        penalty may be obtained only pursuant to section 46110 
        of this title.
  (8) The maximum civil penalty the Administrator of the 
Transportation Security Administration, Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration, or Board may impose under this 
subsection is--
          (A) $50,000 if the violation was committed by any 
        person before the date of enactment of the Vision 100--
        Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act;
          (B) $400,000 if the violation was committed by a 
        person other than an individual or small business 
        concern on or after that date; or
          (C) $50,000 if the violation was committed by an 
        individual or small business concern on or after that 
        date.
  (9) This subsection applies only to a violation occurring 
after August 25, 1992.
  (e) Penalty Considerations.--In determining the amount of a 
civil penalty under subsection (a)(3) of this section related 
to transportation of hazardous material, the Secretary of 
Transportation shall consider--
          (1) the nature, circumstances, extent, and gravity of 
        the violation;
          (2) with respect to the violator, the degree of 
        culpability, any history of prior violations, the 
        ability to pay, and any effect on the ability to 
        continue doing business; and
          (3) other matters that justice requires.
  (f) Compromise and Setoff.--(1)(A) The Secretary may 
compromise the amount of a civil penalty imposed for 
violating--
          (i) chapter 401 (except sections 40103(a) and (d), 
        40105, 40116, and 40117), chapter 441 (except section 
        44109), section 44502(b) or (c), chapter 447 (except 
        sections 44717 and 44719-44723), chapter 448, chapter 
        449 (except sections 44902, 44903(d), 44904, 44907(a)-
        (d)(1)(A) and (d)(1)(C)-(f), 44908, and 44909), or 
        chapter 451 of this title; or
          (ii) a regulation prescribed or order issued under 
        any provision to which clause (i) of this subparagraph 
        applies.
  (B) The Postal Service may compromise the amount of a civil 
penalty imposed under subsection (a)(1)(D) of this section.
  (2) The Government may deduct the amount of a civil penalty 
imposed or compromised under this subsection from amounts it 
owes the person liable for the penalty.
  (g) Judicial Review.--An order of the Secretary or the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration imposing a 
civil penalty may be reviewed judicially only under section 
46110 of this title.
  (h) Nonapplication.--(1) This section does not apply to the 
following when performing official duties:
          (A) a member of the armed forces of the United 
        States.
          (B) a civilian employee of the Department of Defense 
        subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
  (2) The appropriate military authority is responsible for 
taking necessary disciplinary action and submitting to the 
Secretary (or the Administrator of the Transportation Security 
Administration with respect to security duties and powers 
designated to be carried out by the Administrator of the 
Transportation Security Administration or the Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration with respect to aviation 
safety duties and powers designated to be carried out by the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration) a timely 
report on action taken.
  (i) Small Business Concern Defined.--In this section, the 
term ``small business concern'' has the meaning given that term 
in section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632).

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 465--SPECIAL AIRCRAFT JURISDICTION OF THE UNITED STATES

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 46503. Interference with security screening personnel

   [An individual] (a)  In General._An individual  in an area 
within a commercial service airport in the United States who, 
by assaulting a Federal, airport, or air carrier employee who 
has security duties within the airport, interferes with the 
performance of the duties of the employee or lessens the 
ability of the employee to perform those duties, shall be fined 
under title 18, imprisoned for not more than 10 years, or both. 
If the individual used a dangerous weapon in committing the 
assault or interference, the individual may be imprisoned for 
any term of years or life imprisonment.
  (b) Airport and Air Carrier Employees.--For purposes of this 
section, an airport or air carrier employee who has security 
duties within the airport includes an airport or air carrier 
employee performing ticketing, check-in, baggage claim, or 
boarding functions.

PART B--AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT AND NOISE

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


                    CHAPTER 471--AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT

                    SUBCHAPTER I--AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT

Sec.
     * * * * * * *
[47131. Annual report.]
     * * * * * * *
[47140. Increasing the energy efficiency of airport power sources.]
47140. Meeting current and future electrical power demand.
     * * * * * * *
[47142. Design-build contracting.]
47142. Alternative project delivery.
     * * * * * * *

                   SUBCHAPTER I--AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT

Sec. 47101. Policies

  (a) General.--It is the policy of the United States--
          (1) that the safe operation of the airport and airway 
        system is the highest aviation priority;
          (2) that projects, activities, and actions that 
        prevent runway incursions serve to--
                  (A) improve airport surface surveillance; and
                  (B) mitigate surface safety risks that are 
                essential to ensuring the safe operation of the 
                airport and airway system;
          [(2)] (3) that aviation facilities be constructed and 
        operated to minimize current and projected noise impact 
        on nearby communities;
          [(3)] (4) to give special emphasis to developing 
        reliever airports;
          [(4)] (5) that appropriate provisions should be made 
        to make the development and enhancement of cargo hub 
        airports easier;
          [(5)] (6) to encourage the development of intermodal 
        connections on airport property between aeronautical 
        and other transportation modes and systems to serve air 
        transportation passengers and cargo efficiently and 
        effectively and promote economic development;
          [(6)] (7) that airport development projects under 
        this subchapter provide for the protection and 
        enhancement of natural resources and the quality of the 
        environment of the United States;
          [(7)] (8) that airport construction and improvement 
        projects that increase the capacity of facilities to 
        accommodate passenger and cargo traffic be undertaken 
        to the maximum feasible extent so that safety and 
        efficiency increase and delays decrease;
          [(8)] (9) to ensure that nonaviation usage of the 
        navigable airspace be accommodated but not allowed to 
        decrease the safety and capacity of the airspace and 
        airport system;
          [(9)] (10) that artificial restrictions on airport 
        capacity--
                  (A) are not in the public interest;
                  (B) should be imposed to alleviate air 
                traffic delays only after other reasonably 
                available and less burdensome alternatives have 
                been tried; and
                  (C) should not discriminate unjustly between 
                categories and classes of aircraft;
          [(10)] (11) that special emphasis should be placed on 
        converting appropriate former military air bases to 
        civil use and identifying and improving additional 
        joint-use facilities;
          [(11)] (12) that the airport improvement program 
        should be administered to encourage projects that 
        employ innovative technology (including integrated in-
        pavement lighting systems for runways and taxiways and 
        other runway and taxiway incursion prevention devices), 
        concepts, and approaches that will promote safety, 
        capacity, and efficiency improvements in the 
        construction of airports and in the air transportation 
        system (including the development and use of innovative 
        concrete and other materials in the construction of 
        airport facilities to minimize initial laydown costs, 
        minimize time out of service, and maximize lifecycle 
        durability) and to encourage and solicit innovative 
        technology proposals and activities in the expenditure 
        of funding pursuant to this subchapter;
          [(12)] (13) that airport fees, rates, and charges 
        must be reasonable and may only be used for purposes 
        not prohibited by this subchapter; and
          [(13)] (14) that airports should be as self-
        sustaining as possible under the circumstances existing 
        at each particular airport and in establishing new 
        fees, rates, and charges, and generating revenues from 
        all sources, airport owners and operators should not 
        seek to create revenue surpluses that exceed the 
        amounts to be used for airport system purposes and for 
        other purposes for which airport revenues may be spent 
        under section 47107(b)(1) of this title, including 
        reasonable reserves and other funds to facilitate 
        financing and cover contingencies.
  (b) National Transportation Policy.--(1) It is a goal of the 
United States to develop a national intermodal transportation 
system that transports passengers and property in an efficient 
manner. The future economic direction of the United States 
depends on its ability to confront directly the enormous 
challenges of the global economy, declining productivity 
growth, energy vulnerability, air pollution, and the need to 
rebuild the infrastructure of the United States.
  (2) United States leadership in the world economy, the 
expanding wealth of the United States, the competitiveness of 
the industry of the United States, the standard of living, and 
the quality of life are at stake.
  (3) A national intermodal transportation system is a 
coordinated, flexible network of diverse but complementary 
forms of transportation that transports passengers and property 
in the most efficient manner. By reducing transportation costs, 
these intermodal systems will enhance the ability of the 
industry of the United States to compete in the global 
marketplace.
  (4) All forms of transportation, including aviation and other 
transportation systems of the future, will be full partners in 
the effort to reduce energy consumption and air pollution while 
promoting economic development.
  (5) An intermodal transportation system consists of 
transportation hubs that connect different forms of appropriate 
transportation and provides users with the most efficient means 
of transportation and with access to commercial centers, 
business locations, population centers, and the vast rural 
areas of the United States, as well as providing links to other 
forms of transportation and to intercity connections.
  (6) Intermodality and flexibility are paramount issues in the 
process of developing an integrated system that will obtain the 
optimum yield of United States resources.
  (7) The United States transportation infrastructure must be 
reshaped to provide the economic underpinnings for the United 
States to compete in the 21st century global economy. The 
United States can no longer rely on the sheer size of its 
economy to dominate international economic rivals and must 
recognize fully that its economy is no longer a separate entity 
but is part of the global marketplace. The future economic 
prosperity of the United States depends on its ability to 
compete in an international marketplace that is teeming with 
competitors but in which a full one-quarter of the economic 
activity of the United States takes place.
  (8) The United States must make a national commitment to 
rebuild its infrastructure through development of a national 
intermodal transportation system. The United States must 
provide the foundation for its industries to improve 
productivity and their ability to compete in the global economy 
with a system that will transport passengers and property in an 
efficient manner.
  (c) Capacity Expansion and Noise Abatement.--It is in the 
public interest to recognize the effects of airport capacity 
expansion projects on aircraft noise. Efforts to increase 
capacity through any means can have an impact on surrounding 
communities. Noncompatible land uses around airports must be 
reduced and efforts to mitigate noise must be given a high 
priority.
  (d) Consistency With Air Commerce and Safety Policies.--Each 
airport and airway program should be carried out consistently 
with section 40101(a), (b), (d), and (f) of this title to 
foster competition, prevent unfair methods of competition in 
air transportation, maintain essential air transportation, and 
prevent unjust and discriminatory practices, including as the 
practices may be applied between categories and classes of 
aircraft.
  (e) Adequacy of Navigation Aids and Airport Facilities.--This 
subchapter should be carried out to provide adequate navigation 
aids and airport facilities for places at which scheduled 
commercial air service is provided. The facilities provided may 
include--
          (1) reliever airports; and
          (2) heliports designated by the Secretary of 
        Transportation to relieve congestion at commercial 
        service airports by diverting aircraft passengers from 
        fixed-wing aircraft to helicopter carriers.
  (f) Maximum Use of Safety Facilities.--This subchapter should 
be carried out consistently with a comprehensive airspace 
system plan, giving highest priority to commercial service 
airports, to maximize the use of safety facilities, including 
installing, operating, and maintaining, to the extent possible 
with available money and considering other safety needs--
          (1) electronic or visual vertical guidance on each 
        runway;
          (2) grooving or friction treatment of each primary 
        and secondary runway;
          (3) distance-to-go signs for each primary and 
        secondary runway;
          (4) a precision approach system, a vertical visual 
        guidance system, and a full approach light system for 
        each primary runway;
          (5) a nonprecision instrument approach for each 
        secondary runway;
          (6) runway end identifier lights on each runway that 
        does not have an approach light system;
          (7) a surface movement radar system at each category 
        III airport;
          (8) a taxiway lighting and sign system;
          (9) runway edge lighting and marking;
          (10) radar approach coverage for each airport 
        terminal area; and
          (11) runway and taxiway incursion prevention devices, 
        including integrated in-pavement lighting systems for 
        runways and taxiways.
  (g) Intermodal Planning.--To carry out the policy of 
[subsection (a)(5)] subsection (a)(6) of this section, the 
Secretary of Transportation shall take each of the following 
actions:
          (1) Coordination in development of airport plans and 
        programs.--Cooperate with State and local officials in 
        developing airport plans and programs that are based on 
        overall transportation needs. The airport plans and 
        programs shall be developed in coordination with other 
        transportation planning and considering comprehensive 
        long-range land-use plans and overall social, economic, 
        environmental, system performance, and energy 
        conservation objectives. The process of developing 
        airport plans and programs shall be continuing, 
        cooperative, and comprehensive to the degree 
        appropriate to the complexity of the transportation 
        problems.
          (2) Goals for airport master and system plans.--
        Encourage airport sponsors and State and local 
        officials to develop airport master plans and airport 
        system plans that--
                  (A) foster effective coordination between 
                aviation planning and metropolitan planning;
                  (B) include an evaluation of aviation needs 
                within the context of multimodal planning;
                  (C) consider passenger convenience, airport 
                ground access, and access to airport 
                facilities; and
                  (D) are integrated with metropolitan plans to 
                ensure that airport development proposals 
                include adequate consideration of land use and 
                ground transportation access.
          (3) Representation of airport operators on mpo's.--
        Encourage metropolitan planning organizations, 
        particularly in areas with populations greater than 
        200,000, to establish membership positions for airport 
        operators.
  (h) Consultation.--To carry out the policy of [subsection 
(a)(6)] subsection (a)(7) of this section, the Secretary of 
Transportation [shall] may consult with the Secretary of the 
Interior and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection 
Agency about any project included in a project grant 
application involving the location of an airport or runway, or 
a major runway extension, that may have a significant effect 
on--
          (1) natural resources, including fish and wildlife;
          (2) natural, scenic, and recreation assets;
          (3) water and air quality; or
          (4) another factor affecting the environment.

Sec. 47102. Definitions

  In this subchapter--
          [(1) ``air carrier airport'' means a public airport 
        regularly served by--
                  [(A) an air carrier certificated by the 
                Secretary of Transportation under section 41102 
                of this title (except a charter air carrier); 
                or
                  [(B) at least one air carrier--
                          [(i) operating under an exemption 
                        from section 41101(a)(1) of this title 
                        that the Secretary grants; and
                          [(ii) having at least 2,500 passenger 
                        boardings at the airport during the 
                        prior calendar year.]
          (1) ``air carrier'' has the meaning given the term in 
        section 40102.
          (2) ``airport''--
                  (A) means--
                          (i) an area of land or water used or 
                        intended to be used for the landing and 
                        taking off of aircraft;
                          (ii) an appurtenant area used or 
                        intended to be used for airport 
                        buildings or other airport facilities 
                        or rights of way; and
                          (iii) airport buildings and 
                        facilities located in any of those 
                        areas; and
                  (B) includes a heliport.
          (3) ``airport development'' means the following 
        activities, if undertaken by the sponsor, owner, or 
        operator of a public-use airport:
                  (A) constructing, repairing, or improving a 
                public-use airport, including--
                          (i) removing, lowering, relocating, 
                        marking, and lighting an airport 
                        hazard; [and]
                          (ii) preparing a plan or 
                        specification, including carrying out a 
                        field investigation[.]; and
                          (iii) a secondary runway at a nonhub 
                        airport that is equivalent in size and 
                        type to the primary runway of such 
                        airport.
                  (B) acquiring for, or installing at, a 
                public-use airport--
                          (i) a navigation aid or another aid 
                        (including a precision approach system) 
                        used by aircraft for landing at or 
                        taking off from the airport, including 
                        preparing the site as required by the 
                        acquisition or installation;
                          (ii) safety or security equipment, 
                        including explosive detection devices, 
                        universal access systems, and emergency 
                        call boxes, the Secretary requires by 
                        regulation for, or approves as 
                        contributing significantly to, the 
                        safety or security of individuals and 
                        property at the airport and integrated 
                        in-pavement lighting systems for 
                        runways and taxiways and other runway 
                        and taxiway incursion prevention 
                        devices;
                          (iii) equipment to remove snow, to 
                        measure runway surface friction, or for 
                        aviation-related weather reporting, 
                        including closed circuit weather 
                        surveillance equipment and fuel 
                        infrastructure if the airport is 
                        located in Alaska;
                          (iv) firefighting and rescue 
                        equipment at an airport that serves 
                        scheduled passenger operations of air 
                        carrier aircraft designed for more than 
                        9 passenger seats;
                          (v) aircraft deicing equipment and 
                        structures (except aircraft deicing 
                        fluids and storage facilities for the 
                        equipment and fluids);
                          (vi) interactive training systems;
                          (vii) windshear detection equipment 
                        that is certified by the Administrator 
                        of the Federal Aviation Administration;
                          (viii) stainless steel adjustable 
                        lighting extensions approved by the 
                        Administrator;
                          (ix) engineered materials arresting 
                        systems as described in the Advisory 
                        Circular No. 150/5220-22 published by 
                        the Federal Aviation Administration on 
                        August 21, 1998, including any revision 
                        to the circular; and
                          (x) replacement of baggage conveyor 
                        systems, and reconfiguration of 
                        terminal baggage areas, that the 
                        Secretary determines are necessary to 
                        install bulk explosive detection 
                        devices; except that such activities 
                        shall be eligible for funding under 
                        this subchapter only using amounts 
                        apportioned under section 47114.
                  (C) acquiring an interest in land or 
                airspace, including land for future airport 
                development, that is needed--
                          (i) to carry out airport development 
                        described in subclause (A) or (B) of 
                        this clause; or
                          (ii) to remove or mitigate an 
                        existing airport hazard or prevent or 
                        limit the creation of a new airport 
                        hazard.
                  (D) acquiring land for, or constructing, a 
                burn area training structure on or off the 
                airport to provide live fire drill training for 
                aircraft rescue and firefighting personnel 
                required to receive the training under 
                regulations the Secretary prescribes, including 
                basic equipment and minimum structures to 
                support the training under standards the 
                Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration prescribes.
                  (E) relocating [after December 31, 1991,] an 
                air traffic control tower and any navigational 
                aid (including radar) if the relocation is 
                necessary to carry out a project approved by 
                the Secretary under this subchapter or under 
                section 40117.
                  (F) constructing, reconstructing, repairing, 
                or improving an airport, or purchasing capital 
                equipment for an airport, if necessary for 
                compliance with the responsibilities of the 
                operator or owner of the airport under the 
                Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 
                U.S.C. 12101 et seq.), the Clean Air Act (42 
                U.S.C. 7401 et seq.), and the Federal Water 
                Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.), 
                except constructing or purchasing capital 
                equipment that would benefit primarily a 
                revenue-producing area of the airport used by a 
                nonaeronautical business.
                  (G) acquiring land for, or work necessary to 
                construct, a pad suitable for deicing aircraft 
                before takeoff at a commercial service airport, 
                including constructing or reconstructing paved 
                areas, drainage collection structures, 
                treatment and discharge systems, appropriate 
                lighting, paved access for deicing vehicles and 
                aircraft, and including acquiring glycol 
                recovery vehicles, but not including acquiring 
                aircraft deicing fluids or constructing or 
                reconstructing storage facilities for aircraft 
                deicing equipment or fluids.
                  (H) routine work to preserve and extend the 
                useful life of runways, taxiways, and aprons at 
                nonhub airports and airports that are not 
                primary airports, under guidelines issued by 
                the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration.
                  (I) constructing, reconstructing, or 
                improving an airport, or purchasing nonrevenue 
                generating capital equipment to be owned by an 
                airport, for the purpose of transferring 
                passengers, cargo, or baggage between the 
                aeronautical and ground transportation modes on 
                airport property.
                  (J) constructing an air traffic control tower 
                or acquiring and installing air traffic 
                control, communications, and related equipment 
                at an air traffic control tower under the terms 
                specified in section 47124(b)(4).
                  (K) work necessary to construct or modify 
                airport facilities to provide low-emission fuel 
                systems, gate electrification, and other 
                related air quality improvements at a 
                commercial service airport [if the airport is 
                located in an air quality nonattainment or 
                maintenance area (as defined in sections 171(2) 
                and 175A of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 
                7501(2); 7505a)) and if the airport would be 
                able to receive emission credits, as described 
                in section 47139].
                  (L) a project by a commercial service airport 
                for the acquisition of airport-owned vehicles 
                or ground support equipment equipped with low-
                emission technology if [the airport is located 
                in an air quality nonattainment or maintenance 
                area (as defined in sections 171(2) and 175A of 
                the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7501(2); 7505a)), 
                if the airport would be able to receive 
                appropriate emission credits (as described in 
                section 47139), and] the vehicles are;
                          (i) used exclusively on airport 
                        property; or
                          (ii) used exclusively to transport 
                        passengers and employees between the 
                        airport and the airport's consolidated 
                        rental car facility or an intermodal 
                        surface transportation facility 
                        adjacent to the airport.
                  (M) construction of mobile refueler parking 
                within a fuel farm at a nonprimary airport 
                meeting the requirements of section 112.8 of 
                title 40, Code of Federal Regulations.
                  (N) terminal development under section 
                47119(a).
                  (O) acquiring and installing facilities and 
                equipment to provide air conditioning, heating, 
                or electric power from terminal-based, 
                nonexclusive use facilities to aircraft parked 
                at a public use airport for the purpose of 
                reducing energy use or harmful emissions as 
                compared to the provision of such air 
                conditioning, heating, or electric power from 
                aircraft-based systems.
                  (P) an on-airport project to [improve the 
                reliability and efficiency of the airport's 
                power supply] improve reliability and 
                efficiency of the airport's power supply or 
                meet current and future electrical power demand 
                and to prevent power disruptions to the 
                airfield, passenger terminal, and any other 
                airport facilities, including the acquisition 
                and installation of electrical generators, 
                separation of the airport's main power supply 
                from its redundant power supply, and the 
                construction or modification of airport 
                facilities to install a microgrid (as defined 
                in section 641 of the United States Energy 
                Storage Competitiveness Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 
                17231)).
                  (Q) converting or retrofitting vehicles and 
                ground support equipment into eligible zero-
                emission vehicles and equipment (as defined in 
                section 47136) and for acquiring, by purchase 
                or lease, eligible zero-emission vehicles and 
                equipment.
                  (R) predevelopment planning, including 
                financial, legal, or procurement consulting 
                services, related to an application or proposed 
                application for an exemption under section 
                47134.
                  (S) construction or renovation of childcare 
                facilities for the exclusive use of airport 
                employees or other individuals who work on 
                airport property, including for air carriers 
                and airport concessionaires.
                  (T) advanced digital construction management 
                systems and related technology used in the 
                planning, design and engineering, construction, 
                operations, and maintenance of airport 
                facilities.
                  (U) an improvement of any runway, taxiway, or 
                apron that would be necessary to sustain 
                commercial service flight operations or permit 
                the resumption of flight operations under 
                visual flight rules following a natural 
                disaster at--
                          (i) a primary airport; or
                          (ii) a general aviation airport that 
                        is designated as a Federal staging area 
                        by the Administrator of the Federal 
                        Emergency Management Agency.
                  (V) any other activity that the Secretary 
                concludes will reasonably improve or contribute 
                to the maintenance of the safety, efficiency, 
                or capacity of the airport.
          (4) ``airport hazard'' means a structure or object of 
        natural growth located on or near a public-use airport, 
        or a use of land near the airport, that obstructs or 
        otherwise is hazardous to the landing or taking off of 
        aircraft at or from the airport.
          (5) ``airport planning'' means planning as defined by 
        requirements the Secretary prescribes and includes--
                  (A) integrated airport system planning;
                  (B) developing an environmental management 
                system; and
                  (C) developing a plan for recycling and 
                minimizing the generation of airport solid 
                waste, consistent with applicable State and 
                local recycling laws, including the cost of a 
                waste audit.
                  (D) assessing current and future electrical 
                power demand.
          (6) ``amount made available under section 48103'' or 
        ``amount newly made available'' means the amount 
        authorized for grants under section 48103 as that 
        amount may be limited in that year by a subsequent law, 
        but as determined without regard to grant obligation 
        recoveries made in that year or amounts covered by 
        section 47107(f).
          (7) ``commercial service airport'' means a public 
        airport in a State that the Secretary determines has at 
        least 2,500 passenger boardings each year and is 
        receiving scheduled passenger aircraft service.
          (8) ``general aviation airport'' means a public-use 
        airport that is located in a State and that, as 
        determined by the Secretary--
                  (A) does not have scheduled service; or
                  (B) has scheduled service with less than 
                2,500 passenger boardings each year.
          (9) ``heliport''--
                  (A) means an area of land, water, or 
                structure used or intended to be used for the 
                landing or takeoff of aircraft capable of 
                vertical takeoff and landing profiles; and
                  (B) includes a vertiport.
          [(9)] (10) ``integrated airport system planning'' 
        means developing for planning purposes information and 
        guidance to decide the extent, kind, location, and 
        timing of airport development needed in a specific area 
        to establish a viable, balanced, and integrated system 
        of public-use airports, including--
                  (A) identifying system needs;
                  (B) developing an estimate of systemwide 
                development costs;
                  (C) conducting studies, surveys, and other 
                planning actions, including those related to 
                airport access, needed to decide which 
                aeronautical needs should be met by a system of 
                airports; and
                  (D) standards prescribed by a State, except 
                standards for safety of approaches, for airport 
                development at nonprimary public-use airports.
          [(10)] (11) ``landed weight'' means the weight of 
        aircraft transporting only cargo in intrastate, 
        interstate, and foreign air transportation, as the 
        Secretary determines under regulations the Secretary 
        prescribes.
          [(11)] (12) ``large hub airport'' means a commercial 
        service airport that has at least 1.0 percent of the 
        passenger boardings.
          [(12)] (13) ``low-emission technology'' means 
        technology for vehicles and equipment whose emission 
        performance is the best achievable under emission 
        standards established by the Environmental Protection 
        Agency and that relies exclusively on alternative fuels 
        that are substantially nonpetroleum based, as defined 
        by the Department of Energy, but not excluding hybrid 
        systems or natural gas powered vehicles.
          [(13)] (14) ``medium hub airport'' means a commercial 
        service airport that has at least 0.25 percent but less 
        than 1.0 percent of the passenger boardings.
          [(14)] (15) ``nonhub airport'' means a commercial 
        service airport that has less than 0.05 percent of the 
        passenger boardings.
          [(15)] (16) ``passenger boardings''--
                  (A) means, unless the context indicates 
                otherwise, revenue passenger boardings in the 
                United States in the prior calendar year on an 
                aircraft in service in air commerce, as the 
                Secretary determines under regulations the 
                Secretary prescribes; and
                  (B) includes passengers who continue on an 
                aircraft in international flight that stops at 
                an airport in the 48 contiguous States, Alaska, 
                or Hawaii for a nontraffic purpose.
          [(16)] (17) ``primary airport'' means a commercial 
        service airport the Secretary determines to have more 
        than 10,000 passenger boardings each year.
          [(17)] (18) ``project'' means a project, separate 
        projects included in one project grant application, or 
        all projects to be undertaken at an airport in a fiscal 
        year, to achieve airport development or airport 
        planning.
          [(18)] (19) ``project cost'' means a cost involved in 
        carrying out a project.
          [(19)] (20) ``project grant'' means a grant of money 
        the Secretary makes to a sponsor to carry out at least 
        one project.
          [(20)] (21) ``public agency'' means--
                  (A) a State or political subdivision of a 
                State;
                  (B) a tax-supported organization; or
                  (C) an Indian tribe or pueblo.
          [(21)] (22) ``public airport'' means an airport used 
        or intended to be used for public purposes--
                  (A) that is under the control of a public 
                agency; and
                  (B) of which the area used or intended to be 
                used for the landing, taking off, or surface 
                maneuvering of aircraft is publicly owned.
          [(22)] (23) ``public-use airport'' means--
                  (A) a public airport; or
                  (B) a privately-owned airport used or 
                intended to be used for public purposes that 
                is--
                          (i) a reliever airport; or
                          (ii) determined by the Secretary to 
                        have at least 2,500 passenger boardings 
                        each year and to receive scheduled 
                        passenger aircraft service.
          [(23)] (24) ``reliever airport'' means an airport the 
        Secretary designates to relieve congestion at a 
        commercial service airport and to provide more general 
        aviation access to the overall community.
          [(24)] (25) ``revenue producing aeronautical support 
        facilities'' means fuel farms, hangar buildings, self-
        service credit card aeronautical fueling systems, 
        airplane wash racks, major rehabilitation of a hangar 
        owned by a sponsor, or other aeronautical support 
        facilities that the Secretary determines will increase 
        the revenue producing ability of the airport.
          [(25)] (26) ``small hub airport'' means a commercial 
        service airport that has at least 0.05 percent but less 
        than 0.25 percent of the passenger boardings.
          [(26)] (27) ``sponsor'' means--
                  (A) a public agency that submits to the 
                Secretary under this subchapter an application 
                for financial assistance; and
                  (B) a private owner of a public-use airport 
                that submits to the Secretary under this 
                subchapter an application for financial 
                assistance for the airport.
          [(27)] (28) ``State'' means a State of the United 
        States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the 
        Virgin Islands, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana 
        Islands, [the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands,] 
        and Guam.
          [(28)] (29) ``terminal development'' means--
                  (A) development of--
                          (i) an airport passenger terminal 
                        building, including terminal gates;
                          (ii) access roads servicing 
                        exclusively airport traffic that leads 
                        directly to or from an airport 
                        passenger terminal building; and
                          (iii) walkways that lead directly to 
                        or from an airport passenger terminal 
                        building; and
                  (B) the cost of a vehicle [described in 
                section 47119(a)(1)(B)] for moving passengers 
                and baggage between terminal facilities and 
                between terminal facilities and aircraft.
          (30) ``vertiport'' means an area of land, water, or 
        structure used or intended to be used for the landing 
        or takeoff of powered-lift aircraft capable of vertical 
        takeoff and landing profiles.

Sec. 47103. National plan of integrated airport systems

  (a) General Requirements and Considerations.--The Secretary 
of Transportation shall maintain the plan for developing 
public-use airports in the United States, named ``the national 
plan of integrated airport systems''. The plan shall include 
the kind and estimated cost of eligible airport development the 
Secretary of Transportation considers necessary to provide a 
safe, efficient, and integrated system of public-use airports 
adequate to anticipate and meet the needs of civil aeronautics, 
to meet the national defense requirements of the Secretary of 
Defense, and to meet identified needs of the United States 
Postal Service. Airport development included in the plan may 
not be limited to meeting the needs of any particular classes 
or categories of public-use airports. In maintaining the plan, 
the Secretary of Transportation shall consider the needs of 
each segment of civil aviation and the relationship of the 
airport system to--
          (1) the rest of the transportation system, including 
        connection to the surface transportation network; and
          (2) forecasted technological developments in 
        aeronautics.
  (b) Specific Requirements.--In maintaining the plan, the 
Secretary of Transportation shall--
          (1) to the extent possible and as appropriate, 
        consult with departments, agencies, and 
        instrumentalities of the United States Government, with 
        public agencies, and with the aviation community; and
          (2) make every reasonable effort to address the needs 
        of air cargo operations and rotary wing aircraft 
        operations.
  (c) Availability of Domestic Military Airports and Airport 
Facilities.--To the extent possible, the Secretary of Defense 
shall make domestic military airports and airport facilities 
available for civil use. In advising the Secretary of 
Transportation under subsection (a) of this section, the 
Secretary of Defense shall indicate the extent to which 
domestic military airports and airport facilities are available 
for civil use.
  (d) Non-compliant Airports.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary shall include in the 
        plan a detailed statement listing airports the 
        Secretary has reason to believe are not in compliance 
        with grant assurances or other requirements with 
        respect to airport lands and shall include--
                  (A) the circumstances of noncompliance;
                  (B) the timeline for corrective action with 
                respect to such noncompliance; and
                  (C) any corrective action the Secretary 
                intends to require to bring the airport sponsor 
                into compliance.
          (2) Listing.--The Secretary is not required to 
        conduct an audit or make a final determination before 
        including an airport on the list referred to in 
        paragraph (1).
  [(d)] (e) Publication.--The Secretary of Transportation shall 
publish the plan every 2 years.

Sec. 47104. Project grant authority

  (a) General Authority.--To maintain a safe and efficient 
nationwide system of public-use airports that meets the present 
and future needs of civil aeronautics, the Secretary of 
Transportation may make project grants under this subchapter 
from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund.
  (b) Incurring Obligations.--The Secretary may incur 
obligations to make grants from amounts made available under 
section 48103 of this title as soon as the amounts are 
apportioned under section 47114(c) and (d)(2) of this title.
  (c) Expiration of Authority.--After September 30, [2023] 
2028, the Secretary may not incur obligations under subsection 
(b) of this section, except for obligations of amounts--
          (1) remaining available after that date under section 
        47117(b) of this title; or
          (2) recovered by the United States Government from 
        grants made under this chapter if the amounts are 
        obligated only for increases under section 47108(b)(2) 
        and (3) of this title in the maximum amount of 
        obligations of the Government for any other grant made 
        under this title.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 47106. Project grant application approval conditioned on 
                    satisfaction of project requirements

  (a) Project Grant Application Approval.--The Secretary of 
Transportation may approve an application under this subchapter 
for a project grant only if the Secretary is satisfied that--
          (1) the project is consistent with plans (existing at 
        the time the project is approved) of public agencies 
        authorized by the State in which the airport is located 
        to plan for the development of the area surrounding the 
        airport;
          (2) the project will contribute to carrying out this 
        subchapter;
          (3) enough money is available to pay the project 
        costs that will not be paid by the United States 
        Government under this subchapter;
          (4) the project will be completed without 
        unreasonable delay;
          (5) the sponsor has authority to carry out the 
        project as proposed;
          (6) if the project is for an airport that has an 
        airport master plan that includes the project, the 
        master plan addresses issues relating to solid waste 
        recycling at the airport, including--
                  (A) the feasibility of solid waste recycling 
                at the airport;
                  (B) minimizing the generation of solid waste 
                at the airport;
                  (C) operation and maintenance requirements;
                  (D) the review of waste management contracts; 
                and
                  (E) the potential for cost savings or the 
                generation of revenue; and
          (7) if the project is at an airport that is listed as 
        having an unclassified status under the most recent 
        national plan of integrated airport systems (as 
        described in section 47103), the project will be funded 
        with an amount appropriated under [section 
        47114(d)(3)(B)] section 47114(d)(2)(B) and is--
                  (A) for maintenance of the pavement of the 
                primary runway;
                  (B) for obstruction removal for the primary 
                runway;
                  (C) for the rehabilitation of the primary 
                runway; or
                  (D) for a project that the Secretary 
                considers necessary for the safe operation of 
                the airport.
  (b) Airport Development Project Grant Application Approval.--
The Secretary may approve an application under this subchapter 
for an airport development project grant for an airport only if 
the Secretary is satisfied that--
          (1) the sponsor, a public agency, or the Government 
        holds good title to the areas of the airport used or 
        intended to be used for the landing, taking off, or 
        surface maneuvering of aircraft, or that good title 
        will be acquired;
          (2) the interests of the community in or near which 
        the project may be located have been given fair 
        consideration; and
          (3) the application provides touchdown zone and 
        centerline runway lighting, high intensity runway 
        lighting, or land necessary for installing approach 
        light systems that the Secretary, considering the 
        category of the airport and the kind and volume of 
        traffic using it, decides is necessary for safe and 
        efficient use of the airport by aircraft.
  (c) Environmental Requirements.--(1) The Secretary may 
approve an application under this subchapter for an airport 
development project involving the location of an airport or 
runway or a major runway extension--
          (A) only if the sponsor certifies to the Secretary 
        that--
                  (i) an opportunity for a public hearing was 
                given to consider the economic, social, and 
                environmental effects of the location and the 
                location's consistency with the objectives of 
                any planning that the community has carried 
                out;
                  (ii) the airport management board has voting 
                representation from the communities in which 
                the project is located or has advised the 
                communities that they have the right to 
                petition the Secretary about a proposed 
                project; and
                  (iii) with respect to an airport development 
                project involving the location of an airport, 
                runway, or major runway extension at a medium 
                or large hub airport, the airport sponsor has 
                made available to and has provided upon request 
                to the metropolitan planning organization in 
                the area in which the airport is located, if 
                any, a copy of the proposed amendment to the 
                airport layout plan to depict the project and a 
                copy of any airport master plan in which the 
                project is described or depicted; and
          (B) if the application is found to have a significant 
        adverse effect on natural resources, including fish and 
        wildlife, natural, scenic, and recreation assets, water 
        and air quality, or another factor affecting the 
        environment, only after finding that no possible and 
        prudent alternative to the project exists and that 
        every reasonable step has been taken to minimize the 
        adverse effect.
  (2) The Secretary may approve an application under this 
subchapter for an airport development project that does not 
involve the location of an airport or runway, or a major runway 
extension, at an existing airport without requiring an 
environmental impact statement related to noise for the project 
if--
          (A) completing the project would allow operations at 
        the airport involving aircraft complying with the noise 
        standards prescribed for ``stage 3'' aircraft in 
        section 36.1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        to replace existing operations involving aircraft that 
        do not comply with those standards; and
          (B) the project meets the other requirements under 
        this subchapter.
  (3) At the Secretary's request, the sponsor shall give the 
Secretary a copy of the transcript of any hearing held under 
paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection.
  (4) The Secretary may make a finding under paragraph (1)(B) 
of this subsection only after completely reviewing the matter. 
The review and finding must be a matter of public record.
  (d) Withholding Approval.--(1) The Secretary may withhold 
approval of an application under this subchapter for amounts 
apportioned under section 47114(c) and (e) of this title for 
violating an assurance or requirement of this subchapter only 
if--
          (A) the Secretary provides the sponsor an opportunity 
        for a hearing; and
          (B) not later than 180 days after the later of the 
        date of the application or the date the Secretary 
        discovers the noncompliance, the Secretary finds that a 
        violation has occurred.
  (2) The 180-day period may be extended by--
          (A) agreement between the Secretary and the sponsor; 
        or
          (B) the hearing officer if the officer decides an 
        extension is necessary because the sponsor did not 
        follow the schedule the officer established.
  (3) A person adversely affected by an order of the Secretary 
withholding approval may obtain review of the order by filing a 
petition in the United States Court of Appeals for the District 
of Columbia Circuit or in the court of appeals of the United 
States for the circuit in which the project is located. The 
action must be brought not later than 60 days after the order 
is served on the petitioner.
  (e) Reports Relating to Construction of Certain New Hub 
Airports.--At least 90 days prior to the approval under this 
subchapter of a project grant application for construction of a 
new hub airport that is expected to have 0.25 percent or more 
of the total annual enplanements in the United States, the 
Secretary shall submit to Congress a report analyzing the 
anticipated impact of such proposed new airport on--
          (1) the fees charged to air carriers (including 
        landing fees), and other costs that will be incurred by 
        air carriers, for using the proposed airport;
          (2) air transportation that will be provided in the 
        geographic region of the proposed airport; and
          (3) the availability and cost of providing air 
        transportation to rural areas in such geographic 
        region.
  (f) Competition Plans.--
          (1) Prohibition.--Beginning in fiscal year 2001, no 
        passenger facility charge may be approved for a covered 
        airport under section 40117 and no grant may be made 
        under this subchapter for a covered airport unless the 
        airport has submitted to the Secretary a written 
        competition plan in accordance with this subsection.
          (2) Contents.--A competition plan under this 
        subsection shall include information on the 
        availability of airport gates and related facilities, 
        leasing and sub-leasing arrangements, gate-use 
        requirements, gate-assignment policy, financial 
        constraints, airport controls over air- and ground-side 
        capacity, and whether the airport intends to build or 
        acquire gates that would be used as common facilities.
          (3) Special rule for fiscal year 2002.--This 
        subsection does not apply to any passenger facility fee 
        approved, or grant made, in fiscal year 2002 if the fee 
        or grant is to be used to improve security at a covered 
        airport.
          (4) Covered airport defined.--In this subsection, the 
        term ``covered airport'' means a commercial service 
        airport--
                  (A) that has more than .25 percent of the 
                total number of passenger boardings each year 
                at all such airports; and
                  (B) at which one or two air carriers control 
                more than 50 percent of the passenger 
                boardings.
  (g) Consultation With Secretary of Homeland Security.--The 
Secretary shall consult with the Secretary of Homeland Security 
before approving an application under this subchapter for an 
airport development project grant for activities described in 
section 47102(3)(B)(ii) only as they relate to security 
equipment or section 47102(3)(B)(x) only as they relate to 
installation of bulk explosive detection system.
  (h) Evaluation of Airport Master Plans.--When evaluating the 
master plan of an airport for purposes of this subchapter, the 
Secretary shall take into account--
          (1) the role the airport plays with respect to 
        medical emergencies and evacuations; and
          (2) the role the airport plays in emergency or 
        disaster preparedness in the community served by the 
        airport.

