    [118th Congress Public Law 63]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1025]]

    Public Law 118-63
    118th Congress

                                     An Act

     To amend title 49, United States Code, to reauthorize and improve the
     Federal Aviation Administration and other civil aviation programs, and
           for other purposes. <<NOTE: May 16, 2024 -  [H.R. 3935]>>

        Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
    United States of America in Congress assembled, <<NOTE: FAA
    Reauthorization Act of 2024.>>
    SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

        (a) <<NOTE: 40 USC 40101 note.>>  Short Title.--This Act may be
    cited as the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024''.

        (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as
    follows:

    Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
    Sec. 2. Definitions.

                             TITLE I--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.

                TITLE II--FAA OVERSIGHT AND ORGANIZATIONAL REFORM

    Sec. 201. FAA leadership.
    Sec. 202. Assistant Administrator for Rulemaking and Regulatory
               Improvement.
    Sec. 203. Prohibition on conflicting pecuniary interests.
    Sec. 204. Authority of Secretary and Administrator.
    Sec. 205. Regulatory materials improvement.
    Sec. 206. Future of NextGen.
    Sec. 207. Airspace Modernization Office.
    Sec. 208. Application dashboard and feedback portal.
    Sec. 209. Sense of Congress on FAA engagement during rulemaking
               activities.
    Sec. 210. Civil Aeromedical Institute.
    Sec. 211. Management Advisory Council.
    Sec. 212. Chief Operating Officer.
    Sec. 213. Report on unfunded capital investment needs of air traffic
               control system.
    Sec. 214. Chief Technology Officer.
    Sec. 215. Definition of air traffic control system.
    Sec. 216. Peer review of Office of Whistleblower Protection and Aviation
               Safety Investigations.
    Sec. 217. Cybersecurity lead.
    Sec. 218. Eliminating FAA reporting and unnecessary requirements.
    Sec. 219. Authority to use electronic service.
    Sec. 220. Safety and efficiency through digitization of FAA systems.
    Sec. 221. FAA telework.
    Sec. 222. Review of office space.
    Sec. 223. Restoration of authority.
    Sec. 224. FAA participation in industry standards organizations.
    Sec. 225. Sense of Congress on use of voluntary consensus standards.
    Sec. 226. Required designation.
    Sec. 227. Administrative Services Franchise Fund.
    Sec. 228. Commercial preference.
    Sec. 229. Advanced Aviation Technology and Innovation Steering
               Committee.
    Sec. 230. Review and updates of categorical exclusions.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1026]]

    Sec. 231. Implementation of anti-terrorist and narcotic air events
               programs.

                     TITLE III--AVIATION SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS

                         Subtitle A--General Provisions

    Sec. 301. Helicopter air ambulance operations.
    Sec. 302. Global aircraft maintenance safety improvements.
    Sec. 303. ODA best practice sharing.
    Sec. 304. Training of organization delegation authorization unit
               members.
    Sec. 305. Clarification on safety management system information
               disclosure.
    Sec. 306. Reauthorization of certain provisions of the Aircraft
               Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act.
    Sec. 307. Continued oversight of FAA compliance program.
    Sec. 308. Scalability of safety management systems.
    Sec. 309. Review of safety management system rulemaking.
    Sec. 310. Independent study on future state of type certification
               processes.
    Sec. 311. Use of advanced tools and high-risk flight testing in
               certifying aerospace products.
    Sec. 312. Transport airplane and propulsion certification modernization.
    Sec. 313. Fire protection standards.
    Sec. 314. Risk model for production facility inspections.
    Sec. 315. Review of FAA use of aviation safety data.
    Sec. 316. Weather reporting systems study.
    Sec. 317. GAO study on expansion of the FAA weather camera program.
    Sec. 318. Audit on aviation safety in era of wireless connectivity.
    Sec. 319. Safety data analysis for aircraft without transponders.
    Sec. 320. Crash-resistant fuel systems in rotorcraft.
    Sec. 321. Reducing turbulence-related injuries on part 121 aircraft
               operations.
    Sec. 322. Study on radiation exposure.
    Sec. 323. Study on impacts of temperature in aircraft cabins.
    Sec. 324. Lithium-ion powered wheelchairs.
    Sec. 325. National simulator program policies and guidance.
    Sec. 326. Briefing on agricultural application approval timing.
    Sec. 327. Sense of Congress regarding safety and security of aviation
               infrastructure.
    Sec. 328. Restricted category aircraft maintenance and operations.
    Sec. 329. Aircraft interchange agreement limitations.
    Sec. 330. Task Force on human factors in aviation safety.
    Sec. 331. Update of FAA standards to allow distribution and use of
               certain restricted routes and terminal procedures.
    Sec. 332. ASOS/AWOS service report dashboard.
    Sec. 333. Helicopter safety.
    Sec. 334. Review and incorporation of human readiness levels into agency
               guidance material.
    Sec. 335. Service difficulty reports.
    Sec. 336. Consistent and timely pilot checks for air carriers.
    Sec. 337. Flight service stations.
    Sec. 338. Tarmac operations monitoring study.
    Sec. 339. Improved safety in rural areas.
    Sec. 340. Study on FAA use of mandatory Equal Access to Justice Act
               waivers.
    Sec. 341. Airport air safety.
    Sec. 342. Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative.
    Sec. 343. Accountability and compliance.
    Sec. 344. Changed product rule reform.
    Sec. 345. Administrative authority for civil penalties.
    Sec. 346. Study on airworthiness standards compliance.
    Sec. 347. Zero tolerance for near misses, runway incursions, and surface
               safety risks.
    Sec. 348. Improvements to Aviation Safety Information Analysis and
               Sharing Program.
    Sec. 349. Instructions for continued airworthiness aviation rulemaking
               committee.
    Sec. 350. Secondary cockpit barriers.
    Sec. 351. Part 135 duty and rest.
    Sec. 352. Flight data recovery from overwater operations.
    Sec. 353. Ramp worker safety call to action.
    Sec. 354. Voluntary reporting protections.
    Sec. 355. Tower marking notice of proposed rulemaking.
    Sec. 356. Promotion of civil aeronautics and safety of air commerce.
    Sec. 357. Educational and professional development.
    Sec. 358. Global aviation safety.
    Sec. 359. Availability of personnel for inspections, site visits, and
               training.
    Sec. 360. Wildfire suppression.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1027]]

    Sec. 361. Continuous aircraft tracking and transmission for high
               altitude balloons.
    Sec. 362. Cabin air safety.
    Sec. 363. Commercial air tour and sport parachuting safety.
    Sec. 364. Hawaii air noise and safety task force.
    Sec. 365. Modernization and improvements to aircraft evacuation.
    Sec. 366. 25-hour cockpit voice recorder.
    Sec. 367. Sense of Congress regarding mandated contents of onboard
               emergency medical kits.
    Sec. 368. Passenger aircraft first aid and emergency medical kit
               equipment and training.
    Sec. 369. International aviation safety assessment program.
    Sec. 370. Whistleblower protection enforcement.
    Sec. 371. Civil penalties for whistleblower protection program
               violations.
    Sec. 372. Enhanced qualification program for restricted airline
               transport pilot certificate.

                       Subtitle B--Aviation Cybersecurity

    Sec. 391. Findings.
    Sec. 392. Aerospace product safety.
    Sec. 393. Federal Aviation Administration regulations, policy, and
               guidance.
    Sec. 394. Securing aircraft avionics systems.
    Sec. 395. Civil aviation cybersecurity rulemaking committee.
    Sec. 396. GAO report on cybersecurity of commercial aviation avionics.

                          TITLE IV--AEROSPACE WORKFORCE

    Sec. 401. Repeal of duplicative or obsolete workforce programs.
    Sec. 402. Civil airmen statistics.
    Sec. 403. Bessie Coleman Women in Aviation Advisory Committee.
    Sec. 404. FAA engagement and collaboration with HBCUs and MSIs.
    Sec. 405. Airman knowledge testing working group.
    Sec. 406. Airman Certification Standards.
    Sec. 407. Airman's Medical Bill of Rights.
    Sec. 408. Improved designee misconduct reporting process.
    Sec. 409. Report on safe uniform options for certain aviation employees.
    Sec. 410. Human factors professionals.
    Sec. 411. Aeromedical innovation and modernization working group.
    Sec. 412. Frontline manager workload study.
    Sec. 413. Medical Portal Modernization Task Group.
    Sec. 414. Study of high school aviation maintenance training programs.
    Sec. 415. Improved access to air traffic control simulation training.
    Sec. 416. Air traffic controller instructor recruitment, hiring, and
               retention.
    Sec. 417. Ensuring hiring of air traffic control specialists is based on
               assessment of job-relevant aptitudes.
    Sec. 418. Pilot program to provide veterans with pilot training
               services.
    Sec. 419. Providing non-Federal weather observer training to airport
               personnel.
    Sec. 420. Prohibition of remote dispatching.
    Sec. 421. Crewmember pumping guidance.
    Sec. 422. GAO study and report on extent and effects of commercial
               aviation pilot shortage on regional/commuter carriers.
    Sec. 423. Report on implementation of recommendations of Federal
               Aviation Administration Youth Access to American Jobs in
               Aviation Task Force.
    Sec. 424. Sense of Congress on improving unmanned aircraft system
               staffing at FAA.
    Sec. 425. Joint aviation employment training working group.
    Sec. 426. Military aviation maintenance technicians rule.
    Sec. 427. Crewmember self-defense training.
    Sec. 428. Direct-hire authority utilization.
    Sec. 429. FAA Workforce review audit.
    Sec. 430. Staffing model for aviation safety inspectors.
    Sec. 431. Safety-critical staffing.
    Sec. 432. Deterring crewmember interference.
    Sec. 433. Use of biographical assessments.
    Sec. 434. Employee assault prevention and response plan standards and
               best practices.
    Sec. 435. Formal policy on sexual assault and harassment on air
               carriers.
    Sec. 436. Interference with security screening personnel.
    Sec. 437. Air traffic control workforce staffing.
    Sec. 438. Airport service workforce analysis.
    Sec. 439. Federal Aviation Administration Academy and facility expansion
               plan.
    Sec. 440. Improving Federal aviation workforce development programs.
    Sec. 441. National strategic plan for aviation workforce development.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1028]]

                   TITLE V--PASSENGER EXPERIENCE IMPROVEMENTS

                        Subtitle A--Consumer Enhancements

    Sec. 501. Establishment of Office of Aviation Consumer Protection.
    Sec. 502. Additional within and beyond perimeter slot exemptions at
               Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
    Sec. 503. Refunds.
    Sec. 504. Know Your Rights posters.
    Sec. 505. Access to customer service assistance for all travelers.
    Sec. 506. Airline customer service dashboards.
    Sec. 507. Increase in civil penalties.
    Sec. 508. Advisory committee for aviation consumer protection.
    Sec. 509. Extension of aviation consumer advocate reporting requirement.
    Sec. 510. Codification of consumer protection provisions.
    Sec. 511. Bureau of Transportation Statistics.
    Sec. 512. Reimbursement for incurred costs.
    Sec. 513. Streamlining of offline ticket disclosures.
    Sec. 514. GAO study on competition and consolidation in the air carrier
               industry.
    Sec. 515. GAO study and report on the operational preparedness of air
               carriers for certain events.
    Sec. 516. Family seating.
    Sec. 517. Passenger experience advisory committee.
    Sec. 518. Updating passenger information requirement regulations.
    Sec. 519. Seat dimensions.
    Sec. 520. Modernization of consumer complaint submissions.

                            Subtitle B--Accessibility

    Sec. 541. Air Carrier Access Act advisory committee.
    Sec. 542. Improved training standards for assisting passengers who use
               wheelchairs.
    Sec. 543. Training standards for stowage of wheelchairs and scooters.
    Sec. 544. Mobility aids on board improve lives and empower all.
    Sec. 545. Prioritizing accountability and accessibility for aviation
               consumers.
    Sec. 546. Accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.
    Sec. 547. Equal accessibility to passenger portals.
    Sec. 548. Aircraft access standards.
    Sec. 549. Investigation of complaints.
    Sec. 550. Removal of outdated references to passengers with
               disabilities.
    Sec. 551. On-board wheelchairs in aircraft cabin.
    Sec. 552. Aircraft accessibility.

                       Subtitle C--Air Service Development

    Sec. 561. Essential air service reforms.
    Sec. 562. Small community air service development grants.
    Sec. 563. GAO study and report on the alternate essential air service
               pilot program.
    Sec. 564. Essential air service in parts of Alaska.
    Sec. 565. Essential air service community petition for review.
    Sec. 566. Essential air service authorization.
    Sec. 567. GAO study on costs of essential air service.
    Sec. 568. Response time for applications to provide essential air
               service.
    Sec. 569. GAO study on certain airport delays.
    Sec. 570. Report on restoration of small community air service.

               TITLE VI--MODERNIZING THE NATIONAL AIRSPACE SYSTEM

    Sec. 601. Instrument landing system installation.
    Sec. 602. Navigation aids study.
    Sec. 603. NextGen accountability review.
    Sec. 604. Airspace access.
    Sec. 605. FAA contract tower workforce audit.
    Sec. 606. Air traffic control tower safety.
    Sec. 607. Air traffic services data reports.
    Sec. 608. Consideration of small hub control towers.
    Sec. 609. Flight profile optimization.
    Sec. 610. Extension of enhanced air traffic services pilot program.
    Sec. 611. Federal contact tower wage determinations and positions.
    Sec. 612. Briefing on radio communications coverage around mountainous
               terrain.
    Sec. 613. Aeronautical mobile communications services.
    Sec. 614. Delivery of clearance to pilots via internet protocol.
    Sec. 615. Study on congested airspace.
    Sec. 616. Briefing on LIT VORTAC project.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1029]]

    Sec. 617. Surface surveillance.
    Sec. 618. Consideration of third-party services.
    Sec. 619. NextGen programs.
    Sec. 620. Contract Tower Program.
    Sec. 621. Remote towers.
    Sec. 622. Audit of legacy systems.
    Sec. 623. Air Traffic Control Facility Realignment study.
    Sec. 624. Air traffic control tower replacement process report.
    Sec. 625. Contract tower program safety enhancements.
    Sec. 626. Sense of Congress on use of advanced surveillance in oceanic
               airspace.
    Sec. 627. Low-altitude routes for vertical flight.
    Sec. 628. Required consultation with National Parks Overflights Advisory
               Group.
    Sec. 629. Upgrading and replacing aging air traffic systems.
    Sec. 630. Airspace integration for space launch and reentry.
    Sec. 631. Update to FAA order on airway planning standard.

                  TITLE VII--MODERNIZING AIRPORT INFRASTRUCTURE

              Subtitle A--Airport Improvement Program Modifications

    Sec. 701. Development of airport plans.
    Sec. 702. AIP definitions.
    Sec. 703. Revenue diversion penalty enhancement.
    Sec. 704. Extension of competitive access report requirement.
    Sec. 705. Renewal of certain leases.
    Sec. 706. Community use of airport land.
    Sec. 707. Price adjustment provisions.
    Sec. 708. Updating United States Government's share of project costs.
    Sec. 709. Allowable project costs and letters of intent.
    Sec. 710. Small airport letters of intent.
    Sec. 711. Prohibition on provision of airport improvement grant funds to
               certain entities that have violated intellectual property
               rights of United States entities.
    Sec. 712. Apportionments.
    Sec. 713. PFC turnback reduction.
    Sec. 714. Airport safety and resilient infrastructure discretionary
               program.
    Sec. 715. Special carryover assumption rule.
    Sec. 716. Small airport fund.
    Sec. 717. Revision of discretionary categories.
    Sec. 718. Discretionary fund for terminal development costs.
    Sec. 719. Protecting general aviation airports from closure.
    Sec. 720. State block grant program.
    Sec. 721. Innovative financing techniques.
    Sec. 722. Long-term management plans.
    Sec. 723. Alternative project delivery.
    Sec. 724. Nonmovement area surveillance surface display systems pilot
               program.
    Sec. 725. Airport accessibility.
    Sec. 726. General aviation airport runway extension pilot program.
    Sec. 727. Repeal of obsolete criminal provisions.
    Sec. 728. Transfers of air traffic systems acquired with AIP funding.
    Sec. 729. National priority system formulas.
    Sec. 730. Minority and disadvantaged business participation.
    Sec. 731. Extension of provision relating to airport access roads in
               remote locations.
    Sec. 732. Populous counties without airports.
    Sec. 733. AIP handbook update.
    Sec. 734. GAO audit of airport financial reporting program.
    Sec. 735. GAO study of onsite airport generation.
    Sec. 736. Transportation demand management at airports.
    Sec. 737. Coastal airports assessment.
    Sec. 738. Airport investment partnership program.
    Sec. 739. Special rule for reclassification of certain unclassified
               airports.
    Sec. 740. Permanent solar powered taxiway edge lighting systems.
    Sec. 741. Secondary runways.
    Sec. 742. Increasing energy efficiency of airports and meeting current
               and future energy power demands.
    Sec. 743. Review of airport layout plans.
    Sec. 744. Protection of safe and efficient use of airspace at airports.
    Sec. 745. Electric aircraft infrastructure pilot program.
    Sec. 746. Curb management practices.
    Sec. 747. Notice of funding opportunity.
    Sec. 748. Runway safety projects.
    Sec. 749. Airport diagram terminology.
    Sec. 750. GAO study on fee transparency by fixed based operators.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1030]]

    Sec. 751. Minority and disadvantaged business participation.
    Sec. 752. Prohibition on certain runway length requirements.
    Sec. 753. Report on Indo-Pacific airports.
    Sec. 754. GAO study on implementation of grants at certain airports.
    Sec. 755. GAO study on transit access.
    Sec. 756. Banning municipal airport.
    Sec. 757. Disputed changes of sponsorship at federally obligated,
               publicly owned airport.
    Sec. 758. Procurement regulations applicable to FAA multimodal projects.
    Sec. 759. Buckeye 940 release of deed restrictions.
    Sec. 760. Washington, DC Metropolitan Area Special Flight Rules Area.
    Sec. 761. Study on air cargo operations in Puerto Rico.
    Sec. 762. Progress reports on the national transition plan related to a
               fluorine-free firefighting foam.
    Sec. 763. Report on airport notifications.
    Sec. 764. Study on competition and airport access.
    Sec. 765. Regional airport capacity study.
    Sec. 766. Study on autonomous and electric-powered track systems.
    Sec. 767. PFAS-related resources for airports.
    Sec. 768. Limitation on certain rolling stock procurements.
    Sec. 769. Maintaining safe fire and rescue staffing levels.
    Sec. 770. Grant assurances.
    Sec. 771. Aviation fuel in Alaska.
    Sec. 772. Application of amendments.
    Sec. 773. Prohibition on use of amounts to process or administer any
               application for the joint use of Homestead Air Reserve Base
               with civil aviation.
    Sec. 774. Universal changing station.
    Sec. 774A. Airport human trafficking prevention grants.
    Sec. 774B. Study on improvements for certain nonhub airports.