Sec. 47107. Project grant application approval conditioned on 
                    assurances about airport operations

  (a) General Written Assurances.--The Secretary of 
Transportation may approve a project grant application under 
this subchapter for an airport development project only if the 
Secretary receives written assurances, satisfactory to the 
Secretary, that--
          (1) the airport will be available for public use on 
        reasonable conditions and without unjust 
        discrimination;
          (2) air carriers making similar use of the airport 
        will be subject to substantially comparable charges--
                  (A) for facilities directly and substantially 
                related to providing air transportation; and
                  (B) regulations and conditions, except for 
                differences based on reasonable 
                classifications, such as between--
                          (i) tenants and nontenants; and
                          (ii) signatory and nonsignatory 
                        carriers;
          (3) the airport operator will not withhold 
        unreasonably the classification or status of tenant or 
        signatory from an air carrier that assumes obligations 
        substantially similar to those already imposed on air 
        carriers of that classification or status;
          (4) a person providing, or intending to provide, 
        aeronautical services to the public will not be given 
        an exclusive right to use the airport, with a right 
        given to only one fixed-base operator to provide 
        services at an airport deemed not to be an exclusive 
        right if--
                  (A) the right would be unreasonably costly, 
                burdensome, or impractical for more than one 
                fixed-base operator to provide the services; 
                and
                  (B) allowing more than one fixed-base 
                operator to provide the services would require 
                reducing the space leased under an existing 
                agreement between the one fixed-base operator 
                and the airport owner or operator;
          (5) fixed-base operators similarly using the airport 
        will be subject to the same charges;
          (6) an air carrier using the airport may service 
        itself or use any fixed-base operator allowed by the 
        airport operator to service any carrier at the airport;
          (7) the airport and facilities on or connected with 
        the airport will be operated and maintained suitably, 
        with consideration given to climatic and flood 
        conditions;
          (8) a proposal to close the airport temporarily for a 
        nonaeronautical purpose must first be approved by the 
        Secretary;
          (9) appropriate action will be taken to ensure that 
        terminal airspace required to protect instrument and 
        visual operations to the airport (including operations 
        at established minimum flight altitudes) will be 
        cleared and protected by mitigating existing, and 
        preventing future, airport hazards;
          (10) appropriate action, including the adoption of 
        zoning laws, has been or will be taken to the extent 
        reasonable to restrict the use of land next to or near 
        the airport to uses that are compatible with normal 
        airport operations;
          (11) each of the airport's facilities developed with 
        financial assistance from the United States Government 
        and each of the airport's facilities usable for the 
        landing and taking off of aircraft always will be 
        available without charge for use by Government aircraft 
        in common with other aircraft, except that if the use 
        is substantial, the Government may be charged a 
        reasonable share, proportionate to the use, of the cost 
        of operating and maintaining the facility used;
          (12) the airport owner or operator will provide, 
        without charge to the Government, property interests of 
        the sponsor in land or water areas or buildings that 
        the Secretary decides are desirable for, and that will 
        be used for, constructing at Government expense, 
        facilities for carrying out activities related to air 
        traffic control or navigation;
          (13) the airport owner or operator will maintain a 
        schedule of charges for use of facilities and services 
        at the airport--
                  (A) that will make the airport as self-
                sustaining as possible under the circumstances 
                existing at the airport, including volume of 
                traffic and economy of collection; and
                  (B) without including in the rate base used 
                for the charges the Government's share of costs 
                for any project for which a grant is made under 
                this subchapter or was made under the Federal 
                Airport Act or the Airport and Airway 
                Development Act of 1970;
          (14) the project accounts and records will be kept 
        using a standard system of accounting that the 
        Secretary, after consulting with appropriate public 
        agencies, prescribes;
          (15) the airport owner or operator will submit any 
        annual or special airport financial and operations 
        reports to the Secretary that the Secretary reasonably 
        requests and make such reports available to the public;
          (16) the airport owner or operator will maintain a 
        current layout plan of the airport that meets the 
        following requirements:
                  (A) the plan will be in a form the Secretary 
                prescribes;
                  (B) the Secretary will review and approve or 
                disapprove only those portions of the plan (or 
                any subsequent revision to the plan) that 
                materially impact the safe and efficient 
                operation of aircraft at, to, or from the 
                airport or that would adversely affect the 
                safety of people or property on the ground 
                adjacent to the airport as a result of aircraft 
                operations, or that adversely affect the value 
                of prior Federal investments to a significant 
                extent;
                  (C) the owner or operator will not make or 
                allow any alteration in the airport or any of 
                its facilities unless the alteration--
                          (i) is outside the scope of the 
                        Secretary's review and approval 
                        authority as set forth in subparagraph 
                        (B); or
                          (ii) complies with the portions of 
                        the plan approved by the Secretary; and
                  (D) when an alteration in the airport or its 
                facility is made that is within the scope of 
                the Secretary's review and approval authority 
                as set forth in subparagraph (B), and does not 
                conform with the portions of the plan approved 
                by the Secretary, and the Secretary decides 
                that the alteration adversely affects the 
                safety, utility, or efficiency of aircraft 
                operations, or of any property on or off the 
                airport that is owned, leased, or financed by 
                the Government, then the owner or operator 
                will, if requested by the Secretary--
                          (i) eliminate the adverse effect in a 
                        way the Secretary approves; or
                          (ii) bear all cost of relocating the 
                        property or its replacement to a site 
                        acceptable to the Secretary and of 
                        restoring the property or its 
                        replacement to the level of safety, 
                        utility, efficiency, and cost of 
                        operation that existed before the 
                        alteration was made, except in the case 
                        of a relocation or replacement of an 
                        existing airport facility that meets 
                        the conditions of section 47110(d);
          (17) if any phase of such project has received funds 
        under this subchapter, each contract and subcontract 
        for program management, construction management, 
        planning studies, feasibility studies, architectural 
        services, preliminary engineering, design, engineering, 
        surveying, mapping, and related services will be 
        awarded in the same way that a contract for 
        architectural and engineering services is negotiated 
        under chapter 11 of title 40 or an equivalent 
        qualifications-based requirement prescribed for or by 
        the sponsor;
          (18) the airport and each airport record will be 
        available for inspection by the Secretary on reasonable 
        request, and a report of the airport budget will be 
        available to the public at reasonable times and places;
          (19) the airport owner or operator will submit to the 
        Secretary and make available to the public an annual 
        report listing in detail--
                  (A) all amounts paid by the airport to any 
                other unit of government and the purposes for 
                which each such payment was made; and
                  (B) all services and property provided to 
                other units of government and the amount of 
                compensation received for provision of each 
                such service and property;
          (20) the airport owner or operator will permit, to 
        the maximum extent practicable, intercity buses or 
        other modes of transportation to have access to the 
        airport, but the sponsor does not have any obligation 
        under this paragraph, or because of it, to fund special 
        facilities for intercity bus service or for other modes 
        of transportation; and
          (21) if the airport owner or operator and a person 
        who owns an aircraft agree that a hangar is to be 
        constructed at the airport for the aircraft at the 
        aircraft owner's expense, the airport owner or operator 
        will grant to the aircraft owner for the hangar a long-
        term lease that is subject to such terms and conditions 
        on the hangar as the airport owner or operator may 
        impose.
  (b) Written Assurances on Use of Revenue.--(1) The Secretary 
of Transportation may approve a project grant application under 
this subchapter for an airport development project only if the 
Secretary receives written assurances, satisfactory to the 
Secretary, that local taxes on aviation fuel (except taxes in 
effect on December 30, 1987) and the revenues generated by a 
public airport will be expended for the capital or operating 
costs of--
          (A) the airport;
          (B) the local airport system; or
          (C) other local facilities owned or operated by the 
        airport owner or operator and directly and 
        substantially related to the air transportation of 
        passengers or property.
  (2) Paragraph (1) of this subsection does not apply if a 
provision enacted not later than September 2, 1982, in a law 
controlling financing by the airport owner or operator, or a 
covenant or assurance in a debt obligation issued not later 
than September 2, 1982, by the owner or operator, provides that 
the revenues, including local taxes on aviation fuel at public 
airports, from any of the facilities of the owner or operator, 
including the airport, be used to support not only the airport 
but also the general debt obligations or other facilities of 
the owner or operator.
  (3) This subsection does not prevent the use of a State tax 
on aviation fuel to support a State aviation program or the use 
of airport revenue on or off the airport for a noise mitigation 
purpose.
  (c) Written Assurances on Acquiring Land.--(1) In this 
subsection, land is needed for an airport purpose (except a 
noise compatibility purpose) if--
          (A)(i) the land may be needed for an aeronautical 
        purpose (including runway protection zone) or serves as 
        noise buffer land; and
          (ii) revenue from interim uses of the land 
        contributes to the financial self-sufficiency of the 
        airport; and
          (B) for land purchased with a grant the owner or 
        operator received not later than December 30, 1987, the 
        Secretary of Transportation or the department, agency, 
        or instrumentality of the Government that made the 
        grant was notified by the owner or operator of the use 
        of the land and did not object to the use and the land 
        is still being used for that purpose.
  (2) The Secretary of Transportation may approve an 
application under this subchapter for an airport development 
project grant only if the Secretary receives written 
assurances, satisfactory to the Secretary, that if an airport 
owner or operator has received or will receive a grant for 
acquiring land and--
          (A) if the land was or will be acquired for a noise 
        compatibility purpose (including land serving as a 
        noise buffer either by being undeveloped or developed 
        in a way that is compatible with using the land for 
        noise buffering purposes)--
                  (i) the owner or operator will dispose of the 
                land at fair market value at the earliest 
                practicable time after the land no longer is 
                needed for a noise compatibility purpose;
                  (ii) the disposition will be subject to 
                retaining or reserving an interest in the land 
                necessary to ensure that the land will be used 
                in a way that is compatible with noise levels 
                associated with operating the airport; and
                  (iii) the part of the proceeds from disposing 
                of the land that is proportional to the 
                Government's share of the cost of acquiring the 
                land will be reinvested in another project at 
                the airport or transferred to another airport 
                as the Secretary prescribes under paragraph 
                (4); or
          (B) if the land was or will be acquired for an 
        airport purpose (except a noise compatibility 
        purpose)--
                  (i) the owner or operator, when the land no 
                longer is needed for an airport purpose, will 
                dispose of the land at fair market value or 
                make available to the Secretary an amount equal 
                to the Government's proportional share of the 
                fair market value;
                  (ii) the disposition will be subject to 
                retaining or reserving an interest in the land 
                necessary to ensure that the land will be used 
                in a way that is compatible with noise levels 
                associated with operating the airport; and
                  (iii) the part of the proceeds from disposing 
                of the land that is proportional to the 
                Government's share of the cost of acquiring the 
                land will be reinvested in another project at 
                the airport or transferred to another airport 
                as the Secretary prescribes under paragraph 
                (4).
  (3) Proceeds referred to in paragraph (2)(A)(iii) and 
(B)(iii) of this subsection and deposited in the Airport and 
Airway Trust Fund are available as provided in subsection (f) 
of this section.
  (4) In approving the reinvestment or transfer of proceeds 
under paragraph (2)(A)(iii) or (2)(B)(iii), the Secretary shall 
give preference, in descending order, to the following actions:
          (A) Reinvestment in an approved noise compatibility 
        project.
          (B) Reinvestment in an approved project that is 
        eligible for funding under section 47117(e).
          (C) Reinvestment in an approved airport development 
        project that is eligible for funding under section 
        47114, 47115, or 47117.
          (D) Transfer to a sponsor of another public airport 
        to be reinvested in an approved noise compatibility 
        project at that airport.
          (E) Payment to the Secretary for deposit in the 
        Airport and Airway Trust Fund established under section 
        9502 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
  (5)(A) A lease at fair market value by an airport owner or 
operator of land acquired for a noise compatibility purpose 
using a grant provided under this subchapter shall not be 
considered a disposal for purposes of paragraph (2).
  (B) The airport owner or operator may use revenues from a 
lease described in subparagraph (A) for an approved airport 
development project that is eligible for funding under section 
47114, 47115, or 47117.
  (C) The Secretary shall coordinate with each airport owner or 
operator to ensure that leases described in subparagraph (A) 
are consistent with noise buffering purposes.
  (D) The provisions of this paragraph apply to all land 
acquired before, on, or after the date of enactment of this 
paragraph.
  (d) Assurances of Continuation as Public-Use Airport.--The 
Secretary of Transportation may approve an application under 
this subchapter for an airport development project grant for a 
privately owned public-use airport only if the Secretary 
receives appropriate assurances that the airport will continue 
to function as a public-use airport during the economic life 
(that must be at least 10 years) of any facility at the airport 
that was developed with Government financial assistance under 
this subchapter.
  (e) Written Assurances of Opportunities for Small Business 
Concerns.--(1) The Secretary of Transportation may approve a 
project grant application under this subchapter for an airport 
development project only if the Secretary receives written 
assurances, satisfactory to the Secretary, that the airport 
owner or operator will take necessary action to ensure, to the 
maximum extent practicable, that at least 10 percent of all 
businesses at the airport selling consumer products or 
providing consumer services to the public are small business 
concerns (as defined by regulations of the Secretary) owned and 
controlled by a socially and economically disadvantaged 
individual (as defined in section 47113(a) of this title) or 
qualified HUBZone small business concerns (as defined in 
section 31(b) of the Small Business Act).
  (2) An airport owner or operator may meet the percentage goal 
of paragraph (1) of this subsection by including any business 
operated through a management contract or subcontract. The 
dollar amount of a management contract or subcontract with a 
disadvantaged business enterprise shall be added to the total 
participation by disadvantaged business enterprises in airport 
concessions and to the base from which the airport's percentage 
goal is calculated. The dollar amount of a management contract 
or subcontract with a non-disadvantaged business enterprise and 
the gross revenue of business activities to which the 
management contract or subcontract pertains may not be added to 
this base.
  (3) Except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection, 
an airport owner or operator may meet the percentage goal of 
paragraph (1) of this subsection by including the purchase from 
disadvantaged business enterprises of goods and services used 
in businesses conducted at the airport, but the owner or 
operator and the businesses conducted at the airport shall make 
good faith efforts to explore all available options to achieve, 
to the maximum extent practicable, compliance with the goal 
through direct ownership arrangements, including joint ventures 
and franchises.
  (4)(A) In complying with paragraph (1) of this subsection, an 
airport owner or operator shall include the revenues of car 
rental firms at the airport in the base from which the 
percentage goal in paragraph (1) is calculated.
  (B) An airport owner or operator may require a car rental 
firm to meet a requirement under paragraph (1) of this 
subsection by purchasing or leasing goods or services from a 
disadvantaged business enterprise. If an owner or operator 
requires such a purchase or lease, a car rental firm shall be 
permitted to meet the requirement by including purchases or 
leases of vehicles from any vendor that qualifies as a small 
business concern owned and controlled by a socially and 
economically disadvantaged individual or as a qualified HUBZone 
small business concern (as defined in section 31(b) of the 
Small Business Act).
  (C) This subsection does not require a car rental firm to 
change its corporate structure to provide for direct ownership 
arrangements to meet the requirements of this subsection.
  (5) This subsection does not preempt--
          (A) a State or local law, regulation, or policy 
        enacted by the governing body of an airport owner or 
        operator; or
          (B) the authority of a State or local government or 
        airport owner or operator to adopt or enforce a law, 
        regulation, or policy related to disadvantaged business 
        enterprises.
  (6) An airport owner or operator may provide opportunities 
for a small business concern owned and controlled by a socially 
and economically disadvantaged individual or a qualified 
HUBZone small business concern (as defined in section 31(b) of 
the Small Business Act) to participate through direct 
contractual agreement with that concern.
  (7) An air carrier that provides passenger or property-
carrying services or another business that conducts 
aeronautical activities at an airport may not be included in 
the percentage goal of paragraph (1) of this subsection for 
participation of small business concerns at the airport.
  (8) Not later than April 29, 1993, the Secretary of 
Transportation shall prescribe regulations to carry out this 
subsection.
  (f) Availability of Amounts.--An amount deposited in the 
Airport and Airway Trust Fund under--
          (1) subsection (c)(2)(A)(iii) of this section is 
        available to the Secretary of Transportation to make a 
        grant for airport development or airport planning under 
        section 47104 of this title;
          (2) subsection (c)(2)(B)(iii) of this section is 
        available to the Secretary--
                  (A) to make a grant for a purpose described 
                in section 47115(b) of this title; and
                  (B) for use under section 47114(d)(2) of this 
                title at another airport in the State in which 
                the land was disposed of under subsection 
                (c)(2)(B)(ii) of this section; and
          (3) subsection (c)(2)(B)(iii) of this section is in 
        addition to an amount made available to the Secretary 
        under section 48103 of this title and not subject to 
        apportionment under section 47114 of this title.
  (g) Ensuring Compliance.--(1) To ensure compliance with this 
section, the Secretary of Transportation--
          (A) shall prescribe requirements for sponsors that 
        the Secretary considers necessary; and
          (B) may make a contract with a public agency.
  (2) The Secretary of Transportation may approve an 
application for a project grant only if the Secretary is 
satisfied that the requirements prescribed under paragraph 
(1)(A) of this subsection have been or will be met.
  (h) Modifying Assurances and Requiring Compliance With 
Additional Assurances.--
          (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), before 
        modifying an assurance required of a person receiving a 
        grant under this subchapter and in effect after 
        December 29, 1987, or to require compliance with an 
        additional assurance from the person, the Secretary of 
        Transportation must--
                  (A) publish notice of the proposed 
                modification in the Federal Register; and
                  (B) provide an opportunity for comment on the 
                proposal.
          (2) Public notice before waiver of aeronautical land-
        use assurance.--Before modifying an assurance under 
        subsection (c)(2)(B) that requires any property to be 
        used for an aeronautical purpose, the Secretary must 
        provide notice to the public not less than 30 days 
        before making such modification.
  (i) Relief From Obligation To Provide Free Space.--When a 
sponsor provides a property interest in a land or water area or 
a building that the Secretary of Transportation uses to 
construct a facility at Government expense, the Secretary may 
relieve the sponsor from an obligation in a contract made under 
this chapter, the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1970, 
or the Federal Airport Act to provide free space to the 
Government in an airport building, to the extent the Secretary 
finds that the free space no longer is needed to carry out 
activities related to air traffic control or navigation.
  (j) Use of Revenue in Hawaii.--(1) In this subsection--
          (A) ``duty-free merchandise'' and ``duty-free sales 
        enterprise'' have the same meanings given those terms 
        in section 555(b)(8) of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19 
        U.S.C. 1555(b)(8)).
          (B) ``highway'' and ``Federal-aid system'' have the 
        same meanings given those terms in section 101(a) of 
        title 23.
  (2) Notwithstanding subsection (b)(1) of this section, Hawaii 
may use, for a project for construction or reconstruction of a 
highway on a Federal-aid system that is not more than 10 miles 
by road from an airport and that will facilitate access to the 
airport, revenue from the sales at off-airport locations in 
Hawaii of duty-free merchandise under a contract between Hawaii 
and a duty-free sales enterprise. However, the revenue 
resulting during a Hawaiian fiscal year may be used only if the 
amount of the revenue, plus amounts Hawaii receives in the 
fiscal year from all other sources for costs Hawaii incurs for 
operating all airports it operates and for debt service related 
to capital projects for the airports (including interest and 
amortization of principal costs), is more than 150 percent of 
the projected costs for the fiscal year.
  (3)(A) Revenue from sales referred to in paragraph (2) of 
this subsection in a Hawaiian fiscal year that Hawaii may use 
may not be more than the amount that is greater than 150 
percent as determined under paragraph (2).
  (B) The maximum amount of revenue Hawaii may use under 
paragraph (2) of this subsection is $250,000,000.
  (4) If a fee imposed or collected for rent, landing, or 
service from an aircraft operator by an airport operated by 
Hawaii is increased during the period from May 4, 1990, through 
December 31, 1994, by more than the percentage change in the 
Consumer Price Index of All Urban Consumers for Honolulu, 
Hawaii, that the Secretary of Labor publishes during that 
period and if revenue derived from the fee increases because 
the fee increased, the amount under paragraph (3)(B) of this 
subsection shall be reduced by the amount of the projected 
revenue increase in the period less the part of the increase 
attributable to changes in the Index in the period.
  (5) Hawaii shall determine costs, revenue, and projected 
revenue increases referred to in this subsection and shall 
submit the determinations to the Secretary of Transportation. A 
determination is approved unless the Secretary disapproves it 
not later than 30 days after it is submitted.
  (6) Hawaii is not eligible for a grant under section 47115 of 
this title in a fiscal year in which Hawaii uses under 
paragraph (2) of this subsection revenue from sales referred to 
in paragraph (2). Hawaii shall repay amounts it receives in a 
fiscal year under a grant it is not eligible to receive because 
of this paragraph to the Secretary of Transportation for 
deposit in the discretionary fund established under section 
47115.
  (7)(A) This subsection applies only to revenue from sales 
referred to in paragraph (2) of this subsection from May 5, 
1990, through December 30, 1994, and to amounts in the Airport 
Revenue Fund of Hawaii that are attributable to revenue before 
May 4, 1990, on sales referred to in paragraph (2).
  (B) Revenue from sales referred to in paragraph (2) of this 
subsection from May 5, 1990, through December 30, 1994, may be 
used under paragraph (2) in any Hawaiian fiscal year, including 
a Hawaiian fiscal year beginning after December 31, 1994.
  (k) Policies and Procedures To Ensure Enforcement Against 
Illegal Diversion of Airport Revenue.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after August 
        23, 1994, the Secretary of Transportation shall 
        establish policies and procedures that will assure the 
        prompt and effective enforcement of subsections (a)(13) 
        and (b) of this section and grant assurances made under 
        such subsections. Such policies and procedures shall 
        recognize the exemption provision in subsection (b)(2) 
        of this section and shall respond to the information 
        contained in the reports of the Inspector General of 
        the Department of Transportation on airport revenue 
        diversion and such other relevant information as the 
        Secretary may by law consider.
          (2) Revenue diversion.--Policies and procedures to be 
        established pursuant to paragraph (1) of this 
        subsection shall prohibit, at a minimum, the diversion 
        of airport revenues (except as authorized under 
        subsection (b) of this section) through--
                  (A) direct payments or indirect payments, 
                other than payments reflecting the value of 
                services and facilities provided to the 
                airport;
                  (B) use of airport revenues for general 
                economic development, marketing, and 
                promotional activities unrelated to airports or 
                airport systems;
                  (C) payments in lieu of taxes or other 
                assessments that exceed the value of services 
                provided; or
                  (D) payments to compensate nonsponsoring 
                governmental bodies for lost tax revenues 
                exceeding stated tax rates.
          (3) Efforts to be self-sustaining.--With respect to 
        subsection (a)(13) of this section, policies and 
        procedures to be established pursuant to paragraph (1) 
        of this subsection shall take into account, at a 
        minimum, whether owners and operators of airports, when 
        entering into new or revised agreements or otherwise 
        establishing rates, charges, and fees, have undertaken 
        reasonable efforts to make their particular airports as 
        self-sustaining as possible under the circumstances 
        existing at such airports.
          (4) Administrative safeguards.--Policies and 
        procedures to be established pursuant to paragraph (1) 
        shall mandate internal controls, auditing requirements, 
        and increased levels of Department of Transportation 
        personnel sufficient to respond fully and promptly to 
        complaints received regarding possible violations of 
        subsections (a)(13) and (b) of this section and grant 
        assurances made under such subsections and to alert the 
        Secretary to such possible violations.
          (5) Statute of limitations.--In addition to the 
        statute of limitations specified in subsection (m)(7), 
        with respect to project grants made under this 
        chapter--
                  (A) any request by a sponsor or any other 
                governmental entity to any airport for 
                additional payments for services conducted off 
                of the airport or for reimbursement for capital 
                contributions or operating expenses shall be 
                filed not later than 6 years after the date on 
                which the expense is incurred; and
                  (B) any amount of airport funds that are used 
                to make a payment or reimbursement as described 
                in subparagraph (A) after the date specified in 
                that subparagraph shall be considered to be an 
                illegal diversion of airport revenues that is 
                subject to subsection (m).
  (l) Audit Certification.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary of Transportation, 
        acting through the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration, shall include a provision in 
        the compliance supplement provisions to require a 
        recipient of a project grant (or any other recipient of 
        Federal financial assistance that is provided for an 
        airport) to include as part of an annual audit 
        conducted under sections 7501 through 7505 of title 31, 
        a review concerning the funding activities with respect 
        to an airport that is the subject of the project grant 
        (or other Federal financial assistance) and the 
        sponsors, owners, or operators (or other recipients) 
        involved.
          (2) Content of review.--A review conducted under 
        paragraph (1) shall provide reasonable assurances that 
        funds paid or transferred to sponsors are paid or 
        transferred in a manner consistent with the applicable 
        requirements of this chapter and any other applicable 
        provision of law (including regulations promulgated by 
        the Secretary or the Administrator).
  (m) Recovery of Illegally Diverted Funds.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the 
        issuance of an audit or any other report that 
        identifies an illegal diversion of airport revenues (as 
        determined under subsections (b) and (k) and section 
        47133), the Secretary, acting through the 
        Administrator, shall--
                  (A) review the audit or report;
                  (B) perform appropriate factfinding; and
                  (C) conduct a hearing and render a final 
                determination concerning whether the illegal 
                diversion of airport revenues asserted in the 
                audit or report occurred.
          (2) Notification.--Upon making such a finding, the 
        Secretary, acting through the Administrator, shall 
        provide written notification to the sponsor and the 
        airport of--
                  (A) the finding; and
                  (B) the obligations of the sponsor to 
                reimburse the airport involved under this 
                paragraph.
          (3) Administrative action.--The Secretary may 
        withhold any amount from funds that would otherwise be 
        made available to the sponsor, including funds that 
        would otherwise be made available to a State, 
        municipality, or political subdivision thereof 
        (including any multimodal transportation agency or 
        transit authority of which the sponsor is a member 
        entity) as part of an apportionment or grant made 
        available pursuant to this title, if the sponsor--
                  (A) receives notification that the sponsor is 
                required to reimburse an airport; and
                  (B) has had an opportunity to reimburse the 
                airport, but has failed to do so.
          (4) Civil action.--If a sponsor fails to pay an 
        amount specified under paragraph (3) during the 180-day 
        period beginning on the date of notification and the 
        Secretary is unable to withhold a sufficient amount 
        under paragraph (3), the Secretary, acting through the 
        Administrator, may initiate a civil action under which 
        the sponsor shall be liable for civil penalty in [an 
        amount equal to] an amount equal to double the illegal 
        diversion in question plus interest (as determined 
        under subsection (n)).
          (5) Disposition of penalties.--
                  (A) Amounts withheld.--The Secretary or the 
                Administrator shall transfer any amounts 
                withheld under paragraph (3) to the Airport and 
                Airway Trust Fund.
                  (B) Civil penalties.--With respect to any 
                amount collected by a court in a civil action 
                under paragraph (4), the court shall cause to 
                be transferred to the Airport and Airway Trust 
                Fund any amount collected as a civil penalty 
                under paragraph (4).
          (6) Reimbursement.--The Secretary, acting through the 
        Administrator, shall, as soon as practicable after any 
        amount is collected from a sponsor under paragraph (4), 
        cause to be transferred from the Airport and Airway 
        Trust Fund to an airport affected by a diversion that 
        is the subject of a civil action under paragraph (4), 
        reimbursement in an amount equal to the amount that has 
        been collected from the sponsor under paragraph (4) 
        (including any amount of interest calculated under 
        subsection (n)).
          (7) Statute of limitations.--No person may bring an 
        action for the recovery of funds illegally diverted in 
        violation of this section (as determined under 
        subsections (b) and (k)) or section 47133 after the 
        date that is 6 years after the date on which the 
        diversion occurred.
  (n) Interest.--
          (1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), 
        the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, shall 
        charge a minimum annual rate of interest on the amount 
        of any illegal diversion of revenues referred to in 
        subsection (m) in [an amount equal to] an amount equal 
        to double the average investment interest rate for tax 
        and loan accounts of the Department of the Treasury (as 
        determined by the Secretary of the Treasury) for the 
        applicable calendar year, rounded to the nearest whole 
        percentage point.
          (2) Adjustment of interest rates.--If, with respect 
        to a calendar quarter, the average investment interest 
        rate for tax and loan accounts of the Department of the 
        Treasury exceeds the average investment interest rate 
        for the immediately preceding calendar quarter, rounded 
        to the nearest whole percentage point, the Secretary of 
        the Treasury may adjust the interest rate charged under 
        this subsection in a manner that reflects that change.
          (3) Accrual.--Interest assessed under subsection (m) 
        shall accrue from the date of the actual illegal 
        diversion of revenues referred to in subsection (m).
          (4) Determination of applicable rate.--The applicable 
        rate of interest charged under paragraph (1) shall--
                  (A) be the rate in effect on the date on 
                which interest begins to accrue under paragraph 
                (3); and
                  (B) remain at a rate fixed under subparagraph 
                (A) during the duration of the indebtedness.
  (o) Payment by Airport to Sponsor.--If, in the course of an 
audit or other review conducted under this section, the 
Secretary or the Administrator determines that an airport owes 
a sponsor funds as a result of activities conducted by the 
sponsor or expenditures by the sponsor for the benefit of the 
airport, interest on that amount shall be determined in the 
same manner as provided in paragraphs (1) through (4) of 
subsection (n), except that the amount of any interest assessed 
under this subsection shall be determined from the date on 
which the Secretary or the Administrator makes that 
determination.
  (p) Notwithstanding any written assurances prescribed in 
subsections (a) through (o), a general aviation airport with 
more than 300,000 annual operations may be exempt from having 
to accept scheduled passenger air carrier service, provided 
that the following conditions are met:
          (1) No scheduled passenger air carrier has provided 
        service at the airport within 5 years prior to January 
        1, 2002.
          (2) The airport is located within or underneath the 
        Class B airspace of an airport that maintains an 
        airport operating certificate pursuant to section 44706 
        of title 49.
          (3) The certificated airport operating under section 
        44706 of title 49 does not contribute to significant 
        passenger delays as defined by DOT/FAA in the ``Airport 
        Capacity Benchmark Report 2001''.
  (q) An airport that meets the conditions of paragraphs (1) 
through (3) of subsection (p) is not subject to section 47524 
of title 49 with respect to a prohibition on all scheduled 
passenger service.
  (r) Competition Disclosure Requirement.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary of Transportation may 
        approve an application under this subchapter for an 
        airport development project grant for a large hub 
        airport or a medium hub airport only if the Secretary 
        receives assurances that the airport sponsor will 
        provide the information required by paragraph (2) at 
        such time and in such form as the Secretary may 
        require.
          (2) Competitive access.--On February 1 and August 1 
        of each year, an airport that during the previous 6-
        month period has been unable to accommodate one or more 
        requests by an air carrier for access to gates or other 
        facilities at that airport in order to provide service 
        to the airport or to expand service at the airport 
        shall transmit a report to the Secretary that--
                  (A) describes the requests;
                  (B) provides an explanation as to why the 
                requests could not be accommodated; and
                  (C) provides a time frame within which, if 
                any, the airport will be able to accommodate 
                the requests.
          (3) Sunset provision.--This subsection shall cease to 
        be effective beginning October 1, [2023] 2028.
  (s) Agreements Granting Through-The-Fence Access to General 
Aviation Airports.--
          (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), a sponsor 
        of a general aviation airport shall not be considered 
        to be in violation of this subtitle, or to be in 
        violation of a grant assurance made under this section 
        or under any other provision of law as a condition for 
        the receipt of Federal financial assistance for airport 
        development, solely because the sponsor enters into an 
        agreement that grants to a person that owns residential 
        real property adjacent to or near the airport access to 
        the airfield of the airport for the following:
                  (A) Aircraft of the person.
                  (B) Aircraft authorized by the person.
          (2) Through-the-fence agreements.--
                  (A) In general.--An agreement described in 
                paragraph (1) between an airport sponsor and a 
                property owner (or an association representing 
                such property owner) shall be a written 
                agreement that prescribes the rights, 
                responsibilities, charges, duration, and other 
                terms the airport sponsor determines are 
                necessary to establish and manage the airport 
                sponsor's relationship with the property owner.
                  (B) Terms and conditions.--An agreement 
                described in paragraph (1) between an airport 
                sponsor and a property owner (or an association 
                representing such property owner) shall require 
                the property owner, at minimum--
                          (i) to pay airport access charges 
                        that, as determined by the airport 
                        sponsor, are comparable to those 
                        charged to tenants and operators on-
                        airport making similar use of the 
                        airport;
                          (ii) to bear the cost of building and 
                        maintaining the infrastructure that, as 
                        determined by the airport sponsor, is 
                        necessary to provide aircraft located 
                        on the property adjacent to or near the 
                        airport access to the airfield of the 
                        airport;
                          (iii) to maintain the property for 
                        residential, noncommercial use for the 
                        duration of the agreement;
                          (iv) to prohibit access to the 
                        airport from other properties through 
                        the property of the property owner; and
                          (v) to prohibit any aircraft 
                        refueling from occurring on the 
                        property.
          (3) Exemption.--The terms and conditions of paragraph 
        (2) shall not apply to an agreement described in 
        paragraph (1) made before the enactment of the FAA 
        Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (Public Law 112-
        95) that the Secretary determines does not comply with 
        such terms and conditions but involves property that is 
        subject to deed or lease restrictions that are 
        considered perpetual and that cannot readily be brought 
        into compliance. However, if the Secretary determines 
        that the airport sponsor and residential property 
        owners are able to make any modification to such an 
        agreement on or after the date of enactment of this 
        paragraph, the exemption provided by this paragraph 
        shall no longer apply.
  (t) Renewal of Certain Leases.--
          (1) In general.--Notwithstanding subsection (a)(13), 
        an airport owner or operator who renews a covered lease 
        shall not be treated as violating a written assurance 
        requirement under this section as a result of such 
        renewal.
          (2) Covered lease defined.--In this subsection, the 
        term ``covered lease'' means a lease--
                  (A) originally entered into before [the date 
                of enactment of this subsection] October 7, 
                2016;
                  (B) under which a nominal lease rate is 
                provided;
                  (C) under which the lessee is a Federal or 
                State government entity; and
                  [(D) that supports the operation of military 
                aircraft by the Air Force or Air National 
                Guard--
                          [(i) at the airport; or
                          [(ii) remotely from the airport.]
                  (D) that--
                          (i) supports the operation of 
                        military aircraft by the Air Force or 
                        Air National Guard--
                                  (I) at the airport; or
                                  (II) remotely from the 
                                airport; or
                          (ii) is for the use of 
                        nonaeronautical land or facilities of 
                        the airport by the National Guard.
  (u) 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.
  [(v) Community Use of Airport Land.--
          [(1) In general.--Notwithstanding subsection (a)(13), 
        and subject to paragraph (2), the sponsor of a public-
        use airport shall not be considered to be in violation 
        of this subtitle, or to be found in violation of a 
        grant assurance made under this section, or under any 
        other provision of law, as a condition for the receipt 
        of Federal financial assistance for airport 
        development, solely because the sponsor has entered 
        into an agreement, including a revised agreement, with 
        a local government providing for the use of airport 
        property for an interim compatible recreational purpose 
        at below fair market value.
          [(2) Restrictions.--This subsection shall apply 
        only--
                  [(A) to an agreement regarding airport 
                property that was initially entered into before 
                the publication of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration's Policy and Procedures 
                Concerning the Use of Airport Revenue, dated 
                February 16, 1999;
                  [(B) if the agreement between the sponsor and 
                the local government is subordinate to any 
                existing or future agreements between the 
                sponsor and the Secretary, including agreements 
                related to a grant assurance under this 
                section;
                  [(C) to airport property that was acquired 
                under a Federal airport development grant 
                program;
                  [(D) if the airport sponsor has provided a 
                written statement to the Administrator that the 
                property made available for a recreational 
                purpose will not be needed for any aeronautical 
                purpose during the next 10 years;
                  [(E) if the agreement includes a term of not 
                more than 2 years to prepare the airport 
                property for the interim compatible 
                recreational purpose and not more than 10 years 
                of use for that purpose;
                  [(F) if the recreational purpose will not 
                impact the aeronautical use of the airport;
                  [(G) if the airport sponsor provides a 
                certification that the sponsor is not 
                responsible for preparation, start-up, 
                operations, maintenance, or any other costs 
                associated with the recreational purpose; and
                  [(H) if the recreational purpose is 
                consistent with Federal land use compatibility 
                criteria under section 47502.
          [(3) Statutory construction.--Nothing in this 
        subsection may be construed as permitting a diversion 
        of airport revenue for the capital or operating costs 
        associated with the community use of airport land.]
  (v) Community Use of Airport Land.--
          (1) In general.--Notwithstanding subsections (a)(13), 
        (b), and (c), and subject to paragraph (2), the sponsor 
        of a public-use airport shall not be considered to be 
        in violation of this subtitle, or to be found in 
        violation of a grant assurance made under this section, 
        or under any other provision of law, as a condition for 
        the receipt of Federal financial assistance for airport 
        development, solely because the sponsor has--
                  (A) entered into an agreement, including a 
                revised agreement, with a local government 
                providing for the use of airport property for 
                an interim compatible recreational purpose at 
                below fair market value; or
                  (B) permanently restricted the use of airport 
                property to compatible recreational and public 
                park use without paying or otherwise obtaining 
                payment of fair market value for the property.
          (2) Restrictions.--
                  (A) Interim compatible recreational 
                purpose.--Paragraph (1) shall apply, with 
                respect to a sponsor that has taken the action 
                described in subparagraph (A) of such 
                paragraph, only--
                          (i) to an agreement regarding airport 
                        property that was initially entered 
                        into before the publication of the 
                        Federal Aviation Administration's 
                        Policy and Procedures Concerning the 
                        Use of Airport Revenue, dated February 
                        16, 1999;
                          (ii) if the agreement between the 
                        sponsor and the local government is 
                        subordinate to any existing or future 
                        agreements between the sponsor and the 
                        Secretary, including agreements related 
                        to a grant assurance under this 
                        section;
                          (iii) to airport property that was 
                        acquired under a Federal airport 
                        development grant program;
                          (iv) if the airport sponsor has 
                        provided a written statement to the 
                        Administrator that the property made 
                        available for a recreational purpose 
                        will not be needed for any aeronautical 
                        purpose during the next 10 years;
                          (v) if the agreement includes a term 
                        of not more than 2 years to prepare the 
                        airport property for the interim 
                        compatible recreational purpose and not 
                        more than 10 years of use for that 
                        purpose;
                          (vi) if the recreational purpose will 
                        not impact the aeronautical use of the 
                        airport;
                          (vii) if the airport sponsor provides 
                        a certification that the sponsor is not 
                        responsible for preparation, startup, 
                        operations, maintenance, or any other 
                        costs associated with the recreational 
                        purpose; and
                          (viii) if the recreational purpose is 
                        consistent with Federal land use 
                        compatibility criteria under section 
                        47502.
                  (B) Permanent recreational use.--Paragraph 
                (1) shall apply, with respect to a sponsor that 
                has taken the action described in subparagraph 
                (B) of such paragraph, only--
                          (i) to airport property that was 
                        purchased using funds from a Federal 
                        grant for acquiring land issued prior 
                        to December 30, 1987;
                          (ii) to airport property that has 
                        been continuously used as a 
                        recreational and public park since 
                        January 1, 1995;
                          (iii) if the airport sponsor has 
                        provided a written statement to the 
                        Administrator that the property to be 
                        permanently restricted for recreational 
                        and public park use is not needed for 
                        any aeronautical use at the time the 
                        written statement is provided and is 
                        not expected to be needed for any 
                        aeronautical use at any time after such 
                        statement is provided;
                          (iv) if the recreational and public 
                        park use does not impact the 
                        aeronautical use of the airport;
                          (v) if the airport sponsor provides a 
                        certification that the sponsor is not 
                        responsible for operations, 
                        maintenance, or any other costs 
                        associated with the recreational and 
                        public park use;
                          (vi) if the recreational purpose is 
                        consistent with Federal land use 
                        compatibility criteria under section 
                        47502;
                          (vii) if, in the event the airport 
                        sponsor leases the property, the lease 
                        will be to a local government entity or 
                        nonprofit entity to operate and 
                        maintain the property at no cost the 
                        airport sponsor; and
                          (viii) if, in the event the airport 
                        sponsor sells the property, the sale 
                        will be to a local government entity 
                        and subject to a permanent deed 
                        restriction ensuring compatible airport 
                        use under regulations issued pursuant 
                        to section 47502.
          (3) Revenue from certain sales of airport property.--
        Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an airport 
        sponsor selling a portion of airport property as 
        described in paragraph (2)(B)(viii)(II) may--
                  (A) sell such portion of airport property for 
                less than fair market value; and
                  (B) subject to the requirements of subsection 
                (b), retain the revenue from the sale of such 
                portion of airport property.
          (4) Statutory construction.--Nothing in this 
        subsection may be construed as permitting a diversion 
        of airport revenue for the capital or operating costs 
        associated with the community use of airport land.
  (w) Mothers' Rooms.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary of Transportation may 
        approve an application under this subchapter for an 
        airport development project grant only if the Secretary 
        receives written assurances that the airport owner or 
        operator will maintain--
                  (A) a lactation area in the sterile area of 
                each passenger terminal building of the 
                airport; and
                  (B) a baby changing table in at least one 
                men's and at least one women's restroom in each 
                passenger terminal building of the airport.
          (2) Applicability.--
                  (A) Airport size.--
                          (i) In general.--The requirements in 
                        paragraph (1) shall only apply to 
                        applications submitted by the airport 
                        sponsor of--
                                  (I) a medium or large hub 
                                airport in fiscal year 2021 and 
                                each fiscal year thereafter; 
                                and
                                  (II) an applicable small hub 
                                airport in fiscal year 2023 and 
                                each fiscal year thereafter.
                          (ii) Applicable small hub airport 
                        defined.--In clause (i)(II), the term 
                        ``applicable small hub airport'' means 
                        an airport designated as a small hub 
                        airport during--
                                  (I) the 3-year period 
                                consisting of 2020, 2021, and 
                                2022; or
                                  (II) any consecutive 3-year 
                                period beginning after 2020.
                  (B) Preexisting facilities.--On application 
                by an airport sponsor, the Secretary may 
                determine that a lactation area in existence on 
                October 5, 2018, complies with the requirement 
                in paragraph (1)(A), notwithstanding the 
                absence of one of the facilities or 
                characteristics referred to in the definition 
                of the term ``lactation area'' in this 
                subsection.
                  (C) Special rule.--The requirement in 
                paragraph (1)(A) shall not apply with respect 
                to a project grant application for a period of 
                time, determined by the Secretary, 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.
          (3) Definition.--In this section, the term--
                  (A) ``lactation area'' means a room or 
                similar accommodation that--
                          (i) provides a location for members 
                        of the public to express breast milk 
                        that is shielded from view and free 
                        from intrusion from the public;
                          (ii) has a door that can be locked;
                          (iii) includes a place to sit, a 
                        table or other flat surface, a sink or 
                        sanitizing equipment, and an electrical 
                        outlet;
                          (iv) is readily accessible to and 
                        usable by individuals with 
                        disabilities, including individuals who 
                        use wheelchairs; and
                          (v) is not located in a restroom; and
                  (B) ``sterile area'' has the same meaning 
                given that term in section 1540.5 of title 49, 
                Code of Federal Regulations.

Sec. 47108. Project grant agreements

  (a) Offer and Acceptance.--On approving a project grant 
application under this subchapter, the Secretary of 
Transportation shall offer the sponsor a grant to pay the 
United States Government's share of the project costs allowable 
under section 47110 of this title. The Secretary may impose 
terms on the offer that the Secretary considers necessary to 
carry out this subchapter and regulations prescribed under this 
subchapter. An offer shall state the obligations to be assumed 
by the sponsor and the maximum amount the Government will pay 
for the project from the amounts authorized under chapter 481 
of this title (except sections 48102(e), 48106, 48107, and 
48110). At the request of the sponsor, an offer of a grant for 
a project that will not be completed in one fiscal year shall 
provide for the obligation of amounts apportioned or to be 
apportioned to a sponsor under section 47114(c) or 
[47114(d)(3)(A) of this title] 47114(d)(2)(A) for the fiscal 
years necessary to pay the Government's share of the cost of 
the project. An offer that is accepted in writing by the 
sponsor is an agreement binding on the Government and the 
sponsor. The Government may pay or be obligated to pay a 
project cost only after a grant agreement for the project is 
signed.
  [(b) Increasing Government's Share Under This Subchapter or 
Chapter 475.--(1) When an offer has been accepted in writing, 
the amount stated in the offer as the maximum amount the 
Government will pay may be increased only as provided in 
paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection.
  [(2)(A) For a project receiving assistance under a grant 
approved under the Airport and Airway Improvement Act of 1982 
before October 1, 1987, the amount may be increased by not more 
than--
          [(i) 10 percent for an airport development project, 
        except a project for acquiring an interest in land; and
          [(ii) 50 percent of the total increase in allowable 
        project costs attributable to acquiring an interest in 
        land, based on current creditable appraisals.
  [(B) An increase under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph may 
be paid only from amounts the Government recovers from other 
grants made under this subchapter.
  [(3) For a project receiving assistance under a grant 
approved under the Act, this subchapter, or chapter 475 of this 
title after September 30, 1987, the amount may be increased--
          [(A) for an airport development project, by not more 
        than 15 percent; and
          [(B) for a grant after September 30, 1992, to acquire 
        an interest in land for an airport (except a primary 
        airport), by not more than the greater of the 
        following, based on current creditable appraisals or a 
        court award in a condemnation proceeding:
                  [(i) 15 percent; or
                  [(ii) 25 percent of the total increase in 
                allowable project costs attributable to 
                acquiring an interest in land.
  [(c) Increasing Government's Share Under Airport and Airway 
Development Act of 1970.--For a project receiving assistance 
under a grant made under the Airport and Airway Development Act 
of 1970, the maximum amount the Government will pay may be 
increased by not more than 10 percent. An increase under this 
subsection may be paid only from amounts the Government 
recovers from other grants made under the Act.]
  (b) Increasing Government Share.--
          (1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2) 
        or (3), the amount stated in an offer as the maximum 
        amount the Government will pay may not be increased 
        when the offer has been accepted in writing.
          (2) Exception.--For a project receiving assistance 
        under a grant approved under this chapter or chapter 
        475, the amount may be increased--
                  (A) for an airport development project, by 
                not more than 15 percent; and
                  (B) to acquire an interest in land for an 
                airport (except a primary airport), by not more 
                than the greater of the following, based on 
                current creditable appraisals or a court award 
                in a condemnation proceeding:
                          (i) 15 percent; or
                          (ii) 25 percent of the total increase 
                        in allowable project costs attributable 
                        to acquiring an interest in land.
          (3) Price adjustment provisions.--
                  (A) In general.--The Secretary may 
                incorporate a provision in a project grant 
                agreement under which the Secretary agrees to 
                pay more than the maximum amount otherwise 
                specified in the agreement if the Secretary 
                finds that commodity or labor prices have 
                increased since the agreement was made.
                  (B) Decrease in costs.--A provision 
                incorporated in a project grant agreement under 
                this paragraph shall ensure that the Secretary 
                realizes any financial benefit associated with 
                a decrease in material or labor costs for the 
                project.
  [(d)] (c) Changing Workscope.--With the consent of the 
sponsor, the Secretary may amend a grant agreement made under 
this subchapter to change the workscope of a project financed 
under the grant if the amendment does not result in an increase 
in the maximum amount the Government may pay under subsection 
(b) of this section.
  [(e)] (d) Change in Airport Status.--
          (1) Changes to nonprimary airport status.--If the 
        status of a primary airport changes to a nonprimary 
        airport at a time when a development project under a 
        multiyear agreement under subsection (a) is not yet 
        completed, the project shall remain eligible for 
        funding from discretionary funds under section 47115 at 
        the funding level and under the terms provided by the 
        agreement, subject to the availability of funds.
          (2) Changes to noncommercial service airport 
        status.--If the status of a commercial service airport 
        changes to a noncommercial service airport at a time 
        when a terminal development project under a phased-
        funding arrangement is not yet completed, the project 
        shall remain eligible for funding from discretionary 
        funds under section 47115 at the funding level and 
        under the terms provided by the arrangement subject to 
        the availability of funds.
          (3) Changes to nonhub primary status.--If the status 
        of a nonhub primary airport changes to a small hub 
        primary airport at a time when the airport has received 
        discretionary funds under this chapter for a terminal 
        development project in accordance with section 
        47119(a), and the project is not yet completed, the 
        project shall remain eligible for funding from the 
        discretionary fund and the small airport fund to pay 
        costs allowable under section 47119(a). Such project 
        shall remain eligible for such funds for three fiscal 
        years after the start of construction of the project, 
        or if the Secretary determines that a further extension 
        of eligibility is justified, until the project is 
        completed.

Sec. 47109. United States Government's share of project costs

  (a) General.--Except as otherwise provided in this section, 
the United States Government's share of allowable project costs 
is--
          (1) 75 percent for a project at a medium or large hub 
        airport;
          (2) not more than [90 percent] 91 percent for a 
        project funded by a grant issued to and administered by 
        a State under section 47128, relating to the State 
        block grant program;
          (3) 90 percent for a project at any other airport;
          (4) 70 percent for a project funded by the 
        Administrator from the discretionary fund under section 
        47115 at an airport receiving an exemption under 
        section 47134; and
          (5) 95 percent for a project that--
                  (A) the Administrator determines is a 
                successive phase of a multiphase 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 would 
                otherwise be capped at 90 percent under 
                paragraph (2) or (3).
  (b) Increased Government Share.--If, under subsection (a) of 
this section, the Government's share of allowable costs of a 
project in a State containing unappropriated and unreserved 
public lands and nontaxable Indian lands (individual and 
tribal) of more than 5 percent of the total area of all lands 
in the State, is less than the share applied on June 30, 1975, 
under section 17(b) of the Airport and Airway Development Act 
of 1970, the Government's share under subsection (a) of this 
section shall be increased by the lesser of--
          (1) 25 percent;
          (2) one-half of the percentage that the area of 
        unappropriated and unreserved public lands and 
        nontaxable Indian lands in the State is of the total 
        area of the State; or
          (3) the percentage necessary to increase the 
        Government's share to the percentage that applied on 
        June 30, 1975, under section 17(b) of the Act.
  (c) Grandfather Rule.--
          (1) In general.--In the case of any project approved 
        after September 30, 2003, at a small hub airport or 
        nonhub airport that is located in a State containing 
        unappropriated and unreserved public lands and 
        nontaxable Indian lands (individual and tribal) of more 
        than 5 percent of the total area of all lands in the 
        State, the Government's share of allowable costs of the 
        project shall be increased by the same ratio as the 
        basic share of allowable costs of a project divided 
        into the increased (Public Lands States) share of 
        allowable costs of a project as shown on documents of 
        the Federal Aviation Administration dated August 3, 
        1979, at airports for which the general share was 80 
        percent on August 3, 1979. This subsection shall apply 
        only if--
                  (A) the State contained unappropriated and 
                unreserved public lands and nontaxable Indian 
                lands of more than 5 percent of the total area 
                of all lands in the State on August 3, 1979; 
                and
                  (B) the application under subsection (b), 
                does not increase the Government's share of 
                allowable costs of the project.
          (2) The Government's share of allowable project costs 
        determined under this subsection shall not exceed the 
        lesser of 93.75 percent or the highest percentage 
        Government share applicable to any project in any State 
        under subsection (b), except that at a primary non-hub 
        and non-primary commercial service airport located in a 
        State as set forth in paragraph (1) of this subsection 
        that is within 15 miles of another State as set forth 
        in paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Government's 
        share shall be an average of the Government share 
        applicable to any project in each of the States.
  (d) Special Rule for Privately Owned Reliever Airports.--If a 
privately owned reliever airport contributes any lands, 
easements, or rights-of-way to carry out a project under this 
subchapter, the current fair market value of such lands, 
easements, or rights-of-way shall be credited toward the non-
Federal share of allowable project costs.
  (e) Special Rule for Transition From Small Hub to Medium Hub 
Status.--If the status of a small hub airport changes to a 
medium hub airport, the Government's share of allowable project 
costs for the airport may not exceed 90 percent for the first 2 
fiscal years after such change in hub status.
  (f) Special Rule for Economically Distressed Communities.--
The Government's share of allowable project costs shall be 95 
percent for a project at an airport that--
          (1) is receiving essential air service for which 
        compensation was provided to an air carrier under 
        subchapter II of chapter 417; and
          (2) is located in an area that meets one or more of 
        the criteria established in section 301(a) of the 
        Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 (42 
        U.S.C. 3161(a)), as determined by the Secretary of 
        Commerce.
  (g) Special Rule for Covered Equipment.--
          (1) In general.--The Government's share of allowable 
        project costs for covered equipment and its 
        installation shall be 100 percent.
          (2) Definition of covered equipment.--For purposes of 
        this subsection, the term ``covered equipment'' means 
        aqueous film forming foam input-based testing equipment 
        that is eligible for Airport Improvement Program 
        funding based on Federal Aviation Administration PGL 
        21-01, titled ``Extension of Eligibility for stand-
        alone acquisition of input-based testing equipment and 
        truck modification'', dated October 5, 2021 (or any 
        other successor program guidance letter).
          (3) Sunset.--The higher cost share authority 
        established in this subsection shall terminate on the 
        earlier of--
                  (A) 180 days after the date on which the 
                eligibility of covered equipment for Airport 
                Improvement Program funding under the authority 
                described in paragraph (2) terminates or is 
                discontinued by the Administrator; or
                  (B) 5 years after the date of enactment of 
                this subsection.

Sec. 47110. Allowable project costs

  (a) General Authority.--Except as provided in section 47111 
of this title, the United States Government may pay or be 
obligated to pay, from amounts appropriated to carry out this 
subchapter, a cost incurred in carrying out a project under 
this subchapter only if the Secretary of Transportation decides 
the cost is allowable.
  (b) Allowable Cost Standards.--A project cost is allowable--
          (1)(A) if the cost necessarily is incurred in 
        carrying out the project in compliance with the grant 
        agreement made for the project under this subchapter, 
        including any cost a sponsor incurs related to an audit 
        the Secretary requires under section 47121(b) or (d) of 
        this title and any cost of moving a Federal facility 
        impeding the project if the rebuilt facility is of an 
        equivalent size and type; or
          (B) if the cost is an incentive payment incurred in 
        carrying out the project described in subparagraph (A) 
        that is to be provided to a contractor upon early 
        completion of a project, if--
                  (i) such payment does not exceed the lesser 
                of 5 percent of the initial construction 
                contract amount or $1,000,000;
                  (ii) the level of contractor's control of, or 
                access to, the worksite necessary to shorten 
                the duration of the project does not negatively 
                impact the operation of the airport;
                  (iii) the contract specifies application of 
                the incentive structure in the event of 
                unforeseeable, non-weather delays beyond the 
                control of the contractor;
                  (iv) nothing in any agreement with the 
                contractor prevents the airport operator from 
                retaining responsibility for the safety, 
                efficiency, and capacity of the airport during 
                the execution of the grant agreement; and
                  (v) the Secretary determines that the use of 
                an incentive payment is likely to increase 
                airport capacity or efficiency or result in 
                cost savings as a result of shortening the 
                project's duration;
          (2)(A) if the cost is incurred after the grant 
        agreement is executed and is for airport development or 
        airport planning carried out after the grant agreement 
        is executed;
          (B) if the cost is incurred after June 1, 1989, by 
        the airport operator (regardless of when the grant 
        agreement is executed) as part of a Government-approved 
        noise compatibility program (including project 
        formulation costs) and is consistent with all 
        applicable statutory and administrative requirements;
          (C) if the Government's share is paid only with 
        amounts apportioned under paragraphs (1) and (2) of 
        section 47114(c) or section 47114(d)(3)(A) and if the 
        cost is incurred--
                  (i) after September 30, 1996;
                  (ii) before a grant agreement is executed for 
                the project; and
                  (iii) in accordance with an airport layout 
                plan approved by the Secretary and with all 
                statutory and administrative requirements that 
                would have been applicable to the project if 
                the project had been carried out after the 
                grant agreement had been executed; or
          (D) if the cost is for airport development and is 
        incurred before execution of the grant agreement, but 
        in the same fiscal year as execution of the grant 
        agreement, and if--
                  (i) the cost was incurred before execution of 
                the grant agreement because the airport has a 
                shortened construction season due to climatic 
                conditions in the vicinity of the airport;
                  (ii) the cost is in accordance with an 
                airport layout plan approved by the Secretary 
                and with all statutory and administrative 
                requirements that would have been applicable to 
                the project if the project had been carried out 
                after execution of the grant agreement, 
                including submission of a complete grant 
                application to the appropriate regional or 
                district office of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration;
                  (iii) the sponsor notifies the Secretary 
                before authorizing work to commence on the 
                project;
                  (iv) the sponsor has an alternative funding 
                source available to fund the project; and
                  (v) the sponsor's decision to proceed with 
                the project in advance of execution of the 
                grant agreement does not affect the priority 
                assigned to the project by the Secretary for 
                the allocation of discretionary funds;
          (3) to the extent the cost is reasonable in amount;
          (4) if the cost is not incurred in a project for 
        airport development or airport planning for which other 
        Government assistance has been granted;
          (5) if the total costs allowed for the project are 
        not more than the amount stated in the grant agreement 
        as the maximum the Government will pay (except as 
        provided in section 47108(b) of this title);
          (6) if the cost is for a project not described in 
        section 47102(3) for acquiring for use at a commercial 
        service airport vehicles and ground support equipment 
        owned by an airport that include low-emission 
        technology, but only to the extent of the incremental 
        cost of equipping such vehicles or equipment with low-
        emission technology, as determined by the Secretary; 
        and
          (7) if the cost is incurred on a measure to improve 
        the efficiency of an airport building (such as a 
        measure designed to meet one or more of the criteria 
        for being considered a high-performance green building 
        as set forth under section 401(13) of the Energy 
        Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 
        17061(13))) and--
                  (A) the measure is for a project for airport 
                development;
                  (B) the measure is for an airport building 
                that is otherwise eligible for construction 
                assistance under this subchapter; and
                  (C) if the measure results in an increase in 
                initial project costs, the increase is 
                justified by expected savings over the life 
                cycle of the project.
  (c) Certain Prior Costs as Allowable Costs.--The Secretary 
may decide that a project cost under subsection (b)(2)(A) of 
this section incurred [after May 13, 1946, and] before the date 
the grant agreement is executed is allowable if it is--
          (1) necessarily incurred in formulating or preparing 
        for an airport development project, including costs 
        incurred for field surveys, plans and specifications, 
        property interests in land or airspace, utility 
        relocation, work site preparation, and administration 
        or other incidental items that would not have been 
        incurred except for the project; or
          (2) necessarily and directly incurred in developing 
        the work scope of an airport planning project.
  (d) Relocation of Airport-Owned Facilities.--The Secretary 
may determine that the costs of relocating or replacing an 
airport-owned facility are allowable for an airport development 
project at an airport only if--
          (1) the Government's share of such costs will be paid 
        with funds apportioned to the airport sponsor under 
        [section 47114(c)(1) or 47114(d)] section 47114 or 
        distributed from the small airport fund under section 
        47116;
          (2) the Secretary determines that the relocation or 
        replacement is required due to a change in the 
        Secretary's design standards; and
          (3) the Secretary determines that the change is 
        beyond the control of the airport sponsor.
  (e) Letters of Intent.--(1) The Secretary may issue a letter 
of intent to the sponsor stating an intention to obligate from 
future budget authority an amount, not more than the 
Government's share of allowable project costs, for an airport 
development project (including costs of formulating the 
project) at a primary or reliever airport. The letter shall 
establish a schedule under which the Secretary will reimburse 
the sponsor for the Government's share of allowable project 
costs, as amounts become available, if the sponsor, after the 
Secretary issues the letter, carries out the project without 
receiving amounts under this subchapter.
  (2) Paragraph (1) of this subsection applies to a project--
          (A) about which the sponsor notifies the Secretary, 
        before the project begins, of the sponsor's intent to 
        carry out the project;
          (B) that will comply with all statutory and 
        administrative requirements that would apply to the 
        project if it were carried out with amounts made 
        available under this subchapter; and
          (C) that meets the criteria of section 47115(d) and, 
        if for a project at a [commercial service airport 
        having at least 0.25 percent of the boardings each year 
        at all such airports] medium hub airport or large hub 
        airport, the Secretary decides will enhance system-wide 
        airport capacity significantly.
  (3) A letter of intent issued under paragraph (1) of this 
subsection is not an obligation of the Government under section 
1501 of title 31, and the letter is not deemed to be an 
administrative commitment for financing. An obligation or 
administrative commitment may be made only as amounts are 
provided in authorization and appropriation laws.
  (4) The total estimated amount of future Government 
obligations covered by all outstanding letters of intent under 
paragraph (1) of this subsection may not be more than the 
amount authorized to carry out section 48103 of this title, 
less an amount reasonably estimated by the Secretary to be 
needed for grants under section 48103 that are not covered by a 
letter.
  (5) Letters of intent.--The Secretary may not require an 
eligible agency to impose a passenger facility charge under 
section 40117 in order to obtain a letter of intent under this 
section.
  (6) Limitation on statutory construction.--Nothing in this 
section shall be construed to prohibit the obligation of 
amounts pursuant to a letter of intent under this subsection in 
the same fiscal year as the letter of intent is issued.
  (7) Partnership program airports.--The Secretary may issue a 
letter of intent [under this section] under this subsection to 
an airport sponsor with an approved application under section 
47134(b) if--
          (A) the application was approved in fiscal year 2019; 
        and
          (B) the project meets all other requirements set 
        forth in this chapter.
  (f) Nonallowable Costs.--Except as provided in subsection (d) 
of this section and section 47118(f) of this title, a cost is 
not an allowable airport development project cost if it is 
for--
          (1) constructing a public parking facility for 
        passenger automobiles;
          (2) constructing, altering, or repairing part of an 
        airport building, except to the extent the building 
        will be used for facilities or activities directly 
        related to the safety of individuals at the airport;
          (3) decorative landscaping; or
          (4) providing or installing sculpture or art works.
  (g) Use of Discretionary Funds.--A project for which cost 
reimbursement is provided under subsection (b)(2)(C) shall not 
receive priority consideration with respect to the use of 
discretionary funds made available under section 47115 of this 
title even if the amounts made available under paragraphs (1) 
and (2) of section 47114(c) or section 47114(d)(3)(A) are not 
sufficient to cover the Government's share of the cost of the 
project.
  (h) Nonprimary Airports.--The Secretary may decide that the 
construction costs of revenue producing aeronautical support 
facilities are allowable for an airport development project at 
a nonprimary airport if the Government's share of such costs is 
paid only with funds apportioned to the airport sponsor under 
[section 47114(d)(3)(A)] section 47114(c)(1)(D) or section 
47114(d)(2)(A) and if the Secretary determines that the sponsor 
has made adequate provision for financing airside needs of the 
airport.
  [(i) Bird-Detecting Radar Systems.--The Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration, upon the conclusion of all 
planned research by the Administration regarding avian radar 
systems, shall--
          [(1) update Advisory Circular No. 150/5220-25 to 
        specify which systems have been studied; and
          [(2) within 180 days after such research is 
        concluded, issue a final report on the use of avian 
        radar systems in the national airspace system.]
  (i) Small Airport Letters of Intent.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary may issue a letter of 
        intent to a sponsor stating an intention to obligate an 
        amount from future budget authority for an airport 
        development project (including costs of formulating the 
        project) at a nonhub airport or an airport that is not 
        a primary airport. The letter shall establish a 
        schedule under which the Secretary will reimburse the 
        sponsor for the Government's share of allowable project 
        costs, as amounts become available, if the sponsor, 
        after the Secretary issues the letter, carries out the 
        project without receiving amounts under this 
        subchapter.
          (2) Limitations.--The amount the Secretary intends to 
        obligate in a letter of intent issued under this 
        subsection shall not exceed the larger of--
                  (A) the Government's share of allowable 
                project costs; or
                  (B) $10,000,000.
          (3) Financing.--Allowable project costs under 
        paragraph (1) may include costs associated with making 
        payments for debt service on indebtedness incurred to 
        carry out the project.
          (4) Requirements.--The Secretary shall only issue a 
        letter of intent under paragraph (1) if--
                  (A) the sponsor notifies the Secretary, 
                before the project begins, of the sponsor's 
                intent to carry out the project and requests a 
                letter of intent; and
                  (B) the sponsor agrees to comply with all 
                statutory and administrative requirements that 
                would apply to the project if it were carried 
                out with amounts made available under this 
                subchapter.
          (5) Assessment.--In reviewing a request for a letter 
        of intent under this subsection, the Secretary shall 
        consider the grant history of an airport, the airport's 
        enplanements or operations, and such other factors as 
        the Secretary determines appropriate.
          (6) Prioritization.--In issuing letters of intent 
        under this subsection, the Secretary shall--
                  (A) prioritize projects that--
                          (i) cannot reasonably be funded by an 
                        airport sponsor using funds apportioned 
                        under section 47114(c), 
                        47114(d)(2)(A)(i), or 47114(d)(6), 
                        including funds apportioned under those 
                        sections in multiple fiscal years 
                        pursuant to section 47117(b)(1); and
                          (ii) are necessary to an airport's 
                        continued safe operation or 
                        development; and
                  (B) structure the reimbursement schedules 
                under such letters in a manner that minimizes 
                unnecessary or undesirable project 
                segmentation.
          (7) Required use.--
                  (A) In general.--Beginning in fiscal year 
                2028, and in each fiscal year thereafter, the 
                Secretary shall ensure that not less than 
                $100,000,000 is committed to be reimbursed in 
                such fiscal year pursuant to letters of intent 
                issued under this subsection.
                  (B) Waiver.--The Secretary may waive the 
                requirement under subparagraph (A) for a fiscal 
                year if the Secretary determines there are 
                insufficient letter of intent requests that 
                meet the requirements of paragraph (4). Upon 
                such waiver, the Secretary shall provide a 
                briefing 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 reasons 
                contributing to the need for such waiver and 
                the actions the Secretary intends to take to 
                ensure that there are sufficient letter of 
                intent requests that meet the requirements of 
                paragraph (4) in the fiscal year succeeding the 
                fiscal year for which the Secretary issued such 
                waiver.
                  (C) Restriction.--The total estimated amount 
                of future Government obligations covered by all 
                outstanding letters of intent under paragraph 
                (1) may not be more than the amount authorized 
                to carry out section 48103 of this title, less 
                an amount reasonably estimated by the Secretary 
                to be needed for grants under section 48103 
                that are not covered by a letter.
          (8) No obligation or commitment.--A letter of intent 
        issued under this subsection is not an obligation of 
        the Government under section 1501 of title 31, and the 
        letter is not deemed to be an administrative commitment 
        for financing. An obligation or administrative 
        commitment may be made only as amounts are provided in 
        authorization and appropriation laws.
          (9) Limitation on statutory construction.--Nothing in 
        this section shall be construed to prohibit the 
        obligation of amounts pursuant to a letter of intent 
        under this subsection in the same fiscal year as the 
        letter of intent is issued.
  (j) Additional Nonallowable Costs.--
          (1) In general.--A cost is not an allowable airport 
        development project cost under this chapter if the cost 
        relates to a contract for procurement or installation 
        of a passenger boarding bridge if the contract is with 
        an entity on the list required under paragraph (2).
          (2) Required list.--Not later than 30 days after the 
        date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary 
        shall, based on information provided by the United 
        States Trade Representative and the Attorney General, 
        publish and annually update a list of entities 
        manufacturing airport passenger boarding bridges--
                  (A) that are owned, directed, or subsidized 
                by the People's Republic of China; and
                  (B) that--
                          (i) have been determined by a Federal 
                        court to have misappropriated 
                        intellectual property or trade secrets 
                        from an entity organized under the laws 
                        of the United States or any 
                        jurisdiction within the United States; 
                        or
                          (ii) own or control, are owned or 
                        controlled by, are under common 
                        ownership or control with, or are 
                        successors to, an entity described in 
                        clause (i).
  (k) Fuel Infrastructure.--
          (1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision 
        of law, the Secretary may decide that covered costs are 
        allowable for an airport development project at a 
        primary or nonprimary airport where such costs are paid 
        for with funds apportioned to the sponsor of such 
        airport under section 47114 or provided pursuant to 
        section 47115.
          (2) Prioritization.--If the Secretary makes grants 
        from the discretionary fund under section 47115 for 
        covered costs, the Secretary shall prioritize providing 
        such grants to general aviation airports.
          (3) Covered costs defined.--In this subsection, the 
        term ``covered costs''--
                  (A) means construction costs related to an 
                airport-owned--
                          (i) aeronautical fueling system for 
                        unleaded fuel; and
                          (ii) fueling systems for type 
                        certificated hydrogen-powered aircraft; 
                        and
                  (B) may include capital costs for fuel farms 
                and other equipment and infrastructure used for 
                the delivery and storage of fuel.

Sec. 47111. Payments under project grant agreements

  (a) General Authority.--After making a project grant 
agreement under this subchapter and consulting with the 
sponsor, the Secretary of Transportation may decide when and in 
what amounts payments under the agreement will be made. 
Payments totaling not more than 90 percent of the United States 
Government's share of the project's estimated allowable costs 
may be made before the project is completed if the sponsor 
certifies to the Secretary that the total amount expended from 
the advance payments at any time will not be more than the cost 
of the airport development work completed on the project at 
that time.
  (b) Recovering Payments.--If the Secretary determines that 
the total amount of payments made under a grant agreement under 
this subchapter is more than the Government's share of the 
total allowable project costs, the Government may recover the 
excess amount. If the Secretary finds that a project for which 
an advance payment was made has not been completed within a 
reasonable time, the Government may recover any part of the 
advance payment for which the Government received no benefit.
  (c) Payment Deposits.--A payment under a project grant 
agreement under this subchapter may be made only to an official 
or depository designated by the sponsor and authorized by law 
to receive public money.
  (d) Withholding Payments.--(1) The Secretary may withhold a 
payment under a grant agreement under this subchapter for more 
than 180 days after the payment is due only if the Secretary--
          (A) notifies the sponsor and provides an opportunity 
        for a hearing; and
          (B) finds that the sponsor has violated the 
        agreement.
  (2) The 180-day period may be extended by--
          (A) agreement of the Secretary and the sponsor; or
          (B) the hearing officer if the officer decides an 
        extension is necessary because the sponsor did not 
        follow the schedule the officer established.
  (3) A person adversely affected by an order of the Secretary 
withholding a payment may apply for review of the order by 
filing a petition in the United States Court of Appeals for the 
District of Columbia Circuit or in the court of appeals of the 
United States for the circuit in which the project is located. 
The petition must be filed not later than 60 days after the 
order is served on the petitioner.
  (e) Action on Grant Assurances Concerning Airport Revenues.--
If, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, the Secretary 
finds a violation of section 47107(b) of this title, as further 
defined by the Secretary under section 47107(k) of this title, 
or a violation of an assurance made under section 47107(b) of 
this title, and the Secretary has provided an opportunity for 
the airport sponsor to take corrective action to cure such 
violation, and such corrective action has not been taken within 
the period of time set by the Secretary, the Secretary shall 
withhold approval of any new grant application for funds under 
this chapter, or any proposed modification to an existing grant 
that would increase the amount of funds made available under 
this chapter to the airport sponsor, and withhold approval of 
any new application to impose a [fee] charge under section 
40117 of this title. Such applications may thereafter be 
approved only upon a finding by the Secretary that such 
corrective action as the Secretary requires has been taken to 
address the violation and that the violation no longer exists.
  (f) Judicial Enforcement.--For any violation of this chapter 
or any grant assurance made under this chapter, the Secretary 
may apply to the district court of the United States for any 
district in which the violation occurred for enforcement. Such 
court shall have jurisdiction to enforce obedience thereto by a 
writ of injunction or other process, mandatory or otherwise, 
restraining any person from further violation.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 47113. Minority and disadvantaged business participation

  (a) Definitions.--In this section--
          (1) ``small business concern''--
                  (A) has the meaning given the term in section 
                3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632); 
                but
                  (B) in the case of a concern in the 
                construction industry, a concern shall be 
                considered a small business concern if the 
                concern meets the size standard for the North 
                American Industry Classification System Code 
                237310, as adjusted by the Small Business 
                Administration;
          (2) ``socially and economically disadvantaged 
        individual'' has the same meaning given that term in 
        section 8(d) of the Act (15 U.S.C. 637(d)) and relevant 
        subcontracting regulations prescribed under section 
        8(d), except that women are presumed to be socially and 
        economically disadvantaged; and
          (3) the term ``qualified HUBZone small business 
        concern'' has the meaning given that term in section 
        31(b) of the Small Business Act.
  (b) General Requirement.--Except to the extent the Secretary 
decides otherwise, at least 10 percent of amounts available in 
a fiscal year under section 48103 of this title shall be 
expended with small business concerns owned and controlled by 
socially and economically disadvantaged individuals or 
qualified HUBZone small business concerns.
  (c) Uniform Criteria.--The Secretary shall establish minimum 
uniform criteria for State governments and airport sponsors to 
use in certifying whether a small business concern qualifies 
under this section. The criteria shall include on-site visits, 
personal interviews, licenses, analyses of stock ownership and 
bonding capacity, listings of equipment and work completed, 
resumes of principal owners, financial capacity, and type of 
work preferred.
  (d) Surveys and Lists.--Each State or airport sponsor 
annually shall survey and compile a list of small business 
concerns referred to in subsection (b) of this section and the 
location of each concern in the State.
  (e) Mandatory Training Program.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date 
        of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall 
        establish a mandatory training program for persons 
        described in paragraph (3) to provide streamlined 
        training on certifying whether a small business concern 
        qualifies as a small business concern owned and 
        controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged 
        individuals under this section and section 47107(e).
          (2) Implementation.--The training program may be 
        implemented by one or more private entities approved by 
        the Secretary.
          (3) Participants.--A person referred to in paragraph 
        (1) is an official or agent of an airport sponsor--
                  (A) who is required to provide a written 
                assurance under this section or section 
                47107(e) that the airport owner or operator 
                will meet the percentage goal of subsection (b) 
                of this section or section 47107(e)(1), as the 
                case may be; or
                  (B) who is responsible for determining 
                whether or not a small business concern 
                qualifies as a small business concern owned and 
                controlled by socially and economically 
                disadvantaged individuals under this section or 
                section 47107(e).
  (f) Supportive Services.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary of Transportation, in 
        coordination with the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration, may, at the request of an 
        airport sponsor, provide assistance under a grant 
        issued under this subchapter to develop, conduct, and 
        administer training programs and assistance programs in 
        connection with any airport improvement project subject 
        to part 26 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        for small business concerns referred to in subsection 
        (b) to achieve proficiency to compete, on an equal 
        basis for contracts and subcontracts related to such 
        projects.
          (2) Eligible entities.--An entity eligible to receive 
        assistance under this section is--
                  (A) a State;
                  (B) a political subdivision of a State or 
                local government;
                  (C) a Tribal government;
                  (D) an airport sponsor;
                  (E) a metropolitan planning organization;
                  (F) a group of entities described in 
                subparagraphs (A) through (E); or
                  (G) any other organization considered 
                appropriate by the Secretary.

Sec. 47114. Apportionments

  (a) Definition.--In this section, ``amount subject to 
apportionment'' means the amount newly made available under 
section 48103 of this title for a fiscal year.
  (b) Apportionment Date.--On the first day of each fiscal 
year, the Secretary of Transportation shall apportion the 
amount subject to apportionment for that fiscal year as 
provided in this section.
  (c) Amounts Apportioned to Sponsors.--
          [(1) Primary airports.--
                  [(A) Apportionment.--The Secretary shall 
                apportion to the sponsor of each primary 
                airport for each fiscal year an amount equal 
                to--
                          [(i) $7.80 for each of the first 
                        50,000 passenger boardings at the 
                        airport during the prior calendar year;
                          [(ii) $5.20 for each of the next 
                        50,000 passenger boardings at the 
                        airport during the prior calendar year;
                          [(iii) $2.60 for each of the next 
                        400,000 passenger boardings at the 
                        airport during the prior calendar year;
                          [(iv) $.65 for each of the next 
                        500,000 passenger boardings at the 
                        airport during the prior calendar year; 
                        and
                          [(v) $.50 for each additional 
                        passenger boarding at the airport 
                        during the prior calendar year.
                  [(B) Minimum and maximum apportionments.--Not 
                less than $650,000 nor more than $22,000,000 
                may be apportioned under subparagraph (A) of 
                this paragraph to an airport sponsor for a 
                primary airport for each fiscal year.
                  [(C) Special rule.--In any fiscal year in 
                which the total amount made available under 
                section 48103 is $3,200,000,000 or more--
                          [(i) the amount to be apportioned to 
                        a sponsor under subparagraph (A) shall 
                        be increased by doubling the amount 
                        that would otherwise be apportioned;
                          [(ii) the minimum apportionment to a 
                        sponsor under subparagraph (B) shall be 
                        $1,000,000 rather than $650,000; and
                          [(iii) the maximum apportionment to a 
                        sponsor under subparagraph (B) shall be 
                        $26,000,000 rather than $22,000,000.
                  [(D) New airports.--Notwithstanding 
                subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall apportion 
                on the first day of the first fiscal year 
                following the official opening of a new airport 
                with scheduled passenger air transportation an 
                amount equal to the minimum amount set forth in 
                subparagraph (B) or (C), as appropriate, to the 
                sponsor of such airport.
                  [(E) Use of previous fiscal year's 
                apportionment.--Notwithstanding subparagraph 
                (A), the Secretary may apportion to an airport 
                sponsor in a fiscal year an amount equal to the 
                amount apportioned to that sponsor in the 
                previous fiscal year if the Secretary finds 
                that--
                          [(i) passenger boardings at the 
                        airport fell below 10,000 in the 
                        calendar year used to calculate the 
                        apportionment;
                          [(ii) the airport had at least 10,000 
                        passenger boardings in the calendar 
                        year prior to the calendar year used to 
                        calculate apportionments to airport 
                        sponsors in a fiscal year; and
                          [(iii) the cause of the shortfall in 
                        passenger boardings was a temporary but 
                        significant interruption in service by 
                        an air carrier to that airport due to 
                        an employment action, natural disaster, 
                        or other event unrelated to the demand 
                        for air transportation at the affected 
                        airport.
                  [(F) Special rule for fiscal years 2018 
                through 2020.--Notwithstanding subparagraph (A) 
                and subject to subparagraph (G), the Secretary 
                shall apportion to a sponsor of an airport 
                under that subparagraph for each of fiscal 
                years 2018 through 2020 an amount based on the 
                number of passenger boardings at the airport 
                during calendar year 2012 if the airport--
                          [(i) had 10,000 or more passenger 
                        boardings during calendar year 2012;
                          [(ii) had fewer than 10,000 passenger 
                        boardings during the calendar year used 
                        to calculate the apportionment for 
                        fiscal year 2018, 2019, or 2020, as 
                        applicable, under subparagraph (A); and
                          [(iii) had scheduled air service at 
                        any point in the calendar year used to 
                        calculate the apportionment.
                  [(G) Limitations and waivers.--The authority 
                to make apportionments in the manner prescribed 
                in subparagraph (F) may be utilized no more 
                than 3 years in a row. The Secretary may waive 
                this limitation if the Secretary determines 
                that an airport's enplanements are 
                substantially close to 10,000 enplanements and 
                the airport sponsor or affected communities are 
                taking reasonable steps to restore enplanements 
                above 10,000.
                  [(H) Minimum apportionment for commercial 
                service airports with more than 8,000 passenger 
                boardings in a calendar year.--Not less than 
                $600,000 may be apportioned under subparagraph 
                (A) for each fiscal year to each sponsor of a 
                commercial service airport that had fewer than 
                10,000 passenger boardings, but at least 8,000 
                passenger boardings, during the prior calendar 
                year.
                  [(I) Seasonal airports.--Notwithstanding 
                section 47102, if the Secretary determines that 
                a commercial service airport with at least 
                8,000 passenger boardings receives scheduled 
                air carrier service for fewer than 6 months in 
                the calendar year used to calculate 
                apportionments to airport sponsors in a fiscal 
                year, then the Secretary shall consider the 
                airport to be a nonhub primary airport for 
                purposes of this chapter.
                  [(J) Special rule for fiscal years 2022 and 
                2023.--Notwithstanding subparagraph (A) and the 
                absence of scheduled passenger aircraft service 
                at an airport, the Secretary shall apportion in 
                fiscal years 2022 and 2023 to the sponsor of 
                the airport an amount based on the number of 
                passenger boardings at the airport during 
                whichever of the following years that would 
                result in the highest apportioned amount:
                          [(i) Calendar year 2018.
                          [(ii) Calendar year 2019.
                          [(iii) The prior full calendar year 
                        prior to the current fiscal year.]
          (1) Primary and commercial service airports.--
                  (A) Primary airport apportionment.--The 
                Secretary shall apportion to the sponsor of 
                each primary airport for each fiscal year an 
                amount equal to--
                          (i) $15.60 for each of the first 
                        50,000 passenger boardings at the 
                        airport during the prior calendar year;
                          (ii) $10.40 for each of the next 
                        50,000 passenger boardings at the 
                        airport during the prior calendar year;
                          (iii) $5.20 for each of the next 
                        400,000 passenger boardings at the 
                        airport during the prior calendar year;
                          (iv) $1.30 for each of the next 
                        500,000 passenger boardings at the 
                        airport during the prior calendar year; 
                        and
                          (v) $1.00 for each additional 
                        passenger boarding at the airport 
                        during the prior calendar year.
                  (B) Minimum and maximum apportionments.--Not 
                less than $1,300,000 nor more than $22,000,000 
                may be apportioned under subparagraph (A) to an 
                airport sponsor for a primary airport for each 
                fiscal year.
                  (C) New airport.--Notwithstanding 
                subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall apportion 
                in the first fiscal year following the official 
                opening of a new airport with scheduled 
                passenger air transportation an amount equal to 
                $1,300,000 to the sponsor of such airport.
                  (D) Nonprimary commercial service airport 
                apportionment.--
                          (i) In general.--The Secretary shall 
                        apportion to each commercial service 
                        airport that is not a primary airport 
                        an amount equal to--
                                  (I) $60 for each of the first 
                                2,500 passenger boardings at 
                                the airport during the prior 
                                calendar year; and
                                  (II) $153.33 for each of the 
                                next 7,499 passenger boardings 
                                at the airport during the prior 
                                calendar year.
                          (ii) Applicability.--Paragraphs (4) 
                        and (5) of subsection (d) shall apply 
                        to funds apportioned under this 
                        subparagraph.
                  (E) Special rule for air reserve stations.--
                Notwithstanding section 47102, the Secretary 
                shall consider a public-use airport that is co-
                located with an air reserve station to be a 
                primary airport for purposes of this chapter.
                  (F) Special rule for fiscal years 2024 and 
                2025.--Notwithstanding any other provision of 
                this paragraph or the absence of scheduled 
                passenger service at an airport, the Secretary 
                shall apportion in fiscal years 2024 and 2025 
                to the sponsor of an airport an amount based on 
                the number of passenger boardings at the 
                airport during whichever of the following years 
                that would result in the highest apportioned 
                amount under this paragraph:
                          (i) Calendar year 2018.
                          (ii) Calendar year 2019.
                          (iii) The prior full calendar year 
                        prior to the current fiscal year.
  (2) Cargo airports.--
          (A) Apportionment.--Subject to subparagraph (D), the 
        Secretary shall apportion an amount equal to [3.5] 4 
        percent of the amount subject to apportionment each 
        fiscal year to the sponsors of airports served by 
        aircraft providing air transportation of only cargo 
        with a total annual landed weight of more than 
        [100,000,000 pounds] 25,000,000 pounds.
          (B) Suballocation formula.--Any funds apportioned 
        under subparagraph (A) to sponsors of airports 
        described in subparagraph (A) shall be allocated among 
        those airports in the proportion that the total annual 
        landed weight of aircraft described in subparagraph (A) 
        landing at each of those airports bears to the total 
        annual landed weight of those aircraft landing at all 
        those airports.
          [(C) Limitation.--In any fiscal year in which the 
        total amount made available under section 48103 is less 
        than $3,200,000,000, not more than 8 percent of the 
        amount apportioned under subparagraph (A) may be 
        apportioned for any one airport.]
          [(D)] (C) Distribution to other airports.--Before 
        apportioning amounts to the sponsors of airports under 
        subparagraph (A) for a fiscal year, the Secretary may 
        set-aside a portion of such amounts for distribution to 
        the sponsors of other airports, selected by the 
        Secretary, that the Secretary finds will be served 
        primarily by aircraft providing air transportation of 
        only cargo.
          [(E)] (D) Determination of landed weight.--Landed 
        weight under this paragraph is the landed weight of 
        aircraft landing at each airport described in 
        subparagraph (A) during the prior calendar year.
  (d) Amounts Apportioned for General Aviation Airports.--
          (1) Definitions.--In this subsection, the following 
        definitions apply:
                  (A) Area.--The term ``area'' includes land 
                and water.
                  (B) Population.--The term ``population'' 
                means the population stated in the latest 
                decennial census of the United States.
          [(2) Apportionment.--Except as provided in paragraph 
        (3), the Secretary shall apportion to the States 18.5 
        percent of the amount subject to apportionment for each 
        fiscal year as follows:
                  [(A) 0.66 percent of the apportioned amount 
                to Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana 
                Islands, and the Virgin Islands.
                  [(B) Except as provided in paragraph (4), 
                49.67 percent of the apportioned amount for 
                airports, excluding primary airports but 
                including reliever and nonprimary commercial 
                service airports, in States not named in 
                subparagraph (A) in the proportion that the 
                population of each of those States bears to the 
                total population of all of those States.
                  [(C) Except as provided in paragraph (4), 
                49.67 percent of the apportioned amount for 
                airports, excluding primary airports but 
                including reliever and nonprimary commercial 
                service airports, in States not named in 
                subparagraph (A) in the proportion that the 
                area of each of those States bears to the total 
                area of all of those States.]
          [(3) Special rule.--] (2) Apportionment._ ._In any 
        fiscal year in which the total amount made available 
        under section 48103 is $3,200,000,000 or more, rather 
        than making an apportionment under paragraph (2), the 
        Secretary shall apportion [20 percent] 25 percent of 
        the amount subject to apportionment for each fiscal 
        year as follows:
                  (A) To each airport, [excluding primary 
                airports but including reliever and nonprimary 
                commercial service airports] excluding 
                commercial service airports but including 
                reliever airports, in States the lesser of--
                          (i) $150,000; or
                          (ii) 1/5 of the most recently 
                        published estimate of the 5-year costs 
                        for airport improvement for the 
                        airport, as listed in the national plan 
                        of integrated airport systems developed 
                        by the Federal Aviation Administration 
                        under section 47103.
                  (B) Any remaining amount to States as 
                follows:
                          (i) 0.62 percent of the remaining 
                        amount to Guam, American Samoa, the 
                        Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana 
                        Islands, and the Virgin Islands.
                          (ii) Except as provided in paragraph 
                        (4), 49.69 percent of the remaining 
                        amount for airports, [excluding primary 
                        airports but including reliever and 
                        nonprimary commercial service airports] 
                        excluding commercial service airports 
                        but including reliever airports, in 
                        States not named in clause (i) in the 
                        proportion that the population of each 
                        of those States bears to the total 
                        population of all of those States.
                          (iii) Except as provided in paragraph 
                        (4), 49.69 percent of the remaining 
                        amount for airports, [excluding primary 
                        airports but including reliever and 
                        nonprimary commercial service airports] 
                        excluding commercial service airports 
                        but including reliever airports, in 
                        States not named in clause (i) in the 
                        proportion that the area of each of 
                        those States bears to the total area of 
                        all of those States.
                  [(C) During fiscal years 2019 and 2020--
                          [(i) an airport that accrued 
                        apportionment funds under subparagraph 
                        (A) in fiscal year 2013 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 
                        2013, 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.]
                  (C) An airport that has previously been 
                listed as unclassified under the national plan 
                of integrated airport systems that has 
                reestablished the classified status of such 
                airport as of the date of apportionment shall 
                be eligible to accrue apportionment funds 
                pursuant to subparagraph (A) so long as such 
                airport retains such classified status.
          [(4) Airports in alaska, puerto rico, and hawaii.--An 
        amount apportioned under paragraph (2) or (3)] .--
                  (A) Alaska, puerto rico, and hawaii._An 
                amount apportioned under this subsection  to 
                Alaska, Puerto Rico, or Hawaii for airports in 
                such State may be made available by the 
                Secretary for any public airport in those 
                respective jurisdictions.
                  (B) Other territories.--An amount apportioned 
                under paragraph (2)(B)(i) may be made available 
                by the Secretary for any public-use airport in 
                Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the 
                Northern Mariana Islands, and the United States 
                Virgin Islands if the Secretary determines that 
                there are insufficient qualified grant 
                applications for projects at airports that are 
                otherwise eligible for funding under that 
                paragraph. The Secretary shall prioritize the 
                use of such amounts in the territory the amount 
                was originally apportioned in.
          [(5)] (4) Use of state highway specifications.--The 
        Secretary shall use the highway specifications of a 
        State for airfield pavement construction and 
        improvement using funds made available under this 
        subsection or subsection (c)(1)(D) at nonprimary 
        airports serving aircraft that do not exceed 60,000 
        pounds gross weight if--
                  (A) such State requests the use of such 
                specifications; and
                  (B) the Secretary determines that--
                          (i) safety will not be negatively 
                        affected; and
                          (ii) the life of the pavement, with 
                        necessary maintenance and upkeep, will 
                        not be shorter than it would be if 
                        constructed using Administration 
                        standards.
          [(6)] (5) Integrated airport system planning.--
        Notwithstanding any other [provision of this 
        subsection] provision of this section, funds made 
        available under this subsection or subsection (c)(1)(D) 
        may be used for integrated airport system planning that 
        encompasses one or more primary airports.
          [(7)] (6) Eligibility to receive primary airport 
        minimum apportionment amount.--Notwithstanding any 
        other provision of this subsection, the Secretary may 
        apportion to an airport sponsor in a fiscal year an 
        amount equal to the minimum apportionment available 
        under subsection (c)(1)(B) if the Secretary finds that 
        the airport--
                  (A) received scheduled or unscheduled air 
                service from a large certificated air carrier 
                (as defined in part 241 of title 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations, or such other regulations 
                as may be issued by the Secretary under the 
                authority of section 41709) in the calendar 
                year used to calculate the apportionment; and
                  (B) had more than 10,000 passenger boardings 
                in the calendar year used to calculate the 
                apportionment.
  (e) Supplemental Apportionment for Alaska.--
          (1) In general.--Notwithstanding subsections (c) and 
        (d) of this section, the Secretary may apportion 
        amounts for airports in Alaska in the way in which 
        amounts were apportioned in the fiscal year ending 
        September 30, 1980, under section 15(a) of the Act. 
        However, in apportioning amounts for a fiscal year 
        under this subsection, the Secretary shall apportion--
                  (A) for each primary airport at least as much 
                as would be apportioned for the airport under 
                subsection (c)(1) of this section; and
                  (B) a total amount at least equal to the 
                minimum amount required to be apportioned to 
                airports in Alaska in the fiscal year ending 
                September 30, 1980, under section 15(a)(3)(A) 
                of the Act.
          (2) Authority for discretionary grants.--This 
        subsection does not prohibit the Secretary from making 
        project grants for airports in Alaska from the 
        discretionary fund under section 47115 of this title.
          (3) Airports eligible for funds.--An amount 
        apportioned under this subsection may be used for any 
        public airport in Alaska.
          (4) Special rule.--In any fiscal year in which the 
        total amount made available under section 48103 is 
        $3,200,000,000 or more, the amount that may be 
        apportioned for airports in Alaska under paragraph (1) 
        shall be increased by doubling the amount that would 
        otherwise be apportioned.
  (f) Reducing Apportionments.--
          (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (3), an amount 
        that would be apportioned under this section (except 
        subsection (c)(2)) in a fiscal year to the [sponsor of 
        an airport having at least .25 percent of the total 
        number of boardings each year in the United States and] 
        sponsor of a medium or large hub airport for which a 
        charge is imposed in the fiscal year under section 
        40117 of this title shall be reduced by an amount equal 
        to--
                  (A) in the case of a charge of $3.00 or 
                less--
                          (i) except as provided in clause 
                        (ii), 50 percent of the projected 
                        revenues from the charge in the fiscal 
                        year but not by more than 50 percent of 
                        the amount that otherwise would be 
                        apportioned under this section; or
                          (ii) with respect to an airport in 
                        Hawaii, 50 percent of the projected 
                        revenues from the charge in the fiscal 
                        year but not by more than 50 percent of 
                        the excess of--
                                  (I) the amount that otherwise 
                                would be apportioned under this 
                                section; over
                                  (II) the amount equal to the 
                                amount specified in subclause 
                                (I) multiplied by the 
                                percentage of the total 
                                passenger boardings at the 
                                applicable airport that are 
                                comprised of interisland 
                                passengers; and
                  (B) in the case of a charge of more than 
                $3.00--
                          (i) except as provided in clause 
                        (ii), [75 percent] 60 percent of the 
                        projected revenues from the charge in 
                        the fiscal year but not by more than 
                        [75 percent] 60 percent of the amount 
                        that otherwise would be apportioned 
                        under this section; or
                          (ii) with respect to an airport in 
                        Hawaii, [75 percent] 60 percent of the 
                        projected revenues from the charge in 
                        the fiscal year but not by more than 
                        [75 percent] 60 percent of the excess 
                        of--
                                  (I) the amount that otherwise 
                                would be apportioned under this 
                                section; over
                                  (II) the amount equal to the 
                                amount specified in subclause 
                                (I) multiplied by the 
                                percentage of the total 
                                passenger boardings at the 
                                applicable airport that are 
                                comprised of interisland 
                                passengers.
          [(2) Effective date of reduction.--A reduction in an 
        apportionment required by paragraph (1) shall not take 
        effect until the first fiscal year following the year 
        in which the collection of the charge imposed under 
        section 40117 is begun.
          [(3) Special rule for transitioning airports.--
                  [(A) In general.--Beginning with the fiscal 
                year following the first calendar year in which 
                the sponsor of an airport has more than .25 
                percent of the total number of boardings in the 
                United States, the sum of the amount that would 
                be apportioned under this section after 
                application of paragraph (1) in a fiscal year 
                to such sponsor and the projected revenues to 
                be derived from the charge in such fiscal year 
                shall not be less than the sum of the 
                apportionment to such airport for the preceding 
                fiscal year and the revenues derived from such 
                charge in the preceding fiscal year.
                  [(B) Effective period.--Subparagraph (A) 
                shall be in effect for fiscal year 2004.]
          (2) Effective date of reduction.--
                  (A) New charge collection.--A reduction in an 
                apportionment under paragraph (1) shall not 
                take effect until the first fiscal year 
                following the year in which the collection of 
                the charge imposed under section 40117 has 
                begun.
                  (B) New categorization.--A reduction in an 
                apportionment under paragraph (1) shall only be 
                applied to an airport if such airport has been 
                designated as a medium or large hub airport for 
                3 consecutive years.
  (g) Supplemental Apportionment for Puerto Rico and United 
States Territories.--The Secretary shall apportion amounts for 
airports in Puerto Rico and all other United States territories 
in accordance with this section. This subsection does not 
prohibit the Secretary from making project grants for airports 
in Puerto Rico or other United States territories from the 
discretionary fund under section 47115.