                     Subtitle B--Passenger Facility Charges

    Sec. 775. Additional permitted uses of passenger facility charge
               revenue.
    Sec. 776. Passenger facility charge streamlining.

          Subtitle C--Noise And Environmental Programs And Streamlining

    Sec. 781. Streamlining consultation process.
    Sec. 782. Repeal of burdensome emissions credit requirements.
    Sec. 783. Expedited environmental review and one Federal decision.
    Sec. 784. Subchapter III definitions.
    Sec. 785. Pilot program extension.
    Sec. 786. Part 150 noise standards update.
    Sec. 787. Reducing community aircraft noise exposure.
    Sec. 788. Categorical exclusions.
    Sec. 789. Updating presumed to conform limits.
    Sec. 790. Recommendations on reducing rotorcraft noise in District of
               Columbia.
    Sec. 791. UFP study.
    Sec. 792. Aircraft Noise Advisory Committee.
    Sec. 793. Community collaboration program.
    Sec. 794. Information sharing requirement.
    Sec. 795. Mechanisms to reduce helicopter noise.

                          TITLE VIII--GENERAL AVIATION

    Sec. 801. Reexamination of pilots or certificate holders.
    Sec. 802. GAO review of Pilot's Bill of Rights.
    Sec. 803. Data privacy.
    Sec. 804. Accountability for aircraft registration numbers.
    Sec. 805. Timely resolution of investigations.
    Sec. 806. All makes and models authorization.
    Sec. 807. Response to letter of investigation.
    Sec. 808. ADS-B out equipage study; Vehicle-to-Vehicle link program.
    Sec. 809. Ensuring safe landings during off-airport operations.
    Sec. 810. Development of low-cost voluntary ADS-B.
    Sec. 811. Airshow safety team.
    Sec. 812. Aircraft registration validity during renewal.
    Sec. 813. Temporary airman certificates.
    Sec. 814. Letter of deviation authority.
    Sec. 815. BasicMed for examiners administering tests or proficiency
               checks.
    Sec. 816. Designee locator tool improvements.
    Sec. 817. Deadline to eliminate aircraft registration backlog.
    Sec. 818. Part 135 air carrier certificate backlog.
    Sec. 819. Enhancing processes for authorizing aircraft for service in
               commuter and on-demand operations.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1031]]

    Sec. 820. Flight instructor certificates.
    Sec. 821. Consistency of policy application in flight standards and
               aircraft certification.
    Sec. 822. Application of policies, orders, and guidance.
    Sec. 823. Expansion of the regulatory consistency communications board.
    Sec. 824. Modernization of special airworthiness certification
               rulemaking deadline.
    Sec. 825. Exclusion of gyroplanes from fuel system requirements.
    Sec. 826. Public aircraft flight time logging eligibility.
    Sec. 827. EAGLE initiative.
    Sec. 828. Expansion of BasicMed.
    Sec. 829. Prohibition on using ADS-B out data to initiate an
               investigation.
    Sec. 830. Charitable flight fuel reimbursement exemptions.
    Sec. 831. GAO report on charitable flights.
    Sec. 832. Flight instruction or testing.
    Sec. 833. National coordination and oversight of designated pilot
               examiners.
    Sec. 834. Part 135 pilot supplemental oxygen requirement.

                 TITLE IX--NEW ENTRANTS AND AEROSPACE INNOVATION

                      Subtitle A--Unmanned Aircraft Systems

    Sec. 901. Definitions.
    Sec. 902. Unmanned aircraft in the Arctic.
    Sec. 903. Small UAS safety standards technical corrections.
    Sec. 904. Airport safety and airspace hazard mitigation and enforcement.
    Sec. 905. Radar data pilot program.
    Sec. 906. Electronic conspicuity study.
    Sec. 907. Remote identification alternative means of compliance.
    Sec. 908. Part 107 waiver improvements.
    Sec. 909. Environmental review and noise certification.
    Sec. 910. Unmanned aircraft system use in wildfire response.
    Sec. 911. Pilot program for UAS inspections of FAA infrastructure.
    Sec. 912. Drone infrastructure inspection grant program.
    Sec. 913. Drone education and workforce training grant program.
    Sec. 914. Drone workforce training program study.
    Sec. 915. Termination of Advanced Aviation Advisory Committee.
    Sec. 916. Unmanned and Autonomous Flight Advisory Committee.
    Sec. 917. NextGen Advisory Committee membership expansion.
    Sec. 918. Interagency coordination.
    Sec. 919. Review of regulations to enable unescorted UAS operations.
    Sec. 920. Extension of BEYOND program.
    Sec. 921. UAS integration strategy.
    Sec. 922. Extension of Know Before You Fly campaign.
    Sec. 923. Public aircraft definition.
    Sec. 924. FAA comprehensive plan on UAS automation.
    Sec. 925. UAS test ranges.
    Sec. 926. Public safety use of tethered UAS.
    Sec. 927. Extending special authority for certain unmanned aircraft
               systems.
    Sec. 928. Recreational operations of drone systems.
    Sec. 929. Applications for designation.
    Sec. 930. Beyond visual line of sight operations for unmanned aircraft
               systems.
    Sec. 931. Acceptable levels of risk and risk assessment methodology.
    Sec. 932. Third-party service approvals.
    Sec. 933. Special authority for transport of hazardous materials by
               commercial package delivery unmanned aircraft systems.
    Sec. 934. Operations over high seas.
    Sec. 935. Protection of public gatherings.
    Sec. 936. Covered drone prohibition.
    Sec. 937. Expanding use of innovative technologies in the Gulf of
               Mexico.

                        Subtitle B--Advanced Air Mobility

    Sec. 951. Definitions.
    Sec. 952. Sense of Congress on FAA leadership in advanced air mobility.
    Sec. 953. Application of National Environmental Policy Act categorical
               exclusions for vertiport projects.
    Sec. 954. Advanced Air Mobility Working Group amendments.
    Sec. 955. Rules for operation of powered-lift aircraft.
    Sec. 956. Advanced propulsion systems regulations.
    Sec. 957. Powered-lift aircraft entry into service.
    Sec. 958. Infrastructure supporting vertical flight.
    Sec. 959. Charting of aviation infrastructure.
    Sec. 960. Advanced air mobility infrastructure pilot program extension.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1032]]

    Sec. 961. Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies.

                        TITLE X--RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

                         Subtitle A--General Provisions

    Sec. 1001. Definitions.
    Sec. 1002. Research, engineering, and development authorization of
               appropriations.
    Sec. 1003. Report on implementation; funding for safety research and
               development.
    Sec. 1004. National aviation research plan modification.
    Sec. 1005. Advanced Materials Center of Excellence enhancements.
    Sec. 1006. Center of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
    Sec. 1007. ASSUREd Safe credentialing authority.
    Sec. 1008. CLEEN engine and airframe technology partnership.
    Sec. 1009. High-speed flight testing.
    Sec. 1010. High-speed aircraft pathway to integration study.
    Sec. 1011. Operating high-speed flights in high altitude Class E
               airspace.
    Sec. 1012. Electric propulsion aircraft operations study.
    Sec. 1013. Contract weather observers program.
    Sec. 1014. Airfield pavement technology program.
    Sec. 1015. Review of FAA management of research and development.
    Sec. 1016. Research and development of FAA's aeronautical information
               systems modernization activities.
    Sec. 1017. Center of Excellence for Alternative Jet Fuels and
               Environment.
    Sec. 1018. Next generation radio altimeters.
    Sec. 1019. Hydrogen aviation strategy.
    Sec. 1020. Aviation fuel systems.
    Sec. 1021. Air traffic surveillance over United States controlled
               oceanic airspace and other remote locations.
    Sec. 1022. Aviation weather technology review.
    Sec. 1023. Air traffic surface operations safety.
    Sec. 1024. Technology review of artificial intelligence and machine
               learning technologies.
    Sec. 1025. Research plan for commercial supersonic research.
    Sec. 1026. Electromagnetic spectrum research and development.
    Sec. 1027. Research plan on the remote tower program.
    Sec. 1028. Air traffic control training.
    Sec. 1029. Report on aviation cybersecurity directives.
    Sec. 1030. Turbulence research and development.
    Sec. 1031. Rule of construction regarding collaborations.
    Sec. 1032. Limitation.

         Subtitle B--Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Advanced Air Mobility

    Sec. 1041. Definitions.
    Sec. 1042. Interagency working group.
    Sec. 1043. Strategic research plan.
    Sec. 1044. Federal Aviation Administration unmanned aircraft system and
               advanced air mobility research and development.
    Sec. 1045. Partnerships for research, development, demonstration, and
               testing.

                             TITLE XI--MISCELLANEOUS

    Sec. 1101. Technical corrections.
    Sec. 1102. Transportation of organs.
    Sec. 1103. Acceptance of digital driver's license and identification
               cards.
    Sec. 1104. Quasquicentennial of aviation.
    Sec. 1105. Limitations for certain cargo aircraft.
    Sec. 1106. Prohibition on mandates.
    Sec. 1107. COVID-19 vaccination status.
    Sec. 1108. Rulemaking related to operating high-speed flights in high
               altitude Class E airspace.
    Sec. 1109. FAA leadership in hydrogen aviation.
    Sec. 1110. Advancing global leadership on civil supersonic aircraft.
    Sec. 1111. Learning period.
    Sec. 1112. Counter-UAS authorities.
    Sec. 1113. Study on air cargo operations.
    Sec. 1114. Wing-in-ground-effect craft.
    Sec. 1115. Certificates of authorization or waiver.
    Sec. 1116. Designation of additional port of entry for the importation
               and exportation of wildlife and wildlife products by the
               United States Fish and Wildlife Service.

                 TITLE XII--NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD

    Sec. 1201. Short title.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1033]]

    Sec. 1202. Authorization of appropriations.
    Sec. 1203. Clarification of treatment of territories.
    Sec. 1204. Additional workforce training.
    Sec. 1205. Overtime annual report termination.
    Sec. 1206. Strategic workforce plan.
    Sec. 1207. Travel budgets.
    Sec. 1208. Notification requirement.
    Sec. 1209. Board justification of closed unacceptable recommendations.
    Sec. 1210. Miscellaneous investigative authorities.
    Sec. 1211. Public availability of accident reports.
    Sec. 1212. Ensuring accountability for timeliness of reports.
    Sec. 1213. Ensuring access to data.
    Sec. 1214. Public availability of safety recommendations.
    Sec. 1215. Improving delivery of family assistance.
    Sec. 1216. Updating civil penalty authority.
    Sec. 1217. Electronic availability of public docket records.
    Sec. 1218. Drug-free workplace.
    Sec. 1219. Accessibility in workplace.
    Sec. 1220. Most Wanted List.
    Sec. 1221. Technical corrections.
    Sec. 1222. Air safety investigators.
    Sec. 1223. Review of National Transportation Safety Board procurements.

                         TITLE XIII--REVENUE PROVISIONS

    Sec. 1301. Expenditure authority from airport and airway trust fund.
    Sec. 1302. Extension of taxes funding airport and airway trust fund.

    SEC. 2. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>> DEFINITIONS.

        In this Act:
                (1) Administrator.--Unless otherwise specified, the term
            ``Administrator'' means the Administrator of the Federal
            Aviation Administration.
                (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) Comptroller general.--The term ``Comptroller General''
            means the Comptroller General of the United States.
                (4) FAA.--The term ``FAA'' means the Federal Aviation
            Administration.
                (5) Nextgen.--The term ``NextGen'' means the Next Generation
            Air Transportation System.
                (6) Secretary.--Unless otherwise specified, the term
            ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Transportation.

    TITLE I-- <<NOTE: Time periods.>> 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 (6) by striking ``and'' at the end;
                (2) by striking paragraph (7) and inserting the following:
                ``(7) $3,350,000,000 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 ``May 10, 2024'' and inserting ``September 30, 2028''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1034]]

    SEC. 102. FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT.

        Section 48101(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by
    striking paragraphs (1) through (7) and inserting the following:
                ``(1) $3,191,250,000 for fiscal year 2024.
                ``(2) $3,575,000,000 for fiscal year 2025.
                ``(3) $3,625,000,000 for fiscal year 2026.
                ``(4) $3,675,000,000 for fiscal year 2027.
                ``(5) $3,725,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.
    SEC. 103. OPERATIONS.

        (a) In General.--Section 106(k)(1) of title 49, United States Code,
    is amended by striking subparagraphs (A) through (G) and inserting the
    following:
                        ``(A) $12,729,627,000 for fiscal year 2024;
                        ``(B) $13,055,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
                        ``(C) $13,354,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
                        ``(D) $13,650,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
                        ``(E) $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) $42,018,000 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 for the period beginning on October 1, 2023, and ending on
            May 10, 2024'' and inserting ``in each of fiscal years 2024
            through 2028''; 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 on October 1, 2028.''.
    SEC. 104. EXTENSION OF MISCELLANEOUS EXPIRING AUTHORITIES.

        (a) Authority to Provide Insurance.--Section 44310(b) of title 49,
    United States Code, is amended by striking ``May 10, 2024'' and
    inserting ``September 30, 2028''.
        (b) Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Palau.--Section 47115(i) of
    title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``fiscal years 2018
    through 2023, and for the period beginning on October 1, 2023, and
    ending on May 10, 2024,'' and inserting ``fiscal years 2024 through
    2028,''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1035]]

        (c) Weather Reporting Programs.--Section 48105 of title 49, United
    States Code, is amended by striking paragraph (5) and adding at the end
    the following:
                ``(5) $60,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2024 through
            2028.''.

        (d) Midway Island Airport.--Section 186(d) of the Vision 100--
    Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act (Public Law 108-176) <<NOTE: 117
    Stat. 2518.>> is amended by striking ``fiscal years 2018 through 2023
    and for the period beginning on October 1, 2023, and ending on May 10,
    2024,'' and inserting ``for fiscal years 2024 through 2028,''.

        (e) Extension of the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory
    Committee.--Section 202(h) of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018
    (Public Law 115-254) <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>> is amended by striking
    ``shall terminate'' and all that follows through the period at the end
    and inserting ``shall terminate on October 1, 2028.''.

                TITLE II--FAA OVERSIGHT AND ORGANIZATIONAL REFORM

    SEC. 201. 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) <<NOTE: President. Appointments.>> 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 member of the
                          Armed Forces;
                              ``(iii) <<NOTE: Time period.>> not have
                          retired from the Armed Forces within the 7 years
                          preceding nomination; and
                              ``(iv) 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.--
                        ``(A) In general.--The Administrator has a Deputy
                    Administrator, who shall be appointed by the President.
                        ``(B) Qualifications.--The Deputy Administrator
                    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, the President shall consider the
                    fitness of

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1036]]

                    the individual to carry out efficiently the duties and
                    powers of the office, including the duty to act for the
                    Administrator when the Administrator is absent or unable
                    to serve, or when the office of Administrator is vacant.
                        ``(D) Reporting chain.--The Deputy Administrator
                    reports directly to the Administrator.
                        ``(E) Duties.--The Deputy Administrator shall carry
                    out duties and powers prescribed by the Administrator.
                        ``(F) Compensation.--
                              ``(i) Annual rate of basic pay.--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.
                              ``(ii) Exception.--A retired regular officer
                          of the Armed Forces serving as the Deputy
                          Administrator is entitled to hold a rank and grade
                          not lower than that held when appointed as the
                          Deputy Administrator and may elect to receive--
                                        ``(I) the pay provided for the
                                    Deputy Administrator 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 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) Leadership of the administration defined.--In this
            section, the term `leadership of the Administration' means--
                        ``(A) the Administrator under paragraph (1); and
                        ``(B) the Deputy Administrator under paragraph
                    (2).''.
    SEC. 202. ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR FOR RULEMAKING AND REGULATORY
                            IMPROVEMENT.

        (a) Assistant Administrator for Rulemaking and Regulatory
    Improvement.--Section 106 of title 49, United States Code, is further
    amended by striking subsections (c) and (d) and inserting the following:
        ``(c) Assistant Administrator for Rulemaking and Regulatory
    Improvement.--There is an Assistant Administrator for Rulemaking and
    Regulatory Improvement who shall be appointed by the Administrator and
    shall--
                ``(1) be responsible for developing and managing the
            execution of a regulatory agenda for the Administration that
            meets statutory and Administration deadlines, including by--
                        ``(A) prioritizing rulemaking projects that are
                    necessary to improve safety;
                        ``(B) establishing the regulatory agenda of the
                    Administration; and
                        ``(C) 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;
                ``(2) 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;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1037]]

                ``(3) on an ongoing basis, review the regulations of the
            Administration in effect to--
                        ``(A) improve safety;
                        ``(B) reduce undue regulatory burden;
                        ``(C) replace prescriptive regulations with
                    performance-based regulations, as appropriate;
                        ``(D) prevent duplicative regulations; and
                        ``(E) increase regulatory clarity and transparency
                    whenever possible;
                ``(4) make recommendations for the review of the
            Administrator under subsection (f)(3)(C)(ii);
                ``(5) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> 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--
                        ``(A) acknowledging receipt of such petition;
                        ``(B) confirming completeness of such petition;
                        ``(C) providing an initial indication of the
                    complexity of the request and how such complexity may
                    impact the timeline for adjudication; and
                        ``(D) requesting any additional information, as
                    appropriate, that would assist in the consideration of
                    the petition;
                ``(6) 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 interest of the public
            to amend a rule to reduce the future need of waivers and
            exemptions; and
                ``(7) promulgate regulatory updates as determined more
            efficient or in the best interest of the public under paragraph
            (6).

        ``(d) [Reserved].''.
        (b) Systemically Addressing Need for Exemptions and Waivers.--
    Not <<NOTE: Deadline. Briefing.>> later than 30 months after the date of
    enactment of this Act, the Assistant Administrator for Rulemaking and
    Regulatory Improvement of the FAA shall brief the appropriate committees
    of Congress and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the
    House of Representatives on the methodology developed pursuant to
    section 106(c)(6) of title 49, United States Code (as added by this
    section).
    SEC. 203. 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 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
            Administrator 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--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1038]]

                              ``(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 ownership, equity, or security interest,
                          including a stock option; and
                        ``(B) does not include securities held in an index
                    fund.''.
    SEC. 204. 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)''; and
                        (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'';
                (3) in paragraph (3)--
                        (A) in subparagraph (A)--
                              (i) by striking ``In the performance'' and
                          inserting the following:
                              ``(i) Issuance of regulations.--In the
                          performance'';
                              (ii) by striking ``The Administrator shall
                          act'' and inserting the following:
                              ``(ii) Petitions for rulemaking.--The
                          Administrator shall act'';
                              (iii) by striking ``The Administrator shall
                          issue'' and inserting the following:
                              ``(iii) Rulemaking timeline.--The
                          Administrator shall issue''; and
                              (iv) by striking ``On February 1'' and
                          inserting the following:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1039]]

                              ``(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) <<NOTE: Regulations.>>  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 FAA
                                    Reauthorization Act of 2024) in any
                                    year; or
                                        ``(II) is significant.
                              ``(ii) <<NOTE: Determination.>> Significant
                          regulations.--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 FAA
                                    Reauthorization Act of 2024);
                                        ``(II) raises novel or serious legal
                                    or policy issues that will substantially
                                    and materially affect other
                                    transportation modes; or
                                        ``(III) adversely affects, 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
                                    community.
                              ``(iii) Emergency regulation.--
                                        ``(I) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  In
                                    general.--In an emergency as determined
                                    by the Administrator, the Administrator
                                    may issue a final regulation described
                                    in clause (i) without prior approval of
                                    the Secretary.
                                        ``(II) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>
                                    Objection.--If the Secretary objects to
                                    a regulation issued under subclause (II)
                                    in writing not later than 5 days
                                    (excluding Saturday, Sundays, and legal
                                    public holidays) after 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 approval
                                    of the Secretary under clause (i)
                                    (excluding a regulation issued under
                                    clause (iii)); or
                                        ``(II) is a routine or frequent
                                    action or a procedural action.
                              ``(v) <<NOTE: Records. Deadline.>>
                          Timeline.--The Administrator shall submit a copy
                          of any proposed or final regulation requiring

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1040]]

                          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 not later than 30 days after receiving
                          the regulation. If the Secretary fails to approve
                          or return the regulation with comments to the
                          Administrator not later than 30 days after
                          receiving such regulation, the regulation shall be
                          deemed to have been approved by the Secretary.
                        ``(C) Periodic review.--
                              ``(i) In general.--For any significant
                          regulation issued after the date of enactment of
                          the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, 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 3 years after the effective
                          date of such regulation.
                              ``(ii) Discretionary review.--The
                          Administrator may review any regulation that has
                          been in effect for more than 3 years.
                              ``(iii) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Substance of
                          review.--In performing a review under clause (i)
                          or (ii), the Administrator shall determine if--
                                        ``(I) the cost assumptions
                                    supporting the regulation 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 duties and powers 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;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1041]]

                                        ``(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.--Section 106 of title 49, United States
    Code, is amended by striking subsection (g) and inserting the following:
        ``(g) [reserved].''.
        (c) <<NOTE: 49 USC 106 note.>> 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 by
    statute or by delegation that was in effect on the day before the date
    of the enactment of this Act.
    SEC. 205. REGULATORY MATERIALS IMPROVEMENT.

        (a) Internal Regulatory Process Review.--
                (1) In general.--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Establishment.>>  Review team.--The
                    Administrator shall establish a regulatory process
                    review team (in this section referred to as the ``review
                    team'') comprising of FAA employees and individuals
                    described in paragraph (2) to develop recommendations to
                    improve the timeliness, performance, and accountability
                    of the development and promulgation of regulatory
                    materials.
                        (B) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--The
                    review team shall submit to the Administrator a report
                    with recommendations in accordance with the deadlines
                    specified in paragraph (5).
                (2) Other members; consultation.--
                        (A) In general.--The review team shall include at
                    least 3 outside experts and or academics with relevant
                    experience or expertise in aviation safety and at least
                    1 outside expert with relevant experience or expertise
                    in improving the performance, accountability, and
                    transparency of the Federal regulatory process,
                    particularly as such process relates to aviation safety.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1042]]

                        (B) Consultation.--The review team may, as
                    appropriate, consult with industry stakeholders.
                (3) Contents of review.--In conducting the review required
            under paragraph (1), the review team shall do the following:
                        (A) <<NOTE: Proposal.>>  Develop a proposal for
                    rationalizing processes and eliminating redundant
                    administrative review of regulatory materials within the
                    FAA, particularly when FAA-sponsored rulemaking
                    committees and stakeholders have collaborated on the
                    proposed regulations.
                        (B) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  With respect to each
                    office within the FAA that reviews regulatory materials,
                    assess--
                              (i) the timeline assigned to each such office
                          to complete the review of regulatory materials;
                              (ii) the actual time spent for such review;
                              (iii) opportunities to reduce the actual time
                          for such review; and
                              (iv) whether clear roles, responsibilities,
                          requirements, and expectations are clearly defined
                          for each office required to review the regulatory
                          materials.
                        (C) Define and document the roles and
                    responsibilities of each office within the FAA that
                    develops, drafts, or reviews each kind of regulatory
                    material in order to ensure that hiring reflects who,
                    where, and how the employees of each such office
                    function in the rulemaking framework.
                        (D) Describe any organizational changes or the need
                    to hire additional FAA employees, if necessary, and take
                    into consideration whether current positions are
                    staffed, to reduce delays in publication of regulatory
                    materials.
                        (E) <<NOTE: Public information. Web
                    posting. Determination.>> In order to provide the public
                    with detailed information on the progress of the
                    development of regulatory materials, identify reporting
                    mechanisms and develop a template and appropriate system
                    metrics for making publicly available on a website a
                    progress tracker that updates to show the major stages
                    (as determined by the Administrator) of the development
                    of regulatory materials as such materials are initiated,
                    in progress, and completed.
                        (F) Consider changes to the best practices of the
                    FAA under rules governing ex parte communications,
                    including communications with international validating
                    authorities, and with consideration of the public
                    interest in transparency, to provide flexibility for FAA
                    employees to discuss regulatory materials, particularly
                    for such regulatory materials related to enhancing
                    aviation safety and the aviation international
                    leadership of the United States.
                        (G) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>> Recommend methods
                    by which the FAA can incorporate research funded by the
                    Department of Transportation, in addition to consensus
                    standards and conformance assessment processes developed
                    by recognized industry standards organizations into
                    regulatory materials, to keep pace with rapid changes in
                    aviation technologies and processes.
                        (H) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>> Recommend
                    mechanisms to optimize the roles of the Office of the
                    Secretary of Transportation and the Office of Management
                    and Budget, with the objective of improving the
                    efficiency of regulatory activity.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1043]]

                (4) Action plan.--The Administrator shall develop and
            transmit to the appropriate committees of Congress an action
            plan to implement, as appropriate, the recommendations developed
            by the review team.
                (5) Deadlines.--The requirements of this section shall be
            subject to the following deadlines:
                        (A) Not later than 120 days after the date of
                    enactment of this section, the review team shall
                    complete the evaluation required under paragraph (1) and
                    submit to the Administrator the report of the review
                    team on such evaluation.
                        (B) Not later than 30 days after the date on which
                    the review team submits the report under subparagraph
                    (A), the Administrator shall develop and publish the
                    action plan under paragraph (4).
                (6) Sunset.--The review team shall terminate upon completion
            of the requirements under paragraph (5).
                (7) Administrative procedure requirements inapplicable.--The
            provisions of subchapter II of chapter 5, and chapter 7, of
            title 5, United States Code (commonly known as the
            ``Administrative Procedure Act'') shall not apply to any
            activities of the review team in carrying out the requirements
            of this section.
                (8) Regulatory materials defined.--In this subsection, the
            term ``regulatory materials'' means rules, advisory circulars,
            statements of policy, and other materials related to aviation
            safety regulations, as well as other materials pertaining to
            training and operation of aeronautical products.

        (b) Review of Non-regulatory Materials.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--Not later than 3 years
            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 FAA to improve the timeliness, transparency,
            development, and issuance of such materials.
                (2) Contents of review.--In conducting the review under
            paragraph (1), the inspector general shall--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  provide
                    recommendations for improving processes and eliminating
                    non-value-added reviews of non-regulatory materials
                    within the FAA 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;
                        (B) consider, with respect to each office within the
                    FAA and the Department of Transportation that reviews
                    non-regulatory materials--
                              (i) the timeline assigned to each such office
                          to complete the review of such materials;
                              (ii) the actual time spent for such review;
                          and
                              (iii) opportunities to reduce the actual time
                          spent for such review;
                        (C) describe any organizational changes and
                    additional resources that the Administrator needs, if
                    necessary, to reduce delays in the development and
                    publication of proposed non-regulatory materials;
                        (D) consider to what extent reporting mechanisms and
                    templates could be used to provide the public with more

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1044]]

                    consistent information on the development status of non-
                    regulatory materials;
                        (E) consider changes to the application of rules
                    governing ex parte communications by the Administrator
                    to provide flexibility for employees of the FAA to
                    discuss non-regulatory materials with aviation
                    stakeholders and foreign aviation authorities to promote
                    United States aviation leadership;
                        (F) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommend methods
                    by which the Administrator can incorporate standards set
                    by recognized industry standards organizations, as such
                    term is defined in section 224(c), into non-regulatory
                    materials to keep pace with rapid changes in aerospace
                    technology and processes; and
                        (G) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  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.
                (3) Consultation.--In conducting the review under paragraph
            (1), 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.
                (4) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the inspector
            general initiates the review under paragraph (1), the inspector
            general shall submit to the Administrator a report on such
            review.
                (5) Action plan.--
                        (A) In general.--The Administrator shall develop an
                    action plan to implement, as appropriate, the
                    recommendations contained in the report submitted under
                    paragraph (4).
                        (B) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Briefing.--Not later than
                    90 days after receiving the report under paragraph (4),
                    the Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees
                    of Congress on such plan.
                (6) Non-regulatory materials defined.--In this subsection,
            the term ``non-regulatory materials'' means orders, statements
            of policy, guidance, technical standards, and other materials
            related to aviation safety, training, and operation of
            aeronautical products.
    SEC. 206. FUTURE OF NEXTGEN.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. 49 USC 40101 note.>>  Key Programs.--Not later
    than December 31, 2025, the Administrator shall operationalize all of
    the key programs under the NextGen program as described in the
    deployment plan of the FAA.

        (b) Office Termination.--The NextGen Office of the FAA shall
    terminate on December 31, 2025.
        (c) Transfer of Residual NextGen Implementation Functions.--If the
    Administrator does not complete the air traffic modernization project
    known as the NextGen program by the deadline specified in subsection
    (a), the Administrator shall transfer the residual functions for
    completing the NextGen program to the Airspace Modernization Office of
    the FAA established under section 207.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1045]]

        (d) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Transfer of NextGen Advisory Committee.--Not
    later than December 31, 2025, management of the NextGen Advisory
    Committee shall transfer to the Chief Operating Officer of the air
    traffic control system.

        (e) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Transfer of Advanced Air Mobility
    Functions.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this
    Act, any advanced air mobility relevant functions, duties, and
    responsibilities of the NAS Systems Engineering and Integration Office
    or other offices within the Office of NextGen of the FAA shall be
    incorporated into the Office of Aviation Safety of the FAA.

        (f) Remaining Activities.--In carrying out subsection (a), and after
    implementing subsections (c) through (e), the Administrator shall
    transfer any remaining duties, authorities, activities, personnel, and
    assets managed by the Office of NextGen of the FAA to other offices of
    the FAA, as appropriate.
        (g) Technical Center for Advanced Aerospace.--Section 106 of title
    49, United States Code, is further amended by striking subsection (h)
    and inserting the following:
        ``(h) <<NOTE: Establishment.>>  Technical Center for Advanced
    Aerospace.--
                ``(1) In general.--There is established within the
            Administration a technology center 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1046]]

                        ``(F) carrying out any other duties as determined
                    appropriate by the Administrator.''.

        (h) 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. 207. <<NOTE: 49 USC 106 note.>> AIRSPACE MODERNIZATION
                            OFFICE.

        (a) Establishment.--
                (1) In general.--On January 1, 2026, the Administrator shall
            establish within the FAA an Airspace Modernization Office (in
            this section referred to as the ``Office'').
                (2) Placement.--The Administrator may task an existing
            office of the FAA with the functions of the Office.
                (3) Duties.--The Office shall be responsible for--
                        (A) the research and development, systems
                    engineering, enterprise architecture, and portfolio
                    management for the continuous modernization of the
                    national airspace system;
                        (B) the development of an information-centric
                    national airspace system, including digitization of the
                    processes and technology that supports such system;
                        (C) improving the interoperability of FAA systems
                    and third-party systems that support safe operations in
                    the national airspace system; and
                        (D) developing and periodically updating an
                    integrated plan for the future state of the national
                    airspace system in coordination with other offices of
                    the FAA.

        (b) Integrated Plan Requirements.--The integrated plan developed by
    the Office shall be designed to ensure that the national airspace system
    meets future safety, security, mobility, efficiency, and capacity needs
    of a diverse and growing set of airspace users. The integrated plan
    shall include the following:
                (1) A description of the demand for services that will be
            required of the future air transportation system, and an
            explanation of how the demand projections were derived,
            including--
                        (A) the most likely range of average annual
                    resources required over the duration of the plan to cost
                    effectively maintain the safety, sustainability, and
                    other characteristics of national airspace operation and
                    the mission of the FAA; and
                        (B) <<NOTE: Estimate.>>  an estimate of FAA resource
                    requirements by user group, including expectations
                    concerning the growth of new entrants and potential new
                    users.
                (2) A roadmap for creating and implementing the integrated
            plan, including--
                        (A) the most significant technical, operational, and
                    personnel obstacles and the activities necessary to
                    overcome such obstacles, including the role of other
                    Federal agencies, corporations, institutions of higher
                    learning, and nonprofit organizations in carrying out
                    such activities;
                        (B) the annual anticipated cost of carrying out such
                    activities;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1047]]

                        (C) the technical milestones that will be used to
                    evaluate the activities; and
                        (D) identifying technology gaps that the
                    Administrator or industry may need to address to fully
                    implement the integrated plan.
                (3) A description of the operational concepts to meet the
            system performance requirements for all system users and a
            timeline and anticipated expenditures needed to develop and
            deploy the system.
                (4) A description of the management of the enterprise
            architecture framework for the introduction of any operational
            improvements and to inform FAA financial decision-making.
                (5) <<NOTE: Determination. Deadline.>>  A justification for
            the operational improvements that the Office determines will
            need to be developed and deployed by 2040 to meet the needs of
            national airspace users, including the benefits, costs, and
            risks of the preferred and alternative options.

        (c) Considerations.--In developing an initial integrated plan
    required under subsection (b) and carrying out such plan, the Office
    shall consider--
                (1) the results and recommendations of the independent
            report on implementation of the NextGen program under section
            603;
                (2) the status of the transition to, and deployment of,
            trajectory-based operations within the national airspace system;
            and
                (3) the findings of the audit required by section 622, and
            the resulting plan to replace or enhance the identified legacy
            systems within a reasonable timeframe.

        (d) Consultation.--In developing and carrying out the integrated
    plan, the Office shall consult with the NextGen Advisory Committee of
    the FAA.
        (e) Plan Deadline; Briefings.--
                (1) Plan deadline.--Not later than 3 years after the date of
            enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the
            Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the
            Senate, the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate, the
            Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
            Representatives, the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology
            of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on
            Appropriations of the House of Representatives an initial
            integrated plan required under subsection (a)(3)(D).
                (2) Annual briefings.--The Administrator shall provide the
            committees of Congress specified in paragraph (1) with an annual
            briefing describing the progress in carrying out the integrated
            plan required under subsection (a)(3)(D), including any changes
            to the plan, through 2028.