Sec. 47115. Discretionary fund

  (a) Existence and Amounts in Fund.--The Secretary of 
Transportation has a discretionary fund. The fund consists of--
          (1) amounts subject to apportionment for a fiscal 
        year that are not apportioned under section 47114(c)-
        (e) of this title; and
          (2) 12.5 percent of amounts not apportioned under 
        section 47114 of this title because of section 
        47114(f).
  (b) Availability of Amounts.--Subject to subsection (c) of 
this section and section 47117(e) of this title, the fund is 
available for making grants for any purpose for which amounts 
are made available under section 48103 of this title that the 
Secretary considers most appropriate to carry out this 
subchapter.
  (c) Minimum Percentage for Primary and Reliever Airports.--At 
least 75 percent of the amount in the fund and distributed by 
the Secretary in a fiscal year shall be used for making 
grants--
          (1) to preserve and enhance capacity, safety, and 
        security at primary and reliever airports; and
          (2) to carry out airport noise compatibility planning 
        and programs at primary and reliever airports.
  (d) Considerations.--
          (1) For capacity enhancement projects.--In selecting 
        a project for a grant to preserve and improve capacity 
        funded in whole or in part from the fund, the Secretary 
        shall consider--
                  (A) the effect that the project will have on 
                overall national transportation system 
                capacity;
                  (B) the benefit and cost of the project, 
                including, in the case of a project at a 
                reliever airport, the number of operations 
                projected to be diverted from a primary airport 
                to the reliever airport as a result of the 
                project, as well as the cost savings projected 
                to be realized by users of the local airport 
                system;
                  (C) the financial commitment from non-United 
                States Government sources to preserve or 
                improve airport capacity;
                  (D) the airport improvement priorities of the 
                States to the extent such priorities are not in 
                conflict with subparagraphs (A) and (B);
                  (E) the projected growth in the number of 
                passengers or aircraft that will be using the 
                airport at which the project will be carried 
                out; and
                  (F) the ability of the project to foster 
                United States competitiveness in securing 
                global air cargo activity at a United States 
                airport.
          (2) For all projects.--In selecting a project for a 
        grant under this section, the Secretary shall consider 
        among other factors whether--
                  (A) funding has been provided for all other 
                projects qualifying for funding during the 
                fiscal year under this chapter that have 
                attained a higher score under the numerical 
                priority system employed by the Secretary in 
                administering the fund; and
                  (B) the sponsor will be able to commence the 
                work identified in the project application in 
                the fiscal year in which the grant is made or 
                within 6 months after the grant is made, 
                whichever is later.
  (e) Waiving Percentage Requirement.--If the Secretary decides 
the Secretary cannot comply with the percentage requirement of 
subsection (c) of this section in a fiscal year because there 
are insufficient qualified grant applications to meet that 
percentage, the amount the Secretary determines will not be 
distributed as required by subsection (c) is available for 
obligation during the fiscal year without regard to the 
requirement.
  (f) Consideration of Diversion of Revenues in Awarding 
Discretionary Grants.--
          (1) General rule.--Subject to paragraph (2), in 
        deciding whether or not to distribute funds to an 
        airport from the discretionary funds established by 
        subsection (a) of this section and section 47116 of 
        this title, the Secretary shall consider as a factor 
        militating against the distribution of such funds to 
        the airport the fact that the airport is using revenues 
        generated by the airport or by local taxes on aviation 
        fuel for purposes other than capital or operating costs 
        of the airport or the local airports system or other 
        local facilities which are owned or operated by the 
        owner or operator of the airport and directly and 
        substantially related to the actual air transportation 
        of passengers or property.
          (2) Required finding.--Paragraph (1) shall apply only 
        when the Secretary finds that the amount of revenues 
        used by the airport for purposes other than capital or 
        operating costs in the airport's fiscal year preceding 
        the date of the application for discretionary funds 
        exceeds the amount of such revenues in the airport's 
        first fiscal year ending after August 23, 1994, 
        adjusted by the Secretary for changes in the Consumer 
        Price Index of All Urban Consumers published by the 
        Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor.
  (g) Minimum Amount To Be Credited.--
          (1) General rule.--In a fiscal year, there shall be 
        credited to the fund, out of amounts made available 
        under section 48103 of this title, an amount that is at 
        least equal to the sum of--
                  (A) $148,000,000; plus
                  (B) the total amount required from the fund 
                to carry out in the fiscal year letters of 
                intent issued before January 1, 1996, under 
                section 47110(e) of this title or the Airport 
                and Airway Improvement Act of 1982.
        The amount credited is exclusive of amounts that have 
        been apportioned in a prior fiscal year under section 
        47114 of this title and that remain available for 
        obligation.
          (2) Reduction of apportionments.--In a fiscal year in 
        which the amount credited under subsection (a) is less 
        than the minimum amount to be credited under paragraph 
        (1), the total amount calculated under paragraph (3) 
        shall be reduced by an amount that, when credited to 
        the fund, together with the amount credited under 
        subsection (a), equals such minimum amount.
          (3) Amount of reduction.--For a fiscal year, the 
        total amount available to make a reduction to carry out 
        paragraph (2) is the total of the amounts determined 
        under sections 47114(c)(1)(A), 47114(c)(2), 47114(d), 
        and 47117(e) of this title. Each amount shall be 
        reduced by an equal percentage to achieve the 
        reduction.
  (h) Priority for Letters of Intent.--In making grants in a 
fiscal year with funds made available under this section, the 
Secretary shall fulfill intentions to obligate under section 
47110(e) prior to fulfilling intentions to obligate under 
section 47110(i).
  (i) Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Palau.--For [fiscal 
years 2018 through 2023] fiscal years 2023 through 2028, the 
sponsors of airports located in the Republic of the Marshall 
Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, and Republic of Palau 
shall be eligible for grants under this section and section 
47116.
  (j) Supplemental Discretionary Funds.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary shall establish a 
        program to provide grants, subject to the conditions of 
        this subsection, for any purpose for which amounts are 
        made available under section 48103 that the Secretary 
        considers most appropriate to carry out this 
        subchapter.
          (2) Treatment of grants.--
                  (A) In general.--A grant made under this 
                subsection shall be treated as having been made 
                pursuant to the Secretary's authority under 
                section 47104(a) and from the Secretary's 
                discretionary fund under subsection (a) of this 
                section.
                  (B) Exception.--Except as otherwise provided 
                in this subsection, grants made under this 
                subsection shall not be subject to subsection 
                (c), section 47117(e), or any other 
                apportionment formula, special apportionment 
                category, or minimum percentage set forth in 
                this chapter.
          (3) Eligibility and prioritization.--
                  (A) Eligibility.--The Secretary may provide 
                grants under this subsection for an airport or 
                terminal development project at any airport 
                that is eligible to receive a grant from the 
                discretionary fund under subsection (a) of this 
                section.
                  [(B) Prioritization.--Not less than 50 
                percent of the amounts available under this 
                subsection shall used to provide grants at--
                          [(i) airports that are eligible for 
                        apportionment under section 
                        47114(d)(3); and
                          [(ii) nonhub and small hub airports.]
                  (B) Minimum allocation.--Not more than 25 
                percent of the amounts available under this 
                subsection shall be used to provide grants at 
                nonhub and small hub airports.
                  (C) Prioritization.--In making grants under 
                this subsection, the Secretary shall prioritize 
                projects that reduce runway incursions or 
                increase runway or taxiway safety.
          (4) Authorization.--
                  (A) In general.--There is authorized to be 
                appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this 
                subsection the following amounts:
                          (i) $1,020,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2019.
                          (ii) $1,041,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2020.
                          (iii) $1,064,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2021.
                          (iv) $1,087,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2022.
                          [(v) $1,110,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2023.]
                          (v) $1,110,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2023.
                          (vi) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2024.
                          (vii) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2025.
                          (viii) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2026.
                          (ix) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2027.
                          (x) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2028.
                  (B) Availability.--Sums authorized to be 
                appropriated under subparagraph (A) shall 
                remain available for [2 fiscal years] 3 fiscal 
                years.
  (k) Partnership Program Airports.--
          (1) Authority.--The Secretary may make grants with 
        funds made available under this section for an airport 
        participating in the program under section 47134 if--
                  (A) the Secretary has approved the 
                application of an airport sponsor under section 
                47134(b) in fiscal year 2019; and
                  (B) the grant will--
                          (i) satisfy an obligation incurred by 
                        an airport sponsor under section 
                        47110(e) or funded by a nonpublic 
                        sponsor for an airport development 
                        project on the airport; or
                          (ii) provide partial Federal 
                        reimbursement for airport development 
                        (as defined in section 47102) on the 
                        airport layout plan initiated in the 
                        fiscal year in which the application 
                        was approved, or later, for over a 
                        period of not more than 10 years.
          (2) Nonapplicability of certain sections.--Grants 
        made under this subsection shall not be subject to--
                  (A) subsection (c) of this section;
                  (B) section 47117(e); or
                  (C) any other apportionment formula, special 
                apportionment category, or minimum percentage 
                set forth in this chapter.

Sec. 47116. Small airport fund

  (a) Existence and Amounts in Fund.--The Secretary of 
Transportation has a small airport fund. The fund consists of 
87.5 percent of amounts not apportioned under section 47114 of 
this title because of section 47114(f).
  (b) Distribution of Amounts.--The Secretary may distribute 
amounts in the fund in each fiscal year for any purpose for 
which amounts are made available under section 48103 of this 
title as follows:
          [(1) one-seventh for grants for projects at small hub 
        airports; and
          [(2) the remaining amounts based on the following:
                  [(A) one-third for grants to sponsors of 
                public-use airports (except commercial service 
                airports).
                  [(B) two-thirds for grants to sponsors of 
                each commercial service airport that each year 
                has less than .05 percent of the total 
                boardings in the United States in that year.]
          (1) Not more than 25 percent for grants for projects 
        at small hub airports.
          (2) Not less than 25 percent for grants to sponsors 
        of public-use airports (except commercial service 
        airports).
          (3) Not less than 50 percent for grants to sponsors 
        of commercial service airports that are not larger than 
        a nonhub airport.
  (c) Authority To Receive Grant Not Dependent on Participation 
in Block Grant Pilot Program.--An airport in a State 
participating in the State block grant pilot program under 
section 47128 of this title may receive a grant under this 
section to the same extent the airport may receive a grant if 
the State were not participating in the program.
  (d) Priority Consideration for Certain Projects.--
          (1) Construction of new runways.--In making grants to 
        sponsors described in subsection (b)(2), the Secretary 
        shall give priority consideration to multi-year 
        projects for construction of new runways that the 
        Secretary finds are cost beneficial and would increase 
        capacity in a region of the United States.
          [(2) Airport development for eligible mountaintop 
        airports.--In making grants to sponsors described in 
        subsection (b), the Secretary shall give priority 
        consideration to mass grading and associated structural 
        support (including access road, duct banks, and other 
        related infrastructure) at mountaintop airports, 
        provided that the airport would not otherwise have 
        sufficient surface area for--
                  [(A) eligible and justified airport 
                development projects; or
                  [(B) additional hangar space.]
          [(3)] (2) Control tower construction.--
        Notwithstanding section 47124(b)(4)(A), the Secretary 
        may provide grants under this section to an airport 
        sponsor participating in the contract tower program 
        under section 47124 for the construction or improvement 
        of a nonapproach control tower, as defined by the 
        Secretary, and for the acquisition and installation of 
        air traffic control, communications, and related 
        equipment to be used in that tower. Such grants shall 
        be subject to the distribution requirements of 
        subsection (b) and the eligibility requirements of 
        section 47124(b)(4)(B).
  [(e) Set-Aside for Meeting Safety Terms in Airport Operating 
Certificates.--In the first fiscal year beginning after the 
effective date of regulations issued to carry out section 
44706(b) with respect to airports described in section 
44706(a)(2), and in each of the next 4 fiscal years, the lesser 
of $15,000,000 or 20 percent of the amounts that would 
otherwise be distributed to sponsors of airports under 
subsection (b)(2) shall be used to assist the airports in 
meeting the terms established by the regulations. If the 
Secretary publishes in the Federal Register a finding that all 
the terms established by the regulations have been met, this 
subsection shall cease to be effective as of the date of such 
publication.
  [(f) Notification of Source of Grant.--Whenever the Secretary 
makes a grant under this section, the Secretary shall notify 
the recipient of the grant, in writing, that the source of the 
grant is from the small airport fund.]
  (e) General Aviation Hangars and Transient Aprons.--In 
distributing amounts from the fund described in subsection (a) 
to sponsors described in subsection (b)(2) and (b)(3)--
          (1) 5 percent of each amount shall be used for 
        projects to construct aircraft hangars that are not 
        larger than 5,000 square feet; and
          (2) 5 percent of each amount shall be used for 
        projects to construct or rehabilitate aprons intended 
        to be used for itinerant general aviation aircraft 
        parking.

Sec. 47117. Use of apportioned amounts

  (a) Grant Purpose.--Except as provided in this section, an 
amount apportioned under section 47114(c)(1) or (d)(2) of this 
title is available for making grants for any purpose for which 
amounts are made available under section 48103 of this title.
  (b) Period of Availability.--
          (1) In general.--An amount apportioned under section 
        47114 of this title is available to be obligated for 
        grants under the apportionment only during the fiscal 
        year for which the amount was apportioned and the 2 
        fiscal years immediately after that year or the 3 
        fiscal years immediately following that year in the 
        case of a nonhub airport or any airport that is not a 
        commercial service airport. Except as provided in 
        paragraph (2), if the amount is not obligated under the 
        apportionment within that time, it shall be added to 
        the discretionary fund.
          (2) Expired amounts apportioned for general aviation 
        airports.--
                  (A) In general.--Except as provided in 
                subparagraph (B), if an amount apportioned 
                under section 47114(d) is not obligated within 
                the time specified in paragraph (1), that 
                amount shall be added to the discretionary fund 
                under section 47115 of this title, provided 
                that--
                          (i) amounts made available under 
                        paragraph (2)(A) shall be used for 
                        grants for projects in accordance with 
                        section 47115(d)(2) at airports 
                        eligible to receive an apportionment 
                        under section 47114(d)(2) [or (3)(A), 
                        whichever is applicable]; and
                          (ii) amounts made available under 
                        paragraph (2)(A) that are not obligated 
                        by July 1 of the fiscal year in which 
                        the funds will expire shall be made 
                        available for all projects in 
                        accordance with section 47115(d)(2).
                  (B) State block grant program.--If an amount 
                apportioned to an airport under [section 
                47114(d)(3)(A)] section 47114(d)(2)(A) is not 
                obligated within the time specified in 
                paragraph (1), and the airport is located in a 
                State participating in the State block grant 
                program under section 47128, the amount shall 
                be made available to that State under the same 
                conditions as if the State had been apportioned 
                the amount under [section 47114(d)(3)(B)] 
                section 47114(d)(2)(B).
  (c) Primary Airports.--(1) An amount apportioned to a sponsor 
of a primary airport under section 47114(c)(1) of this title is 
available for grants for any public-use airport of the sponsor 
included in the national plan of integrated airport systems.
  (2) Waiver.--A sponsor of an airport may make an agreement 
with the Secretary of Transportation waiving the sponsor's 
claim to any part of the amount apportioned for the airport 
under sections 47114(c) and [47114(d)(3)(A)] 47114(d)(2)(A) if 
the Secretary agrees to make the waived amount available for a 
grant for another public-use airport in the same State or 
geographical area as the airport, as determined by the 
Secretary.
  (d) State Use.--An amount apportioned to a State under--
          (1) [section 47114(d)(2)(A) of this title] section 
        47114(d)(2)(B)(i) is available for grants for airports 
        located in the State; and
          (2) [section 47114(d)(2)(B) or (C)] section 
        47114(d)(2)(B)(ii) or (iii) [of this title] is 
        available for grants for airports described in [section 
        47114(d)(2)(B) or (C)] section 47114(d)(2)(B)(ii) or 
        (iii) and located in the State.
  (e) Special Apportionment Categories.--(1) The Secretary 
shall use amounts available to the discretionary fund under 
section 47115 of this title for each fiscal year as follows:
          (A) At least 35 percent, but not more than 
        [$300,000,000] $200,000,000, for grants for airport 
        noise compatibility planning under section 47505(a)(2), 
        for carrying out noise compatibility programs under 
        section 47504(c), for noise mitigation projects 
        approved in an environmental record of decision for an 
        airport development project under this title, [for 
        compatible land use planning and projects carried out 
        by State and local governments under section 47141,] 
        for airport development described in [section 
        47102(3)(Q)] subparagraphs (O) through (Q) of section 
        47102(3), for airport development described in section 
        47102(3)(F), 47102(3)(K), or 47102(3)(L) [to comply 
        with the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.)], and 
        for water quality mitigation projects to comply with 
        the Act of June 30, 1948 (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.), 
        approved in an environmental record of decision for an 
        airport development project under this title. The 
        Secretary may count the amount of grants made for such 
        planning and programs with funds apportioned under 
        section 47114 in that fiscal year in determining 
        whether or not the requirements of the preceding 
        sentence are being met in that fiscal year. The 
        Secretary shall provide not less than two-thirds of 
        amounts under this subparagraph and paragraph (3) for 
        grants to sponsors of small hub, medium hub, and large 
        hub airports.
          (B) At least 4 percent to sponsors of current or 
        former military airports designated by the Secretary 
        under section 47118(a) of this title for grants for 
        developing current and former military airports to 
        improve the capacity of the national air transportation 
        system and to sponsors of noncommercial service 
        airports for grants for operational and maintenance 
        expenses at any such airport if the amount of such 
        grants to the sponsor of the airport does not exceed 
        $30,000 in that fiscal year, if the Secretary 
        determines that the airport is adversely affected by 
        the closure or realignment of a military base, and if 
        the sponsor of the airport certifies that the airport 
        would otherwise close if the airport does not receive 
        the grant.
          [(C) In any fiscal year in which the total amount 
        made available under section 48103 is $3,200,000,000 or 
        more, at least two-thirds of 1 percent for grants to 
        sponsors of reliever airports which have--
                  [(i) more than 75,000 annual operations;
                  [(ii) a runway with a minimum usable landing 
                distance of 5,000 feet;
                  [(iii) a precision instrument landing 
                procedure;
                  [(iv) a minimum number of aircraft, to be 
                determined by the Secretary, based at the 
                airport; and
                  [(v) been designated by the Secretary as a 
                reliever airport to an airport with 20,000 
                hours of annual delays in commercial passenger 
                aircraft takeoffs and landings.]
  (2) If the Secretary decides that an amount required to be 
used for grants under paragraph (1) of this subsection cannot 
be used for a fiscal year because there are insufficient 
qualified grant applications, the amount the Secretary 
determines cannot be used is available during the fiscal year 
for grants for other airports or for other purposes for which 
amounts are authorized for grants under section 48103 of this 
title.
  [(3) Priority.--The Secretary shall give priority in making 
grants under paragraph (1)(A) to applications for airport noise 
compatibility planning and programs at and around--
          [(A) Chicago O'Hare International Airport;
          [(B) LaGuardia Airport;
          [(C) John F. Kennedy International Airport; and
          [(D) Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.]
          (3) Special rule.--Beginning in fiscal year 2025, if 
        the amount made available under paragraph (1)(A) was 
        not equal to or greater than $150,000,000 in the 
        preceding fiscal year, the Secretary shall issue grants 
        for projects eligible under paragraph (1)(A) from 
        apportionments made under section 47114 that are not 
        required during the fiscal year to fund a grant for 
        which such apportionments may be used in an amount that 
        is not less than--
                  (A) $150,000,000; minus
                  (B) the amount made available under paragraph 
                (1)(A) in the preceding fiscal year.
  (f) Discretionary Use of Apportionments.--
          (1) In general.--[Subject to paragraph (2)] Subject 
        to paragraph (2) and except as provided in section 
        47116(a)(2), if the Secretary finds that all or part of 
        an amount of an apportionment under section 47114 is 
        not required during a fiscal year to fund a grant for 
        which the apportionment may be used, the Secretary may 
        use during such fiscal year the amount not so required 
        to make grants for any purpose for which grants may be 
        made under section 48103. The finding may be based on 
        the notifications that the Secretary receives under 
        section 47105(f) or on other information received from 
        airport sponsors.
          (2) Restoration of apportionments.--
                  (A) In general.--If the fiscal year for which 
                a finding is made under paragraph (1) with 
                respect to an apportionment is not the last 
                fiscal year of availability of the 
                apportionment under subsection (b), the 
                Secretary shall restore to the apportionment an 
                amount equal to the amount of the apportionment 
                used under paragraph (1) for a discretionary 
                grant whenever a sufficient amount is made 
                available under section 48103.
                  (B) Period of availability.--If restoration 
                under this paragraph is made in the fiscal year 
                for which the finding is made or the succeeding 
                fiscal year, the amount restored shall be 
                subject to the original period of availability 
                of the apportionment under subsection (b). If 
                the restoration is made thereafter, the amount 
                restored shall remain available in accordance 
                with subsection (b) for the original period of 
                availability of the apportionment plus the 
                number of fiscal years during which a 
                sufficient amount was not available for the 
                restoration.
          (3) Newly available amounts.--
                  (A) Restored amounts to be unavailable for 
                discretionary grants.--Of an amount newly 
                available under section 48103 of this title, an 
                amount equal to the amounts restored under 
                paragraph (2) shall not be available for 
                discretionary grant obligations under section 
                47115.
                  (B) Use of remaining amounts.--Subparagraph 
                (A) does not impair the Secretary's authority 
                under paragraph (1), after a restoration under 
                paragraph (2), to apply all or part of a 
                restored amount that is not required to fund a 
                grant under an apportionment to fund 
                discretionary grants.
          (4) Limitations on obligations apply.--Nothing in 
        this subsection shall be construed to authorize the 
        Secretary to incur grant obligations under section 
        47104 for a fiscal year in an amount greater than the 
        amount made available under section 48103 for such 
        obligations for such fiscal year.
  (g) Limiting Authority of Secretary.--The authority of the 
Secretary to make grants during a fiscal year from amounts that 
were apportioned for a prior fiscal year and remain available 
for approved airport development project grants under 
subsection (b) of this section may be impaired only by a law 
enacted after September 3, 1982, that expressly limits that 
authority.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 47119. Terminal development costs

  (a) Terminal Development Projects.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary of Transportation may 
        approve a project for terminal development (including 
        multimodal terminal development) [in a nonrevenue-
        producing public-use area of a commercial service 
        airport--]
                  [(A) if the sponsor certifies that the 
                airport, on the date the grant application is 
                submitted to the Secretary, has--
                          [(i) all the safety equipment 
                        required for certification of the 
                        airport under section 44706;
                          [(ii) all the security equipment 
                        required by regulation; and
                          [(iii) provided for access by 
                        passengers to the area of the airport 
                        for boarding or exiting aircraft that 
                        are not air carrier aircraft;
                  [(B) if the cost is directly related to--
                          [(i) moving passengers and baggage in 
                        air commerce within the airport, 
                        including vehicles for moving 
                        passengers between terminal facilities 
                        and between terminal facilities and 
                        aircraft; or
                          [(ii) installing security cameras in 
                        the public area of the interior and 
                        exterior of the terminal; and]
                  [(C) under terms necessary to protect the 
                interests of the Government] at an airport if 
                the sponsor certifies that the airport, on the 
                date the grant application is submitted to the 
                Secretary, has--
                  (A) that any necessary airport development 
                project affecting airport safety, security, or 
                capacity will not be deferred if the Secretary 
                approves a terminal development project under 
                this section; and
                  (B) provided for access by passengers to the 
                area of the airport for boarding or exiting 
                aircraft that are not air carrier aircraft..
          (2) Project in revenue-producing areas and 
        nonrevenue-producing parking lots.--In making a 
        decision under paragraph (1), the Secretary may approve 
        as allowable costs the expenses of terminal development 
        in a revenue-producing area and construction, 
        reconstruction, repair, and improvement in a 
        nonrevenue-producing [parking lot if--]
                  [(A) except as provided in section 
                47108(e)(3), the airport does not have more 
                than .05 percent of the total annual passenger 
                boardings in the United States; and]
                  [(B) the sponsor certifies that any needed 
                airport development project affecting safety, 
                security, or capacity will not be deferred 
                because of the Secretary's approval] parking 
                lot.
          (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 (as defined in 
        section 47107(w)) at a commercial service airport.
  [(b) Repaying Borrowed Money.--
          [(1) Terminal development costs incurred after june 
        30, 1970, and before july 12, 1976.--An amount 
        apportioned under section 47114 and made available to 
        the sponsor of a commercial service airport at which 
        terminal development was carried out after June 30, 
        1970, and before July 12, 1976, is available to repay 
        immediately money borrowed and used to pay the costs 
        for such terminal development if those costs would be 
        allowable project costs under section 47110(d) if they 
        had been incurred after September 3, 1982.
          [(2) Terminal development costs incurred between 
        january 1, 1992, and october 31, 1992.--An amount 
        apportioned under section 47114 and made available to 
        the sponsor of a nonhub airport at which terminal 
        development was carried out between January 1, 1992, 
        and October 31, 1992, is available to repay immediately 
        money borrowed and to pay the costs for such terminal 
        development if those costs would be allowable project 
        costs under section 47110(d).
          [(3) Terminal development costs at primary 
        airports.--An amount apportioned under section 47114 or 
        available under subsection (b)(3) to a primary 
        airport--
                  [(A) that was a nonhub airport in the most 
                recent year used to calculate apportionments 
                under section 47114;
                  [(B) that is a designated airport under 
                section 47118 in fiscal year 2003; and
                  [(C) at which terminal development is carried 
                out between January 2003 and August 2004,
        is available to repay immediately money borrowed and 
        used to pay the costs for such terminal development if 
        those costs would be allowable project costs under 
        subsection (a).
          [(4) Conditions for grant.--An amount is available 
        for a grant under this subsection only if--
                  [(A) the sponsor submits the certification 
                required under subsection (a);
                  [(B) the Secretary decides that using the 
                amount to repay the borrowed money will not 
                defer an airport development project outside 
                the terminal area at that airport; and
                  [(C) amounts available for airport 
                development under this subchapter will not be 
                used for additional terminal development 
                projects at the airport for at least 1 year 
                beginning on the date the grant is used to 
                repay the borrowed money.
          [(5) Applicability of certain limitations.--A grant 
        under this subsection shall be subject to the 
        limitations in subsections (c)(1) and (c)(2).]
  [(c)] (b) Availability of Amounts.--In a fiscal year, the 
Secretary may make available--
          [(1) to a sponsor of a primary airport, any part of 
        amounts apportioned to the sponsor for the fiscal year 
        under section 47114(c)(1) of this title to pay project 
        costs allowable under subsection (a);
          [(2) on approval of the Secretary, not more than 
        $200,000 of the amount that may be distributed for the 
        fiscal year from the discretionary fund established 
        under section 47115 of this title--
                  [(A) to a sponsor of a nonprimary commercial 
                service airport to pay project costs allowable 
                under subsection (a); and
                  [(B) to a sponsor of a reliever airport for 
                the types of project costs allowable under 
                subsection (a), including project costs 
                allowable for a commercial service airport that 
                each year does not have more than .05 percent 
                of the total boardings in the United States;
          [(3) for use by a primary airport that each year does 
        not have more than .05 percent of the total boardings 
        in the United States, any part of amounts that may be 
        distributed for the fiscal year from the discretionary 
        fund and small airport fund to pay project costs 
        allowable under subsection (a);
          [(4) not more than $25,000,000 to pay project costs 
        allowable for the fiscal year under subsection (a) for 
        projects at commercial service airports that were not 
        eligible for assistance for terminal development during 
        the fiscal year ending September 30, 1980, under 
        section 20(b) of the Airport and Airway Development Act 
        of 1970; or
          [(5) to a sponsor of a nonprimary airport, any part 
        of amounts apportioned to the sponsor for the fiscal 
        year under section 47114(d)(3)(A) for project costs 
        allowable under subsection (a).]
          (1) any part of amounts apportioned to an airport 
        sponsor under subsection (c) or (d) of section 47114 to 
        pay project costs allowable under subsection (a);
          (2) on the approval of the Secretary, any part of 
        amounts that may be distributed for the fiscal year 
        from the discretionary fund established under section 
        47115 to the sponsor of an airport to pay project costs 
        allowable under subsection (a);
          (3) on the approval of the Secretary, any part of 
        amounts that may be distributed for the fiscal year 
        from the small airport fund established under section 
        47116 to the sponsor of an airport eligible to receive 
        funds under section 47116 to pay project costs 
        allowable under subsection (a);
  [(d)] (c) Nonhub Airports.--With respect to a project at a 
commercial service airport which annually has less than 0.05 
percent of the total enplanements in the United States, the 
Secretary may approve the use of the amounts described in 
subsection (a) notwithstanding the requirements of sections 
47107(a)(17), 47112, and 47113.
  [(e) Determination of Passenger Boarding at Commercial 
Service Airports.--For the purpose of determining whether an 
amount may be distributed for a fiscal year from the 
discretionary fund in accordance with subsection (b)(2)(A) to a 
commercial service airport, the Secretary shall make the 
determination of whether or not a public airport is a 
commercial service airport on the basis of the number of 
passenger boardings and type of air service at the public 
airport in the calendar year that includes the first day of 
such fiscal year or the preceding calendar year, whichever is 
more beneficial to the airport.
  [(f) Limitation on Discretionary Funds.--The Secretary may 
distribute not more than $20,000,000 from the discretionary 
fund established under section 47115 for terminal development 
projects at a nonhub airport or a small hub airport that is 
eligible to receive discretionary funds under section 
47108(e)(3).]

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 47124. Agreements for State and local operation of airport 
                    facilities

  (a) Government Relief From Liability.--The Secretary of 
Transportation shall ensure that an agreement under this 
subchapter with a qualified entity (as determined by the 
Secretary), State, or a political subdivision of a State to 
allow the entity, State, or subdivision to operate an airport 
facility relieves the United States Government from any 
liability arising out of, or related to, acts or omissions of 
employees of the entity, State, or subdivision in operating the 
airport facility.
  (b) Air Traffic Control Contract Program.--
          (1) Contract tower program.--
                  (A) Continuation.--The Secretary shall 
                continue the low activity (Visual Flight Rules) 
                level I air traffic control tower contract 
                program established under subsection (a) of 
                this section for towers existing on December 
                30, 1987, and extend the program to other 
                towers as practicable.
                  (B) Special rule.--If the Secretary 
                determines that a tower already operating under 
                the Contract Tower Program has a benefit-to-
                cost ratio of less than 1.0, the airport 
                sponsor or State or local government having 
                jurisdiction over the airport shall not be 
                required to pay the portion of the costs that 
                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)(D).[.]
                  (C) Use of excess funds.--If the Secretary 
                finds that all or part of an amount made 
                available to carry out the program continued 
                under this paragraph is not required during a 
                fiscal year, the Secretary may use, during such 
                fiscal year, the amount not so required to 
                carry out the Cost-share Program.
          (2) General authority.--The Secretary may make a 
        contract with a qualified entity (as determined by the 
        Secretary) or, on a sole source basis, with a State or 
        a political subdivision of a State to allow the entity, 
        State, or subdivision to operate an airport traffic 
        control tower classified as a level I (Visual Flight 
        Rules) tower if the Secretary decides that the entity, 
        State, or subdivision has the capability to comply with 
        the requirements of this paragraph. The contract shall 
        require that the entity, State, or subdivision comply 
        with applicable safety regulations in operating the 
        facility and with applicable competition requirements 
        in making a subcontract to perform work to carry out 
        the contract.
          (3) Cost-share program.--
                  (A) In general.--The Secretary shall 
                establish a program to contract for air traffic 
                control services at nonapproach control towers, 
                as defined by the Secretary, that do not 
                qualify for the Contract Tower Program.
                  (B) Program components.--In carrying out the 
                Cost-share Program, the Secretary shall--
                          (i) utilize for purposes of cost-
                        benefit analyses, current, actual, 
                        site-specific data, forecast estimates, 
                        or airport master plan data provided by 
                        a facility owner or operator and 
                        verified by the Secretary; and
                          (ii) approve for participation only 
                        facilities willing to fund a pro rata 
                        share of the operating costs of the air 
                        traffic control tower to achieve a 1-
                        to-1 benefit-to-cost ratio using actual 
                        site-specific contract tower operating 
                        costs in any case in which there is an 
                        operating air traffic control tower, as 
                        required for eligibility under the 
                        Contract Tower Program.
                  (C) Priority.--In selecting facilities to 
                participate in the Cost-share Program, the 
                Secretary shall give priority to the following 
                facilities:
                          (i) Air traffic control towers that 
                        are participating in the Contract Tower 
                        Program but have been notified that 
                        they will be terminated from such 
                        program because the Secretary has 
                        determined that the benefit-to-cost 
                        ratio for their continuation in such 
                        program is less than 1.0.
                          (ii) Air traffic control towers that 
                        the Secretary determines have a 
                        benefit-to-cost ratio of at least .50.
                          (iii) Air traffic control towers of 
                        the Federal Aviation Administration 
                        that are closed as a result of the air 
                        traffic controllers strike in 1981.
                          (iv) Air traffic control towers 
                        located at airports or points at which 
                        an air carrier is receiving 
                        compensation under the essential air 
                        service program under this chapter.
                          (v) Air traffic control towers 
                        located at airports that are prepared 
                        to assume partial responsibility for 
                        maintenance costs.
                          (vi) Air traffic control towers 
                        located at airports with safety or 
                        operational problems related to 
                        topography, weather, runway 
                        configuration, or mix of aircraft.
                          (vii) Air traffic control towers 
                        located at an airport at which the 
                        community has been operating the tower 
                        at its own expense.
                  (D) Costs exceeding benefits.--If the costs 
                of operating an air traffic tower under the 
                Cost-share Program exceed the benefits, the 
                airport sponsor or State or local government 
                having jurisdiction over the airport shall pay 
                the portion of the costs that exceed such 
                benefit, with the maximum allowable local cost 
                share capped at 20 percent. Airports with air 
                service provided under part 121 of title 14, 
                Code of Federal Regulations, and more than 
                25,000 passenger enplanements in calendar year 
                2014 shall be exempt from any cost-share 
                requirement under this paragraph.
                  (E) Funding.--Of the amounts appropriated 
                pursuant to section 106(k)(1), not more than 
                $10,350,000 for each of fiscal years 2012 
                through 2018 may be used to carry out this 
                paragraph.
                  (F) Use of excess funds.--If the Secretary 
                finds that all or part of an amount made 
                available under this paragraph is not required 
                during a fiscal year, the Secretary may use, 
                during such fiscal year, the amount not so 
                required to carry out the Contract Tower 
                Program.
                  (G) Benefit-to-cost calculation.--Not later 
                than 90 days after receiving an application to 
                the Contract Tower Program, the Secretary shall 
                calculate a benefit-to-cost ratio (as described 
                in subsection (d)) for the applicable air 
                traffic control tower for purposes of selecting 
                towers for participation in the Contract Tower 
                Program.
          (4) Construction of air traffic control towers.--
                  (A) Grants.--The Secretary may provide grants 
                to a sponsor of--
                          (i) a primary airport--
                                  (I) from amounts made 
                                available under sections 
                                47114(c)(1) and 47114(c)(2) for 
                                the construction or improvement 
                                of a nonapproach control tower, 
                                as defined by the Secretary, 
                                and for the acquisition and 
                                installation of air traffic 
                                control, communications, and 
                                related equipment to be used in 
                                that tower;
                                  (II) from amounts made 
                                available under sections 
                                47114(c)(1) and 47114(c)(2) for 
                                reimbursement for the cost of 
                                construction or improvement of 
                                a nonapproach control tower, as 
                                defined by the Secretary, 
                                incurred after October 1, 1996, 
                                if the sponsor complied with 
                                the requirements of sections 
                                47107(e), 47112(b), and 
                                47112(c) in constructing or 
                                improving that tower; and
                                  (III) from amounts made 
                                available under sections 
                                47114(c)(1) and 47114(c)(2) for 
                                reimbursement for the cost of 
                                acquiring and installing in 
                                that tower air traffic control, 
                                communications, and related 
                                equipment that was acquired or 
                                installed after October 1, 
                                1996, including remote air 
                                traffic control tower equipment 
                                certified by the Federal 
                                Aviation Administration; and
                          (ii) a public-use airport that is not 
                        a primary airport--
                                  (I) from amounts made 
                                available under sections 
                                47114(c)(2) and 47114(d) for 
                                the construction or improvement 
                                of a nonapproach control tower, 
                                as defined by the Secretary, 
                                and for the acquisition and 
                                installation of air traffic 
                                control, communications, and 
                                related equipment to be used in 
                                that tower;
                                  (II) from amounts made 
                                available under sections 
                                47114(c)(2) and 47114(d)(3)(A) 
                                for reimbursement for the cost 
                                of construction or improvement 
                                of a nonapproach control tower, 
                                as defined by the Secretary, 
                                incurred after October 1, 1996, 
                                if the sponsor complied with 
                                the requirements of sections 
                                47107(e), 47112(b), and 
                                47112(c) in constructing or 
                                improving that tower; and
                                  (III) from amounts made 
                                available under sections 
                                47114(c)(2) and 47114(d)(3)(A) 
                                for reimbursement for the cost 
                                of acquiring and installing in 
                                that tower air traffic control, 
                                communications, and related 
                                equipment that was acquired or 
                                installed after October 1, 
                                1996, including remote air 
                                traffic control tower equipment 
                                certified by the Federal 
                                Aviation Administration.
                  (B) Eligibility.--An airport sponsor shall be 
                eligible for a grant under this paragraph only 
                if--
                          (i)(I) the sponsor is a participant 
                        in the Federal Aviation Administration 
                        Contract Tower Program or the Cost-
                        share Program; or
                          (II) 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--
                                  (I) 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
                                  (II) the selection of the 
                                tower for funding is based on 
                                objective criteria.
  (c) Safety Audits.--The Secretary shall establish uniform 
standards and requirements for regular safety assessments of 
air traffic control towers that receive funding under this 
section.
  (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 Cost-share 
                Program, 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 Contract Tower 
                Program, 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 55 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 as a result 
                of 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 as a result of the operation of the 
                tower.
                  (E) Other actual costs of the Federal 
                Aviation Administration directly associated 
                with the tower that would not be incurred 
                except as a result of the operation of the 
                tower (excluding costs for noncontract tower-
                related personnel and equipment, even if the 
                personnel or equipment is located in the 
                contract tower building).
          (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 of 
                        the Federal Aviation Administration 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 Cost-share Program, 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).
  (e) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Contract tower program.--The term ``Contract 
        Tower Program'' means the level I air traffic control 
        tower contract program established under subsection (a) 
        and continued under subsection (b)(1).
          (2) Cost-share program.--The term ``Cost-share 
        Program'' means the cost-share program established 
        under subsection (b)(3).

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 47125. Conveyances of United States Government land

  (a) Conveyances to Public Agencies.--Except as provided in 
subsection (b) of this section, the Secretary of Transportation 
shall request the head of the department, agency, or 
instrumentality of the United States Government owning or 
controlling land or airspace to convey a property interest in 
the land or airspace to the public agency sponsoring the 
project or owning or controlling the airport when necessary to 
carry out a project under this subchapter at a public airport, 
to operate a public airport, or for the future development of 
an airport under the national plan of integrated airport 
systems. The head of the department, agency, or instrumentality 
shall decide whether the requested conveyance is consistent 
with the needs of the department, agency, or instrumentality 
and shall notify the Secretary of that decision not later than 
4 months after receiving the request. If the head of the 
department, agency, or instrumentality decides that the 
requested conveyance is consistent with its needs, the head of 
the department, agency, or instrumentality, with the approval 
of the Attorney General and without cost to the Government, 
shall make the conveyance. A conveyance may be made only on the 
condition that the property interest conveyed reverts to the 
Government, at the option of the Secretary, to the extent it is 
not developed for an airport purpose or used consistently with 
the conveyance. Before waiving a condition that property be 
used for an aeronautical purpose under the preceding sentence, 
the Secretary must provide notice to the public not less than 
30 days before waiving such condition.
  (b) Nonapplication.--Except as specifically provided by law, 
subsection (a) of this section does not apply to land or 
airspace owned or controlled by the Government within--
          (1) a national park, national monument, national 
        recreation area, or similar area under the 
        administration of the National Park Service;
          (2) a unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System or 
        similar area under the jurisdiction of the United 
        States Fish and Wildlife Service; or
          (3) a national forest or Indian reservation.
  (c) Waiving Restrictions.--
          (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), the 
        Secretary may grant to an airport, city, or county a 
        waiver of any of the terms, conditions, reservations, 
        or restrictions contained in a deed under which the 
        United States conveyed to the airport, city, or county 
        an interest in real property for airport purposes 
        pursuant to section 16 of the Federal Airport Act (60 
        Stat. 179), section 23 of the Airport and Airway 
        Development Act of 1970 (84 Stat. 232), or this 
        section.
          (2) Conditions.--Any waiver granted by the Secretary 
        pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be subject to the 
        following conditions:
                  (A) The applicable airport, city, county, or 
                other political subdivision shall agree that in 
                conveying any interest in the real property 
                which the United States conveyed to the 
                airport, city, or county, the airport, city, or 
                county will receive consideration for such 
                interest that is equal to its current fair 
                market value.
                  (B) Any consideration received by the 
                airport, city, or county under subparagraph (A) 
                shall be used exclusively for the development, 
                improvement, operation, or maintenance of a 
                public airport by the airport, city, or county.
                  (C) Such waiver--
                          (i) will not significantly impair the 
                        aeronautical purpose of an airport;
                          (ii) will not result in the permanent 
                        closure of an airport (unless the 
                        Secretary determines that the waiver 
                        will directly facilitate the 
                        construction of a replacement airport); 
                        or
                          (iii) is necessary to protect or 
                        advance the civil aviation interests of 
                        the United States.
                  (D) Any other conditions required by the 
                Secretary.
          (3) Annual reporting.--The Secretary shall include a 
        list and description of each waiver granted pursuant to 
        paragraph (1) in the report required under section 
        47131.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 47127. Ground transportation demonstration projects

  (a) General Authority.--To improve the airport and airway 
system of the United States consistent with regional airport 
system plans financed under section 13(b) of the Airport and 
Airway Development Act of 1970, the Secretary of Transportation 
may carry out ground transportation demonstration projects to 
improve ground access to [air carrier airport] commercial 
service airport terminals. The Secretary may carry out a 
demonstration project independently or by grant or contract, 
including an agreement with another department, agency, or 
instrumentality of the United States Government.
  (b) Priority.--In carrying out this section, the Secretary 
shall give priority to a demonstration project that--
          (1) affects an airport in an area with an operating 
        regional rapid transit system with existing facilities 
        reasonably near the airport;
          (2) includes connection of the airport terminal to 
        that system;
          (3) is consistent with and supports a regional 
        airport system plan adopted by the planning agency for 
        the region and submitted to the Secretary; and
          (4) improves access to air transportation for 
        individuals residing or working in the region by 
        encouraging the optimal balance of use of airports in 
        the region.

Sec. 47128. State block grant program

  (a) General Requirements.--The Secretary of Transportation 
shall issue guidance to carry out a State block grant program. 
The guidance shall provide that the Secretary may designate not 
more than 20 qualified States for each fiscal year to assume 
administrative responsibility for all airport grant amounts 
available under this subchapter, except for amounts designated 
for use at primary airports.
  (b) Applications and Selection.--A State wishing to 
participate in the program must submit an application to the 
Secretary. The Secretary shall select a State on the basis of 
its application only after--
          (1) deciding the State has an organization capable of 
        effectively administering a block grant made under this 
        section;
          (2) deciding the State uses a satisfactory airport 
        system planning process;
          (3) deciding the State uses a programming process 
        acceptable to the Secretary;
          (4) finding that the State has agreed to comply with 
        United States Government standard requirements for 
        administering the block grant, including the National 
        Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et 
        seq.), State and local environmental policy acts, 
        Executive orders, agency regulations and guidance, and 
        other Federal environmental requirements; and
          (5) finding that the State has agreed to provide the 
        Secretary with program information the Secretary 
        requires.
  (c) Safety and Security Needs and Needs of System.--Before 
deciding whether a planning process is satisfactory or a 
programming process is acceptable under subsection (b)(2) or 
(b)(3) of this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the 
process provides for meeting critical safety and security needs 
and that the programming process ensures that the needs of the 
national airport system will be addressed in deciding which 
projects will receive money from the Government. In carrying 
out this subsection, the Secretary shall permit a State to use 
the priority system of the State if such system is not 
inconsistent with the national priority system.
  (d) Environmental Analysis and Coordination Requirements.--A 
Federal agency, other than the Federal Aviation Administration, 
that is responsible for issuing an approval, license, or permit 
to ensure compliance with a Federal environmental requirement 
applicable to a project or activity to be carried out by a 
State using amounts from a block grant made under this section 
shall--
          (1) coordinate and consult with the State;
          (2) use the environmental analysis prepared by the 
        State for the project or activity if such analysis is 
        adequate; and
          (3) as necessary, consult with the State to describe 
        the supplemental analysis the State must provide to 
        meet applicable Federal requirements.
  (e) Training for Participating States.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary shall provide to each 
        State participating in the block grant program under 
        this section training or updated training materials for 
        the administrative responsibilities assumed by the 
        State under such program at no cost to the State.
          (2) Timing.--The training or updated training 
        materials provided under paragraph (1) shall be 
        provided at least once during each 2-year period and at 
        any time there is a material change in the program.
  (f) Roles and Responsibilities of Participating States.--
          (1) Airports.--Unless a State participating in the 
        block grant program under this section expressly agrees 
        in a memorandum of agreement, the Secretary shall not 
        require the State to manage functions and 
        responsibilities for airport actions or projects that 
        do not relate to such program.
          (2) Program documentation.--Any grant agreement 
        providing funds to be administered under such program 
        shall be consistent with the most recently executed 
        memorandum of agreement between the State and the 
        Federal Aviation Administration. The Administrator of 
        the Federal Aviation Administration shall provide 
        parity to participating States and shall only require 
        the same type of information and level of detail for 
        any program agreements and documentation that the 
        Administrator would perform with respect to such action 
        if the State did not participate in the program.
          (3) Responsibilities.--The Administrator shall retain 
        responsibility for the following, unless expressly 
        agreed to by the State:
                  (A) Grant compliance investigations, 
                determinations, and enforcement.
                  (B) Obstruction evaluation and airport 
                airspace analysis, determinations, and 
                enforcement off airport property.
                  (C) Non-rulemaking analysis, determinations, 
                and enforcement for proposed improvements on 
                airport properties not associated with this 
                subchapter, or off airport property.
                  (D) Land use determinations under section 163 
                of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 
                U.S.C. 47107 note), compatibility planning, and 
                airport layout plan review and approval for 
                projects not funded by amounts available under 
                this subchapter.
                  (E) Nonaeronautical and special event 
                recommendations and approvals.
                  (F) Instrument approach procedure evaluations 
                and determinations.
                  (G) Environmental review for projects not 
                funded by amounts available under this 
                subchapter.
                  (H) Review and approval of land leases, land 
                releases, changes in on-airport land-use 
                designation, and through-the-fence agreements.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


[Sec. 47131. Annual report

  [(a) General Rule.--Not later than June 1 of each year, the 
Secretary of Transportation shall submit to Congress a report 
on activities carried out under this subchapter during the 
prior fiscal year. The report shall include--
          [(1) a summary of airport development and planning 
        completed;
          [(2) a summary of individual grants issued;
          [(3) an accounting of discretionary and apportioned 
        funds allocated;
          [(4) the allocation of appropriations; and
          [(5) a detailed statement listing airports that the 
        Secretary believes are not in compliance with grant 
        assurances or other requirements with respect to 
        airport lands and including the circumstances of such 
        noncompliance, the timelines for corrective action, and 
        the corrective action the Secretary intends to take to 
        bring the airport sponsor into compliance.
  [(b) Special Rule for Listing Noncompliant Airports.--The 
Secretary does not have to conduct an audit or make a final 
determination before including an airport on the list referred 
to in subsection (a)(5).]

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 47134. Airport investment partnership program

  (a) Submission of Applications.--If a sponsor intends to sell 
or lease a general aviation airport or lease any other type of 
airport for a long term to a person (other than a public 
agency), the sponsor and purchaser or lessee may apply to the 
Secretary of Transportation for exemptions under this section.
  (b) Approval of Applications.--The Secretary may approve 
applications submitted under subsection (a) granting exemptions 
from the following provisions:
          (1) Use of revenues.--
                  (A) In general.--The Secretary may grant an 
                exemption to a sponsor from the provisions of 
                sections 47107(b) and 47133 of this title (and 
                any other law, regulation, or grant assurance) 
                to the extent necessary to permit the sponsor 
                to recover from the sale or lease of the 
                airport such amount as may be approved--
                          (i) in the case of a primary airport, 
                        by at least 65 percent of the scheduled 
                        air carriers serving the airport and by 
                        scheduled and nonscheduled air carriers 
                        whose aircraft landing at the airport 
                        during the preceding calendar year, had 
                        a total landed weight during the 
                        preceding calendar year of at least 65 
                        percent of the total landed weight of 
                        all aircraft landing at the airport 
                        during such year; or
                          (ii) in the case of a nonprimary 
                        airport, by the Secretary after the 
                        airport has consulted with at least 65 
                        percent of the owners of aircraft based 
                        at that airport, as determined by the 
                        Secretary.
                  (B) Objection to exemption.--An air carrier 
                shall be deemed to have approved a sponsor's 
                application for an exemption under subparagraph 
                (A) unless the air carrier has submitted an 
                objection, in writing, to the sponsor within 60 
                days of the filing of the sponsor's application 
                with the Secretary, or within 60 days of the 
                service of the application upon that air 
                carrier, whichever is later.
                  (C) Landed weight defined.--In this 
                paragraph, the term ``landed weight'' means the 
                weight of aircraft transporting passengers or 
                cargo, or both, in intrastate, interstate, and 
                foreign air transportation, as the Secretary 
                determines under regulations the Secretary 
                prescribes.
          (2) Repayment requirements.--If the Secretary grants 
        an exemption to a sponsor pursuant to paragraph (1), 
        the Secretary shall grant an exemption to the sponsor 
        from the provisions of sections 47107 and 47152 of this 
        title (and any other law, regulation, or grant 
        assurance) to the extent necessary to waive any 
        obligation of the sponsor to repay to the Federal 
        Government any grants, or to return to the Federal 
        Government any property, received by the airport under 
        this title, the Airport and Airway Improvement Act of 
        1982, or any other law.
          (3) Compensation from airport operations.--If the 
        Secretary grants an exemption to a sponsor pursuant to 
        paragraph (1), the Secretary shall grant an exemption 
        to the corresponding purchaser or lessee from the 
        provisions of sections 47107(b) and 47133 of this title 
        (and any other law, regulation, or grant assurance) to 
        the extent necessary to permit the purchaser or lessee 
        to earn compensation from the operations of the 
        airport.
          (4) Benefit-cost analysis.--Prior to approving an 
        application submitted under subsection (a), the 
        Secretary may require a benefit-cost analysis. If a 
        benefit-cost analysis is required, the Secretary shall 
        issue a preliminary and conditional finding, which 
        shall--
                  (A) be issued not later than 60 days after 
                the date on which the sponsor submits all 
                information required by the Secretary;
                  (B) be based upon a collaborative review 
                process that includes the sponsor or sponsor's 
                representative;
                  (C) not constitute the issuance of a Federal 
                grant or obligation to issue a grant under this 
                chapter or other provision of law; and
                  (D) not constitute any other obligation on 
                the part of the Federal Government until the 
                conditions specified in the final benefit-cost 
                analysis are met.
  (c) Terms and Conditions.--The Secretary may approve an 
application under subsection (b) only if the Secretary finds 
that the sale or lease agreement includes provisions 
satisfactory to the Secretary to ensure the following:
          (1) The airport will continue to be available for 
        public use on reasonable terms and conditions and 
        without unjust discrimination.
          (2) The operation of the airport will not be 
        interrupted in the event that the purchaser or lessee 
        becomes insolvent or seeks or becomes subject to any 
        State or Federal bankruptcy, reorganization, 
        insolvency, liquidation, or dissolution proceeding or 
        any petition or similar law seeking the dissolution or 
        reorganization of the purchaser or lessee or the 
        appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, or 
        liquidator for the purchaser or lessee or a substantial 
        part of the purchaser or lessee's property, assets, or 
        business.
          (3) The purchaser or lessee will maintain, improve, 
        and modernize the facilities of the airport through 
        capital investments and will submit to the Secretary a 
        plan for carrying out such maintenance, improvements, 
        and modernization.
          (4) Every fee of the airport imposed on an air 
        carrier on the day before the date of the lease of the 
        airport will not increase faster than the rate of 
        inflation unless a higher amount is approved--
                  (A) by at least 65 percent of the air 
                carriers serving the airport; and
                  (B) by air carriers whose aircraft landing at 
                the airport during the preceding calendar year 
                had a total landed weight during the preceding 
                calendar year of at least 65 percent of the 
                total landed weight of all aircraft landing at 
                the airport during such year.
          (5) The percentage increase in fees imposed on 
        general aviation aircraft at the airport will not 
        exceed the percentage increase in fees imposed on air 
        carriers at the airport.
          (6) Safety and security at the airport will be 
        maintained at the highest possible levels.
          (7) The adverse effects of noise from operations at 
        the airport will be mitigated to the same extent as at 
        a public airport.
          (8) Any adverse effects on the environment from 
        airport operations will be mitigated to the same extent 
        as at a public airport.
          (9) Any collective bargaining agreement that covers 
        employees of the airport and is in effect on the date 
        of the sale or lease of the airport will not be 
        abrogated by the sale or lease.
  (d) Program Participation.--
          (1) Multiple airports.--The Secretary may consider 
        applications under this section submitted by a public 
        airport sponsor for multiple airports under the control 
        of the sponsor if all airports under the control of the 
        sponsor are located in the same State.
          (2) Partial privatization.--A purchaser or lessee may 
        be an entity in which a sponsor has an interest.
  (e) Required Finding That Approval Will Not Result in Unfair 
Methods of Competition.--The Secretary may approve an 
application under subsection (b) only if the Secretary finds 
that the approval will not result in unfair and deceptive 
practices or unfair methods of competition.
  (f) Interests of General Aviation Users.--In approving an 
application of an airport under this section, the Secretary 
shall ensure that the interests of general aviation users of 
the airport are not adversely affected.
  (g) Passenger Facility Fees; Apportionments; Service 
Charges.--Notwithstanding that the sponsor of an airport 
receiving an exemption under subsection (b) is not a public 
agency, the sponsor shall not be prohibited from--
          (1) imposing a passenger facility charge under 
        section 40117 of this title;
          (2) receiving apportionments under section 47114 of 
        this title; or
          (3) collecting reasonable rental charges, landing 
        fees, and other service charges from aircraft operators 
        under section 40116(e)(2) of this title.
  (h) Effectiveness of Exemptions.--An exemption granted under 
subsection (b) shall continue in effect only so long as the 
facilities sold or leased continue to be used for airport 
purposes.
  (i) Revocation of Exemptions.--The Secretary may revoke an 
exemption issued to a purchaser or lessee of an airport under 
subsection (b)(3) if, after providing the purchaser or lessee 
with notice and an opportunity to be heard, the Secretary 
determines that the purchaser or lessee has knowingly violated 
any of the terms specified in subsection (c) for the sale or 
lease of the airport.
  (j) Nonapplication of Provisions to Airports Owned by Public 
Agencies.--The provisions of this section requiring the 
approval of air carriers in determinations concerning the use 
of revenues, and imposition of fees, at an airport shall not be 
extended so as to apply to any airport owned by a public agency 
that is not participating in the program established by this 
section.
  (k) Audits.--The Secretary may conduct periodic audits of the 
financial records and operations of an airport receiving an 
exemption under this section.
  (l) Predevelopment Limitation.--A grant to an airport sponsor 
under this subchapter for predevelopment planning costs 
relating to the preparation of an application or proposed 
application under this section may not exceed $750,000 per 
application or proposed application.

Sec. 47135. Innovative financing techniques

  [(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation may 
approve, after the date of enactment of the Vision 100--Century 
of Aviation Reauthorization Act, applications for not more than 
20 airport development projects for which grants received under 
this subchapter may be used for innovative financing 
techniques. Such projects shall be located at airports that 
each year have less than .25 percent of the total number of 
passenger boardings each year at all commercial service 
airports in the most recent calendar year for which data is 
available.
  [(b) Purpose.--The purpose of grants made under this section 
shall be to provide information on the benefits and 
difficulties of using innovative financing techniques for 
airport development projects.]
  (a) Authority.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary of Transportation may 
        approve an application by an airport sponsor to use 
        grants received under this subchapter for innovative 
        financing techniques related to an airport development 
        project that is located at an airport that is not a 
        large hub airport.
          (2) Approval.--The Secretary may approve not more 
        than 30 applications described under paragraph (1) in a 
        fiscal year.
  (b) Purposes.--The purpose of grants made under this section 
shall be to--
          (1) provide information on the benefits and 
        difficulties of using innovative financing techniques 
        for airport development projects;
          (2) lower the total cost of an airport development 
        project; or
          (3) expedite the delivery or completion of an airport 
        development project without reducing safety or causing 
        environmental harm.
  (c) Limitations.--
          (1) No guarantees.--In no case shall the 
        implementation of an innovative financing technique 
        under this section be used in a manner giving rise to a 
        direct or indirect guarantee of any airport debt 
        instrument by the United States Government.
          (2) Types of techniques.--In this section, innovative 
        financing techniques are limited to--
                  (A) payment of interest;
                  (B) commercial bond insurance and other 
                credit enhancement associated with airport 
                bonds for eligible airport development;
                  (C) flexible non-Federal matching 
                requirements; [and]
                  (D) use of funds apportioned under section 
                47114 for the payment of principal and interest 
                of terminal development for costs incurred 
                before the date of the enactment of this 
                section[.]; and
                  (E) any other techniques that the Secretary 
                determines are consistent with the purposes of 
                this section.

Sec. 47136. Zero-emission airport vehicles and infrastructure

  (a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation may 
establish a pilot program under which the sponsors of public-
use airports may use funds made available under this chapter or 
section 48103 for use at such airports to carry out--
          (1) activities associated with the acquisition, by 
        purchase or lease, and operation of eligible zero-
        emission vehicles and equipment, including removable 
        power sources for such vehicles; and
          (2) the construction or modification of 
        infrastructure to facilitate the delivery of fuel, 
        power or services necessary for the use of such 
        vehicles.
  (b) Eligibility.--A public-use airport is eligible for 
participation in the program if the eligible vehicles or 
equipment are--
          (1) used exclusively on airport property; or
          (2) used exclusively to transport passengers and 
        employees between the airport and--
                  (A) nearby facilities which are owned or 
                controlled by the airport or which otherwise 
                directly support the functions or services 
                provided by the airport; or
                  (B) an intermodal surface transportation 
                facility adjacent to the airport.
  (c) Selection Criteria.--In selecting from among applicants 
for participation in the program, the Secretary shall give 
priority consideration to [applicants that will] applicants 
that--
          (1) will  achieve the greatest air quality benefits 
        measured by the amount of emissions reduced per dollar 
        of funds expended under the program[.]; and
          (2) provide a long-term management plan for eligible 
        vehicles and equipment that includes the existing and 
        future infrastructure requirements of the airport 
        related to such vehicles and equipment.
  (d) Federal Share.--The Federal share of the cost of a 
project carried out under the program shall be the Federal 
share specified in section 47109.
  (e) Technical Assistance.--
          (1) In general.--The sponsor of a public-use airport 
        may use not more than 10 percent of the amounts made 
        available to the sponsor under the program in any 
        fiscal year for--
                  (A) technical assistance; and
                  (B) project management support to assist the 
                airport with the solicitation, acquisition, and 
                deployment of zero-emission vehicles, related 
                equipment, and supporting infrastructure.
          (2) Providers of technical assistance.--To receive 
        the technical assistance or project management support 
        described in paragraph (1), participants in the program 
        may use--
                  (A) a nonprofit organization selected by the 
                Secretary; or
                  (B) a university transportation center 
                receiving grants under section 5505 in the 
                region of the airport.
  (f) Materials Identifying Best Practices.--The Secretary may 
create and make available materials identifying best practices 
for carrying out activities funded under the program based on 
previous related projects and other sources.
  (g) Allowable Project Cost.--The allowable project cost for 
the acquisition of a zero-emission vehicle shall be the total 
cost of purchasing or leasing the vehicle, including the cost 
of technical assistance or project management support described 
in subsection (e).
  (h) Flexible Procurement.--A sponsor of a public-use airport 
may use funds made available under the program to acquire, by 
purchase or lease, a zero-emission vehicle and a removable 
power source in separate transactions, including transactions 
by which the airport purchases the vehicle and leases the 
removable power source.
  (i) Testing Required.--
          (1) In general.--A sponsor of a public-use airport 
        may not use funds made available under the program to 
        acquire a zero-emission vehicle unless that make, 
        model, or type of vehicle has been tested by a Federal 
        vehicle testing facility acceptable to the Secretary.
          (2) Penalties for false statements.--A certification 
        of compliance under paragraph (1) shall be considered a 
        certification required under this subchapter for 
        purposes of section 47126.
  (j) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
          (1) Eligible zero-emission vehicle and equipment.--
        The term ``eligible zero-emission vehicle and 
        equipment'' means a zero-emission vehicle, equipment 
        related to such a vehicle, or ground support equipment 
        that includes zero-emission technology that is--
                  (A) used exclusively on airport property; or
                  (B) used exclusively to transport passengers 
                and employees between the airport and--
                          (i) nearby facilities which are owned 
                        or controlled by the airport or which 
                        otherwise directly support the 
                        functions or services provided by the 
                        airport; or
                          (ii) an intermodal surface 
                        transportation facility adjacent to the 
                        airport.
          (2) Removable power source.--The term ``removable 
        power source'' means a power source that is separately 
        installed in, and removable from, a zero-emission 
        vehicle and may include a battery, a fuel cell, an 
        ultra-capacitor, or other power source used in a zero-
        emission vehicle.
          (3) Zero-emission vehicle.--The term ``zero-emission 
        vehicle'' means--
                  (A) a zero-emission vehicle as defined in 
                section 88.102-94 of title 40, Code of Federal 
                Regulations; or
                  (B) a vehicle that produces zero exhaust 
                emissions of any criteria pollutant (or 
                precursor pollutant) under any possible 
                operational modes and conditions.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 47139. Emission credits for air quality projects

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Environmental 
Protection Agency, in consultation with the Secretary of 
Transportation, shall issue guidance on how to ensure that 
[airport sponsors receive] airport sponsors may receive 
appropriate emission reduction credits for [carrying out 
projects] carrying out projects, including projects described 
in sections 40117(a)(3)(G), 47102(3)(K), and 47102(3)(L). Such 
guidance shall include, at a minimum, the following 
[conditions] considerations:
          (1) The provision of credits is consistent with the 
        Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7402 et seq.).
          (2) Credits generated by the emissions reductions are 
        kept by the [airport sponsor] airport sponsor, 
        including for an airport outside of a nonattainment 
        area, and may [only] be used for purposes of any 
        current or future general conformity determination 
        under the Clean Air Act [or as offsets], as offsets 
        under the Environmental Protection Agency's new source 
        review program for projects on the airport or 
        associated with the airport[.], or as part of a State 
        implementation plan.
          (3) Credits are calculated and provided to airports 
        on a consistent basis nationwide.
          (4) Credits are provided to airport sponsors in a 
        timely manner.
          (5) The establishment of a method to assure the 
        Secretary that, for any specific airport project for 
        which funding is being requested, the appropriate 
        credits will be granted.
  [(b) Assurance of Receipt of Credits.--As a condition for 
making a grant for a project described in section 47102(3)(K), 
47102(3)(L), or 47140 or as a condition for granting approval 
to collect or use a passenger facility charge for a project 
described in section 40117(a)(3)(G), 47102(3)(K), 47102(3)(L), 
or 47140, the Secretary must receive assurance from the State 
in which the project is located, or from the Administrator of 
the Environmental Protection Agency where there is a Federal 
implementation plan, that the airport sponsor will receive 
appropriate emission credits in accordance with the conditions 
of this section.]
  [(c)] (b) State Authority Under CAA.--Nothing in this section 
shall be construed as overriding existing State law or 
regulation pursuant to section 116 of the Clean Air Act (42 
U.S.C. 7416).

[Sec. 47140. Increasing the energy efficiency of airport power sources

  [(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall 
establish a program under which the Secretary shall encourage 
the sponsor of each public-use airport to assess the airport's 
energy requirements, including heating and cooling, base load, 
back-up power, and power for on-road airport vehicles and 
ground support equipment, in order to identify opportunities to 
increase energy efficiency at the airport, and to reimburse the 
airport sponsor for the costs incurred in conducting the 
assessment.
  [(b) Grants.--
          [(1) In general.--The Secretary may make grants from 
        amounts made available under section 48103 to assist 
        airport sponsors that have completed the assessment 
        described in subsection (a) to acquire or construct 
        equipment, including hydrogen equipment and related 
        infrastructure, that will increase energy efficiency at 
        the airport.
          [(2) Application.--To be eligible for a grant under 
        paragraph (1), the sponsor of a public-use airport 
        shall submit an application, including a certification 
        that no safety projects are being be deferred by 
        requesting a grant under this section, to the Secretary 
        at such time, in such manner, and containing such 
        information as the Secretary may require.]

Sec. 47140. Meeting current and future electrical power demand

  (a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall 
establish a program under which the Secretary shall--
          (1) encourage the sponsor of each public-use airport 
        to--
                  (A) conduct airport planning that assesses 
                the airport's--
                          (i) current and future electrical 
                        power requirements, including--
                                  (I) heating and cooling;
                                  (II) on-road airport 
                                vehicles, including ground 
                                support equipment;
                                  (III) gate electrification; 
                                and
                                  (IV) electric aircraft 
                                charging; and
                          (ii) existing electrical 
                        infrastructure condition, location and 
                        capacity, including base load and 
                        backup power, to meet the current and 
                        future electrical power demand as 
                        identified in this subparagraph; and
                  (B) conduct airport development to increase 
                energy efficiency or meet future electrical 
                power demands as identified in subparagraph 
                (A); and
          (2) reimburse the airport sponsor for the costs 
        incurred in conducting the assessment under paragraph 
        (1).
  (b) Grants.--The Secretary may make grants from amounts made 
available under section 48103 to assist airport sponsors that 
have completed the assessment described in subsection (a)(1)--
          (1) to acquire or construct equipment that will 
        increase energy efficiency at the airport; and
          (2) to pursue an airport development project 
        described in subsection (a)(1)(B).

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 47142. [Design-build contracting]  Alternative project delivery

  (a) In General.--The [Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration] Secretary of Transportation may approve an 
application of an airport sponsor under this section to 
authorize the airport sponsor to [award a design-build] award a 
covered project delivery contract using a selection process 
permitted under applicable State or local law if--
          (1) the Administrator approves the application using 
        criteria established by the Administrator;
          (2) the [design-build] covered project delivery 
        contract is in a form that is approved by the 
        Administrator;
          (3) the Administrator is satisfied that the contract 
        will be executed pursuant to competitive procedures and 
        contains a schematic design adequate for the 
        Administrator to approve the grant;
          (4) use of a [design-build contract will] covered 
        project delivery contract is projected to be cost 
        effective and expedite the project;
          (5) the Administrator is satisfied that there will be 
        no conflict of interest; and
          (6) the Administrator is satisfied that the selection 
        process will be as open, fair, and objective as the 
        competitive bid system and that at least 3 or more bids 
        will be submitted for each project under the selection 
        process.
  (b) Reimbursement of Costs.--The Administrator may reimburse 
an airport sponsor for design and construction costs incurred 
before a grant is made pursuant to this section if the project 
is approved by the Administrator in advance and is carried out 
in accordance with all administrative and statutory 
requirements that would have been applicable under this chapter 
if the project were carried out after a grant agreement had 
been executed.
  [(c) Design-Build Contract Defined.--In this section, the 
term ``design-build contract'' means an agreement that provides 
for both design and construction of a project by a contractor.]
  (c) Covered Project Delivery Contract Defined.--In this 
section, the term ``covered project delivery contract'' means--
          (1) an agreement that provides for both design and 
        construction of a project by a contractor; or
          (2) a single contract for the delivery of a whole 
        project that--
                  (A) includes, at a minimum, the sponsor, 
                builder, and architect-engineer as parties that 
                are subject to the terms of the contract;
                  (B) aligns the interests of all the parties 
                to the contract with respect to the project 
                costs and project outcomes; and
                  (C) includes processes to ensure transparency 
                and collaboration among all parties to the 
                contract relating to project costs and project 
                outcomes.

Sec. 47143. Non-movement area surveillance surface display systems 
                    pilot program

  (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration may carry out a pilot program to support non-
Federal acquisition and installation of qualifying non-movement 
area surveillance surface display systems and sensors if--
          (1) the Administrator determines that such systems 
        and sensors would improve safety or capacity in the 
        National Airspace System; and
          (2) the non-movement area surveillance surface 
        display systems and sensors supplement existing 
        movement area systems and sensors at the selected 
        airports established under other programs administered 
        by the Administrator.
  (b) Project Grants.--
          (1) In general.--For purposes of carrying out the 
        pilot program, the Administrator may make a project 
        grant out of funds apportioned under paragraph (1) or 
        paragraph (2) of section 47114(c) to not more than 5 
        eligible sponsors to acquire and install qualifying 
        non-movement area surveillance surface display systems 
        and sensors. The airports selected to participate in 
        the pilot program shall have existing Administration 
        movement area systems and airlines that are 
        participants in Federal Aviation Administration's 
        airport collaborative decision-making process.
          (2) Data exchange processes.--As part of the pilot 
        program carried out under this section, the 
        Administrator may establish data exchange processes to 
        allow airport participation in the Administration's 
        airport collaborative decision-making process and 
        fusion of the non-movement surveillance data with the 
        Administration's movement area systems.
  (c) Sunset.--This section shall cease to be effective on 
October 1, [2023] 2028.
  (d) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Non-movement area.--The term ``non-movement 
        area'' means the portion of the airfield surface that 
        is not under the control of air traffic control.
          (2) Non-movement area surveillance surface display 
        systems and sensors.--The term ``non-movement area 
        surveillance surface display systems and sensors'' 
        means a non-Federal surveillance system that uses on-
        airport sensors that track vehicles or aircraft that 
        are equipped with transponders in the non-movement 
        area.
          (3) Qualifying non-movement area surveillance surface 
        display system and sensors.--The term ``qualifying non-
        movement area surveillance surface display system and 
        sensors'' means a non-movement area surveillance 
        surface display system that--
                  (A) provides the required transmit and 
                receive data formats consistent with the 
                National Airspace System architecture at the 
                appropriate service delivery point;
                  (B) is on-airport; and
                  (C) is airport operated.

Sec. 47144. Use of funds for repairs for runway safety repairs

  (a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation may make 
project grants under this subchapter to an airport described in 
subsection (b) from funds under section 47114 apportioned to 
that airport or funds available for discretionary grants to 
that airport under section 47115 to conduct airport development 
to repair the runway safety area of the airport damaged as a 
result of a natural disaster in order to maintain compliance 
with the regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration 
relating to runway safety areas, without regard to whether 
construction of the runway safety area damaged was carried out 
using amounts the airport received under this subchapter.
  (b) Airports Described.--An airport is described in this 
subsection if--
          (1) the airport is a public-use airport;
          (2) the airport is listed in the National Plan of 
        Integrated Airport Systems of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration;
          (3) the runway safety area of the airport was damaged 
        as a result of a natural disaster;
          (4) the airport was denied funding under the Robert 
        T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance 
        Act [(42 U.S.C. 4121 et seq.)] (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.) 
        with respect to the disaster;
          (5) the operator of the airport has exhausted all 
        legal remedies, including legal action against any 
        parties (or insurers thereof) whose action or inaction 
        may have contributed to the need for the repair of the 
        runway safety area;
          (6) there is still a demonstrated need for the runway 
        safety area to accommodate current or imminent 
        aeronautical demand; and
          (7) the cost of repairing or replacing the runway 
        safety area is reasonable in relation to the 
        anticipated operational benefit of repairing the runway 
        safety area, as determined by the Administrator of the 
        Federal Aviation Administration.

          SUBCHAPTER II--SURPLUS PROPERTY FOR PUBLIC AIRPORTS

Sec. 47151. Authority to transfer an interest in surplus property

  (a) General Authority.--Subject to sections 47152 and 47153 
of this title, a department, agency, or instrumentality of the 
executive branch of the United States Government or a wholly 
owned Government corporation may convey to a State, political 
subdivision of a State, or tax-supported organization any 
interest in surplus property--
          (1) that the Secretary of Transportation decides is--
                  (A) desirable for developing, improving, 
                operating, or maintaining a public airport (as 
                defined in section 47102 of this title);
                  (B) reasonably necessary to fulfill the 
                immediate and foreseeable future requirements 
                for developing, improving, operating, or 
                maintaining a public airport; or
                  (C) needed for developing sources of revenue 
                from nonaviation businesses at a public 
                airport; and
          (2) if the Administrator of General Services approves 
        the conveyance and decides the interest is not best 
        suited for industrial use.
  (b) Ensuring Compliance.--Only the Secretary may ensure 
compliance with an instrument conveying an interest in surplus 
property under this subchapter. The Secretary may amend the 
instrument to correct the instrument or to make the conveyance 
comply with law.
  (c) Disposing of Interests Not Conveyed Under This 
Subchapter.--An interest in surplus property that could be used 
at a public airport but that is not conveyed under this 
subchapter shall be disposed of under other applicable law.
  [(d) Waiver of Condition.--Before the Secretary may waive any 
condition imposed on an interest in surplus property conveyed 
under subsection (a) that such interest be used for an 
aeronautical purpose, the Secretary must provide notice to the 
public not less than 30 days before waiving such condition.]
  (d) Waiver of Condition.--The Secretary may not waive any 
condition imposed on an interest in surplus property conveyed 
under subsection (a) that such interest be used for an 
aeronautical purpose unless the Secretary provides public 
notice not less than 30 days before the issuance of such waiver 
and determines that such waiver--
          (1) will not significantly impair the aeronautical 
        purpose of an airport;
          (2) will not result in the permanent closure of an 
        airport (unless the Secretary determines that the 
        waiver will directly facilitate the construction of a 
        replacement airport); or
          (3) is necessary to protect or advance the civil 
        aviation interests of the United States.
  (e) Requests by Public Agencies.--Except with respect to a 
request made by another department, agency, or instrumentality 
of the executive branch of the United States Government, such a 
department, agency, or instrumentality shall give priority 
consideration to a request made by a public agency (as defined 
in section 47102) for surplus property described in subsection 
(a) for use at a public airport.
  (f) Reversions of Property.--The Secretary shall take all 
necessary action to revert surplus property conveyed under this 
subchapter back to the United States if--
          (1) the Secretary determines that an instrument 
        conveying an interest in surplus property under this 
        subchapter incorporates a provision providing for the 
        reversion of such property in the event the property is 
        not used for aeronautical purposes;
          (2) other efforts by the Secretary to ensure that the 
        property is used by the relevant airport sponsor is 
        used for aeronautical purposes are unsuccessful; and
          (3) the Secretary determines that a reversion--
                  (A) will result in the property being used 
                for aeronautical purposes; or
                  (B) will not transfer liabilities, including 
                environmental liabilities, greater than the 
                fair market value of the property to the 
                Government.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 47153. Waiving and adding terms

  (a) General Authority.--(1) The Secretary of Transportation 
may waive, without charge, a term of a conveyance of an 
interest in property under this subchapter if the Secretary 
decides that--
          (A) the property no longer serves the purpose for 
        which it was conveyed; or
          (B) the waiver will not prevent carrying out the 
        purpose for which the conveyance was made and is 
        necessary to advance the civil aviation interests of 
        the United States.
  (2) The Secretary of Transportation shall waive a term under 
paragraph (1) of this subsection on terms the Secretary 
considers necessary to protect or advance the civil aviation 
interests of the United States.
  (b) Waivers and Inclusion of Additional Terms on Request.--On 
request of the Secretary of Transportation or the Secretary of 
a military department, a department, agency, or instrumentality 
of the executive branch of the United States Government or a 
wholly owned Government corporation may waive a term required 
by section 47152 of this title or add another term if the 
appropriate Secretary decides it is necessary to protect or 
advance the interests of the United States in civil aviation or 
for national defense.
  [(c) Public Notice Before Waiver.--Notwithstanding 
subsections (a) and (b), before the Secretary may waive any 
term imposed under this section that an interest in land be 
used for an aeronautical purpose, the Secretary must provide 
notice to the public not less than 30 days before waiving such 
term.]
  (c) Restrictions on Waiver.--Notwithstanding subsections (a) 
and (b), the Secretary may not waive any term under this 
section that an interest in land be used for an aeronautical 
purpose unless--
          (1) the Secretary provides public notice not less 
        than 30 days before the issuance of a waiver; and
          (2) the Secretary determines that such waiver--
                  (A) will not significantly impair the 
                aeronautical purpose of an airport;
                  (B) will not result in the permanent closure 
                of an airport (unless the Secretary determines 
                that the waiver will directly facilitate the 
                construction of a replacement airport); or
                  (C) is necessary to protect or advance the 
                civil aviation interests of the United States.