        (f) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  DOT Inspector General Review.--Not later
    than 180 days after submission of the initial integrated plan under
    subsection (e)(1), the inspector general of the Department of
    Transportation shall begin a review of the integrated plan and submit to
    the committees of Congress specified in subsection (e)(1) a report
    that--
                (1) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  assesses the justification for
            the integrated plan;
                (2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  provides any
            recommendations for improving the integrated plan; and
                (3) includes any other information that the inspector
            general determines appropriate.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1048]]

    SEC. 208. <<NOTE: Public information.>>  APPLICATION DASHBOARD AND
                            FEEDBACK PORTAL.

        (a) In General.-- <<NOTE: Determination.>> The Deputy Administrator
    of the FAA shall determine whether a publicly facing dashboard that
    provides applicants with the status of an application before the FAA
    would be--
                (1) beneficial to applicants;
                (2) an efficient use of resources to build, maintain, and
            update; or
                (3) duplicative with other efforts of the FAA to streamline
            and digitize paperwork and certification processes to provide an
            applicant with a greater awareness of the status of an
            application before the FAA.

        (b) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Recommendation.--Not later than 30 months
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Deputy Administrator shall
    provide to the Administrator a recommendation regarding the need for or
    benefits of a dashboard or other means by which to track an application
    status.

        (c) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 45 days after
    receiving recommendations under subsection (b), the Administrator shall
    brief the appropriate Committees of Congress on--
                (1) any recommendation received under subsection (b); and
                (2) any activities the Administrator is taking in response
            to such recommendation.

        (d) FAA Feedback Portal.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  In general.--The Deputy
            Administrator shall determine whether a publicly facing portal
            on the website of the FAA through which the public may provide
            feedback to the Administrator about experiences individuals have
            working with personnel of the FAA would be beneficial.
                (2) Requirements.--The Deputy Administrator shall ensure any
            portal established under this subsection asks questions that
            seek to gauge any shortcomings the FAA has in fulfilling the
            mission of the FAA or areas where the FAA is succeeding in
            meeting the mission of the FAA.

        (e) Application.--This section shall apply to applications relating
    to--
                (1) an aircraft, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance
            certification;
                (2) an airman or pilot certificate;
                (3) a medical certificate;
                (4) an operator certificate;
                (5) when authority under chapter 509 of title 51, United
            States Code, is explicitly delegated by the Secretary to the
            Administrator, a license or permit issued under such chapter;
                (6) an aircraft registration;
                (7) an operational approval, waiver, or exemption;
                (8) a legal interpretation;
                (9) an outstanding agency determination; and
                (10) any certificate not otherwise described in this
            subparagraph that is issued pursuant to chapter 447 of title 49,
            United States Code.
    SEC. 209. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON FAA ENGAGEMENT DURING RULEMAKING
                            ACTIVITIES.

        It is the sense of Congress that--
                (1) the Administrator should--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1049]]

                        (A) 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--
                              (i) inform the work of the Administrator;
                              (ii) assist the Administrator in developing
                          the scope of a rule; and
                              (iii) reduce the timeline for issuance of
                          proposed and final rules;
                        (B) rely on documented data and safety trends when
                    determining whether or not to proceed with a rulemaking
                    activity; and
                        (C) not consider a rulemaking activity required in
                    statute, for the purposes of ex parte communications, as
                    having been established on the date of enactment of the
                    related public law, but rather upon obtainment of a
                    regulation identifier number; 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. 210. 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. 211. MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL.

        Section 106 of title 49, United States Code, is further amended--
                (1) by transferring paragraph (8) of subsection (p) to
            subsection (r) and redesignating such paragraph as paragraph
            (7); 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 Federal
            Government may be appointed to the Council under subparagraph
            (C) or (D) of paragraph (2).
                ``(4) Functions.--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1050]]

                        ``(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 may 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) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  Meetings.--The Council
                    shall meet not less than 3 times annually or at the call
                    of the chair or the Administrator.
                        ``(C) Access to documents and staff.--The
                    Administrator 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1051]]

                        ``(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)(E) 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)(E).
                        ``(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 predecessor of the member 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 successor of the member takes
                    office.
                        ``(E) Removal.--Any member of the Council appointed
                    under paragraph (2) may be removed for cause by whomever
                    makes the appointment.
                        ``(F) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  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 the responsibilities of the Council
                    under this subsection.''.
    SEC. 212. 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:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1052]]

                        ``(A) Appointment.--There shall be a Chief Operating
                    Officer for the air traffic control system who 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) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  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
            performance agreement for the previous year, 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. 213. 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 Administrator shall submit to the
                    Secretary, the Committee on Transportation and
                    Infrastructure of

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1053]]

                    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 briefing.--In providing the report
                    under subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall include,
                    for each unfunded capital investment need, the
                    following:
                              ``(i) A summary description of such unfunded
                          capital investment need.
                              ``(ii) The 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 briefing
                    required under subparagraph (A) shall present unfunded
                    capital investment needs in overall urgency of priority.
                        ``(D) Unfunded capital investment need defined.--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 Administrator 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. 214. 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 Administrator.'';
                        (B) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``management''
                    and inserting ``management, systems management,'';
                        (C) by striking subparagraphs (C) and (D);
                        (D) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and (B) as
                    subparagraphs (B) and (C), respectively; and
                        (E) by inserting before subparagraph (B), as so
                    redesignated, the following:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1054]]

                        ``(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. 215. 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. 216. 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) <<NOTE: Deadline. Time period.>>  In
                    general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of
                    enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, 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, to the extent appropriate, 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1055]]

                    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. 217. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40131 note.>> CYBERSECURITY LEAD.

        (a) <<NOTE: Designation.>>  In General.--The Administrator shall
    designate an executive of the FAA to serve as the lead for the
    cybersecurity of FAA systems and hardware (in this section 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 III.
        (c) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 1 and 3 years
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Cybersecurity Lead shall
    brief the appropriate committees of Congress on the implementation of
    subtitle B of title III.
    SEC. 218. ELIMINATING FAA REPORTING AND UNNECESSARY REQUIREMENTS.

        (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, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 47101.>> 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) <<NOTE: Plan. List.>>  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).''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1056]]

        (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) <<NOTE: 49 USC 44901 note, 44903 note, 44904 note, 44935
    note.>>  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 subsection heading by striking
                    ``Definitions'' and inserting ``Definition of Alaska
                    Guide Pilot'';
                        (B) by striking ``, the following definitions
                    apply'' and all that follows through ``The term `Alaska
                    guide pilot' '' and inserting ``the term `Alaska guide
                    pilot' ''; and
                        (C) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) through (C)
                    as paragraphs (1) through (3) (and adjusting the margins
                    accordingly).

        (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 <<NOTE: 126
    Stat. 113.>> 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 and
                    header casing 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1057]]

    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 updates'' and
            inserting ``annually an annual briefing''; 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).

        (o) <<NOTE: 45 USC 165 note.>>  Biannual GAO Audit.--Any provision
    of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (Public Law 112-95),
    including any amendment made by such Act, that requires the Comptroller
    General to conduct an audit (including a recurring audit) shall have no
    force or effect.
    SEC. 219. AUTHORITY TO USE ELECTRONIC SERVICE.

        Section 46103 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in subsection (b)--
                        (A) in paragraph (1)--
                              (i) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``or''
                          after the semicolon;
                              (ii) in subparagraph (C) by striking the
                          period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and
                              (iii) by adding at the end the following:
                ``(D) by electronic or facsimile transmission to the person
            to be served or the designated agent of the person; or
                ``(E) as designated by regulation or guidance published in
            the Federal Register.''; and
                        (B) by adding at the end the following:
                ``(3) The date of service made by an electronic or facsimile
            method is--
                        ``(A) the date an electronic or facsimile
                    transmission is sent; or
                        ``(B) the date a notification is sent by an
                    electronic or facsimile method that a notice, process,
                    or action is immediately available and accessible in an
                    electronic database.''; and
                (2) in subsection (c) by striking the first sentence and
            inserting ``Service on an agent designated under this section
            shall be made at the office or usual place of residence of the
            agent or at the electronic or facsimile address designated by
            the agent.''.
    SEC. 220. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>> SAFETY AND EFFICIENCY
                            THROUGH DIGITIZATION OF FAA SYSTEMS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 180 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Certification. Requirement.>>  identify, at the
            discretion of the Administrator, not less than 3 processes of
            the FAA that result in a certification and require paper-based
            information exchange between external entities and the FAA or
            offices within the FAA (such

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1058]]

            as an aircraft certification, aircraft registration, or airmen
            certification) or authorization, an exemption, or a letter of
            authorization; and
                (2) initiate the digitization of such processes.

        (b) Requirements.--In carrying out the digitization required under
    subsection (a), the Administrator shall ensure that the digitization of
    any process allows for--
                (1) an applicant to track the application of such applicant
            throughout the period of submission and review of such
            application; and
                (2) the status of the application to be available upon
            demand to the applicant, as well as FAA employees responsible
            for reviewing and making a decision on the application.

        (c) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Briefing to Congress.--Not later than 2
    years after the date on which the Administrator initiates the
    digitization under subsection (a)(2), the Administrator shall brief the
    appropriate committees of Congress on the progress of such digitization.

        (d) Definition of Digitization.--In this section, the term
    ``digitization'' means the transition from a predominantly paper-based
    system to a system centered on the use of a data management system and
    the internet.
    SEC. 221. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 106 note.>>  FAA TELEWORK.

        (a) In General.--The Administrator--
                (1) <<NOTE: Policies. Workforce retention.>> may establish
            telework policies for employees of the FAA that allow for the
            Administrator to reduce the office footprint and associated
            expenses of the FAA, if appropriate, increase workforce
            retention, and provide flexibilities that the Administrator
            demonstrates increases efficiency and effectiveness of the
            Administration, while requiring that any such policy--
                        (A) does not adversely impact the mission of the
                    FAA;
                        (B) does not reduce the safety or efficiency of the
                    national airspace system;
                        (C) for any employee that is designated as an
                    officer or executive in the FAA 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 FAA 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--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1059]]

                              (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 opportunities for in-person dialogue,
                    collaboration, and ideation for all employees;
                (2) ensures that locality pay for an employee of the FAA
            accurately reflects the telework status and duty station of such
            employee;
                (3) may not establish a telework policy for an employee of
            the FAA 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) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  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) <<NOTE: Time period. Briefing.>>  Congressional Update.--Not
    later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, and 1 year
    thereafter, the Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of
    Congress on any telework policies currently in place, the implementation
    of such policies, and the benefits of such policies.

        (c) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Consultation.--If the Administrator
    determines that telework agreements need to 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 and engineers
            of the FAA.
    SEC. 222. REVIEW OF OFFICE SPACE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadlines. Inventory.>>  FAA Review.--
                (1) Initiation of review.--Not later than 12 months after
            the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall initiate
            an inventory review of the domestic office footprint of the
            Department of Transportation.
                (2) Completion of review.--Not later than 30 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, as determined
            appropriate by the Secretary;
                (2) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine space 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1060]]

                        (B) the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42
                    U.S.C. 12101 et seq.);
                (3) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine the feasible
            occupancy of such space, and provide the methodology used to
            make the determination;
                (4) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine the number of
            individuals who are full-time equivalent employees, other
            support personnel, or contractors that have each such unit as a
            duty station and determine how telework policies will impact the
            usage of such space;
                (5) calculate the amount of available, unused, or
            underutilized space in each such space;
                (6) consider any lease terms for leased space contained in
            the domestic office footprint, including cost and effective
            dates for each such lease; and
                (7) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  based on the findings in
            paragraphs (2) through (6), and any other metrics the Secretary
            determines relevant, provide recommendations for optimizing the
            use of office space across the Department in consultation with
            appropriate employee labor representatives.

        (c) Report.--Not later than 4 months after completing the review
    under subsection (a), the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate
    committees of Congress a final report that proposes opportunities to
    optimize the domestic office footprint of the FAA (and associated
    costs). In compiling such final report, the Secretary shall describe
    opportunities for--
                (1) consolidation of offices within a reasonable distance,
            as determined by the Senior Real Property Officer of the
            Department of Transportation, from one another;
                (2) the collocation of regional or satellite offices of
            separate modes of the Department, including the costs and
            benefits of shared amenities; and
                (3) the use of coworking spaces instead of permanent
            offices.

        (d) Domestic Office Footprint Defined.--In this section, the term
    ``domestic office footprint'' means buildings, offices, facilities, and
    other real property rented, owned, or occupied by the FAA or
    Department--
                (1) in which employees report for permanent or temporary
            duty that are not FAA Airport Traffic Control Towers, Terminal
            Radar Approach Control Facilities, Air Route Traffic Control
            Centers, and Combined Control Facilities; and
                (2) which are located within the United States.
    SEC. 223. RESTORATION OF AUTHORITY.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 401 of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended by inserting after section 40118 the following:
    ``Sec. 40119. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40119.>> Sensitive security
                        information

        ``(a) Disclosure.--
                ``(1) Regulations prohibiting disclosure.--Notwithstanding
            the establishment of a Department of Homeland Security, the
            Secretary of Transportation, in accordance with section
            552(b)(3)(B) of title 5, shall prescribe regulations prohibiting
            disclosure of information obtained or developed in ensuring
            security under this title if the Secretary of Transportation
            decides disclosing the information would--
                        ``(A) be an unwarranted invasion of personal
                    privacy;
                        ``(B) reveal a trade secret or privileged or
                    confidential commercial or financial information; or

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1061]]

                        ``(C) be detrimental to transportation safety.
                ``(2) Disclosure to congress.--Paragraph (1) shall not be
            construed to authorize information to be withheld from a
            committee of Congress authorized to have such information.
                ``(3) Rule of construction.--Nothing in paragraph (1) shall
            be construed to authorize the designation of information as
            sensitive security information (as such term is defined in
            section 15.5 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations) to--
                        ``(A) conceal a violation of law, inefficiency, or
                    administrative error;
                        ``(B) prevent embarrassment to a person,
                    organization, or agency;
                        ``(C) restrain competition; or
                        ``(D) 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.
                ``(4) Law enforcement disclosure.--Section 552a of title 5
            shall not apply to disclosures that the Administrator may make
            from the systems of records of the Federal Aviation
            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) Transfers of Duties and Powers Prohibited.--Except as
    otherwise provided by law, a duty or power under this section may not be
    transferred to another department, agency, or instrumentality of the
    Federal Government.''.
        (b) <<NOTE: 49 USC 40119 note.>>  Effective Date.--The amendments
    made by this section shall be effective as of October 5, 2018, and all
    authority restored to the Secretary and the FAA under this section shall
    be treated as if such authority had never been repealed by the FAA
    Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254).

        (c) Conforming Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 401 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 40101.>> is amended by
    inserting after the item relating to section 40118 the following:

    ``40119. Sensitive security information.''.

    SEC. 224. <<NOTE: 49 USC 106 note.>> FAA PARTICIPATION IN INDUSTRY
                            STANDARDS ORGANIZATIONS.

        (a) In General.--The Administrator shall encourage the participation
    of employees of the FAA, as appropriate, 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 of the FAA 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 Administrator
            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;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1062]]

                (4) make reasonable efforts to identify and make any
            concerns of the Administrator 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) <<NOTE: Updates.>>  provide regular updates to other FAA
            employees and management on the progress of such work products;
            and
                (6) seek advice and input from other FAA employees and
            management, as needed.

        (c) 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 aviation-related
            industry standards or means of compliance, including standards
            or means of compliance that satisfy FAA 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 1 standard or means of compliance
            accepted by the Administrator or referenced in guidance material
            or a regulation issued by the FAA after the date of enactment of
            the Vision 100--Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act (Public
            Law 108-176).
    SEC. 225. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON USE OF VOLUNTARY CONSENSUS
                            STANDARDS.

        It is the sense of Congress that the Administrator should make every
    effort to abide by the policies set forth in the circular of the Office
    of Management and Budget, titled ``Federal Participation in the
    Development and Use of Voluntary Consensus Standards and Conformity
    Assessment Activities'' (A-119).
    SEC. 226. <<NOTE: 49 USC 106 note.>> REQUIRED DESIGNATION.

        The Administrator shall designate any aviation rulemaking committee
    convened under this Act pursuant to section 106(p)(5) of title 49,
    United States Code.
    SEC. 227. 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. 228. 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1063]]

                              (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) <<NOTE: Policies. Procedures.>>  revise the
                    procurement policies, practices, and procedures of the
                    Administration to reduce any impediments to the
                    acquisition of commercial products and commercial
                    services;
                        ``(E) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  ensure that any
                    procurement of new equipment takes into account the life
                    cycle, reliability, performance, service support, and
                    costs to guarantee the acquisition of equipment that is
                    of high quality and reliability resulting in greater
                    performance and cost-related benefits; and
                        ``(F) <<NOTE: Contracts. Requirements.>> 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1064]]

                          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. 229. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44501 note.>> ADVANCED AVIATION
                            TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION STEERING
                            COMMITTEE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Establishment.--Not later than 180 days
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
    establish an Advanced Aviation Technology and Innovation Steering
    Committee (in this section referred to as the ``Steering Committee'') to
    assist the FAA in planning for and integrating advanced aviation
    technologies.

        (b) Purpose.--The Steering Committee shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Update. Plan.>> create and regularly update a
            comprehensive strategy and action plan for integrating advanced
            aviation technologies into the national airspace system and
            aviation ecosystem; and
                (2) provide direction and resolution for complex issues
            related to advanced aviation technologies that span multiple
            offices or lines of business of the FAA, as needed.

        (c) Chair.--The Deputy Administrator of the FAA shall serve as the
    Chair of the Steering Committee.
        (d) Composition.--In addition to the Chair, the Steering Committee
    shall consist of the Assistant or Associate Administrator, or the
    designee of such Administrator, of each of the following FAA offices:
                (1) Office of Aviation Safety.
                (2) Air Traffic Organization.
                (3) Office of Airports.
                (4) Office of Commercial Space Transportation.
                (5) Office of Finance and Management.
                (6) Office of the Chief Counsel.
                (7) Office of Rulemaking and Regulatory Improvement.
                (8) Office of Policy, International Affairs, and
            Environment.
                (9) Office of Security and Hazardous Materials Safety.
                (10) Any other Office the Administrator determines
            necessary.
    SEC. 230. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 40101 note.>> REVIEW AND
                            UPDATES OF CATEGORICAL EXCLUSIONS.