           SUBCHAPTER III--AVIATION DEVELOPMENT STREAMLINING

Sec. 47171. Expedited, coordinated environmental review process

  (a) Aviation Project Review Process.--The [Secretary of 
Transportation] Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall [develop and] implement an expedited and 
coordinated environmental review process for airport capacity 
enhancement [projects at congested airports, general aviation 
airport construction or improvement projects, aviation safety 
projects, and aviation security projects] projects, terminal 
development projects, general aviation airport construction or 
improvement projects, and aviation safety projects that--
          (1) provides for [better] streamlined coordination 
        among the Federal, regional, State, and local agencies 
        concerned with the preparation of environmental impact 
        statements or environmental assessments under the 
        National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 
        4321 et seq.);
          (2) provides that all environmental reviews, 
        analyses, opinions, permits, licenses, and approvals 
        that must be issued or made by a Federal agency or 
        airport sponsor for such a project will be conducted 
        concurrently, to the maximum extent practicable; and
          (3) provides that any environmental review, analysis, 
        opinion, permit, license, or approval that must be 
        issued or made by a Federal agency or airport sponsor 
        for such a project will be completed within a time 
        period established by the [Secretary] Administrator, in 
        cooperation with the agencies identified under 
        subsection (d) with respect to the project.
  [(b) Aviation Projects Subject to a Streamlined Environmental 
Review Process.--
          [(1) Airport capacity enhancement projects at 
        congested airports.--An airport capacity enhancement 
        project at a congested airport shall be subject to the 
        coordinated and expedited environmental review process 
        requirements set forth in this section.
          [(2) General aviation airport construction or 
        improvement project.--A general aviation airport 
        construction or improvement project shall be subject to 
        the coordinated and expedited environmental review 
        process requirements set forth in this section.
          [(3) Aviation safety and aviation security 
        projects.--
                  [(A) In general.--The Administrator of the 
                Federal Aviation Administration may designate 
                an aviation safety project or aviation security 
                project for priority environmental review. The 
                Administrator may not delegate this designation 
                authority. A designated project shall be 
                subject to the coordinated and expedited 
                environmental review process requirements set 
                forth in this section.
                  [(B) Project designation criteria.--The 
                Administrator shall establish guidelines for 
                the designation of an aviation safety project 
                or aviation security project for priority 
                environmental review. Such guidelines shall 
                provide for consideration of--
                          [(i) the importance or urgency of the 
                        project;
                          [(ii) the potential for undertaking 
                        the environmental review under existing 
                        emergency procedures under the National 
                        Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 
                        U.S.C. 4321 et seq.);
                          [(iii) the need for cooperation and 
                        concurrent reviews by other Federal or 
                        State agencies;
                          [(iv) the prospect for undue delay if 
                        the project is not designated for 
                        priority review; and
                          [(v) for aviation security projects, 
                        the views of the Department of Homeland 
                        Security.]
  (b) Aviation Projects Subject to a Streamlined Environmental 
Review Process.--
          (1) In general.--Any airport capacity enhancement 
        project, terminal development project, or general 
        aviation airport construction or improvement project 
        shall be subject to the coordinated and expedited 
        environmental review process requirements set forth in 
        this section.
          (2) Project designation criteria.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administrator may 
                designate an aviation safety project for 
                priority environmental review. A designated 
                project shall be subject to the coordinated and 
                expedited environmental review process 
                requirements set forth in this section.
                  (B) Project designation criteria.--The 
                Administrator shall establish guidelines for 
                the designation of an aviation safety project 
                or aviation security project for priority 
                environmental review. Such guidelines shall 
                provide for consideration of--
                          (i) the importance or urgency of the 
                        project;
                          (ii) the potential for undertaking 
                        the environmental review under existing 
                        emergency procedures under the National 
                        Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 
                        U.S.C. 4321 et seq.);
                          (iii) the need for cooperation and 
                        concurrent reviews by other Federal or 
                        State agencies; and
                          (iv) the prospect for undue delay if 
                        the project is not designated for 
                        priority review.
  (c) High Priority of and Agency Participation in Coordinated 
Reviews.--
          (1) High priority for environmental reviews.--Each 
        Federal agency with jurisdiction over an environmental 
        review, analysis, opinion, permit, license, or approval 
        shall accord any such review, analysis, opinion, 
        permit, license, or approval involving [an airport 
        capacity enhancement project at a congested airport or 
        a project designated under subsection (b)(3)] a project 
        described or designated under subsection (b) the 
        highest possible priority and conduct the review, 
        analysis, opinion, permit, license, or approval 
        expeditiously.
          (2) Agency participation.--Each Federal agency 
        described in subsection (d) shall formulate and 
        implement administrative, policy, and procedural 
        mechanisms to enable the agency to participate in the 
        coordinated environmental review process under this 
        section and to ensure completion of environmental 
        reviews, analyses, opinions, permits, licenses, and 
        approvals described in subsection (a) in a timely and 
        environmentally responsible manner.
  (d) Identification of Jurisdictional Agencies.--With respect 
to [each airport capacity enhancement project at a congested 
airport or a project designated under subsection (b)(3)] a 
project described or designated under subsection (b), the 
[Secretary] Administrator shall identify, as soon as 
practicable, all Federal and State agencies that may have 
jurisdiction over environmental-related matters that may be 
affected by the project or may be required by law to conduct an 
environmental-related review or analysis of the project or 
determine whether to issue an environmental-related permit, 
license, or approval for the project.
  (e) State Authority.--Under a coordinated review process 
being implemented under this section by the [Secretary] 
Administrator with respect to a project at an airport within 
the boundaries of a State, the Governor of the State, 
consistent with State law, may choose to participate in such 
process and provide that all State agencies that have 
jurisdiction over environmental-related matters that may be 
affected by the project or may be required by law to conduct an 
environmental-related review or analysis of the project or 
determine whether to issue an environmental-related permit, 
license, or approval for the project, be subject to the 
process.
  (f) Memorandum of Understanding.--The coordinated review 
process developed under this section may be incorporated into a 
memorandum of understanding for a project between the 
[Secretary] Administrator and the heads of other Federal and 
State agencies identified under subsection (d) with respect to 
the project and, if applicable, the airport sponsor.
  (g) Use of Interagency Environmental Impact Statement 
Teams.--
          (1) In general.--The [Secretary] Administrator may 
        utilize an interagency environmental impact statement 
        team to expedite and coordinate the coordinated 
        environmental review process for a project under this 
        section. When utilizing an interagency environmental 
        impact statement team, the [Secretary] Administrator 
        shall invite Federal, State and Tribal agencies with 
        jurisdiction by law, and may invite such agencies with 
        special expertise, to participate on an interagency 
        environmental impact statement team.
          (2) Responsibility of interagency environmental 
        impact statement team.--Under a coordinated 
        environmental review process being implemented under 
        this section, the interagency environmental impact 
        statement team shall assist the Federal Aviation 
        Administration in the preparation of the environmental 
        impact statement. To facilitate timely and efficient 
        environmental review, the team shall agree on agency or 
        Tribal points of contact, protocols for communication 
        among agencies, and deadlines for necessary actions by 
        each individual agency (including the review of 
        environmental analyses, the conduct of required 
        consultation and coordination, and the issuance of 
        environmental opinions, licenses, permits, and 
        approvals). The members of the team may formalize their 
        agreement in a written memorandum.
  (h) Lead Agency Responsibility.--The Federal Aviation 
Administration shall be the lead agency for projects 
[designated under subsection (b)(3) and airport capacity 
enhancement projects at congested airports] described in 
subsection (b)(1) and shall be responsible for defining the 
scope and content of the environmental impact statement, 
consistent with regulations issued by the Council on 
Environmental Quality. Any other Federal agency or State agency 
that is participating in a coordinated environmental review 
process under this section shall give substantial deference, to 
the extent consistent with applicable law and policy, to the 
aviation expertise of the Federal Aviation Administration.
  (i) Effect of Failure To Meet Deadline.--
          (1) Notification of congress and ceq.-- If the 
        [Secretary] Administrator determines that a Federal 
        agency, State agency, or airport sponsor that is 
        participating in a coordinated review process under 
        this section with respect to a project has not met a 
        deadline established under subsection (a)(3) for the 
        project, the [Secretary] Administrator shall notify, 
        within 30 days of the date of such determination, the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
        the Senate, the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, the 
        Council on Environmental Quality, and the agency or 
        sponsor involved about the failure to meet the 
        deadline.
          (2) Agency report.--Not later than 30 days after date 
        of receipt of a notice under paragraph (1), the agency 
        or sponsor involved shall submit a report to the 
        [Secretary] Administrator, the Committee on 
        Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
        and Transportation of the Senate, and the Council on 
        Environmental Quality explaining why the agency or 
        sponsor did not meet the deadline and what actions it 
        intends to take to complete or issue the required 
        review, analysis, opinion, permit, license, or 
        approval.
  (j) Purpose and Need.--[For any]
          (1) In general._For any  environmental review, 
        analysis, opinion, permit, license, or approval that 
        must be issued or made by a Federal or State agency 
        that is participating in a coordinated review process 
        under this section and that requires an analysis of 
        purpose and need for the project, the agency, 
        notwithstanding any other provision of law, shall be 
        bound by the project purpose and need as defined by the 
        [Secretary] Administrator.
          (2) Deadline.--The Administrator shall define the 
        purpose and need of a project not later than 45 days 
        after receipt of a draft purpose and need statement (or 
        revision thereof that materially affects a statement 
        previously prepared or accepted by the Administrator) 
        from an airport sponsor. The Administrator shall 
        provide airport sponsors with appropriate guidance to 
        implement any applicable requirements.
  (k) Alternatives Analysis.--The [Secretary] Administrator 
shall determine the reasonable alternatives to [an airport 
capacity enhancement project at a congested airport or a 
project designated under subsection (b)(3)] a project described 
or designated under subsection (b). Any other Federal agency, 
or State agency that is participating in a coordinated review 
process under this section with respect to the [project shall 
consider] project shall--
          (1) consider  only those alternatives to the project 
        that the [Secretary] Administrator has determined are 
        reasonable[.]; and
          (2) limit the comments of the agency to--
                  (A) subject matter areas within the special 
                expertise of the agency; and
                  (B) changes necessary to ensure the agency is 
                carrying out the obligations of that agency 
                under the National Environmental Policy Act of 
                1969 and other applicable law.
  (l) Solicitation and Consideration of Comments.--In applying 
subsections (j) and (k), the [Secretary] Administrator shall 
solicit and consider comments from interested persons and 
governmental entities in accordance with the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.)[.] 
and section 1503 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations.
  [(m) Monitoring by Task Force.--The Transportation 
Infrastructure Streamlining Task Force, established by 
Executive Order 13274 (67 Fed. Reg. 59449; relating to 
environmental stewardship and transportation infrastructure 
project reviews), may monitor airport projects that are subject 
to the coordinated review process under this section.]
  (m) Coordination and Schedule.--
          (1) Coordination plan.--
                  (A) In general.--Not later than 90 days after 
                the date of publication of a notice of intent 
                to prepare an environmental impact statement or 
                the initiation of an environmental assessment, 
                the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration shall establish a plan for 
                coordinating public and agency participation in 
                and comment on the environmental review process 
                for a project described or designated under 
                subsection (b). The coordination plan may be 
                incorporated into a memorandum of 
                understanding.
                  (B) Schedule.--
                          (i) In general.--The Administration 
                        shall establish as part of such 
                        coordination plan, after consultation 
                        with and the concurrence of each 
                        participating agency for the project 
                        and with the State in which the project 
                        is located (and, if the State is not 
                        the project sponsor, with the project 
                        sponsor), a schedule for--
                                  (I) interim milestones and 
                                deadlines for agency activities 
                                necessary to complete the 
                                environmental review; and
                                  (II) completion of the 
                                environmental review process 
                                for the project.
                          (ii) Factors for consideration.--In 
                        establishing the schedule under clause 
                        (i), the Administration shall consider 
                        factors such as--
                                  (I) the responsibilities of 
                                participating agencies under 
                                applicable laws;
                                  (II) resources available to 
                                the cooperating agencies;
                                  (III) overall size and 
                                complexity of the project;
                                  (IV) the overall time 
                                required by an agency to 
                                conduct an environmental review 
                                and make decisions under 
                                applicable Federal law relating 
                                to a project (including the 
                                issuance or denial of a permit 
                                or license) and the cost of the 
                                project; and
                                  (V) the sensitivity of the 
                                natural and historic resources 
                                that could be affected by the 
                                project.
                          (iii) Maximum project schedule.--To 
                        the maximum extent practicable and 
                        consistent with applicable Federal law, 
                        the Administrator shall develop, in 
                        concurrence with the project sponsor, a 
                        maximum schedule for the project 
                        described or designated under 
                        subsection (b) that is not more than 2 
                        years for the completion of the 
                        environmental review process for such 
                        projects, as measured from, as 
                        applicable the date of publication of a 
                        notice of intent to prepare an 
                        environmental impact statement to the 
                        record of decision.
                          (iv) Dispute resolution.--
                                  (I) In general.--Any issue or 
                                dispute that arises between the 
                                Administrator and participating 
                                agencies (or amongst 
                                participating agencies) during 
                                the environmental review 
                                process will be addressed 
                                expeditiously to avoid delay.
                                  (II) Responsibilities.--The 
                                Administrator and participating 
                                agencies shall--
                                          (aa) implement the 
                                        requirements of this 
                                        section consistent with 
                                        any dispute resolution 
                                        process established in 
                                        an applicable law, 
                                        regulation, or legally 
                                        binding agreement to 
                                        the maximum extent 
                                        permitted by law; and
                                          (bb) seek to resolve 
                                        issues or disputes at 
                                        the earliest possible 
                                        time at the project 
                                        level through agency 
                                        employees who have day-
                                        to-day involvement in 
                                        the project.
                                  (III) Elevation for missed 
                                milestone.--If a dispute 
                                between the Administrator and 
                                participating agencies (or 
                                amongst participating agencies) 
                                causes a milestone to be missed 
                                or extended, or the 
                                Administrator anticipates that 
                                a permitting timetable 
                                milestone will be missed or 
                                will need to be extended, then 
                                the dispute shall be elevated 
                                to an official designated by 
                                the relevant agency for 
                                resolution. Such elevation 
                                should take place as soon as 
                                practicable after the 
                                Administrator becomes aware of 
                                the dispute or potential missed 
                                milestone.
                                  (IV) Exception.--Disputes 
                                that do not impact the ability 
                                of an agency to meet a 
                                milestone may be elevated as 
                                appropriate.
                                  (V) Further evaluation.--Once 
                                a dispute has been elevated to 
                                the designated official, if no 
                                resolution has been reached at 
                                the end of 30 days after the 
                                relevant milestone date or 
                                extension date, then the 
                                relevant agencies shall elevate 
                                the dispute to senior agency 
                                leadership for resolution.
                  (C) Consistency with other time periods.--A 
                schedule under subparagraph (B) shall be 
                consistent with any other relevant time periods 
                established under Federal law.
                  (D) Modification.--
                          (i) In general.--Except as provided 
                        in clause (ii), the Administrator may 
                        lengthen or shorten a schedule 
                        established under subparagraph (B) for 
                        good cause. A decision by a project 
                        sponsor to change, modify, expand, or 
                        reduce the scope of a project may be 
                        considered as good cause for 
                        lengthening or shortening of such 
                        schedule as appropriate and based on 
                        the nature and extent of the proposed 
                        project adjustment.
                          (ii) Limitations.--
                                  (I) Lengthened schedule.--The 
                                Administrator may lengthen a 
                                schedule under clause (i) for a 
                                cooperating Federal agency by 
                                not more than 1 year after the 
                                latest deadline established for 
                                the project described or 
                                designated under subsection (b) 
                                by the Administration.
                                  (II) Shortened schedule.--The 
                                Administrator may not shorten a 
                                schedule under clause (i) if 
                                doing so would impair the 
                                ability of a cooperating 
                                Federal agency to conduct 
                                necessary analyses or otherwise 
                                carry out relevant obligations 
                                of the Federal agency for the 
                                project.
                  (E) Failure to meet deadline.--If a 
                cooperating Federal agency fails to meet a 
                deadline established under subparagraph 
                (D)(ii)(I)--
                          (i) the cooperating Federal agency 
                        shall, not later than 10 days after 
                        meeting the deadline, submit to the 
                        Administrator a report that describes 
                        the reasons why the deadline was not 
                        met; and
                          (ii) the Secretary shall--
                                  (I) 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 copy of the report 
                                under clause (i); and
                                  (II) make the report under 
                                clause (i) publicly available 
                                on the website of the agency.
                  (F) Dissemination.--A copy of a schedule 
                under subparagraph (B), and of any 
                modifications to the schedule, shall be--
                          (i) provided to all participating 
                        agencies and to the State 
                        transportation department of the State 
                        in which the project is located (and, 
                        if the State is not the project 
                        sponsor, to the project sponsor); and
                          (ii) made available to the public.
          (2) Comment deadlines.--The Administrator shall 
        establish the following deadlines for comment during 
        the environmental review process for a project:
                  (A) For comments by agencies and the public 
                on a draft environmental impact statement, a 
                period of not more than 60 days after 
                publication in the Federal Register of notice 
                of the date of public availability of such 
                statement, unless--
                          (i) a different deadline is 
                        established by agreement of the lead 
                        agency, the project sponsor, and all 
                        participating agencies; or
                          (ii) the deadline is extended by the 
                        lead agency for good cause.
                  (B) For all other comment periods established 
                by the lead agency for agency or public 
                comments in the environmental review process, a 
                period of no more than 30 days from 
                availability of the materials on which comment 
                is requested, unless--
                          (i) a different deadline is 
                        established by agreement of the 
                        Administrator, the project sponsor, and 
                        all participating agencies; or
                          (ii) the deadline is extended by the 
                        lead agency for good cause.
          (3) Deadlines for decisions under other laws.--In any 
        case in which a decision under any Federal law relating 
        to a project described or designated under subsection 
        (b) (including the issuance or denial of a permit or 
        license) is required to be made by the later of the 
        date that is 180 days after the date on which the 
        Administrator made all final decisions of the lead 
        agency with respect to the project, or 180 days after 
        the date on which an application was submitted for the 
        permit or license, 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, 
        and publish on the website of the Administration--
                  (A) as soon as practicable after the 180-day 
                period, an initial notice of the failure of the 
                Federal agency to make the decision; and
                  (B) every 60 days thereafter until such date 
                as all decisions of the Federal agency relating 
                to the project have been made by the Federal 
                agency, an additional notice that describes the 
                number of decisions of the Federal agency that 
                remain outstanding as of the date of the 
                additional notice.
          (4) Involvement of the public.--Nothing in this 
        subsection shall reduce any time period provided for 
        public comment in the environmental review process 
        under existing Federal law, including a regulation.
  (n) Concurrent Reviews and Single NEPA Document.--
          (1) Concurrent reviews.--Each participating agency 
        and cooperating agency under the expedited and 
        coordinated environmental review process established 
        under this section shall--
                  (A) carry out the obligations of that agency 
                under other applicable law concurrently, and in 
                conjunction, with the review required under the 
                National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 
                U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), unless doing so would 
                impair the ability of the Federal agency to 
                conduct needed analysis or otherwise carry out 
                such obligations; and
                  (B) formulate and implement administrative, 
                policy, and procedural mechanisms to enable the 
                agency to ensure completion of the 
                environmental review process in a timely, 
                coordinated, and environmentally responsible 
                manner.
          (2) Single nepa document.--
                  (A) In general.--Except as inconsistent with 
                subsection (a), to the maximum extent 
                practicable and consistent with Federal law, 
                all Federal permits and reviews for a project 
                shall rely on a single environment document 
                prepared under the National Environmental 
                Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) 
                under the leadership of the Administrator of 
                the Federal Aviation Administration.
                  (B) Use of document.--
                          (i) In general.--To the maximum 
                        extent practicable, the Administrator 
                        shall develop an environmental document 
                        sufficient to satisfy the requirements 
                        for any Federal approval or other 
                        Federal action required for the 
                        project, including permits issued by 
                        other Federal agencies.
                          (ii) Cooperation of participating 
                        agencies.--Other participating agencies 
                        shall cooperate with the lead agency 
                        and provide timely information to help 
                        the lead agency carry out this 
                        subparagraph.
                  (C) Treatment as participating and 
                cooperating agencies.--A Federal agency 
                required to make an approval or take an action 
                for a project, as described in this paragraph, 
                shall work with the Administration for the 
                project to ensure that the agency making the 
                approval or taking the action is treated as 
                being both a participating and cooperating 
                agency for the project.
          (3) Participating agency responsibilities.--An agency 
        participating in the expedited and coordinated 
        environmental review process under this section shall--
                  (A) provide comments, responses, studies, or 
                methodologies on those areas within the special 
                expertise or jurisdiction of the agency; and
                  (B) use the process to address any 
                environmental issues of concern to the agency.
  (o) Environmental Impact Statement.--
          (1) In general.--In preparing a final environmental 
        impact statement under the National Environmental 
        Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) for a 
        project described or designated under subsection (b), 
        if the Administrator modifies the statement in response 
        to comments that are minor and are confined to factual 
        corrections or explanations of why the comments do not 
        warrant additional agency response, the Administrator 
        may write on errata sheets attached to the statement 
        instead of rewriting the draft statement, subject to 
        the condition that the errata sheets--
                  (A) cite the sources, authorities, and 
                reasons that support the position of the 
                agency; and
                  (B) if appropriate, indicate the 
                circumstances that would trigger agency 
                reappraisal or further response.
          (2) Single document.--To the maximum extent 
        practicable, for a project subject to a coordinated 
        review process under this section, the Administrator 
        shall expeditiously develop a single document that 
        consists of a final environmental impact statement and 
        a record of decision, unless--
                  (A) the final environmental impact statement 
                or record of decision makes substantial changes 
                to the project that are relevant to 
                environmental or safety concerns; or
                  (B) there is a significant new circumstance 
                or information relevant to environmental 
                concerns that bears on the proposed action or 
                the environmental impacts of the proposed 
                action.
          (3) Length of environmental document.--
                  (A) In general.--Except as provided in 
                subparagraph (B), an environmental impact 
                statement shall not exceed 150 pages, not 
                including any citations or appendices.
                  (B) Extraordinary complexity.--An 
                environmental impact statement for a proposed 
                agency action of extraordinary complexity shall 
                not exceed 300 pages, not including any 
                citations or appendices.
  (p) Integration of Planning and Environmental Review.--
          (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (5) and to the 
        maximum extent practicable and appropriate, the 
        following agencies may adopt or incorporate by 
        reference, and use a planning product in proceedings 
        relating to, any class of action in the environmental 
        review process of a project described or designated 
        under subsection (b):
                  (A) The lead agency for a project, with 
                respect to an environmental impact statement, 
                environmental assessment, categorical 
                exclusion, or other document prepared under the 
                National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 
                U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
                  (B) A cooperating agency with responsibility 
                under Federal law with respect to the process 
                for and completion of any environmental permit, 
                approval, review, or study required for a 
                project under any Federal law other than the 
                National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 
                U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), if consistent with that 
                law.
          (2) Identification.--If the relevant agency makes a 
        determination to adopt or incorporate by reference and 
        use a planning product under paragraph (1), such agency 
        shall identify the agencies that participated in the 
        development of the planning products.
          (3) Adoption or incorporation by reference of 
        planning products.--The relevant agency may--
                  (A) adopt or incorporate by reference an 
                entire planning product under paragraph (1); or
                  (B) select portions of a planning project 
                under paragraph (1) for adoption or 
                incorporation by reference.
          (4) Timing.--The adoption or incorporation by 
        reference of a planning product under paragraph (1) 
        may--
                  (A) be made at the time the relevant agencies 
                decide the appropriate scope of environmental 
                review for the project; or
                  (B) occur later in the environmental review 
                process, as appropriate.
          (5) Conditions.--The relevant agency in the 
        environmental review process may adopt or incorporate 
        by reference a planning product under this section if 
        the relevant agency determines, with the concurrence of 
        the lead agency and, if the planning product is 
        necessary for a cooperating agency to issue a permit, 
        review, or approval for the project, with the 
        concurrence of the cooperating agency, that the 
        following conditions have been met:
                  (A) The planning product was developed 
                through a planning process conducted pursuant 
                to applicable Federal law.
                  (B) The planning product was developed in 
                consultation with appropriate Federal and State 
                resource agencies and Indian Tribes.
                  (C) The planning process included broad 
                multidisciplinary consideration of systems-
                level or corridor-wide transportation needs and 
                potential effects, including effects on the 
                human and natural environment.
                  (D) The planning process included public 
                notice that the planning products produced in 
                the planning process may be adopted during any 
                subsequent environmental review process in 
                accordance with this section.
                  (E) During the environmental review process, 
                the relevant agency has--
                          (i) made the planning documents 
                        available for public review and comment 
                        by members of the general public and 
                        Federal, State, local, and Tribal 
                        governments that may have an interest 
                        in the proposed project;
                          (ii) provided notice of the intention 
                        of the relevant agency to adopt or 
                        incorporate by reference the planning 
                        product; and
                          (iii) considered any resulting 
                        comments.
                  (F) There is no significant new information 
                or new circumstance that has a reasonable 
                likelihood of affecting the continued validity 
                or appropriateness of the planning product or 
                portions thereof.
                  (G) The planning product has a rational basis 
                and is based on reliable and reasonably current 
                data and reasonable and scientifically 
                acceptable methodologies.
                  (H) The planning product is documented in 
                sufficient detail to support the decision or 
                the results of the analysis and to meet 
                requirements for use of the information in the 
                environmental review process.
                  (I) The planning product is appropriate for 
                adoption or incorporation by reference and use 
                in the environmental review process for the 
                project and is incorporated in accordance with, 
                and is sufficient to meet the requirements of, 
                the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 
                (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and section 1502.21 of 
                title 40, Code of Federal Regulations.
          (6) Effect of adoption or incorporation by 
        reference.--Any planning product or portions thereof 
        adopted or incorporated by reference by the relevant 
        agency in accordance with this subsection may be--
                  (A) incorporated directly into an 
                environmental review process document or other 
                environmental document; and
                  (B) relied on and used by other Federal 
                agencies in carrying out reviews of the 
                project.
  (q) Report on NEPA Data.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall carry out a process to 
        track, and annually 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 projects 
        described in subsection (b)(1) that contains the 
        information described in paragraph (3).
          (2) Time to complete.--For purposes of paragraph (3), 
        the NEPA process--
                  (A) for an environmental impact statement--
                          (i) begins on the date on which a 
                        notice of intent is published in the 
                        Federal Register; and
                          (ii) ends on the date on which the 
                        Administrator issues a record of 
                        decision, including, if necessary, a 
                        revised record of decision; and
                  (B) for an environmental assessment--
                          (i) begins on the date on which the 
                        Administrator makes a determination to 
                        prepare an environmental assessment; 
                        and
                          (ii) ends on the date on which the 
                        Administrator issues a finding of no 
                        significant impact or determines that 
                        preparation of an environmental impact 
                        statement is necessary.
          (3) Information described.--The information referred 
        to in paragraph (1) is, with respect to the Federal 
        Aviation Administration--
                  (A) the number of proposed actions for which 
                a categorical exclusion was applied by the 
                Administration during the reporting period;
                  (B) the number of proposed actions for which 
                a documented categorical exclusion was applied 
                by the Administration during the reporting 
                period;
                  (C) the number of proposed actions pending on 
                the date on which the report is submitted for 
                which the issuance of a documented categorical 
                exclusion by the Administration is pending;
                  (D) the number of proposed actions for which 
                an environmental assessment was issued by the 
                Administration during the reporting period;
                  (E) the length of time the Administration 
                took to complete each environmental assessment 
                described in subparagraph (D);
                  (F) the number of proposed actions pending on 
                the date on which the report is submitted for 
                which an environmental assessment is being 
                drafted by the Administration;
                  (G) the number of proposed actions for which 
                a final environmental impact statement was 
                completed by the Administration during the 
                reporting period;
                  (H) the length of time that the 
                Administration took to complete each 
                environmental impact statement described in 
                subparagraph (G);
                  (I) the number of proposed actions pending on 
                the date on which the report is submitted for 
                which an environmental impact statement is 
                being drafted; and
                  (J) for the proposed actions reported under 
                subparagraphs (F) and (I), the percentage of 
                those proposed actions for which--
                          (i) project funding has been 
                        identified; and
                          (ii) all other Federal, State, and 
                        local activities that are required to 
                        allow the proposed action to proceed 
                        are completed.
          (4) Definitions.--In this section:
                  (A) Environmental assessment.--The term 
                ``environmental assessment'' has the meaning 
                given the term in section 1508.1 of title 40, 
                Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor 
                regulation).
                  (B) Environmental impact statement.--The term 
                ``environmental impact statement'' means a 
                detailed statement required under section 
                102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy 
                Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C)).
                  (C) NEPA process.--The term ``NEPA process'' 
                means the entirety of the development and 
                documentation of the analysis required under 
                the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 
                (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), including the 
                assessment and analysis of any impacts, 
                alternatives, and mitigation of a proposed 
                action, and any interagency participation and 
                public involvement required to be carried out 
                before the Administrator undertakes a proposed 
                action.
                  (D) Proposed action.--The term ``proposed 
                action'' means an action (within the meaning of 
                the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 
                (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.)) under this title that 
                the Administrator proposes to carry out.
                  (E) Reporting period.--The term ``reporting 
                period'' means the fiscal year prior to the 
                fiscal year in which a report is issued under 
                subsection (a).

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Sec. 47175. Definitions

  In this subchapter, the following definitions apply:
          [(3)] (1) Airport capacity enhancement project.--The 
        term ``airport capacity enhancement project'' means--
                  (A) a project for construction or extension 
                of a runway, including any land acquisition, 
                taxiway, or safety area associated with the 
                runway or runway extension; [and] or
                  (B) such other airport development projects 
                as the Secretary may designate as facilitating 
                a reduction in air traffic congestion and 
                delays.
          [(1)] (2) Airport sponsor.--The term ``airport 
        sponsor'' has the meaning given the term ``sponsor'' 
        under section 47102.
          [(4)] (3) Aviation safety project.--The term 
        ``aviation safety project'' means an aviation project 
        that--
                  (A) has as its primary purpose reducing the 
                risk of injury to persons or damage to aircraft 
                and property, as determined by the 
                Administrator; [and]
                  [(i)] (B) is needed to respond to a 
                recommendation from the National Transportation 
                Safety Board, as determined by the 
                Administrator; or
                  [(ii)] (C) is necessary for an airport to 
                comply with part 139 of title 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations (relating to airport 
                certification).
          [(2)] (4) Congested airport.--The term ``congested 
        airport'' means an airport that accounted for at least 
        1 percent of all delayed aircraft operations in the 
        United States in the most recent year for which such 
        data is available and an airport listed in table 1 of 
        the Federal Aviation Administration's Airport Capacity 
        Benchmark Report 2004 or any successor report.
          [(5) Aviation security project.--The term ``aviation 
        security project'' means a security project at an 
        airport required by the Department of Homeland 
        Security.]
          [(6)] (5) Federal agency.--The term ``Federal 
        agency'' means a department or agency of the United 
        States Government.
          [(8)] (6) General aviation airport construction or 
        improvement project.--The term ``general aviation 
        airport construction or improvement project'' means--
                  (A) a project for the construction or 
                extension of a runway, including any land 
                acquisition, helipad, taxiway, safety area, 
                apron, or navigational aids associated with the 
                runway or runway extension, at a general 
                aviation airport, a reliever airport, or a 
                commercial service airport that is not a 
                primary airport (as such terms are defined in 
                section 47102); and
                  (B) any other airport development project 
                that the Secretary designates as facilitating 
                aviation capacity building projects at a 
                general aviation airport.
          (7) Joint use airport.--The term ``joint use 
        airport'' means an airport owned by the Department of 
        Defense, at which both military and civilian aircraft 
        make shared use of the airfield.
          (8) Terminal development.--The term ``terminal 
        development'' has the same meaning given such term in 
        section 47102.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 473--INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FACILITIES

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


[Sec. 47306. Criminal penalty

  [A person that knowingly and willfully violates a regulation 
prescribed by the Secretary of Transportation to carry out this 
chapter shall be fined under title 18, imprisoned for not more 
than 6 months, or both.]

PART C--FINANCING

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 481--AIRPORT AND AIRWAY TRUST FUND AUTHORIZATIONS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 48101. Air navigation facilities and equipment

  (a) General Authorization of Appropriations.--Not more than a 
total of the following amounts may be appropriated to the 
Secretary of Transportation out of the Airport and Airway Trust 
Fund established under section 9502 of the Internal Revenue 
Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C. 9502) to acquire, establish, and 
improve air navigation facilities under section 44502(a)(1)(A) 
of this title:
          [(1) $3,330,000,000 for fiscal year 2018.
          [(2) $3,398,000,000 for fiscal year 2019.
          [(3) $3,469,000,000 for fiscal year 2020.
          [(4) $3,547,000,000 for fiscal year 2021.
          [(5) $3,624,000,000 for fiscal year 2022.]
          [(6)] (1) $3,701,000,000 for fiscal year 2023.
          (2) $3,375,000,000 for fiscal year 2024.
          (3) $3,425,000,000 for fiscal year 2025.
          (4) $3,475,000,000 for fiscal year 2026.
          (5) $3,475,000,000 for fiscal year 2027.
          (6) $3,475,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.
  (b) Availability of Amounts.--Amounts appropriated under this 
section remain available until expended.
  (c) Authorized Expenditures.--Of the amounts appropriated 
under subsection (a), such sums as may be necessary may be used 
for the following:
          (1) The implementation and use of upgrades to the 
        current automated surface observation system/automated 
        weather observing system, if the upgrade is 
        successfully demonstrated.
          (2) The acquisition and construction of remote towers 
        (as defined in section 161 of the FAA Reauthorization 
        Act of 2018).
          (3) The remediation and elimination of identified 
        cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the air traffic 
        control system.
          (4) The construction of facilities dedicated to 
        improving the cybersecurity of the National Airspace 
        System.
          (5) Systems associated with the Data Communications 
        program.
          (6) The infrastructure, sustainment, and the 
        elimination of the deferred maintenance backlog of air 
        navigation facilities and other facilities for which 
        the Federal Aviation Administration is responsible.
          (7) The modernization and digitization of the Civil 
        Aviation Registry.
          (8) The construction of necessary Priority 1 National 
        Airspace System facilities.
          (9) Cost-beneficial construction, rehabilitation, or 
        retrofitting programs designed to reduce Federal 
        Aviation Administration facility operating costs.
  (d) Life-Cycle Cost Estimates.--The Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall establish life-cycle cost 
estimates for any air traffic control modernization project the 
total life-cycle costs of which equal or exceed $50,000,000.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 48103. Airport planning and development and noise compatibility 
                    planning and programs

  (a) In General.--There shall be available to the Secretary of 
Transportation out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund 
established under section 9502 of the Internal Revenue Code of 
1986 to make grants for airport planning and airport 
development under section 47104, airport noise compatibility 
planning under section 47505(a)(2), and carrying out noise 
compatibility programs under section 47504(c)--
          (1) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2018;
          (2) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2019;
          (3) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2020;
          (4) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2021;
          (5) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2022; [and]
          (6) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2023[.];
          (7) $4,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
          (8) $4,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
          (9) $4,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
          (10) $4,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
          (11) $4,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.
  (b) Availability of Amounts.--Amounts made available under 
subsection (a) shall remain available until expended.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 48105. Weather reporting services

  To sustain the aviation weather reporting programs of the 
Federal Aviation Administration, the Secretary of 
Transportation may expend from amounts available under section 
48104 of this title not more than the following amounts:
          (1) for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1993, 
        $35,596,000.
          (2) for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1994, 
        $37,800,000.
          (3) for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1995, 
        $39,000,000.
          (4) $39,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 
        2023.
          (5) $45,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2024 through 
        2026.
          (6) $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 and 
        2028.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


PART D--PUBLIC AIRPORTS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 491--METROPOLITAN WASHINGTON AIRPORTS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 49106. Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

  (a) Status.--The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority 
shall be--
          (1) a public body corporate and politic with the 
        powers and jurisdiction--
                  (A) conferred upon it jointly by the 
                legislative authority of Virginia and the 
                District of Columbia or by either of them and 
                concurred in by the legislative authority of 
                the other jurisdiction; and
                  (B) that at least meet the specifications of 
                this section [and section 49108 of this title];
          (2) independent of Virginia and its local 
        governments, the District of Columbia, and the United 
        States Government; and
          (3) a political subdivision constituted only to 
        operate and improve the Metropolitan Washington 
        Airports as primary airports serving the Metropolitan 
        Washington area.
  (b) General Authority.--(1) The Airports Authority shall be 
authorized--
          (A) to acquire, maintain, improve, operate, protect, 
        and promote the Metropolitan Washington Airports for 
        public purposes;
          (B) to issue bonds from time to time in its 
        discretion for public purposes, including paying any 
        part of the cost of airport improvements, construction, 
        and rehabilitation and the acquisition of real and 
        personal property, including operating equipment for 
        the airports;
          (C) to acquire real and personal property by 
        purchase, lease, transfer, or exchange;
          (D) to exercise the powers of eminent domain in 
        Virginia that are conferred on it by Virginia;
          (E) to levy fees or other charges; and
          (F) to make and maintain agreements with employee 
        organizations to the extent that the Federal Aviation 
        Administration was authorized to do so on October 18, 
        1986.
  (2) Bonds issued under paragraph (1)(B) of this subsection--
          (A) are not a debt of Virginia, the District of 
        Columbia, or a political subdivision of Virginia or the 
        District of Columbia; and
          (B) may be secured by the Airports Authority's 
        revenues generally, or exclusively from the income and 
        revenues of certain designated projects whether or not 
        any part of the projects are financed from the proceeds 
        of the bonds.
  (c) Board of Directors.--(1) The Airports Authority shall be 
governed by a board of directors composed of the following 17 
members:
          (A) 7 members appointed by the Governor of Virginia;
          (B) 4 members appointed by the Mayor of the District 
        of Columbia;
          (C) 3 members appointed by the Governor of Maryland; 
        and
          (D) 3 members appointed by the President with the 
        advice and consent of the Senate.
  (2) The chairman of the board shall be appointed from among 
the members by majority vote of the members and shall serve 
until replaced by majority vote of the members.
  (3) Members of the board shall be appointed to the board for 
6 years, except that of the members first appointed by the 
President after October 9, 1996, one shall be appointed for 4 
years. Any member of the board shall be eligible for 
reappointment for 1 additional term. A member shall not serve 
after the expiration of the member's term(s).
  (4) A member of the board--
          (A) may not hold elective or appointive political 
        office;
          (B) serves without compensation except for reasonable 
        expenses incident to board functions; and
          (C) must reside within the Washington Standard 
        Metropolitan Statistical Area, except that a member of 
        the board appointed by the President must be a 
        registered voter of a State other than Maryland, 
        Virginia, or the District of Columbia.
  (5) A vacancy in the board shall be filled in the manner in 
which the original appointment was made. A member appointed to 
fill a vacancy occurring before the expiration of the term for 
which the member's predecessor was appointed shall be appointed 
only for the remainder of that term.
  (6)(A) Not more than 2 of the members of the board appointed 
by the President may be of the same political party.
  (B) In carrying out their duties on the board, members 
appointed by the President shall ensure that adequate 
consideration is given to the national interest.
  (C) A member appointed by the President may be removed by the 
President for cause. A member appointed by the Mayor of the 
District of Columbia, the Governor of Maryland or the Governor 
of Virginia may be removed or suspended from office only for 
cause and in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction from 
which the member is appointed.
  (7) Ten votes are required to approve bond issues and the 
annual budget.
  (d) Conflicts of Interest.--Members of the board and their 
immediate families may not be employed by or otherwise hold a 
substantial financial interest in any enterprise that has or is 
seeking a contract or agreement with the Airports Authority or 
is an aeronautical, aviation services, or airport services 
enterprise that otherwise has interests that can be directly 
affected by the Airports Authority. The official appointing a 
member may make an exception if the financial interest is 
completely disclosed when the member is appointed and the 
member does not participate in board decisions that directly 
affect the interest.
  (e) Certain Actions To Be Taken by Regulation.--An action of 
the Airports Authority changing, or having the effect of 
changing, the hours of operation of, or the type of aircraft 
serving, either of the Metropolitan Washington Airports may be 
taken only by regulation of the Airports Authority.
  (f) Administrative.--To assist the Secretary in carrying out 
this chapter, the Secretary may hire 2 staff individuals to be 
paid by the Airports Authority. The Airports Authority shall 
provide clerical and support staff that the Secretary may 
require.
  (g) Review of Contracting Procedures.--The Comptroller 
General shall review contracts of the Airports Authority to 
decide whether the contracts were awarded by procedures that 
follow sound Government contracting principles and comply with 
section 49104(a)(4) of this title. The Comptroller General 
shall submit periodic reports of the conclusions reached as a 
result of the review to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
Senate.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 49112. Separability and effect of judicial order

  (a) Separability.--If any provision of this chapter, or the 
application of a provision of this chapter to a person or 
circumstance, is held invalid, the remainder of this chapter 
and the application of the provision to other persons or 
circumstances is not affected.
  (b) Effect of Judicial Order.--[(1) If any provision of the 
Metropolitan Washington Airports Amendments Act of 1996 (title 
IX of Public Law 104-264; 110 Stat. 3274) or the amendments 
made by the Act, or the application of that provision to a 
person, circumstance, or venue, is held invalid by a judicial 
order, the Secretary of Transportation and the Metropolitan 
Washington Airports Authority shall be subject to section 49108 
of this title from the day after the day the order is issued.]
  [(2) Any action] Any action of the Airports Authority that 
was required to be submitted to the Board of Review under 
section 6007(f)(4) of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Act 
of 1986 (Public Law 99-500; 100 Stat. 1783-380; Public Law 99-
599; 100 Stat. 3341-383) before October 9, 1996, remains in 
effect and may not be set aside only because of a judicial 
order invalidating certain functions of the Board.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


PART E--MISCELLANEOUS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


CHAPTER 501--BUY-AMERICAN PREFERENCES

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 50101. Buying goods produced in the United States

  (a) Preference.--The Secretary of Transportation may obligate 
an amount that may be appropriated to carry out section 106(k), 
44502(a)(2), or 44509, subchapter I of chapter 471 [(except 
section 47127)], or chapter 481 (except sections 48102(e), 
48106, 48107, and 48110) of this title for a project only if 
steel and manufactured goods used in the project are produced 
in the United States.
  (b) Waiver.--The Secretary may waive subsection (a) of this 
section if the Secretary finds that--
          (1) applying subsection (a) would be inconsistent 
        with the public interest;
          (2) the steel and goods produced in the United States 
        are not produced in a sufficient and reasonably 
        available amount or are not of a satisfactory quality;
          (3) when procuring a facility or equipment under 
        section 44502(a)(2) or 44509, subchapter I of chapter 
        471 [(except section 47127)], or chapter 481 (except 
        sections 48102(e), 48106, 48107, and 48110) of this 
        title--
                  (A) the cost of components and subcomponents 
                produced in the United States is more than 60 
                percent of the cost of all components of the 
                facility or equipment; and
                  (B) final assembly of the facility or 
                equipment has occurred in the United States; or
          (4) including domestic material will increase the 
        cost of the overall project by more than 25 percent.
  (c) Labor Costs.--In this section, labor costs involved in 
final assembly are not included in calculating the cost of 
components.
  (d) Limitation on Certain Rolling Stock Procurements.--
          (1) In general.--Financial assistance made available 
        under the provisions described in subsection (a) shall 
        not be used in awarding a contract or subcontract to an 
        entity on or after the date of enactment of this 
        subsection for the procurement of rolling stock for use 
        in an airport-related project if the manufacturer of 
        the rolling stock--
                  (A) is incorporated in or has manufacturing 
                facilities in the United States; and
                  (B) is owned or controlled by, is a 
                subsidiary of, or is otherwise related legally 
                or financially to a corporation based in a 
                country that--
                          (i) is identified as a nonmarket 
                        economy country (as defined in section 
                        771(18) of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19 
                        U.S.C. 1677(18))) as of the date of 
                        enactment of this subsection;
                          (ii) was identified by the United 
                        States Trade Representative in the most 
                        recent report required by section 182 
                        of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 
                        2242) as a foreign country included on 
                        the priority watch list defined in 
                        subsection (g)(3) of that section; and
                          (iii) is subject to monitoring by the 
                        Trade Representative under section 306 
                        of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 
                        2416).
          (2) Exception.--
                  (A) In general.--For purposes of paragraph 
                (1), the term ``otherwise related legally or 
                financially'' does not include--
                          (i) a minority relationship or 
                        investment; or
                          (ii) relationship with or investment 
                        in a subsidiary, joint venture, or 
                        other entity based in a country 
                        described in paragraph (1)(B) that does 
                        not export rolling stock or components 
                        of rolling stock for use in the United 
                        States.
                  (B) Corporation based in people's republic of 
                china.--Notwithstanding subparagraph (A)(i), 
                for purposes of paragraph (1), the term 
                ``otherwise related legally or financially'' 
                includes a minority relationship or investment 
                if the relationship or investment involves a 
                corporation based in the People's Republic of 
                China.
          (3) International agreements.--This subsection shall 
        be applied in a manner consistent with the obligations 
        of the United States under international agreements.

Sec. 50102. Restricting contract awards because of discrimination 
                    against United States goods or services

  A person or enterprise domiciled or operating under the laws 
of a foreign country may not make a contract or subcontract 
under section 106(k), 44502(a)(2), or 44509, subchapter I of 
chapter 471 [(except section 47127)], or chapter 481 (except 
sections 48102(e), 48106, 48107, and 48110) of this title or 
subtitle B of title IX of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act 
of 1990 (Public Law 101-508, 104 Stat. 1388-353) if the 
government of that country unfairly maintains, in government 
procurement, a significant and persistent pattern of 
discrimination against United States goods or services that 
results in identifiable harm to United States businesses, that 
the President identifies under section 305(g)(1)(A) of the 
Trade Agreements Act of 1979 (19 U.S.C. 2515(g)(1)(A)).

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Sec. 50104. Restriction on airport projects using products or services 
                    of foreign countries denying fair market 
                    opportunities

  (a) Definition and Rules for Construing Section.--In this 
section--
          (1) ``project'' has the same meaning given that term 
        in section 47102 of this title.
          (2) each foreign instrumentality and each territory 
        and possession of a foreign country administered 
        separately for customs purposes is a separate foreign 
        country.
          (3) an article substantially produced or manufactured 
        in a foreign country is a product of the country.
          (4) a service provided by a person that is a national 
        of a foreign country or that is controlled by a 
        national of a foreign country is a service of the 
        country.
  (b) Limitation on Use of Available Amounts.--(1) An amount 
made available under subchapter I of chapter 471 of this title 
[(except section 47127)] may not be used for a project that 
uses a product or service of a foreign country during any 
period the country is on the list maintained by the United 
States Trade Representative under subsection (d)(1) of this 
section.
  (2) Paragraph (1) of this subsection does not apply when the 
Secretary of Transportation decides that--
          (A) applying paragraph (1) to the product, service, 
        or project is not in the public interest;
          (B) a product or service of the same class or type 
        and of satisfactory quality is not produced or offered 
        in the United States, or in a foreign country not 
        listed under subsection (d)(1) of this section, in a 
        sufficient and reasonably available amount; and
          (C) the project cost will increase by more than 20 
        percent if the product or service is excluded.
  (c) Decisions on Denial of Fair Market Opportunities.--Not 
later than 30 days after a report is submitted to Congress 
under section 181(b) of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 
2241(b)), the Trade Representative, for a construction project 
of more than $500,000 for which the government of a foreign 
country supplies any part of the amount, shall decide whether 
the foreign country denies fair market opportunities for 
products and suppliers of the United States in procurement or 
for United States bidders. In making the decision, the Trade 
Representative shall consider information obtained in preparing 
the report and other information the Trade Representative 
considers relevant.
  (d) List of Countries Denying Fair Market Opportunities.--(1) 
The Trade Representative shall maintain a list of each foreign 
country the Trade Representative finds under subsection (c) of 
this section is denying fair market opportunities. The country 
shall remain on the list until the Trade Representative decides 
the country provides fair market opportunities.
  (2) The Trade Representative shall publish in the Federal 
Register--
          (A) annually the list required under paragraph (1) of 
        this subsection; and
          (B) any modification of the list made before the next 
        list is published.

Sec. 50105. Fraudulent use of ``Made in America'' label

  If the Secretary of Transportation decides that a person 
intentionally affixed a ``Made in America'' label to goods sold 
in or shipped to the United States that are not made in the 
United States, the Secretary shall declare the person 
ineligible, for not less than 3 nor more than 5 years, to 
receive a contract or grant from the United States Government 
related to a contract made under section 106(k), 44502(a)(2), 
or 44509, subchapter I of chapter 471 [(except section 47127)], 
or chapter 481 (except sections 48102(e), 48106, 48107, and 
48110) of this title or subtitle B of title IX of the Omnibus 
Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 (Public Law 101-508, 104 
Stat. 1388-353). The Secretary may bring a civil action to 
enforce this section in any district court of the United 
States.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *

                              ----------                              


WENDELL H. FORD AVIATION INVESTMENT AND REFORM ACT FOR THE 21ST CENTURY



           *       *       *       *       *       *       *
TITLE VII--MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 732. REGULATION OF ALASKA GUIDE PILOTS.

  (a) In General.--Beginning on the date of the enactment of 
this Act, flight operations conducted by Alaska guide pilots 
shall be regulated under the general operating and flight rules 
contained in part 91 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  [(b) Rulemaking Proceeding.--
          [(1) In general.--The Administrator shall conduct a 
        rulemaking proceeding and issue a final rule to modify 
        the general operating and flight rules referred to in 
        subsection (a) by establishing special rules applicable 
        to the flight operations conducted by Alaska guide 
        pilots.
          [(2) Contents of rules.--A final rule issued by the 
        Administrator under paragraph (1) shall require Alaska 
        guide pilots--
                  [(A) to operate aircraft inspected no less 
                often than after 125 hours of flight time;
                  [(B) to participate in an annual flight 
                review, as described in section 61.56 of title 
                14, Code of Federal Regulations;
                  [(C) to have at least 500 hours of flight 
                time as a pilot;
                  [(D) to have a commercial rating, as 
                described in subpart F of part 61 of such 
                title;
                  [(E) to hold at least a second-class medical 
                certificate, as described in subpart C of part 
                67 of such title;
                  [(F) to hold a current letter of 
                authorization issued by the Administrator; and
                  [(G) to take such other actions as the 
                Administrator determines necessary for safety.
          [(3) Consideration.--In making a determination to 
        impose a requirement under paragraph (2)(G), the 
        Administrator shall take into account the unique 
        conditions associated with air travel in the State of 
        Alaska to ensure that such requirements are not unduly 
        burdensome.]
  [(c) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:]
          [(1) Letter of authorization.--The term ``letter of 
        authorization'' means a letter issued by the 
        Administrator once every 5 years to an Alaska guide 
        pilot certifying that the pilot is in compliance with 
        general operating and flight rules applicable to the 
        pilot. In the case of a multi-pilot operation, at the 
        election of the operating entity, a letter of 
        authorization may be issued by the Administrator to the 
        entity or to each Alaska guide pilot employed by the 
        entity.]
  (b) Definition of Alaska Guide Pilot.--In this section
          [(2) Alaska guide pilot.--The term ``Alaska guide 
        pilot''] the term ``Alaska guide pilot'' means a pilot 
        who--
                  (A) conducts aircraft operations over or 
                within the State of Alaska;
                  (B) operates single engine, fixed-wing 
                aircraft on floats, wheels, or skis, providing 
                commercial hunting, fishing, or other guide 
                services and related accommodations in the form 
                of camps or lodges; and
                  (C) transports clients by such aircraft 
                incidental to hunting, fishing, or other guide 
                services.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *

                              ----------                              


           VISION 100-CENTURY OF AVIATION REAUTHORIZATION ACT

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

  (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Vision 100--
Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act''.
  (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is 
as follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
     * * * * * * *

                      TITLE VII--AVIATION RESEARCH

     * * * * * * *
[Sec. 710. Next generation air transportation senior policy committee.]

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


TITLE I--AIRPORT AND AIRWAY IMPROVEMENTS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Subtitle D--Miscellaneous

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 186. MIDWAY ISLAND AIRPORT.

  (a) Findings.--Congress finds that the continued operation of 
the Midway Island Airport in accordance with the standards of 
the Federal Aviation Administration applicable to commercial 
airports is critical to the safety of commercial, military, and 
general aviation in the mid-Pacific Ocean region.
  (b) Memorandum of Understanding on Sale of Aircraft Fuel.--
The Secretaries of Transportation, Defense, Interior, and 
Homeland Security shall enter into a memorandum of 
understanding to facilitate the sale of aircraft fuel on Midway 
Island at a price that will generate sufficient revenue to 
improve the ability of the airport to operate on a self-
sustaining basis in accordance with the standards of the 
Federal Aviation Administration applicable to commercial 
airports. The memorandum shall also address the long-range 
potential of promoting tourism as a means to generate revenue 
to operate the airport.
  (c) Transfer of Navigation Aids at Midway Island Airport.--
The Midway Island Airport may transfer, without consideration, 
to the Administrator the navigation aids at the airport. The 
Administrator shall accept the navigation aids and operate and 
maintain the navigation aids under criteria of the 
Administrator.
  (d) Funding to Secretary of the Interior for Midway Island 
Airport.--The Secretary of Transportation may enter into a 
reimbursable agreement with the Secretary of the Interior for 
the purpose of funding airport development, as defined in 
section 47102(3) of title 49, United States Code, at Midway 
Island Airport [for fiscal years 2018 through 2023] for fiscal 
years 2023 through 2028 from amounts available in the 
discretionary fund established by section 47115 of such title. 
The maximum obligation under the agreement for any such fiscal 
year shall be $2,500,000.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


TITLE II--FAA ORGANIZATION

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


                       Subtitle B--Miscellaneous

SEC. 221. CONTROLLER STAFFING.

  (a) Annual Report.--Beginning with the submission of the 
Budget of the United States to the Congress for fiscal year 
2005, the [Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration] Chief Operating Officer of the Air Traffic 
Organization of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
transmit a report to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation and the House of Representatives Committee 
on Transportation and Infrastructure that describes the overall 
air traffic controller staffing plan, including strategies to 
address anticipated retirement and replacement of air traffic 
controllers.
  (b) Human Capital Workforce Strategy.--
          (1) Development.--The Administrator shall develop a 
        comprehensive human capital workforce strategy to 
        determine the most effective method for addressing the 
        need for more air traffic controllers that is 
        identified in the June 2002 report of the General 
        Accounting Office.
          (2) Completion date.--Not later than 1 year after the 
        date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall 
        complete development of the strategy.
          (3) Report.--Not later than 30 days after the date on 
        which the strategy is completed, the Administrator 
        shall transmit to Congress a report describing the 
        strategy.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


TITLE VII--AVIATION RESEARCH

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


[SEC. 710. NEXT GENERATION AIR TRANSPORTATION SENIOR POLICY COMMITTEE.

  [(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall 
establish a senior policy committee to work with the Next 
Generation Air Transportation System Joint Planning and 
Development Office. The senior policy committee shall be 
chaired by the Secretary and shall meet at least twice each 
year.
  [(b) Membership.--In addition to the Secretary, the senior 
policy committee shall be composed of--
          [(1) the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration (or the Administrator's designee);
          [(2) the Administrator of the National Aeronautics 
        and Space Administration (or the Administrator's 
        designee);
          [(3) the Secretary of Defense (or the Secretary's 
        designee);
          [(4) the Secretary of Homeland Security (or the 
        Secretary's designee);
          [(5) the Secretary of Commerce (or the Secretary's 
        designee);
          [(6) the Director of the Office of Science and 
        Technology Policy (or the Director's designee); and
          [(7) designees from other Federal agencies determined 
        by the Secretary of Transportation to have an important 
        interest in, or responsibility for, other aspects of 
        the system.
  [(c) Function.--The senior policy committee shall--
          [(1) advise the Secretary of Transportation regarding 
        the national goals and strategic objectives for the 
        transformation of the Nation's air transportation 
        system to meet its future needs;
          [(2) provide policy guidance for the integrated plan 
        for the air transportation system to be developed by 
        the Next Generation Air Transportation System Joint 
        Planning and Development Office;
          [(3) provide ongoing policy review for the 
        transformation of the air transportation system;
          [(4) identify resource needs and make recommendations 
        to their respective agencies for necessary funding for 
        planning, research, and development activities; and
          [(5) make legislative recommendations, as 
        appropriate, for the future air transportation system.
  [(d) Consultation.--In carrying out its functions under this 
section, the senior policy committee shall consult with, and 
ensure participation by, the private sector (including 
representatives of general aviation, commercial aviation, 
aviation labor, and the space industry), members of the public, 
and other interested parties and may do so through a special 
advisory committee composed of such representatives.
  [(e) Annual Report.--
          [(1) Submission to congress.--Not later than 1 year 
        after the date of enactment of this subsection, and 
        annually thereafter on the date of submission of the 
        President's budget request to Congress under section 
        1105(a) of title 31, United States Code, the Secretary 
        shall submit to Congress a report summarizing the 
        progress made in carrying out the integrated work plan 
        required by section 709(b)(5) and any changes in that 
        plan.
          [(2) Contents.--The report shall include--
                  [(A) a copy of the updated integrated work 
                plan;
                  [(B) a description of the progress made in 
                carrying out the integrated work plan and any 
                changes in that plan, including any changes 
                based on funding shortfalls and limitations set 
                by the Office of Management and Budget;
                  [(C) a detailed description of--
                          [(i) the success or failure of each 
                        item of the integrated work plan for 
                        the previous year and relevant 
                        information as to why any milestone was 
                        not met; and
                          [(ii) the impact of not meeting the 
                        milestone and what actions will be 
                        taken in the future to account for the 
                        failure to complete the milestone;
                  [(D) an explanation of any change to future 
                years in the integrated work plan and the 
                reasons for such change; and
                  [(E) an identification of the levels of 
                funding for each agency participating in the 
                integrated work plan devoted to programs and 
                activities under the plan for the previous 
                fiscal year and in the President's budget 
                request.]

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *

                              ----------                              


        INTELLIGENCE REFORM AND TERRORISM PREVENTION ACT OF 2004

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

  (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Intelligence 
Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004''.
  (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is 
as follows:

              TITLE I--REFORM OF THE INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY

Sec. 1001. Short title.
     * * * * * * *

                    TITLE IV--TRANSPORTATION SECURITY

     * * * * * * *

                      Subtitle B--Aviation Security

     * * * * * * *
[Sec. 4022. Improved pilot licenses.]

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


TITLE IV--TRANSPORTATION SECURITY

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Subtitle B--Aviation Security

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


[SEC. 4022. IMPROVED PILOT LICENSES.