        (a) Review.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Secretary shall identify each categorical exclusion under
    the jurisdiction of the Department of Transportation, including any
    operating administration within the Department.
        (b) New Categorical Exclusions for Airport Projects.--Not later than
    2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
    shall--
                (1) review the categorical exclusions applied by other
            operating administrations identified in subsection (a); and
                (2) take such action as may be necessary to adopt, as
            relevant and appropriate, new categorical exclusions that meet
            the requirements of section 1508.4 of title 40, Code of Federal
            Regulations, from among categorical exclusions reviewed by the
            Secretary in paragraph (1) for use by the FAA.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1065]]

    SEC. 231. IMPLEMENTATION OF ANTI-TERRORIST AND NARCOTIC AIR EVENTS
                            PROGRAMS.

        (a) <<NOTE: 49 USC 44103 note.>> Implementation.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Priority recommendations.--Not
            later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this section,
            the Administrator shall--
                        (A) implement recommendations 6, 13, 14, and 15 as
                    set forth in the Government Accountability Office report
                    entitled ``Aviation: FAA Needs to Better Prevent,
                    Detect, and Respond to Fraud and Abuse Risks in Aircraft
                    Registration,'' (dated March 25, 2020); and
                        (B) to the extent that rulemaking is necessary to
                    implement such recommendations, issue a notice of
                    proposed rulemaking pursuant to the rulemaking authority
                    of the FAA.
                (2) <<NOTE: Effective date.>>  Remaining recommendations.--
            The Administrator shall implement recommendations 1 through 5
            and 8 through 12 as set forth in the Government Accountability
            Office report described in paragraph (1) and, to the extent that
            rulemaking is necessary to implement such recommendations, issue
            a notice of proposed rulemaking pursuant to the rulemaking
            authority of the FAA, on the earlier of--
                        (A) the date that is 90 days after the date on which
                    the FAA implements the Civil Aviation Registry
                    Electronic Services system; or
                        (B) January 1, 2026.

        (b) Reports.--
                (1) Priority recommendations.--Not later than 60 days after
            the date on which the Administrator implements the
            recommendations under subsection (a)(1), the Administrator shall
            submit to the Committees on the Judiciary and Commerce, Science,
            and Transportation of the Senate, the Committees on the
            Judiciary and Energy and Commerce of the House of
            Representatives, and the Caucus on International Narcotics
            Control of the Senate a report on such implementation, including
            a description of any steps taken by the Administrator to
            complete such implementation.
                (2) Remaining recommendations.--Not later than 60 days after
            the date on which the Administrator implements the
            recommendations under subsection (a)(2), the Administrator shall
            submit to the Committees on the Judiciary and Commerce, Science,
            and Transportation of the Senate, the Committees on the
            Judiciary and Energy and Commerce of the House of
            Representatives, and the Caucus on International Narcotics
            Control of the Senate a report on such implementation, including
            a description of any steps taken by the Administrator to
            complete such implementation.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1066]]

                     TITLE III--AVIATION SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS

                         Subtitle A--General Provisions

    SEC. 301. 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) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Safety Management Systems Briefing.--Not
    later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on how
    the final rule titled ``Safety Management System'', published on April
    26, 2024, (89 Fed. Reg. 33068), 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 a
            website of the Federal Aviation Administration, 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1067]]

    SEC. 302. 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) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  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) <<NOTE: List. Deadline.>>  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) <<NOTE: Certification.>> 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--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1068]]

                        ``(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 <<NOTE: Contracts.>> 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.
                ``(4) Prohibition on continued heavy maintenance work.--No
            part <<NOTE: Contracts.>> 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) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Minimum Qualifications for Mechanics and
    Others Working on U.S. Registered Aircraft.--
                ``(1) In general.--Not later than 18 months 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 18 months
            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.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1069]]

                (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, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44701.>> 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) <<NOTE: Regulations.>>  Alcohol and Drug Testing and Background
    Checks.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. 49 USC 44733 note.>>  In general.--Not
            later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act,
            the Administrator shall issue a final rule carrying out the
            requirements of section 2112(b) of the FAA Extension, Safety,
            and Security Act of 2016 (49 U.S.C. 44733 note).
                (2) <<NOTE: 49 USC 44733 note.>>  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 that the head of another Federal agency 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.
                (3) Definition of covered repair station.--For purposes of
            this subsection, the term ``covered repair station'' means a
            facility that--
                        (A) is located outside the United States;
                        (B) is certificated under part 145 of title 14, Code
                    of Federal Regulations; and
                        (C) performs heavy maintenance work on aircraft
                    (including on-wing aircraft engines), operated under
                    part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    SEC. 303. 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;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1070]]

                        (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. 304. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> TRAINING OF ORGANIZATION DELEGATION
                            AUTHORIZATION 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
            authorized by the Administrator under section 44702(d) 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
                    established under subsection (b) shall review each ODA
                    holders' recurrent training program to ensure such
                    program includes--
                              ``(i) all elements described in paragraph (1);
                          and
                              ``(ii) training to instill professionalism and
                          clear understanding among ODA unit members about
                          the purpose of and procedures associated with
                          safety management systems, including the
                          provisions of the third edition of the Safety
                          Management Manual issued by the International
                          Civil Aviation Organization (Doc 9859) (or any
                          successor edition).
                        ``(B) Changes to program.--Such Office may require
                    changes to the training program considered necessary to

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1071]]

                    maintain ethical and professional standards across all
                    ODA holders and unit members.
                ``(3) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  Training.--As part of the
            recurrent training program 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) <<NOTE: 49 USC 44736 note.>>  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 60 days after the training program is approved by the Administrator
    pursuant to such section.
    SEC. 305. 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 and implementation
            of a safety management system, including a system required by
            regulation.''; and
                (2) by adding at the end the following:

        ``(d) Other Agencies.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Applicability.>>  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. 306. REAUTHORIZATION OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE AIRCRAFT
                            CERTIFICATION, SAFETY, AND ACCOUNTABILITY
                            ACT.

        (a) Oversight of Organization Designation Authorization Unit
    Members.--Section 44741 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in subsection (f)(2)--
                        (A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) by
                    striking ``Not later than 90 days'' and all that follows
                    through ``the Administrator shall provide a briefing''
                    and inserting ``The Administrator shall provide biannual
                    briefings each fiscal year through September 30, 2028'';
                    and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1072]]

                        (B) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``90-day
                    period'' and inserting ``6-month period''; and
                (2) in subsection (j) by striking ``2023'' and inserting
            ``2028''.

        (b) Integrated Project Teams.--Section 108(f) of division V of the
    Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (49 U.S.C. 44704 note) is amended
    by striking ``fiscal year 2023'' and inserting ``fiscal year 2028''.
        (c) Appeals of Certification Decisions.--Section 44704(g)(1)(C)(ii)
    of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``calendar year
    2025'' and inserting ``calendar year 2028''.
        (d) Professional Development, Skills Enhancement, Continuing
    Education and Training.--Section 44519(c) of title 49, United States
    Code, is amended by striking ``2023'' and inserting ``2028''.
        (e) Voluntary Safety Reporting Program.--Section 113(f) of division
    V of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (49 U.S.C. 44701 note) is
    amended by striking ``fiscal year 2023'' and inserting ``fiscal year
    2028''.
        (f) Changed Product Rule.--Section 117(b)(1) of division V of the
    Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (49 U.S.C. 44704 note) is amended
    by striking ``fiscal year 2023'' and inserting ``fiscal year 2028''.
        (g) Domestic and International Pilot Training.--Section 119(f)(3) of
    division V of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 is amended by
    striking ``2023'' and inserting ``2028''.
        (h) Samya Rose Stumo National Air Grant Fellowship Program.--Section
    131(d) of division V of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (49
    U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended by striking ``2025'' and inserting
    ``2028''.
    SEC. 307. CONTINUED OVERSIGHT OF FAA COMPLIANCE PROGRAM.

        Section 122 of the Aircraft Certification, Safety, and
    Accountability Act (Public Law 116-260) <<NOTE: 134 Stat. 2344.>>  is
    amended--
                (1) in subsection (b) by striking paragraph (2) and
            inserting the following:
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Evaluation. Time period. Assessment.>> 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 assess--
                        ``(A) the need for long-term metrics that, to the
                    maximum extent practicable, apply to all program
                    offices, and use such metrics to assess the
                    effectiveness of the program;
                        ``(B) if the program ensures the highest level of
                    compliance with safety standards;
                        ``(C) if the program has met its stated safety goals
                    and purpose; and
                        ``(D) FAA employee confidence in the program.'';
                (2) in subsection (c)(4) by striking ``2023'' and inserting
            ``2028''; and
                (3) in subsection (d) by striking ``2023'' and inserting
            ``2028''.
    SEC. 308. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>> SCALABILITY OF SAFETY
                            MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS.

        In conducting any rulemaking to require, or implementing a
    regulation requiring, a safety management system, the Administrator
    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--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1073]]

                (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) <<NOTE: Review.>>  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. 309. <<NOTE: Regulations. 49 USC 44701 note.>> REVIEW OF
                            SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM RULEMAKING.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 60 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall review the
    final rule of the FAA titled ``Safety Management Systems'' and issued on
    April 26, 2024 (89 Fed. Reg. 33068).

        (b) Applicability.--In reviewing the final rule under subsection
    (a), the Administrator shall ensure that the safety management system
    requirement under such final rule 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.
        (c) <<NOTE: Guidance. Policies.>>  Determination.--If the
    Administrator determines the final rule does not apply the safety
    management system requirement in the manner described in subsection (b),
    the Administrator shall issue such regulation, guidance, or policy as
    may be necessary to ensure such safety management system requirement is
    applied in such manner.
    SEC. 310. INDEPENDENT STUDY ON FUTURE STATE OF TYPE CERTIFICATION
                            PROCESSES.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Contract.>>  Review and Study.--Not later than
    180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
    shall seek to enter into an agreement with an appropriate federally
    funded research and development center, or other independent nonprofit
    organization that recommends solutions to aviation policy challenges
    through objective analysis, to conduct a review and study in accordance
    with the requirements and elements in this section.

        (b) <<NOTE: Analyses. Assessments. Recommenda- tions.>>  Elements.--
    The entity carrying out the review and study pursuant to subsection (a)
    shall provide analyses, assessments, and recommendations that address
    the following elements:
                (1) A vision for a future state of type certification that
            reflects the highly complex, highly integrated nature of modern
            aircraft and improvements in aviation safety.
                (2) An assessment of digital tools, techniques, and software
            systems that allow for efficient and virtual evaluation of an
            applicant design, associated documentation, and software or
            systems engineering products, including in digital 3-dimensional
            formats or using model-based systems engineering design
            techniques.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1074]]

                (3) How the FAA could develop a risk-based model for type
            certification that improves the safety of aircraft.
                (4) What changes are needed to ensure that corrective
            actions for continued operational safety issues, including
            software modifications, can be approved and implemented in a
            timely manner while maintaining the integrity of the type
            certification process.
                (5) What efficiencies and safety process improvements are
            needed in the type certification processes of the FAA to
            facilitate the assessment and integration of innovative
            technologies and advance aviation safety, such as conducting
            product familiarization, developing certification requirements,
            and demonstrating flight test safety readiness.
                (6) Best practices and tools used by other certification
            authorities outside of the United States that could be adopted
            by the FAA, as well as the best practices and tools used by the
            FAA which can be shared with certification authorities outside
            of the United States.

        (c) <<NOTE: Contracts. Consultation.>>  Parties to Review.--In
    conducting the review and study pursuant to subsection (a), the
    Administrator shall ensure that the entity entering into an agreement
    under this section shall, throughout the review and study, 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) Considerations.--In conducting the review and study pursuant to
    subsection (a), the Administrator shall ensure the entity considers the
    availability, cost, interoperability, scalability, adaptability,
    cybersecurity, ease of adoption, and potential safety benefits of the
    elements described in subsection (b), including any digital tools,
    techniques, and software systems recommended to address such elements.
        (e) <<NOTE: Review.>>  Report.--Not later than 18 months after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the entity conducting the review and
    study pursuant to subsection (a) shall submit to the Administrator and
    the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the results of the
    review and study that includes--
                (1) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  the findings and
            recommendations of the entity; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  an assessment of whether digital
            tools, techniques, and software systems could improve the
            coordination, oversight, or safety of the certification and
            validation activities of the FAA.

        (f) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Congressional Briefing.--Not later than 270
    days after the report required under subsection (e) is received by the
    Administrator, the Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees
    of Congress on--
                (1) any actions the FAA proposes to take as a result of such
            findings and recommendations; and
                (2) the rationale of the FAA for not taking action on any
            specific recommendation, as applicable.
    SEC. 311. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44704 note.>>  USE OF ADVANCED TOOLS AND
                            HIGH-RISK FLIGHT TESTING IN CERTIFYING
                            AEROSPACE PRODUCTS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Assessment.--Not later than 18 months after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall complete an
    assessment of the use of advanced tools during the testing, analysis,

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1075]]

    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 in which high-risk flight profiles and limit
            testing have occurred in the certification process and the
            applicability of the data produced by such testing 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 the
            advanced tools described in subsection (a);
                (4) the ability to produce more extensive data sets using
            such advanced tools;
                (5) any aspects of such testing for which the use of such
            advanced tools would not be valuable or applicable;
                (6) the cost of using such advanced tools; and
                (7) the best practices of other international 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) <<NOTE: Briefing.>>  Congressional Report.--Not later than 60
    days after the completion of the assessment under subsection (a), the
    Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on the
    results of the assessment conducted under subsection (a).

        (e) Required Updates.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--Not later than 2 years
            after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
            take necessary actions based on the results of the assessment
            under subsection (a), including, as appropriate--
                        (A) amending part 21 of title 14, Code of Federal
                    Regulations; and
                        (B) modifying any associated advisory circulars,
                    guidance, or policy of the FAA.
                (2) Requirements.--In taking actions under paragraph (1),
            the Administrator shall consider--
                        (A) developing validation criteria and procedures
                    whereby data produced in high-fidelity engineering
                    laboratories and facilities may be allowed (in
                    conjunction with, or in lieu of) data produced on a
                    flying test article to support an applicant's showing of
                    compliance required under section 21.35(a)(1) of title
                    14, Code of Federal Regulations;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1076]]

                        (B) developing criteria and procedures whereby an
                    Organization Designation Authorization (as defined in
                    section 44736(c)(5) of title 49, United States Code) may
                    recommend that certain data produced during an
                    applicant's flight test program may be accepted by the
                    FAA as final compliance data in accordance with section
                    21.35(b) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, at
                    the sole discretion of the FAA; and
                        (C) working with other international civil aviation
                    authorities representing States of Design to--
                              (i) identify their best practices relative to
                          high risk-flight testing; and
                              (ii) adopt such practices into the flight-
                          testing requirements of the FAA to the maximum
                          extent practicable.
    SEC. 312. <<NOTE: Deadline. Publication. Notice. Regulation. 49
                            USC 44704 note.>> TRANSPORT AIRPLANE AND
                            PROPULSION CERTIFICATION MODERNIZATION.

        Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall publish a notice of proposed rulemaking for the item
    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. 313. FIRE PROTECTION STANDARDS.

        (a) Internal Regulatory Review Team.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Establishment.--Not later than 1
            year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
            shall establish an internal regulatory review team (in this
            section referred to as the ``Team'').
                (2) Review.--
                        (A) In general.--The Team shall conduct a review
                    comparing foreign and domestic airworthiness standards
                    and guidance for aircraft engine firewalls.
                        (B) Requirements.--In conducting the review, the
                    Team shall--

                          (i) <<NOTE: Certification. Analysis.>> identify
                          any significant differences in standards or
                          guidance with respect to test article selection
                          and fire test boundaries and evaluation criteria
                          for burn tests, including the use of certification
                          by analysis for cases in which substantially
                          similar designs have passed burn tests;
                              (ii) <<NOTE: Assessment.>> assess the safety
                          implications for any products imported into the
                          United States that do not comply with the firewall
                          requirements of the FAA; and
                              (iii) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  consult with
                          industry stakeholders to the maximum extent
                          practicable.

        (b) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  Duties of the Administrator.--The
    Administrator shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Update.>>  not later than 60 days after the date
            on which the Team reports the findings of the review to the
            Administrator, update the Significant Standards List of the FAA
            based on such findings, as appropriate; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  not later than 90 days after
            such date, submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a
            report on such findings and any recommendations for such
            legislative or administrative action as the Administrator
            determines appropriate.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1077]]

    SEC. 314. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 44709 note.>> RISK MODEL FOR
                            PRODUCTION FACILITY INSPECTIONS.

        (a) In General.--Not later than 12 months after the date of
    enactment of this Act, and periodically thereafter, the Administrator
    shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Review.>>  conduct a review of the risk-based
            model used by certification management offices of the FAA to
            inform the frequency of aircraft manufacturing or production
            facility inspections; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Update.>>  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 completed under subsection (a), the Administrator shall brief
    the appropriate committees of Congress 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. 315. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>> REVIEW OF FAA USE OF
                            AVIATION SAFETY DATA.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Evaluation.>>  In General.--Not later than 2
    years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
    seek to enter into an appropriate arrangement with a qualified third-
    party organization or consortium to evaluate the collection, collation,
    analysis, and use of aviation data across the FAA.

        (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) <<NOTE: List.>>  compile a list of internal and external
            sources, databases, and streams of information the FAA receives
            or has access to that provide the FAA with operational or safety
            information and data about the national airspace system, its
            users, and other regulated entities of the FAA;
                (2) review data sets to determine completeness and accuracy
            of relevant information;
                (3) identify gaps in information that the FAA could fill
            through sharing agreements, partnerships, or other means that
            would add value during safety trend analysis;
                (4) <<NOTE: Assessment. Analysis.>>  assess the capabilities
            of the FAA, 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;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1078]]

                (6) review the format of such data and identify methods to
            improve the usefulness of such data;
                (7) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  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 FAA;
                (8) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  examine the collation and
            dissemination of data within offices and between offices of the
            FAA;
                (9) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  review and recommend
            improvements to the data analysis techniques of the FAA; and
                (10) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommend investments the
            Administrator should consider to better collect, manage, and
            analyze data sets, including within and between offices of the
            FAA.

        (d) Access to Information.--The Administrator 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 FAA, except if specific access is otherwise prohibited by law.
        (e) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  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) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  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 FAA's
    collection, collation, analysis, and use of aviation data, including
    recommendations to--
                (1) improve data access across offices within the FAA, 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 FAA 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) <<NOTE: Deadline. Implementation plan.>>  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, if appropriate, begin the implementation of
    the recommendations received in such report.

        (h) <<NOTE: Time period. Effective date.>>  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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1079]]

    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
    appropriate committees of Congress 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 and the Administrator, may further
    harmonize data and sources following the implementation of
    recommendations under subsection (g).
        (k) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed to permit the public disclosure of information submitted under
    a voluntary safety reporting program or that is otherwise protected
    under section 44735 of title 49, United States Code.
    SEC. 316. WEATHER REPORTING SYSTEMS STUDY.

        (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Comptroller General 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;
                (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 appropriate committees of Congress and the Committee

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1080]]

            on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of
            Representatives 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. 317. GAO STUDY ON EXPANSION OF THE FAA WEATHER CAMERA
                            PROGRAM.

        (a) Study.--The Comptroller General shall conduct a study on the
    feasibility and benefits and costs of expanding the Weather Camera
    Program of the FAA to locations in the United States that lack weather
    camera services.
        (b) <<NOTE: Review.>>  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
    appropriate committees of Congress a report on the results of the study
    required under subsection (a).
    SEC. 318. AUDIT ON AVIATION SAFETY IN ERA OF WIRELESS
                            CONNECTIVITY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  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 an audit of the FAA's
    internal processes and procedures to communicate the position of civil
    aviation operators and the safety of the national airspace system to the
    National Telecommunications and Information Administration regarding
    proposed spectrum reallocations or auction decisions.

        (b) Assessment.--In conducting the audit described in subsection
    (a), the inspector general shall assess best practices and policy
    recommendations for the FAA to--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1081]]

                (1) improve internal processes by which proposed spectrum
            reallocations or auctions are thoroughly reviewed in advance to
            ensure that any comments or technical concerns regarding
            aviation safety from civil aviation stakeholders are
            communicated to the National Telecommunications and Information
            Administration that are to be submitted to the Federal
            Communications Commission;
                (2) develop internal processes and procedures to assess the
            effects a proposed spectrum reallocation or auction may have on
            the national airspace system in a timely manner to ensure safety
            of the national airspace system;
                (3) improve external communication processes to better
            inform civil aviation stakeholders, including owners and
            operators of civil aircraft, on any comments or technical
            concerns of the FAA relating to a proposed spectrum reallocation
            or auction that may impact the national airspace system; and
                (4) better communicate to the National Telecommunications
            and Information Administration when a proposed spectrum
            reallocation or auction may pose a potential risk to aviation
            safety.

        (c) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  Stakeholder Views.--In conducting the
    audit pursuant to subsection (a), the inspector general shall consult
    with relevant stakeholders, including--
                (1) air carriers operating under part 121 of title 14, Code
            of Federal Regulations;
                (2) manufacturers of aircraft and aircraft components;
                (3) wireless communication carriers;
                (4) labor unions representing pilots;
                (5) air traffic system safety specialists;
                (6) other representatives of the communications industry;
                (7) aviation safety experts;
                (8) the National Telecommunications and Information
            Administration; and
                (9) the Federal Communications Commission.

        (d) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 2 years
    after the date on which the audit is conducted pursuant to subsection
    (a), the inspector general shall complete and submit a report on
    findings and recommendations to--
                (1) the Administrator;
                (2) the appropriate committees of Congress; and
                (3) the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of
            Representatives.
    SEC. 319. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> SAFETY DATA ANALYSIS FOR AIRCRAFT
                            WITHOUT TRANSPONDERS.

        (a) In General.--Not later than 18 months after the date of
    enactment of this Act, the Administrator, 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 involving--
                        (A) midair events, including collisions;
                        (B) ground proximity warning system alerts;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1082]]

                        (C) traffic collision avoidance system alerts; or
                        (D) a loss of separation or near miss; and
                (2) the causes of the incidents and accidents described in
            paragraphs (1).

        (c) Briefing to Congress.--Not later than 30 months after the date
    of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the appropriate
    committees of Congress on the results of the analysis required under
    subsection (a) and, if applicable, 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. 320. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44737 note.>>  CRASH-RESISTANT FUEL
                            SYSTEMS IN ROTORCRAFT.

        (a) <<NOTE: Reviews.>>  In General.--The Administrator 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) <<NOTE: Update.>>  update the 2018 report of such
            working group on rotorcraft occupant protection by--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Data. Time period.>>  reviewing National
                    Transportation Safety Board data from 2016 through 2023
                    on post-crash fires in helicopter accidents; and
                        (B) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determining whether
                    and to what extent crash-resistant fuel systems could
                    have prevented fatalities in the accidents covered by
                    the data reviewed under subparagraph (A); and
                (3) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  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) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  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) <<NOTE: Briefing.>>  begin implementing, as
                    appropriate, any safety recommendations the
                    Administrator receives from the Aviation Rulemaking
                    Advisory Committee, and brief the appropriate committees
                    of Congress 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).

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1083]]

    SEC. 321. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 44505 note.>>  REDUCING
                            TURBULENCE-RELATED INJURIES ON PART 121
                            AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Review. Briefing.>> In General.--Not later than 2 years
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall review
    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) and provide a briefing
    to the appropriate committees of Congress with any planned actions in
    response to the recommendations of the report.

        (b) Implementation.--Not later than 3 years after the date of
    enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall implement, as
    appropriate, the recommendations in the safety research report described
    in subsection (a).
        (c) Report.--
                (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after completing the
            review under subsection (a), and every 2 years thereafter, the
            Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of
            Congress a report on the implementation 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 adjudicated as described in paragraph (2); 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. 322. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  STUDY ON RADIATION EXPOSURE.

        (a) Study.-- <<NOTE: Contracts.>> Not later than 120 days after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall seek to enter into
    appropriate arrangements 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 to
    crewmembers onboard various aircraft types operated under part 121 of
    title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

        (b) Scope of Study.-- <<NOTE: Assessment.>> 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
            crewmembers onboard aircraft operating at high altitudes; and
                (3) mitigation measures to prevent and reduce the health and
            safety impacts of radiation exposure to crewmembers.

        (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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1084]]

    SEC. 323. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> STUDY ON IMPACTS OF TEMPERATURE IN
                            AIRCRAFT CABINS.

        (a) Study.--
                (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of
            enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall seek to enter into
            appropriate arrangements with the National Academies of
            Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine under which the National
            Academies shall conduct a 1-year study on the health and safety
            impacts of unsafe cabin temperature with respect to passengers
            and crewmembers during each season in which the study is
            conducted.
                (2) Considerations.-- <<NOTE: Review. Evaluation.>> In
            conducting the study required under paragraph (1), the National
            Academies shall review existing standards produced by recognized
            industry organizations on safe air temperatures and humidity
            levels in enclosed environments, including onboard aircraft, and
            evaluate the validity of such standards as it relates to
            aircraft cabin temperatures.
                (3) Consultation.--In conducting the study required under
            paragraph (1), the National Academies shall consult with the
            Civil Aerospace Medical Institute of the FAA, air carriers
            operating under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations, relevant Federal agencies, and any applicable
            aviation labor organizations.

        (b) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Reports.--
                (1) Report to secretary.--Not later than 180 days after the
            date on which the study under subsection (a) is completed, the
            National Academies shall submit to the Secretary a report on the
            results of such study, including any recommendations determined
            appropriate by the National Academies.
                (2) Report to congress.--Not later than 60 days after the
            date on which the National Academies submits the report under
            paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate
            committees of Congress a report describing the results of the
            study required under subsection (a), including any
            recommendations for further action determined appropriate by the
            Secretary.

        (c) Covered Aircraft Defined.--In this section, the term ``covered
    aircraft'' means an aircraft operated under part 121 of title 14, Code
    of Federal Regulations.
    SEC. 324. LITHIUM-ION POWERED WHEELCHAIRS.

        (a) In General.-- <<NOTE: Deadline. Reviews. Recommenda-
    tions.>> Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act,
    the Secretary shall task the Air Carrier Access Act Advisory Committee
    (in this section referred to as the ``Committee'') to conduct a review
    of regulations related to lithium-ion battery powered wheelchairs and
    mobility aids on commercial aircraft 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1085]]

                (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
    appropriate committees of Congress any recommendations under subsection
    (a), in the form of a report.
        (f) <<NOTE: Public information. Web posting.>>  Publication.--The
    Secretary shall publish the report required under subsection (e) on the
    public website of the Department of Transportation.
    SEC. 325. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>> NATIONAL SIMULATOR PROGRAM
                            POLICIES AND GUIDANCE.

        (a) Review.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator 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 relevant
    policies and guidance, including all advisory circulars, information
    bulletins, and directives, pertaining to part 60 of title 14, Code of
    Federal Regulations.
        (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).

        (d) GAO Study on FAA National Simulator Program.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--Not later than 18
            months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller
            General shall conduct a study on the National Simulator Program
            of the FAA that is part of the Training and Simulation Group of
            the Air Transportation Division.
                (2) <<NOTE: Assessment.>> Considerations.--In conducting the
            study required under paragraph (1), the Comptroller General
            shall, at a minimum, assess--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1086]]

                        (A) how the program described in paragraph (1) 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);
                        (B) the staffing levels, critical competencies, and
                    skills gaps of FAA personnel responsible for carrying
                    out and supporting the program described in paragraph
                    (1); and
                        (C) how the program described in paragraph (1)
                    engages air carriers and relevant industry stakeholders,
                    including flight schools, to ensure efficient compliance
                    with part 60 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                (3) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of
            enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to
            the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the findings
            of the study conducted under paragraph (1).
    SEC. 326. <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  BRIEFING ON AGRICULTURAL
                            APPLICATION APPROVAL TIMING.

        Not later than 240 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on the
    amount of time the application approval process takes for agricultural
    aircraft operations under part 137 of title 14, Code of Federal
    Regulations.
    SEC. 327. 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. 328. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>> RESTRICTED CATEGORY
                            AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONS.

        Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator shall
    have sole regulatory and oversight 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. 329. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 44701 note.>> AIRCRAFT
                            INTERCHANGE AGREEMENT LIMITATIONS.

        (a) Study.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1087]]

        (c) Briefing.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of
    Congress on the results of the study required under subsection (a).
        (d) Rulemaking.--Based on the results of the study required under
    subsection (a), the Administrator may, if appropriate, update the
    relevant sections of part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    SEC. 330. TASK FORCE ON HUMAN FACTORS IN AVIATION SAFETY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> In General.--Not later than 6 months after
    the date of enactment of this Act, and notwithstanding section 127 of
    the Aircraft Certification Safety and Accountability Act (49 U.S.C.
    44513 note), the Administrator shall convene a task force on human
    factors in aviation safety (in this section referred to as the ``Task
    Force'').

        (b) Composition.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Appointments.>>  Members.--The Administrator
            shall appoint members of the Task Force--
                        (A) that have expertise in an operational or
                    academic discipline that is relevant to the analysis of
                    human errors in aviation, which 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;
                        (B) that sufficiently represent all relevant
                    operational or academic disciplines described in
                    subparagraph (A);
                        (C) with expertise on human factors but whose
                    experience and training are not in aviation and who have
                    not previously been engaged in work related to the FAA
                    or the aviation industry;
                        (D) that are representatives of pilot labor
                    organizations and certificated mechanic labor
                    organizations;
                        (E) that are employees of the FAA that have
                    expertise in safety; and
                        (F) that are employees of other Federal agencies
                    with expertise on human factors.
                (2) Number of members.--In appointing members under
            paragraph (1), the Administrator shall ensure that--
                        (A) at least half of the members appointed have
                    expertise in aviation;
                        (B) at least one member appointed represents an
                    exclusive bargaining representative of air traffic
                    controllers certified under section 7111 of title 5,
                    United States Code; and
                        (C) 3 members are employees of the FAA and 1 member
                    is an employee of the National Transportation Safety
                    Board.
                (3) Voting.--The members described in paragraph (2)(C) shall
            be non-voting members of the Task Force.

        (c) Duration.--
                (1) In general.--Members of the Task Force shall be
            appointed for the duration of the Task Force.
                (2) Length of existence.--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1088]]

                        (A) In general.--The Task Force shall have an
                    initial duration of 2 years.
                        (B) Option.-- <<NOTE: Extension.>> The Administrator
                    may extend the duration of the Task Force for an
                    additional period of up to 2 years.

        (d) Duties.--In coordination with the Research, Engineering, and
    Development Advisory Committee, the Task Force shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  not later than the date on which the
            duration of the Task Force expires under subsection (c), produce
            a written report in which the Task Force--
                        (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 work of the Commercial Aviation Safety
                    Team pertaining to flight crew responses to abnormal
                    events;
                        (D) provides recommendations on potential revisions
                    to any FAA 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 and maintenance personnel rest and
                    fatigue that are used by a sample of international air
                    carriers, including rules, regulations, or standards
                    determined to be more stringent and less stringent than
                    the current standards pertaining to air carriers (as
                    such term is defined in section 40102 of title 49,
                    United States Code), and identifies risks to the
                    national airspace system from any variation in such
                    rules, regulations, or standards across countries;
                        (F) reviews pilot training requirements and
                    recommends any revisions necessary to ensure adequate
                    understanding of automated systems on aircraft;
                        (G) reviews approach and landing misalignment and
                    makes any recommendations for reducing misalignment
                    events;
                        (H) identifies ways to enhance instrument landing
                    system maintenance schedules;
                        (I) determines how a real-time smart system should
                    be developed to inform the air traffic control system,
                    air carriers, and airports about any changes in the
                    state of runway and taxiway lights and identifies how
                    such real-time smart system could be connected to the
                    maintenance system of the FAA;
                        (J) analyzes, with respect to human errors related
                    to aviation safety of air carriers operating under part
                    121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations--
                              (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;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1089]]

                              (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;
                        (K) includes a tabulation of the number of
                    accidents, incidents, or aviation safety database
                    entries received in which an item identified under
                    subparagraph (J) was a cause or potential cause of human
                    error related to aviation safety; and
                        (L) 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) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  if the Administrator extends the
            duration of the Task Force pursuant to subsection (c)(2)(B), not
            later than the date that is 2 years after the date on which the
            Task Force is established, produce an interim report containing
            the information described in paragraph (1).

        (e) Methodology.-- <<NOTE: Consultation. Data. Analysis.>> In
    carrying out the duties under subparagraphs (J) through (L) of
    subsection (d)(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.

        (f) Consistency.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to
    require changes to, or duplication of, work as required by section 127
    of the Aircraft Certification Safety and Accountability Act (49 U.S.C.
    44513 note).
    SEC. 331. <<NOTE: Deadline. 49 USC 40103 note.>> UPDATE OF FAA
                            STANDARDS TO ALLOW DISTRIBUTION AND USE OF
                            CERTAIN RESTRICTED ROUTES AND TERMINAL
                            PROCEDURES.

        (a) In General.--Not later than 9 months after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator shall update FAA standards to allow for
    the distribution and use of the Capstone Restricted Routes and Terminal
    Procedures by Wide Area Augmentation System-capable navigation
    equipment.
        (b) Contents.--In updating standards under subsection (a), the
    Administrator shall ensure that such standards provide a means for
    allowing modifications and continued development of new routes and
    procedures proposed by air carriers operating such routes.
    SEC. 332. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44720 note.>> ASOS/AWOS SERVICE REPORT
                            DASHBOARD.

        (a) In General.--The applicable Administrators shall work in
    collaboration to collect the real-time service status of all automated
    surface observation systems/automated weather observing systems (in this
    section referred to as ``ASOS/AWOS'').
        (b) Availability of Results.--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1090]]

                (1) <<NOTE: Public information. Web posting.>>  In
            general.--In carrying out this section, the applicable
            Administrators shall make available on a publicly available
            website the following:
                        (A) The service status of all ASOS/AWOS.
                        (B) <<NOTE: Timeline.>> Information on any actions
                    to repair or replace ASOS/AWOS that are out of service
                    due to technical or weather-related events, including an
                    estimated timeline to return the systems to service.
                        (C) A portal on such publicly available website for
                    the public to report ASOS/AWOS outages.
                (2) Data files.--The applicable Administrators shall make
            available the underlying data required under paragraph (1) for
            each ASOS/AWOS in a machine-readable format.

        (c) <<NOTE: Definition.>> Applicable Administrators.--In this
    section, the term ``applicable Administrators'' means--
                (1) the Administrator of the FAA; and
                (2) the Administrator of the National Oceanic and
            Atmospheric Administration.
    SEC. 333. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> HELICOPTER SAFETY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Review. Assessment. Requirements. Data.>>  In General.--
    Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall task the Investigative Technologies Aviation
    Rulemaking Advisory Committee (in this section referred to as the
    ``Committee'') with reviewing and assessing the need for changes to the
    safety requirements related to flight data recorders, flight data
    monitoring, and terrain awareness and warning systems for turbine-
    powered rotorcraft certificated for 6 or more passenger seats.