  [(a) In General.--Not later than one year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall begin to issue improved pilot 
licenses consistent with the requirements of title 49, United 
States Code, and title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  [(b) Requirements.--Improved pilots licenses issued under 
subsection (a) shall--
          [(1) be resistant to tampering, alteration, and 
        counterfeiting;
          [(2) include a photograph of the individual to whom 
        the license is issued; and
          [(3) be capable of accommodating a digital 
        photograph, a biometric identifier, or any other unique 
        identifier that the Administrator considers necessary.
  [(c) Tampering.--To the extent practical, the Administrator 
shall develop methods to determine or reveal whether any 
component or security feature of a license issued under 
subsection (a) has been tampered, altered, or counterfeited.
  [(d) Use of Designees.--The Administrator may use designees 
to carry out subsection (a) to the extent feasible in order to 
minimize the burdens on pilots.]

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *

                              ----------                              


                FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

  (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``FAA 
Modernization and Reform Act of 2012''.
  (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is 
as follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
     * * * * * * *

                            TITLE III--SAFETY

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

     * * * * * * *
[Sec. 321. Improved pilot licenses.]

                  Subtitle B--Unmanned Aircraft Systems

     * * * * * * *

                   Subtitle C--Safety and Protections

[Sec. 345. Duty periods and flight time limitations applicable to flight 
          crewmembers.]
     * * * * * * *

                        TITLE VIII--MISCELLANEOUS

     * * * * * * *
[Sec. 817. Release from restrictions.]

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


                           TITLE III--SAFETY

Subtitle A--General Provisions

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


[SEC. 321. IMPROVED PILOT LICENSES.

  [(a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall issue improved pilot licenses consistent 
with requirements under this section.
  [(b) Timing.--Not later than 270 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall--
          [(1) provide 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) a timeline for the phased issuance of 
                improved pilot licenses under this section that 
                ensures all pilots are issued such licenses not 
                later than 2 years after the initial issuance 
                of such licenses under paragraph (2); and
                  [(B) recommendations for the Federal 
                installation of infrastructure necessary to 
                take advantage of information contained on 
                improved pilot licenses issued under this 
                section, which identify the necessary 
                infrastructure, indicate the Federal entity 
                that should be responsible for installing, 
                funding, and operating the infrastructure at 
                airport sterile areas, and provide an estimate 
                of the costs of the infrastructure; and
          [(2) begin to issue improved pilot licenses 
        consistent with the requirements of title 49, United 
        States Code, and title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
  [(c) Requirements.--Improved pilot licenses issued under this 
section shall--
          [(1) be resistant to tampering, alteration, and 
        counterfeiting;
          [(2) include a photograph of the individual to whom 
        the license is issued for identification purposes; and
          [(3) be smart cards that--
                  [(A) accommodate iris and fingerprint 
                biometric identifiers; and
                  [(B) are compliant with Federal Information 
                Processing Standards-201 (FIPS-201) or Personal 
                Identity Verification-Interoperability 
                Standards (PIV-I) for processing through 
                security checkpoints into airport sterile 
                areas.
  [(d) Tampering.--To the extent practicable, the Administrator 
shall develop methods to determine or reveal whether any 
component or security feature of an improved pilot license 
issued under this section has been tampered with, altered, or 
counterfeited.
  [(e) Use of Designees.--The Administrator may use designees 
to carry out subsection (a) to the extent practicable in order 
to minimize the burdens on pilots.
  [(f) Report to Congress.--
          [(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the 
        date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, 
        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 
        issuance of improved pilot licenses under this section.
          [(2) Expiration.--The Administrator shall not be 
        required to submit annual reports under this subsection 
        after the date on which the Administrator has issued 
        improved pilot licenses under this section to all 
        pilots.]

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Subtitle C--Safety and Protections

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


[SEC. 345. DUTY PERIODS AND FLIGHT TIME LIMITATIONS APPLICABLE TO 
                    FLIGHT CREWMEMBERS.

  [(a) Rulemaking on Applicability of Part 121 Duty Periods and 
Flight Time Limitations to Part 91 Operations.--Not later than 
180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
initiate a rulemaking proceeding, if such a proceeding has not 
already been initiated, to require a flight crewmember who is 
employed by an air carrier conducting operations under part 121 
of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and who accepts an 
additional assignment for flying under part 91 of such title 
from the air carrier or from any other air carrier conducting 
operations under part 121 or 135 of such title, to apply the 
period of the additional assignment (regardless of whether the 
assignment is performed by the flight crewmember before or 
after an assignment to fly under part 121 of such title) toward 
any limitation applicable to the flight crewmember relating to 
duty periods or flight times under part 121 of such title.
  [(b) Rulemaking on Applicability of Part 135 Duty Periods and 
Flight Time Limitations to Part 91 Operations.--Not later than 
1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator shall initiate a rulemaking proceeding to require 
a flight crewmember who is employed by an air carrier 
conducting operations under part 135 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations, and who accepts an additional assignment 
for flying under part 91 of such title from the air carrier or 
any other air carrier conducting operations under part 121 or 
135 of such title, to apply the period of the additional 
assignment (regardless of whether the assignment is performed 
by the flight crewmember before or after an assignment to fly 
under part 135 of such title) toward any limitation applicable 
to the flight crewmember relating to duty periods or flight 
times under part 135 of such title.
  [(c) Separate Rulemaking Proceedings Required.--The 
rulemaking proceeding required under subsection (b) shall be 
separate from the rulemaking proceeding required under 
subsection (a).]

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


                   TITLE IV--AIR SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS

Subtitle A--Passenger Air Service Improvements

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 411. ESTABLISHMENT OF ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR AVIATION CONSUMER 
                    PROTECTION.

  (a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall 
establish an advisory committee for aviation consumer 
protection to advise the Secretary in carrying out activities 
relating to airline customer service improvements.
  (b) Membership.--The Secretary shall appoint the members of 
the advisory committee, which shall be comprised of one 
representative each of--
          (1) air carriers;
          (2) airport operators;
          (3) ticket agents and travel management companies;
          [(3)] (4) State or local governments with expertise 
        in consumer protection matters; and
          [(4)] (5) nonprofit public interest groups with 
        expertise in consumer protection matters.
  (c) Vacancies.--A vacancy in the advisory committee shall be 
filled in the manner in which the original appointment was 
made.
  (d) Travel Expenses.--Members of the advisory committee shall 
serve without pay but shall receive travel expenses, including 
per diem in lieu of subsistence, in accordance with subchapter 
I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code.
  (e) Chairperson.--The Secretary shall designate, from among 
the individuals appointed under subsection (b), an individual 
to serve as chairperson of the advisory committee.
  (f) Duties.--The duties of the advisory committee shall 
include--
          (1) evaluating existing aviation consumer protection 
        programs and providing recommendations for the 
        improvement of such programs, if needed; and
          (2) providing recommendations for establishing 
        additional aviation consumer protection programs, if 
        needed.
  (g) Report to Congress.--Not later than February 1 of each of 
the first 2 calendar years beginning after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall transmit to Congress 
a report containing--
          (1) the recommendations made by the advisory 
        committee during the preceding calendar year; and
          (2) an explanation of how the Secretary has 
        implemented each recommendation and, for each 
        recommendation not implemented, the Secretary's reason 
        for not implementing the recommendation.
  (h) Termination.--The advisory committee established under 
this section shall terminate on September 30, [2023] 2028.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


TITLE VI--FAA EMPLOYEES AND ORGANIZATION

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 605. FAA TECHNICAL TRAINING AND STAFFING.

  [(a) Study.--
          [(1) In general.--The Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall conduct a study to assess 
        the adequacy of the Administrator's technical training 
        strategy and improvement plan for airway transportation 
        systems specialists (in this section referred to as 
        ``FAA systems specialists'').
          [(2) Contents.--The study shall include--
                  [(A) a review of the current technical 
                training strategy and improvement plan for FAA 
                systems specialists;
                  [(B) recommendations to improve the technical 
                training strategy and improvement plan needed 
                by FAA systems specialists to be proficient in 
                the maintenance of the latest technologies;
                  [(C) a description of actions that the 
                Administration has undertaken to ensure that 
                FAA systems specialists receive up-to-date 
                training on the latest technologies; and
                  [(D) a recommendation regarding the most 
                cost-effective approach to provide training to 
                FAA systems specialists.
          [(3) 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 on the results of the study.]
  [(b) Workload of Systems Specialists.--]
  [(1)] (a) Study by national academy of sciences.--Not later 
than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall make 
appropriate arrangements for the National Academy of Sciences 
to conduct a study of the assumptions and methods used by the 
Federal Aviation Administration to estimate staffing needs for 
FAA systems specialists to ensure proper maintenance and 
certification of the national airspace system.
  [(2)] (b) Consultation.--In conducting the study, the 
National Academy of Sciences shall--
          (1) consult with the exclusive bargaining 
        representative certified under section 7111 of title 5, 
        United States Code; and
          (2) include recommendations for objective staffing 
        standards that maintain the safety of the national 
        airspace system.
  [(3)] (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the initiation 
of the arrangements under [paragraph (1)] subsection (a), the 
National Academy of Sciences shall submit to Congress a report 
on the results of the study.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


TITLE VIII--MISCELLANEOUS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


[SEC. 817. RELEASE FROM RESTRICTIONS.

  [(a) In General.--Subject to subsection (b), the Secretary of 
Transportation is authorized to grant to an airport, city, or 
county a release from any of the terms, conditions, 
reservations, or restrictions contained in a deed under which 
the United States conveyed to the airport, city, or county an 
interest in real property for airport purposes pursuant to 
section 16 of the Federal Airport Act (60 Stat. 179), section 
23 of the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1970 (84 Stat. 
232), or section 47125 of title 49, United States Code.
  [(b) Condition.--Any release granted by the Secretary 
pursuant to subsection (a) shall be subject to the following 
conditions:
          [(1) The applicable airport, city, or county shall 
        agree that in conveying any interest in the real 
        property which the United States conveyed to the 
        airport, city, or county, the airport, city, or county 
        will receive consideration for such interest that is 
        equal to its fair market value.
          [(2) Any consideration received by the airport, city, 
        or county under paragraph (1) shall be used exclusively 
        for the development, improvement, operation, or 
        maintenance of a public airport by the airport, city, 
        or county.
          [(3) Any other conditions required by the Secretary.]

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 821. CLARIFICATION OF REQUIREMENTS FOR VOLUNTEER PILOTS OPERATING 
                    CHARITABLE MEDICAL FLIGHTS.

  (a) Reimbursement of Fuel Costs.--Notwithstanding any other 
law or regulation, in administering section 61.113(c) of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation), 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
allow an aircraft owner or operator to accept reimbursement 
from a volunteer pilot organization [for the fuel costs 
associated with] for the fuel costs and airport fees attributed 
to a flight operation to provide transportation [for an 
individual or organ for medical purposes (and for other 
associated individuals)] for the purposes described in 
subsection (c)(2), if the aircraft owner or operator has--
          (1) volunteered to provide such transportation; and
          (2) notified any individual that will be on the 
        flight, at the time of inquiry about the flight, that 
        the flight operation is for charitable purposes and is 
        not subject to the same requirements as a commercial 
        flight.
  (b) Conditions to Ensure Safety.--The Administrator may 
impose minimum standards with respect to training and flight 
hours for single-engine, multi-engine, and turbine-engine 
operations conducted by an aircraft owner or operator that is 
being reimbursed for fuel costs by a volunteer pilot 
organization, including mandating that the pilot in command of 
such aircraft hold an instrument rating and be current and 
qualified for the aircraft being flown to ensure the safety of 
flight operations described in subsection (a).
  (c) Volunteer Pilot Organization.--In this section, the term 
``volunteer pilot organization'' means an organization that--
          (1) is described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal 
        Revenue Code of 1986 and is exempt from taxation under 
        section 501(a) of such Code; and
          (2) is organized for the primary purpose of 
        providing, arranging, or otherwise fostering 
        [charitable medical transportation.] charitable 
        transportation for the following purposes:
                  (A) Assisting individuals in accessing 
                medical care or treatment (and for other 
                associated individuals). 
                  (B) Delivering human blood, tissues, or 
                organs. 
                  (C) Aiding disaster relief efforts pursuant 
                to a--
                          (i) presidential declaration of a 
                        major disaster or an emergency under 
                        the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief 
                        and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 
                        5121 et seq.); or 
                          (ii) declaration of a major disaster 
                        or an emergency by a Governor of a 
                        State. 

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *

                              ----------                              


            FAA EXTENSION, SAFETY, AND SECURITY ACT OF 2016



           *       *       *       *       *       *       *
               TITLE II--AVIATION SAFETY CRITICAL REFORMS

Subtitle A--Safety

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 2104. LASER POINTER INCIDENTS.

  (a) In General.--Beginning 90 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration, in coordination with appropriate 
Federal law enforcement agencies, shall provide [quarterly] 
annually updates to the appropriate committees of Congress 
regarding--
          (1) the number of incidents involving the beam from a 
        laser pointer (as defined in section 39A of title 18, 
        United States Code) being aimed at, or in the flight 
        path of, an aircraft in the airspace jurisdiction of 
        the United States;
          (2) the number of civil or criminal enforcement 
        actions taken by the Federal Aviation Administration, 
        the Department of Transportation, or another Federal 
        agency with regard to the incidents described in 
        paragraph (1), including the amount of the civil or 
        criminal penalties imposed on violators;
          (3) the resolution of any incidents described in 
        paragraph (1) that did not result in a civil or 
        criminal enforcement action; and
          (4) any actions the Department of Transportation or 
        another Federal agency has taken on its own, or in 
        conjunction with other Federal agencies or local law 
        enforcement agencies, to deter the type of activity 
        described in paragraph (1).
  (b) Civil Penalties.--The Administrator shall revise the 
maximum civil penalty that may be imposed on an individual who 
aims the beam of a laser pointer at an aircraft in the airspace 
jurisdiction of the United States, or at the flight path of 
such an aircraft, to be $25,000.
  (c) Report Sunset.--Subsection (a) shall cease to be 
effective after September 30, 2028.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Subtitle B--UAS Safety

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 2209. APPLICATIONS FOR DESIGNATION.

  (a) Applications for Designation.--Not later than 180 days 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of 
Transportation shall establish a process to allow applicants to 
petition the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration to prohibit or restrict, including temporarily, 
the operation of an unmanned aircraft in close proximity to a 
fixed site facility or eligible outdoor gathering.
  (b) Review Process.--
          (1) Application procedures.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administrator shall 
                establish the procedures for the application 
                for designation under subsection (a).
                  (B) Requirements.--The procedures shall allow 
                operators or proprietors of fixed site 
                facilities to apply for designation 
                individually or collectively.
                  (C) Considerations.--Only the following may 
                be considered fixed site facilities:
                          (i) Critical infrastructure, such as 
                        energy production, transmission, 
                        distribution facilities and equipment, 
                        and railroad facilities.
                          (ii) Oil refineries and chemical 
                        facilities.
                          (iii) Amusement parks.
                          (iv) [Other locations that warrant 
                        such restrictions] State correctional 
                        facilities.
                          (v) Eligible outdoor gatherings.
          (2) Determination.--
                  (A) In general.--The Secretary shall provide 
                for a determination under the review process 
                established under subsection (a) not later than 
                90 days after the date of application, unless 
                the applicant is provided with written notice 
                describing the reason for the delay.
                  (B) Affirmative designations.--An affirmative 
                designation shall outline--
                          (i) the boundaries for unmanned 
                        aircraft operation near the fixed site 
                        facility; and
                          (ii) such other limitations that the 
                        Administrator determines may be 
                        appropriate.
                  (C) Considerations.--In making a 
                determination whether to grant or deny an 
                application for a designation, the 
                Administrator may consider--
                          (i) aviation safety;
                          (ii) protection of persons and 
                        property on the ground;
                          (iii) national security; or
                          (iv) homeland security.
                  (D) Opportunity for resubmission.--If an 
                application is denied, and the applicant can 
                reasonably address the reason for the denial, 
                the Administrator may allow the applicant to 
                reapply for designation.
  (c) Public Information.--Designations under subsection (a) 
shall be published by the Federal Aviation Administration on a 
publicly accessible website.
  (d) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section may be construed 
as prohibiting the Administrator from authorizing operation of 
an aircraft, including an unmanned aircraft system, over, 
under, or within a specified distance from that fixed site 
facility designated under subsection (b).
  (e) Deadlines.--
          (1) Not later than March 31, 2019, the Administrator 
        shall publish a notice of proposed rulemaking to carry 
        out the requirements of this section.
          (2) Not later than 12 months after publishing the 
        notice of proposed rulemaking under paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator shall issue a final rule.
  (f) Eligible Outdoor Gathering Defined.--In this section, the 
term ``eligible outdoor gathering'' means an event that--
          (1) is primarily outdoors;
          (2) has an estimated daily attendance of 20,000 or 
        greater in at least 1 of the preceding 3 years;
          (3) has defined and static geographical boundaries; 
        and
          (4) is advertised in the public domain.
  (f) Deadlines.--
          (1) Not later than March 1, 2024, the Administrator 
        shall publish a notice of proposed rulemaking to carry 
        out the requirements of this section.
          (2) Not later than 16 months after publishing the 
        notice of proposed rulemaking under paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator shall issue a final rule.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


Subtitle C--Time Sensitive Aviation Reforms

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 2307. 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 regulations to 
ensure that an individual may operate as pilot in command of a 
covered aircraft if--
          (1) the individual possesses a valid driver's license 
        issued by a State, territory, or possession of the 
        United States and complies with all medical 
        requirements or restrictions associated with that 
        license;
          [(2) the individual holds a medical certificate 
        issued by the Federal Aviation Administration on the 
        date of enactment of this Act, held such a certificate 
        at any point during the 10-year period preceding such 
        date of enactment, or obtains such a certificate after 
        such date of enactment;]
          (2) the individual holds a medical certificate issued 
        by the Federal Aviation Administration or has held such 
        a certificate at any time after July 14, 2006;
          (3) the most recent medical certificate issued by the 
        Federal Aviation Administration to the individual--
                  (A) indicates whether the certificate is 
                first, second, or third class;
                  (B) may include authorization for special 
                issuance;
                  (C) may be expired;
                  (D) cannot have been revoked or suspended; 
                and
                  (E) cannot have been withdrawn;
          (4) the most recent application for airman medical 
        certification submitted to the Federal Aviation 
        Administration by the individual cannot have been 
        completed and denied;
          (5) the individual has completed a medical education 
        course described in subsection (c) during the 24 
        calendar months before acting as pilot in command of a 
        covered aircraft and demonstrates proof of completion 
        of the course;
          (6) the individual, when serving as a pilot in 
        command, is under the care and treatment of a physician 
        if the individual has been diagnosed with any medical 
        condition that may impact the ability of the individual 
        to fly;
          (7) the individual has received a comprehensive 
        medical examination from a State-licensed physician 
        during the previous 48 calendar months and--
                  (A) prior to the examination, the 
                individual--
                          (i) completed the individual's 
                        section of the checklist described in 
                        subsection (b); and
                          (ii) provided the completed checklist 
                        to the physician performing the 
                        examination; and
                  (B) the physician conducted the comprehensive 
                medical examination in accordance with the 
                checklist described in subsection (b), checking 
                each item specified during the examination and 
                addressing, as medically appropriate, every 
                medical condition listed, and any medications 
                the individual is taking; and
          (8) the individual is operating in accordance with 
        the following conditions:
                  (A) The covered aircraft is carrying not more 
                than [5] 6 passengers.
                  (B) The individual is operating the covered 
                aircraft under visual flight rules or 
                instrument flight rules.
                  (C) The flight, including each portion of 
                that flight, is not carried out--
                          (i) for compensation or hire, 
                        including that no passenger or property 
                        on the flight is being carried for 
                        compensation or hire;
                          (ii) at an altitude that is more than 
                        18,000 feet above mean sea level;
                          (iii) outside the United States, 
                        unless authorized by the country in 
                        which the flight is conducted; or
                          (iv) at an indicated air speed 
                        exceeding 250 knots.
  (b) Comprehensive Medical Examination.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the 
        date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall 
        develop a checklist for an individual to complete and 
        provide to the physician performing the comprehensive 
        medical examination required in subsection (a)(7).
          (2) Requirements.--The checklist shall contain--
                  (A) a section, for the individual to complete 
                that contains--
                          (i)boxes 3 through 13 and boxes 16 
                        through 19 of the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration Form 8500-8 (3-99) (or 
                        any successor form); and
                          (ii) a signature line for the 
                        individual to affirm that--
                                  (I) the answers provided by 
                                the individual on that 
                                checklist, including the 
                                individual's answers regarding 
                                medical history, are true and 
                                complete;
                                  (II) the individual 
                                understands that he or she is 
                                prohibited under Federal 
                                Aviation Administration 
                                regulations from acting as 
                                pilot in command, or any other 
                                capacity as a required flight 
                                crew member, if he or she knows 
                                or has reason to know of any 
                                medical deficiency or medically 
                                disqualifying condition that 
                                would make the individual 
                                unable to operate the aircraft 
                                in a safe manner; and
                                  (III) the individual is aware 
                                of the regulations pertaining 
                                to the prohibition on 
                                operations during medical 
                                deficiency and has no medically 
                                disqualifying conditions in 
                                accordance with applicable law;
                  (B) a section with instructions for the 
                individual to provide the completed checklist 
                to the physician performing the comprehensive 
                medical examination required in subsection 
                (a)(7); and
                  (C) a section, for the physician to complete, 
                that instructs the physician--
                          (i) to perform a clinical examination 
                        of--
                                  (I) head, face, neck, and 
                                scalp;
                                  (II) nose, sinuses, mouth, 
                                and throat;
                                  (III) ears, general (internal 
                                and external canals), and 
                                eardrums (perforation);
                                  (IV) eyes (general), 
                                ophthalmoscopic, pupils 
                                (equality and reaction), and 
                                ocular motility (associated 
                                parallel movement, nystagmus);
                                  (V) lungs and chest (not 
                                including breast examination);
                                  (VI) heart (precordial 
                                activity, rhythm, sounds, and 
                                murmurs);
                                  (VII) vascular system (pulse, 
                                amplitude, and character, and 
                                arms, legs, and others);
                                  (VIII) abdomen and viscera 
                                (including hernia);
                                  (IX) anus (not including 
                                digital examination);
                                  (X) skin;
                                  (XI) G-U system (not 
                                including pelvic examination);
                                  (XII) upper and lower 
                                extremities (strength and range 
                                of motion);
                                  (XIII) spine and other 
                                musculoskeletal;
                                  (XIV) identifying body marks, 
                                scars, and tattoos (size and 
                                location);
                                  (XV) lymphatics;
                                  (XVI) neurologic (tendon 
                                reflexes, equilibrium, senses, 
                                cranial nerves, and 
                                coordination, etc.);
                                  (XVII) psychiatric 
                                (appearance, behavior, mood, 
                                communication, and memory);
                                  (XVIII) general systemic;
                                  (XIX) hearing;
                                  (XX) vision (distant, near, 
                                and intermediate vision, field 
                                of vision, color vision, and 
                                ocular alignment);
                                  (XXI) blood pressure and 
                                pulse; and
                                  (XXII) anything else the 
                                physician, in his or her 
                                medical judgment, considers 
                                necessary;
                          (ii) to exercise medical discretion 
                        to address, as medically appropriate, 
                        any medical conditions identified, and 
                        to exercise medical discretion in 
                        determining whether any medical tests 
                        are warranted as part of the 
                        comprehensive medical examination;
                          (iii) to discuss all drugs the 
                        individual reports taking (prescription 
                        and nonprescription) and their 
                        potential to interfere with the safe 
                        operation of an aircraft or motor 
                        vehicle;
                          (iv) to sign the checklist, stating: 
                        ``I certify that I discussed all items 
                        on this checklist with the individual 
                        during my examination, discussed any 
                        medications the individual is taking 
                        that could interfere with their ability 
                        to safely operate an aircraft or motor 
                        vehicle, and performed an examination 
                        that included all of the items on this 
                        checklist. I certify that I am not 
                        aware of any medical condition that, as 
                        presently treated, could interfere with 
                        the individual's ability to safely 
                        operate an aircraft.''; and
                          (v) to provide the date the 
                        comprehensive medical examination was 
                        completed, and the physician's full 
                        name, address, telephone number, and 
                        State medical license number.
          (3) Logbook.--The completed checklist shall be 
        retained in the individual's logbook and made available 
        on request.
  (c) Medical Education Course Requirements.--The medical 
education course described in this subsection shall--
          (1) be available on the Internet free of charge;
          (2) be developed and periodically updated in 
        coordination with representatives of relevant nonprofit 
        and not-for-profit general aviation stakeholder groups;
          (3) educate pilots on conducting medical self-
        assessments;
          (4) advise pilots on identifying warning signs of 
        potential serious medical conditions;
          (5) identify risk mitigation strategies for medical 
        conditions;
          (6) increase awareness of the impacts of potentially 
        impairing over-the-counter and prescription drug 
        medications;
          (7) encourage regular medical examinations and 
        consultations with primary care physicians;
          (8) inform pilots of the regulations pertaining to 
        the prohibition on operations during medical deficiency 
        and medically disqualifying conditions;
          (9) provide the checklist developed by the Federal 
        Aviation Administration in accordance with subsection 
        (b); and
          (10) upon successful completion of the course, 
        electronically provide to the individual and transmit 
        to the Federal Aviation Administration--
                  (A) a certification of completion of the 
                medical education course, which shall be 
                printed and retained in the individual's 
                logbook and made available upon request, and 
                shall contain the individual's name, address, 
                and airman certificate number;
                  (B) subject to subsection (d), a release 
                authorizing the National Driver Register 
                through a designated State Department of Motor 
                Vehicles to furnish to the Federal Aviation 
                Administration information pertaining to the 
                individual's driving record;
                  (C) a certification by the individual that 
                the individual is under the care and treatment 
                of a physician if the individual has been 
                diagnosed with any medical condition that may 
                impact the ability of the individual to fly, as 
                required under subsection (a)(6);
                  (D) a form that includes--
                          (i) the name, address, telephone 
                        number, and airman certificate number 
                        of the individual;
                          (ii) the name, address, telephone 
                        number, and State medical license 
                        number of the physician performing the 
                        comprehensive medical examination 
                        required in subsection (a)(7);
                          (iii) the date of the comprehensive 
                        medical examination required in 
                        subsection (a)(7); and
                          (iv) a certification by the 
                        individual that the checklist described 
                        in subsection (b) was followed and 
                        signed by the physician in the 
                        comprehensive medical examination 
                        required in subsection (a)(7); and
                  (E) a statement, which shall be printed, and 
                signed by the individual certifying that the 
                individual understands the existing prohibition 
                on operations during medical deficiency by 
                stating: ``I understand that I cannot act as 
                pilot in command, or any other capacity as a 
                required flight crew member, if I know or have 
                reason to know of any medical condition that 
                would make me unable to operate the aircraft in 
                a safe manner.''.
  (d) National Driver Register.--The authorization under 
subsection (c)(10)(B) shall be an authorization for a single 
access to the information contained in the National Driver 
Register.
  (e) Special Issuance Process.--
          (1) In general.--An individual who has qualified for 
        the third-class medical certificate exemption under 
        subsection (a) and is seeking to serve as a pilot in 
        command of a covered aircraft shall be required to have 
        completed the process for obtaining an Authorization 
        for Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate for each 
        of the following:
                  (A) A mental health disorder, limited to an 
                established medical history or clinical 
                diagnosis of--
                          (i) personality disorder that is 
                        severe enough to have repeatedly 
                        manifested itself by overt acts;
                          (ii) psychosis, defined as a case in 
                        which an individual--
                                  (I) has manifested delusions, 
                                hallucinations, grossly bizarre 
                                or disorganized behavior, or 
                                other commonly accepted 
                                symptoms of psychosis; or
                                  (II) may reasonably be 
                                expected to manifest delusions, 
                                hallucinations, grossly bizarre 
                                or disorganized behavior, or 
                                other commonly accepted 
                                symptoms of psychosis;
                          (iii) bipolar disorder; or
                          (iv) substance dependence within the 
                        previous 2 years, as defined in section 
                        67.307(a)(4) of title 14, Code of 
                        Federal Regulations.
                  (B) A neurological disorder, limited to an 
                established medical history or clinical 
                diagnosis of any of the following:
                          (i) Epilepsy.
                          (ii) Disturbance of consciousness 
                        without satisfactory medical 
                        explanation of the cause.
                          (iii) A transient loss of control of 
                        nervous system functions without 
                        satisfactory medical explanation of the 
                        cause.
                  (C) A cardiovascular condition, limited to a 
                one-time special issuance for each diagnosis of 
                the following:
                          (i) Myocardial infraction.
                          (ii) Coronary heart disease that has 
                        required treatment.
                          (iii) Cardiac valve replacement.
                          (iv) Heart replacement.
          (2) Special rule for cardiovascular conditions.--In 
        the case of an individual with a cardiovascular 
        condition, the process for obtaining an Authorization 
        for Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate shall be 
        satisfied with the successful completion of an 
        appropriate clinical evaluation without a mandatory 
        wait period.
          (3) Special rule for mental health conditions.--
                  (A) In general.--In the case of an individual 
                with a clinically diagnosed mental health 
                condition, the third-class medical certificate 
                exemption under subsection (a) shall not apply 
                if--
                          (i) in the judgment of the 
                        individual's State-licensed medical 
                        specialist, the condition--
                                  (I) renders the individual 
                                unable to safely perform the 
                                duties or exercise the airman 
                                privileges described in 
                                subsection (a)(8); or
                                  (II) may reasonably be 
                                expected to make the individual 
                                unable to perform the duties or 
                                exercise the privileges 
                                described in subsection (a)(8); 
                                or
                          (ii) the individual's driver's 
                        license is revoked by the issuing 
                        agency as a result of a clinically 
                        diagnosed mental health condition.
                  (B) Certification.--Subject to subparagraph 
                (A), an individual clinically diagnosed with a 
                mental health condition shall certify every 2 
                years, in conjunction with the certification 
                under subsection (c)(10)(C), that the 
                individual is under the care of a State-
                licensed medical specialist for that mental 
                health condition.
          (4) Special rule for neurological conditions.--
                  (A) In general.--In the case of an individual 
                with a clinically diagnosed neurological 
                condition, the third-class medical certificate 
                exemption under subsection (a) shall not apply 
                if--
                          (i) in the judgment of the 
                        individual's State-licensed medical 
                        specialist, the condition--
                                  (I) renders the individual 
                                unable to safely perform the 
                                duties or exercise the airman 
                                privileges described in 
                                subsection (a)(8); or
                                  (II) may reasonably be 
                                expected to make the individual 
                                unable to perform the duties or 
                                exercise the privileges 
                                described in subsection (a)(8); 
                                or
                          (ii) the individual's driver's 
                        license is revoked by the issuing 
                        agency as a result of a clinically 
                        diagnosed neurological condition.
                  (B) Certification.--Subject to subparagraph 
                (A), an individual clinically diagnosed with a 
                neurological condition shall certify every 2 
                years, in conjunction with the certification 
                under subsection (c)(10)(C), that the 
                individual is under the care of a State-
                licensed medical specialist for that 
                neurological condition.
  (f) Identification of Additional Medical Conditions for CACI 
Program.--
          (1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the 
        date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall 
        review and identify additional medical conditions that 
        could be added to the program known as the Conditions 
        AMEs Can Issue (CACI) program.
          (2) Consultations.--In carrying out paragraph (1), 
        the Administrator shall consult with aviation, medical, 
        and union stakeholders.
          (3) Report Required.--Not later than 180 days after 
        the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 
        shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress 
        a report listing the medical conditions that have been 
        added to the CACI program under paragraph (1).
  (g) Expedited Authorization for Special Issuance of a Medical 
Certificate.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall implement 
        procedures to expedite the process for obtaining an 
        Authorization for Special Issuance of a Medical 
        Certificate under section 67.401 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations.
          (2) Consultations.--In carrying out paragraph (1), 
        the Administrator shall consult with aviation, medical, 
        and union stakeholders.
          (3) Report required.--Not later than 1 year after the 
        date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall 
        submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a 
        report describing how the procedures implemented under 
        paragraph (1) will streamline the process for obtaining 
        an Authorization for Special Issuance of a Medical 
        Certificate and reduce the amount of time needed to 
        review and decide special issuance cases.
  [(h) Report required.--Not later than 5 years after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in coordination 
with the National Transportation Safety Board, shall submit to 
the appropriate committees of 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.]
  (h) Report Required.--Not later than 4 years after the date 
of enactment of the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in 
American Aviation Act, the Administrator, in coordination with 
the National Transportation Safety Board, 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 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.
  (i) Prohibition on Enforcement Actions.--Beginning on the 
date that is 1 year 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, through a good faith effort, the applicable requirements 
under subsection (a), except paragraph (5) of that subsection, 
unless the Administrator has published final regulations in the 
Federal Register under that subsection.
  (j) Covered Aircraft Defined.--In this section, the term 
``covered aircraft'' means an aircraft that--
          (1) is authorized under Federal law to carry not more 
        than [6] 7 occupants; and
          (2) has a maximum certificated takeoff weight of not 
        more than [6,000] 12,500 pounds.
  (k) Operations Covered.--The provisions and requirements 
covered in this section do not apply to pilots who elect to 
operate under the medical requirements under subsection (b) or 
subsection (c) of section 61.23 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations.
  (l) Authority To Require Additional Information.--
          (1) In general.--If the Administrator receives 
        credible or urgent information, including from the 
        National Driver Register or the Administrator's Safety 
        Hotline, that reflects on an individual's ability to 
        safely operate a covered aircraft under the third-class 
        medical certificate exemption in subsection (a), the 
        Administrator may require the individual to provide 
        additional information or history so that the 
        Administrator may determine whether the individual is 
        safe to continue operating a covered aircraft.
          (2) Use of information.--The Administrator may use 
        credible or urgent information received under paragraph 
        (1) to request an individual to provide additional 
        information or to take actions under section 44709(b) 
        of title 49, United States Code.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *

                              ----------                              


                         PILOT'S BILL OF RIGHTS



           *       *       *       *       *       *       *
SEC. 2. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION ENFORCEMENT PROCEEDINGS AND 
                    ELIMINATION OF DEFERENCE.

  (a) In General.--Any proceeding conducted under subpart C, D, 
or F of part 821 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, 
relating to denial, amendment, modification, suspension, or 
revocation of an airman certificate, shall be conducted, to the 
extent practicable, in accordance with the Federal Rules of 
Civil Procedure and the Federal Rules of Evidence.
  (b) Access to Information.--
          (1) In general.--Except as provided under paragraph 
        (3), the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration (referred to in this section as the 
        ``Administrator'') shall provide timely, written 
        notification to an individual who is the subject of an 
        investigation relating to the approval, denial, 
        suspension, modification, or revocation of an airman 
        certificate under chapter 447 of title 49, United 
        States Code.
          (2) Information required.--The notification required 
        under paragraph (1) shall inform the individual--
                  (A) of the nature of the investigation and 
                the specific activity on which the 
                investigation is based;
                  (B) that an oral or written response to a 
                Letter of Investigation from the Administrator 
                is not required;
                  (C) that no action or adverse inference can 
                be taken against the individual for declining 
                to respond to a Letter of Investigation from 
                the Administrator;
                  (D) that any response to a Letter of 
                Investigation from the Administrator or to an 
                inquiry made by a representative of the 
                Administrator by the individual may be used as 
                evidence against the individual;
                  (E) that the releasable portions of the 
                Administrator's investigative report will be 
                available to the individual; and
                  (F) that the individual is entitled to access 
                or otherwise obtain air traffic data described 
                in paragraph (4).
          (3) Exception.--The Administrator may delay 
        notification under paragraph (1) if the Administrator 
        determines that such notification may threaten the 
        integrity of the investigation.
          (4) Access to air traffic data.--
                  (A) FAA air traffic data.--The Administrator 
                shall provide an individual described in 
                paragraph (1) with timely access to any air 
                traffic data in the possession of the Federal 
                Aviation Administration that would facilitate 
                the individual's ability to productively 
                participate in a proceeding relating to an 
                investigation described in such paragraph.
                  (B) Air traffic data defined.--As used in 
                subparagraph (A), the term ``air traffic data'' 
                includes--
                          (i) relevant air traffic 
                        communication tapes;
                          (ii) radar information;
                          (iii) air traffic controller 
                        statements;
                          (iv) flight data;
                          (v) investigative reports; and
                          (vi) any other air traffic or flight 
                        data in the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration's possession that would 
                        facilitate the individual's ability to 
                        productively participate in the 
                        proceeding.
                  (C) Government contractor air traffic data.--
                          (i) In general.--Any individual 
                        described in paragraph (1) is entitled 
                        to obtain any air traffic data that 
                        would facilitate the individual's 
                        ability to productively participate in 
                        a proceeding relating to an 
                        investigation described in such 
                        paragraph from a government contractor 
                        that provides operational services to 
                        the Federal Aviation Administration, 
                        including control towers and flight 
                        service stations.
                          (ii) Required information from 
                        individual.--The individual may obtain 
                        the information described in clause (i) 
                        by submitting a request to the 
                        Administrator that--
                                  (I) describes the facility at 
                                which such information is 
                                located; and
                                  (II) identifies the date on 
                                which such information was 
                                generated.
                          (iii) Provision of information to 
                        individual.--If the Administrator 
                        receives a request under this 
                        subparagraph, the Administrator shall--
                                  (I) request the contractor to 
                                provide the requested 
                                information; and
                                  (II) upon receiving such 
                                information, transmitting the 
                                information to the requesting 
                                individual in a timely manner.
          (5) Timing.--Except when the Administrator determines 
        that an emergency exists under section 44709(e)(2) or 
        46105(c), the Administrator may not proceed against an 
        individual that is the subject of an investigation 
        described in paragraph (1) during the 30-day period 
        beginning on the date on which the air traffic data 
        required under paragraph (4) is made available to the 
        individual.
          (6) Response to letter of investigation.--If an 
        individual decides to respond to a Letter of 
        Investigation described in paragraph (2)(B) such 
        individual may respond not later than 30 days after 
        receipt of such Letter, including providing written 
        comments on the incident to the investigating office.
  (c) Amendments to Title 49.--
          (1) Airman certificates.--Section 44703(d)(2) of 
        title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking 
        ``but is bound by all validly adopted interpretations 
        of laws and regulations the Administrator carries out 
        unless the Board finds an interpretation is arbitrary, 
        capricious, or otherwise not according to law''.
          (2) Amendments, modifications, suspensions, and 
        revocations of certificates.--Section 44709(d)(3) of 
        such title is amended by striking ``but is bound by all 
        validly adopted interpretations of laws and regulations 
        the Administrator carries out and of written agency 
        policy guidance available to the public related to 
        sanctions to be imposed under this section unless the 
        Board finds an interpretation is arbitrary, capricious, 
        or otherwise not according to law''.
          (3) Revocation of airman certificates for controlled 
        substance violations.--Section 44710(d)(1) of such 
        title is amended by striking ``but shall be bound by 
        all validly adopted interpretations of laws and 
        regulations the Administrator carries out and of 
        written agency policy guidance available to the public 
        related to sanctions to be imposed under this section 
        unless the Board finds an interpretation is arbitrary, 
        capricious, or otherwise not according to law''.
  (d) Appeal From Certificate Actions.--
          (1) In general.--Upon a decision by the National 
        Transportation Safety Board upholding an order or a 
        final decision by the Administrator denying an airman 
        certificate under section 44703(d) of title 49, United 
        States Code, or imposing a punitive civil action or an 
        emergency order of revocation under subsections (d) and 
        (e) of section 44709 of such title, an individual 
        substantially affected by an order of the Board may, at 
        the individual's election, file an appeal in the United 
        States district court in which the individual resides 
        or in which the action in question occurred, or in the 
        United States District Court for the District of 
        Columbia. If the individual substantially affected by 
        an order of the Board elects not to file an appeal in a 
        United States district court, the individual may file 
        an appeal in an appropriate United States court of 
        appeals.
          (2) Emergency order pending judicial review.--
        Subsequent to a decision by the Board to uphold an 
        Administrator's emergency order under section 
        44709(e)(2) of title 49, United States Code, and absent 
        a stay of the enforcement of that order by the Board, 
        the emergency order of amendment, modification, 
        suspension, or revocation of a certificate shall remain 
        in effect, pending the exhaustion of an appeal to a 
        Federal district court as provided in this Act.
  (e) Standard of Review.--
          (1) In general.--In an appeal filed under subsection 
        (d) in a United States district court, the district 
        court shall give full independent review of a denial, 
        suspension, or revocation ordered by the Administrator, 
        including substantive independent and expedited review 
        of any decision by the Administrator to make such order 
        effective immediately.
          (2) Evidence.--A United States district court's 
        review under paragraph (1) shall include in evidence 
        any record of the proceeding before the Administrator 
        and any record of the proceeding before the National 
        Transportation Safety Board, including hearing 
        testimony, transcripts, exhibits, decisions, and briefs 
        submitted by the parties.
  (f) Release of Investigative Reports.--
          (1) In general.--
                  (A) Emergency orders.--In any proceeding 
                conducted under part 821 of title 49, Code of 
                Federal Regulations, relating to the amendment, 
                modification, suspension, or revocation of an 
                airman certificate, in which the Administrator 
                issues an emergency order under subsections (d) 
                and (e) of section 44709, section 44710, or 
                section 46105(c) of title 49, United States 
                Code, or another order that takes effect 
                immediately, the Administrator shall provide, 
                upon request, to the individual holding the 
                airman certificate the releasable portion of 
                the investigative report at the time the 
                Administrator issues the order. If the complete 
                Report of Investigation is not available at the 
                time of the request, the Administrator shall 
                issue all portions of the report that are 
                available at the time and shall provide the 
                full report not later than 5 days after its 
                completion.
                  (B) Other orders.--In any nonemergency 
                proceeding conducted under part 821 of title 
                49, Code of Federal Regulations, relating to 
                the amendment, modification, suspension, or 
                revocation of an airman certificate, in which 
                the Administrator notifies the certificate 
                holder of a proposed certificate action under 
                subsections (b) and (c) of section 44709 or 
                section 44710 of title 49, United States Code, 
                the Administrator shall, upon the written 
                request of the covered certificate holder and 
                at any time after that notification, provide to 
                the covered certificate holder the releasable 
                portion of the investigative report.
          (2) Motion for dismissal.--If the Administrator does 
        not provide the releasable portions of the 
        investigative report to the individual holding the 
        airman certificate subject to the proceeding referred 
        to in paragraph (1) by the time required by that 
        paragraph, the individual may move to dismiss the 
        complaint of the Administrator or for other relief and, 
        unless the Administrator establishes good cause for the 
        failure to provide the investigative report or for a 
        lack of timeliness, the administrative law judge shall 
        order such relief as the judge considers appropriate.
          (3) Releasable portion of investigative report.--For 
        purposes of paragraph (1), the releasable portion of an 
        investigative report is all information in the report, 
        except for the following:
                  (A) Information that is privileged.
                  (B) Information that constitutes work product 
                or reflects internal deliberative process.
                  (C) Information that would disclose the 
                identity of a confidential source.
                  (D) Information the disclosure of which is 
                prohibited by any other provision of law.
                  (E) Information that is not relevant to the 
                subject matter of the proceeding.
                  (F) Information the Administrator can 
                demonstrate is withheld for good cause.
                  (G) Sensitive security information, as 
                defined in section 15.5 of title 49, Code of 
                Federal Regulations (or any corresponding 
                similar ruling or regulation).
          (4) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection 
        shall be construed to prevent the Administrator from 
        releasing to an individual subject to an investigation 
        described in subsection (b)(1)--
                  (A) information in addition to the 
                information included in the releasable portion 
                of the investigative report; or
                  (B) a copy of the investigative report before 
                the Administrator issues a complaint.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 5. REEXAMINATION OF AN AIRMAN CERTIFICATE.

  (a) In General.--The Administrator shall provide timely, 
written notification to an individual subject to a 
reexamination of an airman certificate issued under chapter 447 
of title 49, United States Code.
  (b) Information Required.--In providing notification under 
subsection (a), the Administrator shall inform the individual--
          (1) of the nature of the reexamination and the 
        specific activity on which the reexamination is 
        necessitated;
          (2) that the reexamination shall occur within 1 year 
        from the date of the notice provided by the 
        Administrator, after which, if the reexamination is not 
        conducted, the airman certificate may be suspended or 
        revoked; and
          (3) when, as determined by the Administrator, an oral 
        or written response to the notification from the 
        Administrator is not required.
  (c) Exception.--Nothing in this section prohibits the 
Administrator from reexamining a certificate holder if the 
Administrator has reasonable grounds--
          (1) to establish that an airman may not be qualified 
        to exercise the privileges of a certificate or rating 
        based upon an act or omission committed by the airman 
        while exercising such privileges or performing 
        ancillary duties associated with the exercise of such 
        privileges; or
          (2) to demonstrate that the airman obtained such a 
        certificate or rating through fraudulent means or 
        through an examination that was substantially and 
        inadequate to establish the qualifications of an 
        airman.
  (d) Standard of Review.--An order issued by the Administrator 
to amend, modify, suspend, or revoke an airman certificate 
after reexamination of the airman is subject to the standard of 
review provided for under section 2 of this Act.
                              ----------                              


         AIRCRAFT CERTIFICATION, SAFETY, AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT



           *       *       *       *       *       *       *
     DIVISION V--AIRCRAFT CERTIFICATION, SAFETY, AND ACCOUNTABILITY

TITLE I--AIRCRAFT CERTIFICATION, SAFETY, AND ACCOUNTABILITY

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 108. INTEGRATED PROJECT TEAMS.