        (b) Considerations.--In reviewing and assessing the safety
    requirements under subsection (a), the Committee shall consider--
                (1) any applicable safety recommendations of the National
            Transportation Safety Board; and
                (2) the operational requirements and safety considerations
            for operations under parts 121 and 135 of title 14, Code of
            Federal Regulations.

        (c) Report and Recommendations.--Not later than 1 year after
    initiating the review and assessment under this section, the Committee
    shall submit to the Administrator--
                (1) a report on the findings of the review and assessment
            under subsection (a); and
                (2) any recommendations for legislative or regulatory action
            to improve safety that the Committee determines appropriate.

        (d) Briefing.--Not later than 30 days after the date on which the
    Committee submits the report under subsection (c), the Administrator
    shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on--
                (1) the findings and recommendations included in such
            report; and
                (2) any plan to implement such recommendations.
    SEC. 334. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> REVIEW AND INCORPORATION OF HUMAN
                            READINESS LEVELS INTO AGENCY GUIDANCE
                            MATERIAL.

        (a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
                (1) proper attention to human factors during the development
            of technological systems is a significant factor in minimizing
            or preventing human error;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1091]]

                (2) the evaluation of a new aviation technology or system
            with respect to human use throughout its design and development
            may reduce human error when such technologies and systems are
            used in operational conditions; and
                (3) the technical standard of the Human Factors and
            Ergonomics Society titled ``Human Readiness Level Scale in the
            System Development Process'' (ANSI/HFES 400-2021) defines the 9
            levels of a Human Readiness Level scale and their application in
            systems engineering and human systems integration processes.

        (b) Review.-- <<NOTE: Determination.>> Not later than 180 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall initiate a
    process to review the technical standard described in subsection (a)(3)
    and determine whether any materials from such standard should be
    incorporated or referenced in agency procedures and guidance material in
    order to enhance safety in relation to human factors.

        (c) Consultation.--In carrying out subsection (b), the Administrator
    may consult with subject matter experts from the Human Factors and
    Ergonomics Society affiliated with such technical standard or other
    relevant stakeholders.
        (d) Briefing.--Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of
    Congress on the progress of the review required under subsection (b).
    SEC. 335. SERVICE DIFFICULTY REPORTS.

        (a) Congressional Briefing.--Not later than 18 months after the date
    of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter through 2027, the
    Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on
    compliance with requirements relating to service difficulty reports
    during the preceding year.
        (b) Scope.--The Administrator shall include in the briefing required
    under subsection (a) information relating to--
                (1) operators required to comply with section 121.703 of
            title 14, Code of Federal Regulations;
                (2) approval or certificate holders required to comply with
            section 183.63 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; and
                (3) FAA offices that investigate service difficulty reports,
            as documented in the following FAA Orders (and any subsequent
            revisions of such orders):
                        (A) FAA Order 8900.1A, titled ``Flight Standards
                    Information Management System'' and issued on October
                    27, 2022.
                        (B) FAA Order 8120.23A, titled ``Certificate
                    Management of Production Approval Holders'' and issued
                    on March 6, 2017.
                        (C) FAA Order 8110.107B, titled ``Monitor Safety/
                    Analyze Data'' and issued on October 13, 2023.

        (c) Requirements.--The Administrator shall include in the briefing
    required under subsection (a) the following information with respect to
    the year preceding the year in which the briefing is provided:
                (1) An identification of categories of service difficulties
            reported.
                (2) An identification of service difficulties for which
            repeated reports are made.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1092]]

                (3) A general description of the causes of all service
            difficulty reports, as determined by the Administrator.
                (4) A description of actions taken by, or required by, the
            Administrator to address identified causes of service
            difficulties.
                (5) A description of violations of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations, related to service difficulty reports and any
            actions taken by the Administrator in response to such
            violations.
    SEC. 336. CONSISTENT AND TIMELY PILOT CHECKS FOR AIR CARRIERS.

        (a) Establishment of Working Group.--
    <<NOTE: Deadline. Review. Evaluation. Regulations. Policies.>> Not later
    than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, unless the
    requirements of this section are assigned to working groups under
    subsection (b)(2), the Administrator shall establish a working group for
    purposes of reviewing and evaluating all regulations and policies
    related to check airmen and authorized check airmen for air carrier
    operations conducted under part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal
    Regulations.

        (b) Membership.--
                (1) In general.--The working group established under this
            section shall include, at a minimum--
                        (A) employees of the FAA who serve as check airmen;
                        (B) representatives of air carriers operating under
                    part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; and
                        (C) industry associations representing such air
                    carriers.
                (2) Existing working group.--The Administrator may assign
            the duties described in subsection (c) to an existing FAA
            working group if--
                        (A) such working group includes representatives from
                    the list of required members under paragraph (1); or
                        (B) the membership of such existing working group
                    can be modified to include representatives from the list
                    of required members under paragraph (1).

        (c) Duties.--A working group shall review, evaluate, and make
    recommendations on the following:
                (1) Methods by which authorized check airmen for air
            carriers operating under part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations, are selected, trained, and approved by the
            Administrator.
                (2) Staffing and utilization rates of authorized check
            airmen by such air carriers.
                (3) <<NOTE: Applicability.>> Differences in qualification
            standards applied to--
                        (A) employees of the FAA who serve as check airmen;
                    and
                        (B) authorized check airmen of such air carriers.
                (4) Methods to harmonize the qualification standards between
            authorized check airmen and employees of the FAA who serve as
            check airmen.
                (5) Methods to improve the training and qualification of
            authorized check airmen.
                (6) Prior recommendations made by FAA advisory committees or
            working groups regarding check airmen functions.
                (7) Petitions for rulemaking submitted to the FAA regarding
            check airmen functions.

        (d) Briefing to Congress.-- <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Not later than 1
    year after the date on which the Administrator tasks a working group
    with the duties described in subsection (c), the Administrator shall
    brief

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1093]]

    the appropriate committees of Congress on the progress and
    recommendations of the working group and the efforts of the
    Administrator to implement such recommendations.

        (e) Authorized Check Airman Defined.--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.
    SEC. 337. FLIGHT SERVICE STATIONS.

        Section 44514 of title 49, United States Code, and the item relating
    to such section in the analysis for chapter 445 of such title <<NOTE: 49
    USC prec. 44501.>> are repealed.
    SEC. 338. <<NOTE: Determinations. Data. 49 USC 44701
                            note.>> TARMAC OPERATIONS MONITORING
                            STUDY.

        (a) In General.--The Director of the Bureau of Transportation
    Statistics, in consultation with relevant offices within the Office of
    the Secretary and the FAA (as determined by the Secretary), shall
    conduct a study to explore the capture, storage, analysis, and
    feasibility of monitoring ground source data at airports.
        (b) Objectives.--The objectives of the study conducted under
    subsection (a) shall include the following:
                (1) Determining the current state of ground source data
            coverage at airports.
                (2) Understanding the technology requirements for monitoring
            ground movements at airports through sensors, receivers, or
            other technologies.
                (3) Conducting data collection through a pilot program
            established under subsection (c) and collecting ground-based
            tarmac delay statistics.
                (4) <<NOTE: Evaluation. Analysis.>>  Performing an
            evaluation and feasibility analysis of potential system-level
            tarmac operations monitoring solutions.

        (c) Pilot Program.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--Not later than 180
            days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director shall
            establish a pilot program to collect data and develop ground-
            based tarmac delay statistics or other relevant statistics with
            respect to airports.
                (2) Requirements.--The pilot program established under
            paragraph (1) shall--
                        (A) include up to 6 airports that the Director
                    determines reflect a diversity of factors, including
                    geography, size, and air traffic;
                        (B) <<NOTE: Termination date.>>  terminate not more
                    than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act;
                    and
                        (C) <<NOTE: Guidelines.>> be subject to any
                    guidelines issued by the Director.

        (d) <<NOTE: Public information. Web posting.>>  Report.--Not later
    than 4 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director shall
    publish the results of the study conducted under subsection (a) and the
    pilot program established under subsection (c) on a publicly available
    website.
    SEC. 339. IMPROVED SAFETY IN RURAL AREAS.

        (a) <<NOTE: 49 USC 44720 note.>>  In General.--Section 322 of the
    FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44701 note) is amended to
    read as follows:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1094]]

    ``SEC. 322. IMPROVED SAFETY IN RURAL AREAS.

        ``(a) In General.--The Administrator shall permit an air carrier
    operating pursuant to part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal
    Regulations--
                ``(1) to operate under instrument flight rules (in this
            section referred to as `IFR') to a destination in a
            noncontiguous State that has a published instrument approach but
            does not have a Meteorological Aerodrome Report (in this section
            referred to as `METAR'); and
                ``(2) to conduct an instrument approach at such destination
            if--
                        ``(A) a current Area Forecast, supplemented by
                    noncertified destination weather observations (such as
                    weather cameras and other noncertified observations), is
                    available, and, at the time of departure, the
                    combination of the Area Forecast and noncertified
                    observation indicates that weather is expected to be at
                    or above approach minimums upon arrival;
                        ``(B) prior to commencing an approach, the air
                    carrier has a means to communicate to the pilot of the
                    aircraft whether the destination weather observation is
                    either at or above minimums for the approach to be
                    flown; and
                        ``(C) in the event the destination weather
                    observation is below such minimums, a suitable alternate
                    airport that has a METAR is specified in the IFR flight
                    plan.

        ``(b) Application Template.--
                ``(1) In general.-- <<NOTE: Criteria.>> The Administrator
            shall develop an application template with standardized,
            specific approval criteria to enable FAA inspectors to
            objectively evaluate the application of an air carrier to
            operate in the manner described in subsection (a).
                ``(2) Requirements.--The template required under paragraph
            (1) shall include a place in such template for an air carrier to
            describe--
                        ``(A) how any non-certified human observations will
                    be conducted; and
                        ``(B) how such observations will be communicated--
                              ``(i) to air carriers prior to dispatch; and
                              ``(ii) to pilots prior to approach.
                ``(3) Response to application.--
                        ``(A) Timeline.--The Administrator shall ensure--
                              ``(i) that the Administrator has the ability
                          to respond to an application of an air carrier not
                          later than 30 days after receipt of such
                          application; and
                              ``(ii) in the event the Administrator cannot
                          respond within 30 days, that the Administrator
                          informs the air carrier of the expected response
                          time with respect to the application of the air
                          carrier.
                        ``(B) Rejection.--In the event that the
                    Administrator rejects an application of an air carrier,
                    the Administrator shall inform the air carrier of the
                    specific criteria that were the cause for rejection.''.

        (b) <<NOTE: 49 USC 44720 note.>>  Effective Date.--The amendments
    made by this section shall take effect on the date that is 12 months
    after the date of enactment of this Act.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1095]]

    SEC. 340. STUDY ON FAA USE OF MANDATORY EQUAL ACCESS TO JUSTICE
                            ACT WAIVERS.

        (a) In General.--The Comptroller General shall conduct a study on
    the use of waivers of rights by the Administrator that may arise under
    section 504 of title 5, United States Code, or section 2412 of title 28,
    United States Code, as a condition for the settlement of any proceedings
    to amend, modify, suspend, or revoke an airman certificate or to impose
    a civil penalty on a flight engineer, mechanic, pilot, or repairman (or
    an individual acting in the capacity of such engineer, mechanic, pilot,
    or repairman).
        (b) Considerations.--In conducting the study under subsection (a),
    the Comptroller General shall consider--
                (1) the frequency of the use of waivers by the Administrator
            described in this section;
                (2) the benefits and consequences of the use of such waivers
            to both the Administrator and the certificate holder; and
                (3) the effects of a prohibition on using such waivers.

        (c) Cooperation With Study.--The Administrator shall cooperate with
    any requests for information by Comptroller General to complete the
    study required under subsection (a).
        (d) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 1 year
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall
    submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report containing the
    results of the study conducted under subsection (a), including
    recommendations for any legislation and administrative action as the
    Comptroller General determines appropriate.
    SEC. 341. <<NOTE: Contracts. Evaluation. Virginia.>> AIRPORT AIR
                            SAFETY.

        The Administrator shall seek to enter into appropriate arrangements
    with a qualified third-party entity to evaluate whether poor air quality
    inside the Washington Dulles International Airport passenger terminal
    negatively affects passengers.
    SEC. 342. 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. <<NOTE: 49 USC 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 Alaska and 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
            Alaska and 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.--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1096]]

                ``(1) <<NOTE: Designation.>>  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) Covered locations.--The Administrator shall select a
            designee within the Aviation Safety Organization to implement
            relevant requirements of this section in covered locations.
                ``(3) Reporting chain.--In all matters relating to the
            Initiative, the Director of the Initiative shall report directly
            to the Administrator.
                ``(4) 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) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  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) <<NOTE: Timeline.>>  Prioritization.--In developing
            the installation timeline of a covered automated weather system
            at a covered airport pursuant to this subsection, the
            Administrator shall--
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  coordinate and
                    consult with the governments with jurisdiction over
                    Alaska and covered locations, covered airports, air
                    carriers operating in Alaska or covered locations,
                    private pilots based in Alaska or a covered location,
                    and such other members of the aviation community in
                    Alaska or 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 in Alaska, 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.-- <<NOTE: Data.>> 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 for
                    Alaska. 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 in Alaska is unable

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1097]]

                    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.--
                        ``(A) Maintenance improvements.--
                              ``(i) In general.--Not later than 18 months
                          after the date of enactment of the FAA
                          Reauthorization Act of 2024, the Administrator
                          shall identify and implement reasonable
                          alternative actions to improve maintenance of FAA-
                          owned weather observing systems that experience
                          frequent service outages, including associated
                          surface communication outages, at covered
                          airports.
                              ``(ii) Spare parts availability.--The actions
                          identified by the Administrator in clause (i)
                          shall improve spare parts availability, including
                          consideration of storage of more spare parts in
                          the region in which the systems are located.
                        ``(B) Notice of outages.--Not later than 18 months
                    after the date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization
                    Act of 2024, the Administrator shall update FAA Order
                    7930.2 Notices to Air Missions, or any successive order,
                    to incorporate weather system outages for automated
                    weather observing systems and automated surface
                    observing systems associated with Service A Outages at
                    covered airports.
                ``(6) Visual weather observation system.--
                        ``(A) Deployment.--Not later than 3 years after the
                    date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of
                    2024, the Administrator shall take such actions as may
                    be necessary to--
                              ``(i) deploy visual weather observation
                          systems;
                              ``(ii) ensure that such systems are capable of
                          meeting the definition of a covered automated
                          weather system in Alaska; and
                              ``(iii) develop standard operation
                          specifications for visual weather operation
                          systems.
                        ``(B) Modification of specifications.--Upon the
                    request of an aircraft operator, the Administrator shall
                    issue or modify the standard operation specifications
                    for visual weather observation systems developed under
                    subparagraph (A) to allow such systems to be used to
                    satisfy the requirements for supplemental noncertified
                    local

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1098]]

                    weather observations under section 322 of the FAA
                    Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254).

        ``(e) Weather Cameras.--
                ``(1) In general.-- <<NOTE: Assessment.>> The Director shall
            continuously assess the state of the weather camera systems in
            Alaska and 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) <<NOTE: Consultation.>> consult with the
                    governments with jurisdiction over Alaska and covered
                    locations, covered airports, air carriers operating in
                    Alaska or covered locations, private pilots based in
                    Alaska or covered locations, and such other members of
                    the aviation community in Alaska and 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
            in Alaska, 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 Alaska and 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
                    aircraft 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 Alaska and covered locations.
                ``(2) Requirement.-- <<NOTE: Deadline.>> 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
            and Alaska.
                ``(3) Waiver.--The Administrator shall waive any positive
            benefit-cost ratio requirement for--
                        ``(A) the installation and operation of equipment
                    and facilities necessary to implement the requirement
                    under paragraph (2); and
                        ``(B) the provision of additional ground-based
                    transmitters for automatic dependent surveillance-
                    broadcasts to provide a minimum operational network in
                    Alaska along major flight routes.
                ``(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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1099]]

        ``(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.-- <<NOTE: Effective date. Time
            period.>> Beginning on the date that is 1 year after the date of
            enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, 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 Initiative,
            including an itemized description of how the Administration
            budget meets the goals of the Initiative.
                ``(2) 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) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  In general.--Notwithstanding
            any other provision of law, for each of fiscal years 2025
            through 2028--
                        ``(A) the Administrator may, upon application from
                    the government with jurisdiction over a covered airport
                    and in coordination with the State or territory in which
                    a covered airport is located, use amounts apportioned
                    under subsection (d)(2)(B) or subsection (e) of section
                    47114 to carry out the Initiative; or
                        ``(B) the sponsor of a covered airport that receives
                    an apportionment under subsection (d)(2)(A) 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 years 2025 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 Alaska or 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
            Hawaii, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana
            Islands, and the Virgin Islands.

        ``(l) Conformity.--The Administrator shall conduct all activities
    required under this section in conformity with section 44720.''.
        (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) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  In general.--If the
                    Administrator determines that a covered position has not
                    been filled after multiple

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1100]]

                    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, to include personnel located at contract
                    towers, based in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, American
                    Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the
                    Virgin Islands.''.

        (c) GAO Study on Alaska Aviation Safety.--
                (1) Study.--The Comptroller General shall conduct a study
            to--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Examination.>> examine the effectiveness
                    of the Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative to
                    improve aviation safety, service, and infrastructure;
                    and
                        (B) identify challenges within the FAA to
                    accomplishing safety improvements carried out under such
                    Initiative.
                (2) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of
            enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to
            the appropriate committees of Congress a report containing--
                        (A) the findings of the study under paragraph (1);
                    and
                        (B) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommendations
                    for such legislative or administrative action as the
                    Comptroller General determines appropriate.