  (a) In General.--Upon receipt of an application for a type 
certificate for a transport category airplane, the 
Administrator shall convene an interdisciplinary integrated 
project team responsible for coordinating review and providing 
advice and recommendations, as appropriate, to the 
Administrator on such application.
  (b) Membership.--In convening an interdisciplinary integrated 
project team under subsection (a), the Administrator shall 
appoint employees of the Administration or other Federal 
agencies, such as the Air Force, Volpe National Transportation 
Systems Center, or the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration (with the concurrence of the head of such other 
Federal agency), with specialized expertise and experience in 
the fields of engineering, systems design, human factors, and 
pilot training, including, at a minimum--
          (1) not less than 1 designee of the Associate 
        Administrator for Aviation Safety whose duty station is 
        in the Administration's headquarters;
          (2) representatives of the Aircraft Certification 
        Service of the Administration;
          (3) representatives of the Flight Standards Service 
        of the Administration;
          (4) experts in the fields of human factors, 
        aerodynamics, flight controls, software, and systems 
        design; and
          (5) any other subject matter expert whom the 
        Administrator determines appropriate.
  (c) Availability.--In order to carry out its duties with 
respect to the areas specified in subsection (d), a project 
team shall be available to the Administrator, upon request, at 
any time during the certification process.
  (d) Duties.--A project team shall advise the Administrator 
and make written recommendations to the Administrator, to be 
retained in the certification project file, including 
recommendations for any plans, analyses, assessments, and 
reports required to support and document the certification 
project, in the following areas associated with a new 
technology or novel design:
          (1) Initial review of design proposals proposed by 
        the applicant and the establishment of the 
        certification basis.
          (2) Identification of new technology, novel design, 
        or safety critical design features or systems that are 
        potentially catastrophic, either alone or in 
        combination with another failure.
          (3) Determination of compliance findings, system 
        safety assessments, and safety critical functions the 
        Administration should retain in terms of new 
        technology, novel design, or safety critical design 
        features or systems.
          (4) Evaluation of the Administration's expertise or 
        experience necessary to support the project.
          (5) Review and evaluation of an applicant's request 
        for exceptions or exemptions from compliance with 
        airworthiness standards codified in title 14 of the 
        Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on the date 
        of application for the change.
          (6) Conduct of design reviews, procedure evaluations, 
        and training evaluations.
          (7) Review of the applicant's final design 
        documentation and other data to evaluate compliance 
        with all relevant Administration regulations.
  (e) Documentation of FAA Response.--The Administrator shall 
provide a written response to each recommendation of each 
project team and shall retain such response in the 
certification project file.
  (f) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this section, and annually thereafter through 
fiscal year [2023] 2028, the Administrator shall submit to the 
congressional committees of jurisdiction a report on the 
establishment of each integrated project team in accordance 
with this section during such fiscal year, including the role 
and composition of each such project team.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 113. VOLUNTARY SAFETY REPORTING PROGRAM.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this title, the Administrator shall establish a 
voluntary safety reporting program for engineers, safety 
inspectors, systems safety specialists, and other subject 
matter experts certified under section 7111 of title 5, United 
States Code, to confidentially report instances where they have 
identified safety concerns during certification or oversight 
processes.
  (b) Safety Reporting Program Requirements.--In establishing 
the safety reporting program under subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall ensure the following:
          (1) The FAA maintains a reporting culture that 
        encourages human factors specialists, engineers, flight 
        test pilots, inspectors, and other appropriate FAA 
        employees to voluntarily report safety concerns.
          (2) The safety reporting program is non-punitive, 
        confidential, and protects employees from adverse 
        employment actions related to their participation in 
        the program.
          (3) The safety reporting program identifies 
        exclusionary criteria for the program.
          (4) Collaborative development of the program with 
        bargaining representatives of employees under section 
        7111 of title 5, United States Code, who are employed 
        in the Aircraft Certification Service or Flight 
        Standards Service of the Administration (or, if unable 
        to reach an agreement collaboratively, the 
        Administrator shall negotiate with the representatives 
        in accordance with section 40122(a) of title 49, United 
        States Code, regarding the development of the program).
          (5) Full and collaborative participation in the 
        program by the bargaining representatives of employees 
        described in paragraph (4).
          (6) The Administrator thoroughly reviews safety 
        reports to determine whether there is a safety issue, 
        including a hazard, defect, noncompliance, 
        nonconformance, or process error.
          (7) The Administrator thoroughly reviews safety 
        reports to determine whether any aircraft certification 
        process contributed to the safety concern being raised.
          (8) The creation of a corrective action process in 
        order to address safety issues that are identified 
        through the program.
  (c) Outcomes.--Results of safety report reviews under this 
section may be used to--
          (1) improve--
                  (A) safety systems, hazard control, and risk 
                reduction;
                  (B) certification systems;
                  (C) FAA oversight;
                  (D) compliance and conformance; and
                  (E) any other matter determined necessary by 
                the Administrator; and
          (2) implement lessons learned.
  (d) Report Filing.--The Administrator shall establish 
requirements for when in the certification process reports may 
be filed to--
          (1) ensure that identified issues can be addressed in 
        a timely manner; and
          (2) foster open dialogue between applicants and FAA 
        employees throughout the certification process.
  (e) Integration With Other Safety Reporting Programs.--The 
Administrator shall implement the safety reporting program 
established under subsection (a) and the reporting requirements 
established pursuant to subsection (d) in a manner that is 
consistent with other voluntary safety reporting programs 
administered by the Administrator.
  (f) Report to Congress.--Not later than 2 years after the 
date of enactment of this title, and annually thereafter 
through fiscal year [2023] 2028, the Administrator shall submit 
to the congressional committees of jurisdiction a report on the 
effectiveness of the safety reporting program established under 
subsection (a).

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 117. CHANGED PRODUCT RULE.

  (a) Review and Reevaluation of Amended Type Certificates.--
          (1) International leadership.--The Administrator 
        shall exercise leadership in the creation of 
        international policies and standards relating to the 
        issuance of amended type certificates within the 
        Certification Management Team.
          (2) Reevaluation of amended type certificates.--In 
        carrying out this subsection, the Administrator shall--
                  (A) encourage Certification Management Team 
                members to examine and address any relevant 
                covered recommendations (as defined in section 
                121(c)) relating to the issuance of amended 
                type certificates;
                  (B) reevaluate existing assumptions and 
                practices inherent in the amended type 
                certificate process and assess whether such 
                assumptions and practices are valid; and
                  (C) ensure, to the greatest extent 
                practicable, that Federal regulations relating 
                to the issuance of amended type certificates 
                are harmonized with the regulations of other 
                international states of design.
  (b) Amended Type Certificate Report and Rulemaking.--
          (1) Briefings.--Not later than 12 months after the 
        date of enactment of this title, and annually 
        thereafter through fiscal year [2023] 2028, the 
        Administrator shall brief the congressional committees 
        of jurisdiction on the work and status of the 
        development of such recommendations by the 
        Certification Management Team.
          (2) Initiation of action.--Not later than 2 years 
        after the date of enactment of this title, the 
        Administrator shall take action to revise and improve 
        the process of issuing amended type certificates in 
        accordance with this section. Such action shall 
        include, at minimum--
                  (A) initiation of a rulemaking proceeding; 
                and
                  (B) development or revision of guidance and 
                training materials.
          (3) Contents.--In taking actions required under 
        paragraph (2), the Administrator shall do the 
        following:
                  (A) Ensure that proposed changes to an 
                aircraft are evaluated from an integrated whole 
                aircraft system perspective that examines the 
                integration of proposed changes with existing 
                systems and associated impacts.
                  (B) Define key terms used for the changed 
                product process under sections 21.19 and 21.101 
                of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                  (C) Consider--
                          (i) the findings and work of the 
                        Certification Management Team and other 
                        similar international harmonization 
                        efforts;
                          (ii) any relevant covered 
                        recommendations (as defined in section 
                        121(c)); and
                          (iii) whether a fixed time beyond 
                        which a type certificate may not be 
                        amended would improve aviation safety.
                  (D) Establish the extent to which the 
                following design characteristics should 
                preclude the issuance of an amended type 
                certificate:
                          (i) A new or revised flight control 
                        system.
                          (ii) Any substantial changes to 
                        aerodynamic stability resulting from a 
                        physical change that may require a new 
                        or modified software system or control 
                        law in order to produce positive and 
                        acceptable stability and handling 
                        qualities.
                          (iii) A flight control system or 
                        augmented software to maintain 
                        aerodynamic stability in any portion of 
                        the flight envelope that was not 
                        required for a previously certified 
                        derivative.
                          (iv) A change in structural 
                        components (other than a stretch or 
                        shrink of the fuselage) that results in 
                        a change in structural load paths or 
                        the magnitude of structural loads 
                        attributed to flight maneuvers or cabin 
                        pressurization.
                          (v) A novel or unusual system, 
                        component, or other feature whose 
                        failure would present a hazardous or 
                        catastrophic risk.
                  (E) Develop objective criteria for helping to 
                determine what constitutes a substantial change 
                and a significant change.
                  (F) Implement mandatory aircraft-level 
                reviews throughout the certification process to 
                validate the certification basis and 
                assumptions.
                  (G) Require maintenance of relevant records 
                of agreements between the FAA and an applicant 
                that affect certification documentation and 
                deliverables.
                  (H) Ensure appropriate documentation of any 
                exception or exemption from airworthiness 
                requirements codified in title 14 of the Code 
                of Federal Regulations, as in effect on the 
                date of application for the change.
          (4) Guidance materials.--The Administrator shall 
        consider the following when developing orders and 
        regulatory guidance, including advisory circulars, 
        where appropriate:
                  (A) Early FAA involvement and feedback paths 
                in the aircraft certification process to ensure 
                the FAA is aware of changes to design 
                assumptions and product design impacting a 
                changed product assessment.
                  (B) Presentation to the FAA of new 
                technology, novel design, or safety critical 
                features or systems, initially and throughout 
                the certification process, when development and 
                certification prompt design or compliance 
                method revision.
                  (C) Examples of key terms used for the 
                changed product process under sections 21.19 
                and 21.101 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations.
                  (D) Type certificate data sheet improvements 
                to accurately state which regulations and 
                amendment level the aircraft complies to and 
                when compliance is limited to a subset of the 
                aircraft.
                  (E) Policies to guide applicants on proper 
                visibility, clarity, and consistency of key 
                design and compliance information that is 
                submitted for certification, particularly with 
                new design features.
                  (F) The creation, validation, and 
                implementation of analytical tools appropriate 
                for the analysis of complex system for the FAA 
                and applicants.
                  (G) Early coordination processes with the FAA 
                for the functional hazard assessments 
                validation and preliminary system safety 
                assessments review.
          (5) Training materials.--The Administrator shall--
                  (A) develop training materials for 
                establishing the certification basis for 
                changed aeronautical products pursuant to 
                section 21.101 of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations, applications for a new type 
                certificate pursuant to section 21.19 of such 
                title, and the regulatory guidance developed as 
                a result of the rulemaking conducted pursuant 
                to paragraph (2); and
                  (B) procedures for disseminating such 
                materials to implementing personnel of the FAA, 
                designees, and applicants.
          (6) Certification management team defined.--In this 
        section, the term ``Certification Management Team'' 
        means the team framework under which the FAA, the 
        European Aviation Safety Agency, the Transport Canada 
        Civil Aviation, and the National Civil Aviation Agency 
        of Brazil, manage the technical, policy, certification, 
        manufacturing, export, and continued airworthiness 
        issues common among the 4 authorities.
          (7) Deadline.--The Administrator shall finalize the 
        actions initiated under paragraph (2) not later than 3 
        years after the date of enactment of this title.
  (c) International Leadership.--The Administrator shall 
exercise leadership within the ICAO and among other civil 
aviation regulators representing states of aircraft design to 
advocate for the adoption of an amended changed product rule on 
a global basis, consistent with ICAO standards.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 122. OVERSIGHT OF FAA COMPLIANCE PROGRAM.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this title, the Administrator shall establish an 
Executive Council within the Administration to oversee the use 
and effectiveness across program offices of the 
Administration's Compliance Program, described in Order 
8000.373A dated October 31, 2018.
  (b) Compliance Program Oversight.--The Executive Council 
established under this section shall--
          (1) monitor, collect, and analyze data on the use of 
        the Compliance Program across program offices of the 
        Administration, including data on enforcement actions 
        and compliance actions pursued against regulated 
        entities by such program offices;
          [(2) conduct an evaluation of the Compliance Program, 
        not less frequently than annually each calendar year 
        through 2023, to assess the functioning and 
        effectiveness of such program in meeting the stated 
        goals and purpose of the program;]
          (2) conduct an annual agency-wide evaluation of the 
        Compliance Program through fiscal year 2028 to assess 
        the functioning and effectiveness of such program and 
        to determine--
                  (A) the need for long-term metrics that, to 
                the maximum extent practicable, apply to all 
                program offices to assess the effectiveness of 
                the program;
                  (B) if the program ensures the highest level 
                of compliance with safety standards; and
                  (C) if the program has met its stated safety 
                goals and purpose;
          (3) provide reports to the Administrator containing 
        the results of any evaluation conducted under paragraph 
        (2), including identifying in such report any 
        nonconformities or deficiencies in the implementation 
        of the program and compliance of regulated entities 
        with safety standards of the Administration;
          (4) make recommendations to the Administrator on 
        regulations, guidance, performance standards or 
        metrics, or other controls that should be issued by the 
        Administrator to improve the effectiveness of the 
        Compliance Program in meeting the stated goals and 
        purpose of the program and to ensure the highest levels 
        of aviation safety; and
          (5) carry out any other oversight duties with respect 
        to implementation of the Compliance Program and 
        assigned by the Administrator.
  (c) Executive Council.--
          (1) Executive council membership.--The Executive 
        Council shall be comprised of representatives from each 
        program office with regulatory responsibility as 
        provided in Order 8000.373A.
          (2) Chairperson.--The Executive Council shall be 
        chaired by a person, who shall be appointed by the 
        Administrator and shall report directly to the 
        Administrator.
          (3) Independence.--The Secretary of Transportation, 
        the Administrator, or any officer or employee of the 
        Administration may not prevent or prohibit the chair of 
        the Executive Council from performing the activities 
        described in this section or from reporting to Congress 
        on such activities.
          (4) Duration.--The Executive Council shall terminate 
        on October 1, [2023] 2028.
  (d) Annual Briefing.--Each calendar year through [2023] 2028, 
the chair of the Executive Council shall provide a briefing to 
the congressional committees of jurisdiction on the 
effectiveness of the Administration's Compliance Program in 
meeting the stated goals and purpose of the program and the 
activities of the office described in subsection (b), including 
any reports and recommendations made by the office during the 
preceding calendar year.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 131. NATIONAL AIR GRANT FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM.

  (a) Program.--
          (1) Program maintenance.--The Administrator shall 
        maintain within the FAA a program to be known as the 
        ``National Air Grant Fellowship Program''.
          (2) Program elements.--The National Air Grant 
        Fellowship Program shall provide support for the 
        fellowship program under subsection (b).
          (3) Responsibilities of administrator.--
                  (A) Guidelines.--The Administrator shall 
                establish guidelines related to the activities 
                and responsibilities of air grant fellowships 
                under subsection (b).
                  (B) Qualifications.--The Administrator shall 
                by regulation prescribe the qualifications 
                required for designation of air grant 
                fellowships under subsection (b).
                  (C) Authority.--In order to carry out the 
                provisions of this section, the Administrator 
                may--
                          (i) appoint, assign the duties, 
                        transfer, and fix the compensation of 
                        such personnel as may be necessary, in 
                        accordance with civil service laws;
                          (ii) make appointments with respect 
                        to temporary and intermittent services 
                        to the extent authorized by section 
                        3109 of title 5, United States Code;
                          (iii) enter into contracts, 
                        cooperative agreements, and other 
                        transactions without regard to section 
                        6101 of title 41, United States Code;
                          (iv) notwithstanding section 1342 of 
                        title 31, United States Code, accept 
                        donations and voluntary and 
                        uncompensated services;
                          (v) accept funds from other Federal 
                        departments and agencies, including 
                        agencies within the FAA, to pay for and 
                        add to activities authorized by this 
                        section; and
                          (vi) promulgate such rules and 
                        regulations as may be necessary and 
                        appropriate.
          (4) Director of national air grant fellowship 
        program.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administrator shall 
                appoint, as the Director of the National Air 
                Grant Fellowship Program, a qualified 
                individual who has appropriate administrative 
                experience and knowledge or expertise in fields 
                related to aerospace. The Director shall be 
                appointed and compensated, without regard to 
                the provisions of title 5 governing 
                appointments in the competitive service, at a 
                rate payable under section 5376 of title 5, 
                United States Code.
                  (B) Duties.--Subject to the supervision of 
                the Administrator, the Director shall 
                administer the National Air Grant Fellowship 
                Program. In addition to any other duty 
                prescribed by law or assigned by the 
                Administrator, the Director shall--
                          (i) cooperate with institutions of 
                        higher education that offer degrees in 
                        fields related to aerospace;
                          (ii) encourage the participation of 
                        graduate and post-graduate students in 
                        the National Air Grant Fellowship 
                        Program; and
                          (iii) cooperate and coordinate with 
                        other Federal activities in fields 
                        related to aerospace.
  (b) Fellowships.--
          (1) In general.--The Administrator shall support a 
        program of fellowships for qualified individuals at the 
        graduate and post-graduate level. The fellowships shall 
        be in fields related to aerospace and awarded pursuant 
        to guidelines established by the Administrator. The 
        Administrator shall strive to ensure equal access for 
        minority and economically disadvantaged students to the 
        program carried out under this paragraph.
          (2) Aerospace policy fellowship.--
                  (A) In general.--The Administrator shall 
                award aerospace policy fellowships to support 
                the placement of individuals at the graduate 
                level of education in fields related to 
                aerospace in positions with--
                          (i) the executive branch of the 
                        United States Government; and
                          (ii) the legislative branch of the 
                        United States Government.
                  (B) Placement priorities for legislative 
                fellowships.--
                          (i) In general.--In considering the 
                        placement of individuals receiving a 
                        fellowship for a legislative branch 
                        position under subparagraph (A)(ii), 
                        the Administrator shall give priority 
                        to placement of such individuals in the 
                        following:
                                  (I) Positions in offices of, 
                                or with Members on, committees 
                                of Congress that have 
                                jurisdiction over the FAA.
                                  (II) Positions in offices of 
                                Members of Congress that have a 
                                demonstrated interest in 
                                aerospace policy.
                          (ii) Equitable distribution.--In 
                        placing fellows in positions described 
                        under clause (i), the Administrator 
                        shall ensure that placements are 
                        equally distributed among the political 
                        parties.
                  (C) Duration.--A fellowship awarded under 
                this paragraph shall be for a period of not 
                more than 1 year.
          (3) Restriction on use of funds.--Amounts available 
        for fellowships under this subsection, including 
        amounts accepted under subsection (a)(3)(C)(v) or 
        appropriated under subsection (d) to carry out this 
        subsection, shall be used only for award of such 
        fellowships and administrative costs of implementing 
        this subsection.
  (c) Interagency Cooperation.--Each department, agency, or 
other instrumentality of the Federal Government that is engaged 
in or concerned with, or that has authority over, matters 
relating to aerospace--
          (1) may, upon a written request from the 
        Administrator, make available, on a reimbursable basis 
        or otherwise, any personnel (with their consent and 
        without prejudice to their position and rating), 
        service, or facility that the Administrator deems 
        necessary to carry out any provision of this section;
          (2) shall, upon a written request from the 
        Administrator, furnish any available data or other 
        information that the Administrator deems necessary to 
        carry out any provision of this section; and
          (3) shall cooperate with the FAA and duly authorized 
        officials thereof.
  (d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to 
be appropriated to the Administrator $15,000,000 for each of 
[fiscal years 2021 through 2025] fiscal years 2023 through 2028 
to carry out this section. Amounts appropriated under the 
preceding sentence shall remain available until expended.
  (e) Definitions.--In this section:
          (1) Director.--The term ``Director'' means the 
        Director of the National Air Grant Fellowship Program, 
        appointed pursuant to subsection (a)(4).
          (2) Fields related to aerospace.--The term ``fields 
        related to aerospace'' means any discipline or field 
        that is concerned with, or likely to improve, the 
        development, assessment, operation, safety, or repair 
        of aircraft and other airborne objects and systems, 
        including the following:
                  (A) Aerospace engineering.
                  (B) Aerospace physiology.
                  (C) Aeronautical engineering.
                  (D) Airworthiness engineering.
                  (E) Electrical engineering.
                  (F) Human factors.
                  (G) Software engineering.
                  (H) Systems engineering.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *

                              ----------                              


         ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY COORDINATION AND LEADERSHIP ACT



           *       *       *       *       *       *       *
SEC. 2. ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY WORKING GROUP.

  (a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall 
establish an advanced air mobility interagency working group 
(in this section referred to as the ``working group'').
  (b) Purpose.--Advanced Air Mobility represents a key area of 
sustainable transportation and economic growth for the United 
States and it is imperative that the Federal Government foster 
leadership and interagency collaboration in the adoption and 
deployment of this technology. The purpose of the working group 
established under this section shall be to plan for and 
coordinate efforts related to safety, operations, 
infrastructure, physical security and cybersecurity, and 
Federal investment necessary for maturation of the AAM 
ecosystem in the United States[, particularly passenger-
carrying aircraft,] in order to--
          (1) grow new transportation options;
          (2) amplify economic activity and jobs;
          (3) advance environmental sustainability and new 
        technologies; and
          (4) support emergency preparedness and 
        competitiveness.
  (c) Membership.--Not later than 60 days after the 
establishment of the working group under subsection (a), the 
Secretary of Transportation shall--
          (1) appoint the Under Secretary of Transportation for 
        Policy to chair the working group;
          (2) designate not less than 1 additional 
        representative to participate on the working group from 
        each of--
                  (A) the Department of Transportation; and
                  (B) the Federal Aviation Administration; and
          (3) invite the heads of each of the following 
        departments or agencies to designate not less than 1 
        representative to participate on the working group, 
        including--
                  (A) the National Aeronautics and Space 
                Administration;
                  (B) the Department of Commerce;
                  (C) the Department of Defense;
                  (D) the Department of Energy;
                  (E) the Department of Homeland Security;
                  (F) the Department of Agriculture;
                  (G) the Department of Labor;
                  (H) the Federal Communications Commission; 
                and
                  (I) such other departments or agencies as the 
                Secretary of Transportation determines 
                appropriate.
  (d) Coordination.--
          (1) In general.--The working group shall engage with 
        State, local, and Tribal governments, aviation industry 
        and labor stakeholders, stakeholder associations, and 
        others determined appropriate by the Secretary of 
        Transportation and the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration, including--
                  (A) manufacturers of aircraft, avionics, 
                propulsion systems, structures, and air traffic 
                management systems;
                  (B) commercial air carriers, commercial 
                operators, unmanned aircraft system operators, 
                and general aviation operators, including 
                helicopter operators;
                  (C) intended operators of AAM aircraft;
                  [(D) airports, heliports, fixed-base 
                operators;]
                  (D) operators of airports, heliports, and 
                vertiports, and fixed-base operators;
                  (E) certified labor representatives for 
                pilots associations, air traffic control 
                specialists employed by the Federal Aviation 
                Administration, aircraft mechanics, and 
                aviation safety inspectors;
                  (F) State, local, and Tribal officials or 
                public agencies, with representation from both 
                urban and rural areas;
                  (G) first responders;
                  (H) groups representing environmental 
                interests;
                  (I) electric utilities, energy providers and 
                energy market operators;
                  (J) academia with experience working with 
                industry on new technology and 
                commercialization;
                  (K) groups representing the 
                telecommunications industry; and
                  (L) aviation training and maintenance 
                providers.
          (2) Advisory committees.--The Secretary of 
        Transportation and Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration may use such Federal advisory 
        committees as may be appropriate to coordinate with the 
        entities listed in paragraph (1).
  (e) Review and Examination.--Not later than [1 year] 18 
months after the working group is established under subsection 
(a), the working group shall complete a review and examination 
of, at a minimum--
          (1) the steps that will mature AAM aircraft 
        operations, concepts, and regulatory frameworks beyond 
        initial operations;
          (2) the air traffic management and safety concepts 
        that might be considered as part of evolving AAM to 
        higher levels of traffic density;
          (3) current Federal programs and policies that could 
        be leveraged to advance the maturation of the AAM 
        industry or that may impede maturation;
          (4) infrastructure, including aviation, 
        cybersecurity, telecommunication, multimodal, and 
        utility infrastructure, necessary to accommodate and 
        support expanded operations of AAM after initial 
        implementation;
          (5) steps needed to ensure a robust and secure 
        domestic supply chain;
          (6) anticipated benefits associated with AAM aircraft 
        operations, including economic, environmental, 
        emergency and natural disaster response, and 
        transportation benefits;
          (7) the interests, roles, and responsibilities of 
        Federal, State, local, and Tribal governments affected 
        by AAM aircraft operations; [and]
          (8) other factors that may limit the full potential 
        of the AAM industry, including community acceptance or 
        restrictions of such operations[.]; and
          (9) processes and programs that can be leveraged to 
        improve the efficiency of Federal reviews required for 
        infrastructure development, including for electrical 
        capacity projects.
  (f) AAM National Strategy.--Based on the review and 
examination performed under subsection (e), the working group 
shall develop an AAM National Strategy that includes--
          (1) recommendations regarding the safety, operations, 
        security, infrastructure, air traffic concepts, and 
        other Federal investment or actions [necessary to 
        support the evolution of early] that would allow for--
                  (A) the timely entry into service of AAM 
                after aircraft and operator certification; and 
                  (B) the evolution of early  AAM to higher 
                levels of activity and societal benefit; and
          (2) a comprehensive plan detailing the roles and 
        responsibilities of each Federal department and agency, 
        and of State, local, and Tribal governments, necessary 
        to facilitate or implement the recommendations 
        developed under paragraph (1).
  (g) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the completion of 
the review and examination performed under subsection (e), the 
[working group] Secretary of Transportation shall submit to the 
appropriate committees of Congress a report--
          (1) detailing findings from the review and 
        examination performed under subsection (e); [and]
          (2) summarizing any dissenting views and opinions of 
        a participant of the working group described in 
        subsection (c)(3); and
          [(2)] (3) providing the AAM National Strategy, 
        including the plan and associated recommendations 
        developed under subsection (f).
  (h) Evaluation of Termination of Working Group.--Not later 
than 30 days after the date on which the working group submits 
the report required under subsection (g), the Secretary of 
Transportation shall evaluate and decide whether to terminate 
the working group and shall notify the appropriate committees 
of Congress of such decision.
  (i) Considerations for Termination of Working Group.--In 
deciding whether to terminate the working group under 
subsection (h), the Secretary and the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall consider other 
interagency coordination activities associated with AAM, or 
other new or novel users of the national airspace system, that 
could benefit from continued wider interagency coordination.
  [(i)] (j) Definitions.--For purposes of this section and 
section 3:
          (1) Advanced air mobility; aam.--The terms ``advanced 
        air mobility'' and ``AAM'' mean a transportation system 
        [that transports people and property by air between two 
        points in the United States using aircraft with 
        advanced technologies, including electric aircraft or 
        electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft,] 
        comprised of urban air mobility and regional air 
        mobility using manned or unmanned aircraft in both 
        controlled and uncontrolled airspace.
          (2) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term 
        ``appropriate committees of Congress'' means--
                  (A) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
                Transportation of the Senate; and
                  (B) the Committee on Transportation and 
                Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.
          (3) Electric aircraft.--The term ``electric 
        aircraft'' means an aircraft with a fully electric or 
        hybrid (fuel and electric) driven propulsion system 
        used for flight.
          (4) Fixed-base operator.--The term ``fixed-base 
        operator'' means a business granted the right by an 
        airport sponsor or heliport sponsor to operate on an 
        airport or heliport and provide aeronautical services, 
        including fueling and charging, aircraft hangaring, 
        tiedown and parking, aircraft rental, aircraft 
        maintenance, and flight instruction.
          (5) Powered-lift aircraft.--The term ``powered-lift 
        aircraft'' has the meaning given the term ``powered-
        lift'' in section 1.1 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations.
          (6) Regional air mobility.--The term ``regional air 
        mobility'' means the movement of people or property by 
        air between 2 points using an airworthy aircraft that--
                  (A) has advanced technologies, such as 
                distributed propulsion, vertical take-off and 
                landing, powered-lift, non-traditional power 
                systems, or autonomous technologies;
                  (B) has a maximum takeoff weight of greater 
                than 1,320 pounds; and
                  (C) is not urban air mobility.
          [(5)] (7) State.--The term ``State'' has the meaning 
        given such term in section 47102 of title 49, United 
        States Code.
          (8) Urban air mobility.--The term ``urban air 
        mobility'' means the movement of people or property by 
        air between 2 intracity or intercity points using an 
        airworthy aircraft that--
                  (A) advanced technologies, such as 
                distributed propulsion, vertical take-off and 
                landing, powered-lift, nontraditional power 
                systems, or autonomous technologies; and
                  (B) a maximum takeoff weight of greater than 
                1,320 pounds.
          [(6)] (9) Vertical take-off and landing.--The term 
        ``vertical take-off and landing'' means an aircraft 
        with lift/thrust units used to generate powered lift 
        and control and with two or more lift/thrust units used 
        to provide lift during vertical take-off or landing.
          (10) Vertiport.--The term ``vertiport'' has the 
        meaning given such term in section 47102 of title 49, 
        United States Code.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *

                              ----------                              


 SECTION 101 OF DIVISION Q OF THE CONSOLIDATED APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2023

SEC. 101. ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY INFRASTRUCTURE PILOT PROGRAM.

  (a) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Secretary shall establish a 
pilot program to provide grants that assist an eligible entity 
to plan for the development and deployment of infrastructure 
necessary to facilitate AAM operations, locally and regionally, 
within the United States.
  (b) Planning grants.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary shall provide grants 
        to eligible entities to develop comprehensive plans 
        under paragraph (2) related to AAM infrastructure.
          (2) Comprehensive plan.--
                  (A) In general.--Not later than 1 year after 
                receiving a grant under this subsection, an 
                eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary a 
                comprehensive plan, including the development 
                of potential public use or private-owned 
                vertiport infrastructure, as well as the use of 
                existing airport and heliport infrastructure 
                that may require modifications to safely 
                accommodate AAM operations,, in a format 
                capable of being published on the website of 
                the Department of Transportation.
                  (B) Plan contents.--The Secretary shall 
                establish content requirements for 
                comprehensive plans submitted under this 
                subsection, which shall include as many of the 
                following as possible:
                          (i) The identification of planned or 
                        potential public use and private-owned 
                        vertiport locations.
                          (ii) A description of infrastructure 
                        necessary to support AAM operations.
                          (iii) A description of types of 
                        planned or potential AAM operations and 
                        a forecast for proposed [vertiport] 
                        locations for operations, including 
                        estimates for initial operations and 
                        future growth.
                          (iv) The identification of physical 
                        and digital infrastructure required to 
                        meet any standards and guidance for 
                        vertiport design and performance 
                        characteristics established by the 
                        Federal Aviation Administration (as in 
                        effect on the date on which the 
                        Secretary issues a grant to an eligible 
                        entity), including modifications to 
                        existing infrastructure and ground 
                        sensors, electric charging or other 
                        fueling requirements, electric utility 
                        requirements, wireless and 
                        cybersecurity requirements, fire 
                        safety, perimeter security, and other 
                        necessary hardware or software.
                          (v) A description of any hazard 
                        associated with planned or potential 
                        [vertiport infrastructure] urban air 
                        mobility and regional air mobility 
                        operations, such as handling of 
                        hazardous materials, batteries, or 
                        other fuel cells, charging or fueling 
                        of aircraft, aircraft rescue and 
                        firefighting response, and emergency 
                        planning.
                          (vi) A description of potential 
                        environmental effects of planned or 
                        potential construction or siting of 
                        vertiports, including efforts to reduce 
                        potential aviation noise.
                          (vii) A description of how planned or 
                        potential vertiport locations, 
                        including new or repurposed 
                        infrastructure, fit into State and 
                        local transportation systems and 
                        networks, including--
                                  (I) connectivity to existing 
                                public transportation hubs and 
                                intermodal and multimodal 
                                facilities for AAM operations;
                                  (II) opportunities to create 
                                new service to rural areas and 
                                areas underserved by air 
                                transportation; or
                                  (III) any potential conflict 
                                with existing aviation 
                                infrastructure that may arise 
                                from the planned or potential 
                                location of the vertiport.
                          (viii) A description of how vertiport 
                        planning will be incorporated in State 
                        or metropolitan planning documents.
                          (ix) The identification of the 
                        process an eligible entity will 
                        undertake to ensure an adequate level 
                        of engagement with any potentially 
                        impacted community for each planned or 
                        potential vertiport location and 
                        planned or potential AAM operations, 
                        such as engagement with communities in 
                        rural areas, underserved communities, 
                        Tribal communities, individuals with 
                        disabilities, or racial and ethnic 
                        minorities to address equity of access.
                          (x) The identification of State, 
                        local, or private sources of funding an 
                        eligible entity may use to assist with 
                        the construction or operation of a 
                        vertiport or the modification of 
                        existing aviation infrastructure.
                          (xi) The identification of existing 
                        Federal aeronautical and airspace 
                        requirements that must be met for the 
                        eligible entity's planned or potential 
                        vertiport location.
                          (xii) The identification of the 
                        actions necessary for an eligible 
                        entity to undertake the construction of 
                        a vertiport, such as planning studies 
                        to assess existing infrastructure, 
                        environmental studies, studies of 
                        projected economic benefit to the 
                        community, lease or acquisition of an 
                        easement or land for new 
                        infrastructure, and activities related 
                        to other capital costs.
          (3) Application.--To apply for a grant under this 
        subsection, an eligible entity shall provide to the 
        Secretary an application in such form, at such time, 
        and containing such information as the Secretary may 
        require.
          (4) Selection.--
                  (A) In general.--In awarding grants under 
                this subsection, the Secretary shall consider 
                the following:
                          (i) Geographic diversity.
                          (ii) Diversity of the proposed models 
                        of infrastructure financing and 
                        management.
                          (iii) Diversity of proposed or 
                        planned AAM operations.
                          (iv) The need for comprehensive plans 
                        that--
                                  (I) ensure the safe and 
                                efficient integration of AAM 
                                operations into the National 
                                Airspace System;
                                  (II) improve transportation 
                                safety, connectivity, access, 
                                and equity in both rural and 
                                urban regions in the United 
                                States;
                                  (III) leverage existing 
                                public transportation systems 
                                and intermodal and multimodal 
                                facilities;
                                  (IV) reduce surface 
                                congestion and the 
                                environmental impacts of 
                                transportation;
                                  (V) grow the economy and 
                                create jobs in the United 
                                States; and
                                  (VI) encourage community 
                                engagement when planning for 
                                AAM-related infrastructure.
                  (B) Priority.--The Secretary shall prioritize 
                awarding grants under this subsection to 
                eligible entities that collaborate with 
                commercial AAM entities, institutions of higher 
                education, research institutions, or other 
                relevant stakeholders to develop and prepare a 
                comprehensive plan.
                  (C) Minimum allocation to rural areas.--The 
                Secretary shall ensure that not less than 20 
                percent of the amounts made available under 
                subsection (c) are used to award grants to 
                eligible entities that submit a comprehensive 
                plan under paragraph (2) that is related to 
                infrastructure located in a rural area.
          (5) Grant amount.--Each grant made under this 
        subsection shall be made in an amount that is not more 
        than $1,000,000.
          (6) Briefing.--
                  (A) In general.--Not later than 180 days 
                after the first comprehensive plan is submitted 
                under paragraph (2), and every 180 days 
                thereafter through September 30, 2025, the 
                Secretary shall provide a briefing to the 
                appropriate committees of Congress on the 
                comprehensive plans submitted to the Secretary 
                under such paragraph.
                  (B) Contents.--The briefing required under 
                subparagraph (A) shall include--
                          (i) an evaluation of all planned or 
                        potential vertiport locations included 
                        in the comprehensive plans submitted 
                        under paragraph (2) and how such 
                        planned or potential vertiport 
                        locations may fit into the overall 
                        United States transportation system and 
                        network; [and]
                          (ii) a description of lessons or best 
                        practices learned through the review of 
                        comprehensive plans and how the 
                        Secretary will incorporate any such 
                        lessons or best practices into Federal 
                        standards or guidance for the design 
                        and operation of AAM infrastructure and 
                        facilities[.]; and
                          (iii) a description of--
                                  (I) initial community 
                                engagement efforts and 
                                responses from the public on 
                                the planning and development 
                                efforts of eligible entities 
                                related to urban air mobility 
                                and regional air mobility 
                                operations;
                                  (II) how eligible entities 
                                are planning for and 
                                encouraging early adoption of 
                                urban air mobility and regional 
                                air mobility operations;
                                  (III) what role each level of 
                                government plays in the 
                                process; and
                                  (IV) whether such entities 
                                recommend specific regulatory 
                                or guidance actions be taken by 
                                the Secretary of Transportation 
                                or other Federal agencies in 
                                order to support such early 
                                adoption.
  (c) Authorization of appropriations.--
          (1) Authorization.--There are authorized to be 
        appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section 
        $12,500,000 for each of fiscal [years 2023 and 2024] 
        years 2023 through 2026, to remain available until 
        expended out of funds made available under section 
        106(k) of title 49, United States Code.
          (2) Administrative expenses.--Of the amounts made 
        available under paragraph (1), the Secretary may retain 
        up to 1 percent for personnel, contracting, and other 
        costs to establish and administer the pilot program 
        under this section.
  (d) Termination.--
          (1) In general.--No grant may be awarded under this 
        section after September 30, [2024] 2026.
          (2) Continued funding.--Funds authorized to be 
        appropriated pursuant to subsection (c) may be expended 
        after September 30, [2024] 2026--
                  (A) for grants awarded prior to September 30, 
                [2024] 2026; and
                  (B) for administrative expenses.
  (e) Definitions.--In this section:
          [(1) Advanced air mobility; AAM.--The terms 
        ``advanced air mobility'' and ``AAM'' have the meaning 
        given such terms in section 2(i) of the Advanced Air 
        Mobility Coordination and Leadership Act (49 U.S.C. 
        40101 note).]
          (1) Advanced air mobility; AAM; regional air 
        mobility; urban air mobility; vertiport.--The terms 
        ``advanced air mobility'', ``AAM'', ``regional air 
        mobility'', ``urban air mobility'', and ``vertiport'' 
        have the meaning given such terms in section 2(j) of 
        the Advanced Air Mobility Coordination and Leadership 
        Act (49 U.S.C. 40101 note).
          (2) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term 
        ``appropriate committees of Congress'' means the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
        House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, 
        Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
          (3) Commercial AAM entities.--The term ``commercial 
        AAM entities'' means--
                  (A) manufacturers of aircraft, avionics, 
                propulsion systems, and air traffic management 
                systems related to AAM;
                  (B) intended commercial operators of AAM 
                aircraft and systems; and
                  (C) intended commercial operators and 
                developers of vertiports.
          (4) Eligible entity.--The term ``eligible entity'' 
        means--
                  (A) a State, local, or Tribal government, 
                including a political subdivision thereof;
                  (B) an airport sponsor;
                  (C) a transit agency;
                  (D) a port authority;
                  (E) a metropolitan planning organization; or
                  (F) any combination or consortium of the 
                entities described in subparagraphs (A) through 
                (E).
          (5) Metropolitan planning organization.--The term 
        ``metropolitan planning organization'' has the meaning 
        given such term in section 5303(b) of title 49, United 
        States Code.
          (6) Rural area.--The term ``rural area'' means an 
        area located outside a metropolitan statistical area 
        (as designated by the Office of Management and Budget).
          (7) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the 
        Secretary of Transportation.
          (8) State.--The term ``State'' means a State of the 
        United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, 
        the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, the Northern 
        Mariana Islands, and Guam.
          [(9) Vertiport.--The term ``vertiport'' means a 
        designated location used or intended to be used to 
        support AAM operations, including the landing, take-
        off, loading, taxiing, parking, and storage of aircraft 
        developed for AAM operations.
          [(10) Vertical take-off and landing aircraft.--The 
        term ``vertical take-off and landing aircraft'' has the 
        meaning given such term in section 2(i) of the Advanced 
        Air Mobility Coordination and Leadership Act (49 U.S.C. 
        40101 note).]
  (f) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
construed as conferring upon any person, State, local, or 
Tribal government the authority to determine the safety of any 
AAM operation or the feasibility of simultaneous operations by 
AAM and conventional aircraft within any given area of the 
national airspace system.
                              ----------                              


    SECTION 352 OF THE CONSOLIDATED APPROPRIATIONS RESOLUTION, 2003

  Sec. 352. FAA Notice to Airmen FDC 2/0199. (a) In General.--
The Secretary of Transportation--
          (1) shall maintain in full force and effect, for a 
        period of 1 year after the date of enactment of this 
        Act, the restrictions imposed under Federal Aviation 
        Administration Notice to Airmen FDC 2/0199 and the 
        restrictions that had been in effect on September 26, 
        2002 and that were imposed under local Notices to 
        Airmen based on or derived from Notice to Airmen FDC 1/
        3353;
          (2) shall rescind immediately any waivers or 
        exemptions from those restrictions that are in effect 
        on the date of enactment of this Act; and
          (3) may not grant any waivers or exemptions from 
        those restrictions, except--
                  (A) as authorized by air traffic control for 
                operational or safety purposes;
                  (B) for operational purposes of an event, 
                stadium, or other venue, including (in the case 
                of a sporting event) equipment or parts, 
                transport of team members, officials of the 
                governing body and immediate family members and 
                guests (or attendees approved by) of such teams 
                and officials to and from the event, stadium, 
                or other venue;
                  (C) for broadcast coverage for any broadcast 
                rights holder;
                  (D) for safety and security purposes of the 
                event, stadium, or other venue; or
                  (E) to operate an aircraft in restricted 
                airspace to the extent necessary to arrive at 
                or depart from an airport using standard air 
                traffic procedures.
  (b) Waivers.--Beginning no earlier than 1 year after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the Secretary may modify or terminate 
such restrictions, or issue waivers or exemptions from such 
restrictions, if the Secretary promulgates, after public notice 
and an opportunity for comment, a rule setting forth the 
standards under which the Secretary may grant a waiver or 
exemption. Such standards shall provide a level of security at 
least equivalent to that provided by the waiver policy applied 
by the Secretary as of the date of enactment of this Act.
  (c) Funding Limitation.--Unless and until the Secretary 
promulgates a rule in accordance with subsection (b) above, 
none of the funds made available in this Act or any other Act 
may be used to terminate or limit the restrictions described in 
paragraph (a)(1) above or to grant waivers of, or exemptions 
from, such restrictions except as provided in paragraph (a)(3) 
above.
  (d) Broadcast Contracts Not Affected.--Nothing in this 
section shall be construed to affect contractual rights 
pertaining to any broadcasting agreement.
                              ----------                              


 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 
                                  1997

TITLE I--DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

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FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION

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                 Administrative Services Franchise Fund

  There is hereby established in the Treasury a fund, to be 
available without fiscal year limitation, for the costs of 
capitalizing and operating such administrative services as the 
FAA Administrator determines may be performed more 
advantageously as centralized services, including accounting, 
international training, payroll, travel, duplicating, 
multimedia and information technology services: Provided, That 
any inventories, equipment, and other assets pertaining to the 
services to be provided by such fund, either on hand or on 
order, less the related liabilities or unpaid obligations, and 
any appropriations made prior to the current year for the 
purpose of providing capital shall be used to capitalize such 
fund: Provided further, That such fund [shall be paid in 
advance] may be reimbursed after performance or paid in advance 
from funds available to the FAA and other Federal agencies for 
which such centralized services are performed, at rates which 
will return in full all expenses of operation, including 
accrued leave, depreciation of fund plant and equipment, 
amortization of Automated Data Processing (ADP) software and 
systems (either required or donated), and an amount necessary 
to maintain a reasonable operating reserve, as determined by 
the FAA Administrator: Provided further, That such fund shall 
provide services on a competitive basis: Provided further, That 
an amount not to exceed four percent of the total annual income 
to such fund may be retained in the fund for fiscal year 1997 
and each year thereafter, to remain available until expended, 
to be used for the acquisition of capital equipment and for the 
improvement and implementation of FAA financial management, 
ADP, and support systems: Provided further, That no later than 
thirty days after the end of each fiscal year, amounts in 
excess of this reserve limitation shall be transferred to 
miscellaneous receipts in the Treasury.

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                              ----------                              


      NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD AMENDMENTS ACT OF 2000



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[SEC. 9. TRAVEL BUDGETS.

  [The Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board 
shall establish annual fiscal year budgets for non-accident-
related travel expenditures for Board members which shall be 
approved by the Board and submitted to the Senate Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation and to the House of 
Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
together with an annual report detailing the non-accident-
related travel of each Board member. The report shall include 
separate accounting for foreign and domestic travel, including 
any personnel or other expenses associated with that travel.]

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