        (d) <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  Runway Length.--The
    Administrator--
                (1) may not restrict funding made available under chapter
            471 of title 49, United States Code, from being used at an
            airport in Alaska to rehabilitate, resurface, or reconstruct the
            full length and width of an existing runway within Alaska based
            solely on reduced current or forecasted aeronautical activity
            levels or critical design type standards;
                (2) may not reject requests for runway projects at airports
            in Alaska if such projects address critical community needs,
            including projects--
                        (A) that support economic development by expanding a
                    runway to meet new demands; or
                        (B) that preserve the length of runways used by
                    aircraft to deliver necessary cargo, including heating
                    fuel and gasoline, for the community served by the
                    airport; and
                (3) <<NOTE: Deadline. Review.>>  shall, not later than 60
            days after receiving a request for a runway rehabilitation or
            reconstruction project at an airport in Alaska, review each such
            request on a case-by-case basis.

        (e) Implementation of NTSB Recommendations.--
                (1) In general.-- <<NOTE: Deadline.>> 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,

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1101]]

            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, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44701.>> is amended by adding
    at the end the following:

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

    SEC. 343. ACCOUNTABILITY AND COMPLIANCE.

        (a) In General.--Section 44704(a) of title 49, United States Code,
    is amended by adding at the end the following:
                ``(6) <<NOTE: Certification.>>  Submission of data.--When an
            applicant submits design data to the Administrator for a finding
            of compliance as part of an application for a type certificate,
            the applicant shall certify to the Administrator that--
                        ``(A) the submitted design data demonstrates
                    compliance with the applicable airworthiness standards;
                    and
                        ``(B) any airworthiness standards not complied with
                    are compensated for by factors that provide an
                    equivalent level of safety, as agreed upon by the
                    Administrator.''.

        (b) <<NOTE: Briefing.>>  Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall provide
    to the appropriate committees of Congress a briefing on the
    implementation of the certification requirement added by the amendment
    made by subsection (a).
    SEC. 344. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 44704 note.>>  CHANGED PRODUCT
                            RULE REFORM.

        (a) <<NOTE: Notice.>>  In General.--Not later than 18 months after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall issue a
    notice of proposed rulemaking to revise section 21.101 of title 14, Code
    of Federal Regulations, to achieve the following objectives:
                (1) For any significant design change, as determined by the
            Administrator, to require that the exception related to
            impracticality under subsection (b)(3) of such section from the
            requirement to comply with the latest amendments of the
            applicable airworthiness standards in effect on the date of
            application for the change be approved only after providing
            public notice and opportunity to comment on such exception.
                (2) To ensure appropriate documentation of any exception or
            exemption from airworthiness requirements in title 14, Code of
            Federal Regulations, as in effect on the date of application for
            the change.

        (b) Congressional Briefing.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
    enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall provide to the
    appropriate committees of Congress a briefing on the implementation by
    the FAA of the recommendations of the Changed Product Rule International
    Authorities Working Group, established for purposes of carrying out the
    requirements of section 117 of the Aircraft Certification, Safety, and
    Accountability Act (49 U.S.C. 44704 note), including recommendations on
    harmonized changes and reforms regarding the impractical exception.
        (c) Final Rule.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator shall issue a final rule based on the
    notice of proposed rulemaking issued under subsection (a).

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1102]]

        (d) <<NOTE: Effective date. Time period.>>  Annual Report.--
    Beginning in 2025 and annually thereafter through 2028, the
    Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress an
    annual report detailing the number of all significant design change
    exceptions approved and denied under paragraphs (1) through (3) of
    section 21.101(b) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    SEC. 345. ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY FOR CIVIL PENALTIES.

        Section 46301(d) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in paragraph (4) by striking subparagraph (A) and
            inserting the following:
                ``(A) the amount in controversy is more than--
                        ``(i) $400,000 if the violation was committed by any
                    person other than an individual or small business
                    concern before the date of enactment of the FAA
                    Reauthorization Act of 2024;
                        ``(ii) $50,000 if the violation was committed by an
                    individual or small business concern before the date of
                    enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024;
                        ``(iii) $1,200,000 if the violation was committed by
                    a person other than an individual or small business
                    concern on or after the date of enactment of the FAA
                    Reauthorization Act of 2024; or
                        ``(iv) $100,000 if the violation was committed by an
                    individual on or after the date of enactment of the FAA
                    Reauthorization Act of 2024;''; and
                (2) by striking paragraph (8) and inserting the following:
                ``(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) $400,000 if the violation was committed by a
                    person other than an individual or small business
                    concern before the date of enactment of the FAA
                    Reauthorization Act of 2024;
                        ``(B) $50,000 if the violation was committed by an
                    individual or small business concern before the date of
                    enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024;
                        ``(C) $1,200,000 if the violation was committed by a
                    person other than an individual or small business
                    concern on or after the date of enactment of the FAA
                    Reauthorization Act of 2024; or
                        ``(D) $100,000 if the violation was committed by an
                    individual on or after the date of enactment of the FAA
                    Reauthorization Act of 2024.''.
    SEC. 346. STUDY ON AIRWORTHINESS STANDARDS COMPLIANCE.

        (a) Study.-- <<NOTE: Contracts.>> The Administrator shall seek to
    enter into an agreement with a federally funded research and development
    center to conduct a study, in consultation with appropriate aviation
    safety engineers of the FAA, on the occurrences and potential
    consequences of a transport airplane design found to not comply with
    applicable airworthiness standards.

        (b) Scope.--In conducting the study pursuant to subsection (a), the
    federally funded research and development center shall identify each
    final airworthiness directive issued by the FAA or another civil
    aviation authority--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1103]]

                (1) applicable to transport airplanes during the 10-year
            period prior to the date of enactment of this Act; and
                (2) to address an unsafe condition resulting from an
            approved design that was noncompliant with an applicable
            airworthiness standard.

        (c) <<NOTE: Examinations.>>  Requirements.--For each such
    airworthiness directive identified under subsection (b), the federally
    funded research and development center shall examine--
                (1) the airworthiness standard with which the transport
            airplane failed to comply;
                (2) the resulting unsafe condition and whether such
            condition resulted in an accident;
                (3) the methods by which the noncompliance was discovered
            and brought to the attention of the FAA or another civil
            aviation authority, to the extent such methods can be
            identified;
                (4) <<NOTE: Analysis.>> an analysis of the method used by
            the applicant to show compliance during the certification
            process and whether other compliance methods may have reasonably
            identified the noncompliance during the certification process;
                (5) the date of approval of the relevant type design and the
            date of issuance of the airworthiness directive;
                (6) any corrective action mandated to address the identified
            unsafe condition;
                (7) the period of time specified for the incorporation of
            the corrective action, during which the affected transport
            airplanes were allowed to operate before the unsafe condition
            was corrected; and
                (8) the total cost of compliance estimated in the final rule
            adopting the airworthiness directive.

        (d) Coordination.--In conducting the study under subsection (a), the
    federally funded research and development center shall coordinate with,
    and solicit comments from--
                (1) transport category aircraft manufacturers; and
                (2) employees of the Administration, including the official
            bargaining representative of aircraft certification services
            engineers and of aviation safety engineers under section 7111 of
            title 5, United States Code, involved in developing
            airworthiness directives, as necessary.

        (e) Report to Congress.--Not later than 2 years after the date of
    enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate
    committees of Congress a report that includes--
                (1) the results of the study conducted under subsection (a);
                (2) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  actions the Administrator
            determines necessary to improve safety as a result of the
            findings under subsection (a) and any root causes of an unsafe
            condition that were identified;
                (3) the comments solicited under subsection (d); and
                (4) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  any other recommendations
            for legislative or administrative action determined appropriate
            by the Administrator.

        (f) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Air carrier; foreign air carrier.--The terms ``air
            carrier'' and ``foreign air carrier'' have the meanings given
            such terms in section 40102 of title 49, United States Code.
                (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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1104]]

            a passenger seating capacity of 30 or more or an all-cargo or
            combi derivative.
    SEC. 347. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> 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) <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  Continuous evaluation.--In
            carrying out section 47101(a) of title 49, United States Code,
            as amended by this subsection, the Administrator shall establish
            a process to continuously track and evaluate ground traffic and
            air traffic activity and related incidents at airports.

        (b) <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>> Runway Safety Council.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Establishment. Strategy.>>  In general.--Not
            later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the
            Administrator shall establish a council, to be known as the
            ``Runway Safety Council'' (in this section referred to as the
            ``Council''), to develop a systematic management strategy to
            address airport 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 airport
            surface safety risk mitigation.
                (3) <<NOTE: Appointments.>>  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 exclusive collective bargaining
                          representative of aviation safety professionals
                          for the FAA certified under section 7111 of title
                          5, United States Code.
                              (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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1105]]

                    organization that the Administrator determines
                    appropriate to the Runway Safety Council.

        (c) <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  Airport Surface Safety
    Technologies.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  Identification.--Not later than
            6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the
            Administrator shall, in coordination with the Council, consult
            with relevant stakeholders to identify technologies, equipment,
            systems, and process changes, that--
                        (A) may provide airport surface surveillance
                    capabilities at airports lacking such capabilities;
                        (B) may augment existing airport surface detection
                    and surveillance system; or
                        (C) may improve onboard situational awareness for
                    flight crewmembers, including technologies for use in an
                    aircraft that--
                              (i) reduce the risk of collision on the runway
                          with other aircraft or vehicles;
                              (ii) calculate safe landing distances; and
                              (iii) prompt actions to bring the aircraft to
                          a safe stop.
                (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)(A) and (1)(B), identify airport surface
                    detection and surveillance systems that meet the
                    standards of the FAA and may be able to--
                              (i) provide airport surface surveillance
                          capabilities at airports lacking such
                          capabilities; or
                              (ii) augment existing airport surface
                          detection and surveillance systems, such as
                          Airport Surface Detection System--Model X or the
                          Airport Surface Surveillance Capability;
                        (B) <<NOTE: Timeline.>>  establish a timeline and
                    action plan for replacing, maintaining, or enhancing the
                    operational capability provided by existing airport
                    surface detection and surveillance systems, and
                    implementing runway safety technologies at airports
                    without airport surface detection and surveillance
                    systems, as needed, to improve runway safety;
                        (C) based on the information obtained pursuant to
                    paragraph (1)(C), identify safety technologies and
                    systems in transport airplanes that meet the standards
                    of the FAA that will--
                              (i) enhance runway safety for transport
                          airplanes that lack the capabilities of such
                          technologies and systems, as appropriate; or
                              (ii) augment existing onboard situational
                          awareness runway traffic alerting and runway
                          landing safety technologies installed on transport
                          airplanes; and
                        (D) <<NOTE: Criteria. Requirement.>> 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 detection or surveillance system, or
                    other runway safety system (including runway status
                    lights), at an airport is required.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1106]]

                (3) Deployment.--Not later than 5 years after the date of
            enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall ensure that
            airport surface detection and surveillance systems are deployed
            and operational at--
                        (A) all airports described in paragraph (2)(A); and
                        (B) all medium and large hub airports.
                (4) Briefing.--Not later than 3 years after the date of
            enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the
            appropriate committees of Congress on the progress of the
            deployment described in paragraph (3).

        (d) <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  Foreign Object Debris Detection.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  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) <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  Runway Safety Study.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  In general.--Not later than 2
            years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
            shall seek to enter into appropriate arrangements with a
            federally funded research and development center to conduct a
            study of runway incursions, airport 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) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  Considerations.--In conducting
            the study under paragraph (1), the federally funded research and
            development center shall--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Examination. Data.>>  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;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1107]]

                        (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) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  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 appropriate committees of
            Congress a report on the findings of such study and any
            recommendations developed under paragraph (3).

        (f) <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Air carrier; foreign air carrier.--The terms ``air
            carrier'' and ``foreign air carrier'' have the meanings given
            such terms in section 40102 of title 49, United States Code.
                (2) Airport surface detection and surveillance system.--The
            term ``airport surface detection and surveillance system'' means
            an airport surveillance system that is--
                        (A) designed to track surface movement of aircraft
                    and vehicles; or
                        (B) capable of alerting air traffic controllers or
                    flight crewmembers of a possible runway incursion,
                    misaligned approach, or other safety event.
                (3) Transport airplane.--The term ``transport airplane''
            means a transport category airplane designed for operation by an
            air carrier or foreign air carrier jet type-certificated with a
            passenger seating capacity of at least 10 seats or a maximum
            takeoff weight above 12,500 pounds or an all-cargo or combi
            derivative of such an airplane.
    SEC. 348. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>> IMPROVEMENTS TO AVIATION
                            SAFETY INFORMATION ANALYSIS AND SHARING
                            PROGRAM.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Data.>>  In General.--Not later than 3 years
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 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;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1108]]

                (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) <<NOTE: Guidance.>>  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) air transportation and commercial aviation;
                        (C) rotorcraft operations;
                        (D) air ambulance operations; and
                        (E) aviation maintenance;
                (7) establish processes for obtaining and analyzing
            comprehensive and aggregate data for new and future industry
            segments; and
                (8) <<NOTE: Data.>>  integrate safety data from unmanned
            aircraft system operators, as appropriate.

        (c) Implementation.--In carrying out subsection (a), the
    Administrator shall--
                (1) prioritize production-ready configurable solutions over
            custom development, as appropriate, to support FAA critical
            aviation safety programs; and
                (2) ensure that adequate market research is completed in
            accordance with FAA acquisition management system requirements,
            including appropriate demonstrations of proposed solutions, as
            part of the evaluation criteria.

        (d) 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.

        (e) Briefing.-- <<NOTE: Deadline. Time period.>> 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 appropriate committees of Congress on the
    progress of implementation of the Aviation Safety Information Analysis
    and Sharing Program, including--
                (1) <<NOTE: Assessment.>> an assessment of the progress of
            the FAA toward achieving milestones for such program identified
            by the inspector general of the Department of Transportation and
            the Special Committee to Review FAA Aircraft Certification
            Reports;
                (2) a description of the plan to use appropriate deployable
            commercial solutions to assist the FAA in meeting such
            milestones;
                (3) steps taken to make improvements under subsection (b);
            and
                (4) <<NOTE: Summary.>>  a summary of the efforts of the FAA
            to address gaps in safety data provided from any of the industry
            segments described in subsection (b)(6).

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1109]]

    SEC. 349. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44704 note.>>  INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONTINUED
                            AIRWORTHINESS AVIATION RULEMAKING
                            COMMITTEE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Review. Recommenda- tions. Reports. Determination.>>  In
    General.--The Administrator 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) that are
            not also type certificate holders as included under paragraph
            (1), production certificate holders as included under paragraph
            (2), or aircraft operators as included under paragraph (5) (or
            associated with any such entities);
                (7) the certified bargaining representative of aviation
            safety inspectors and engineers 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 described in paragraph (6); 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;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1110]]

                (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) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  Duties.--The Administrator shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Records.>>  not later than 1 year after the date
            of enactment of this Act, submit to the appropriate committees
            of Congress a copy of the aviation rulemaking committee report
            under subsection (a); and
                (2) <<NOTE: Policies. Guidance. Update. Determination.>> 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. 350. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44903 note.>>  SECONDARY COCKPIT
                            BARRIERS.

        (a) In General.-- <<NOTE: Review. Deadline. Recommenda-
    tions. Requirement.>> Not later than 6 months after the date of
    enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall convene an aviation
    rulemaking committee to review and develop findings and recommendations
    to require installation of a secondary cockpit barrier on commercial
    passenger 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.-- <<NOTE: Appointments.>> The Administrator shall
    appoint a chair and members of the rulemaking committee convened under
    subsection (a), which shall be comprised of at least 1 representative
    from the constituencies of--
                (1) mainline air carriers;
                (2) regional air carriers;
                (3) aircraft manufacturers;
                (4) passenger aircraft pilots represented by a labor group;
                (5) flight attendants represented by a labor group;
                (6) airline passengers; 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 lavatories on such aircraft as related
            to operational complexities;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1111]]

                (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 12 months after the
    convening of the aviation rulemaking committee described in subsection
    (a), the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of
    Congress a report based on the findings and recommendations of the
    aviation rulemaking committee convened under subsection (a), including--
                (1) if applicable, any dissenting positions on the findings
            and the rationale for each position; and
                (2) any disagreements with the recommendations, including
            the rationale for each disagreement and the reasons for the
            disagreement.

        (e) Installation of Secondary Cockpit Barriers of Existing
    Aircraft.-- <<NOTE: Deadline. Regulations.>> Not later than 36 months
    after the date of the submission of the report under subsection (d), the
    Administrator shall, taking into consideration the final reported
    findings and recommendations of the aviation rulemaking committee, issue
    a final rule requiring installation of a secondary cockpit barrier on
    each commercial passenger aircraft operated under the provisions of part
    121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    SEC. 351. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 44701 note.>> PART 135 DUTY
                            AND REST.

        (a) <<NOTE: Requirements.>>  Part 91 Tail-end Ferry Rulemaking.--Not
    later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall require that any operation conducted by a flight
    crewmember 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 flight crewmember under part 135 of
    title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

        (b) Record Keeping.-- <<NOTE: Update. Policies. Guidance.>> 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) flight crew assignments;
                (2) flight crew prospective 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 final rule titled ``Safety Management Systems'', and published on
    April 26, 2024 (89 Fed. Reg. 33068), shall ensure such operator is
    evaluating and appropriately mitigating aviation safety risks,
    including, at minimum, risks associated with--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1112]]

                (1) inadequate flight crewmember duty and rest periods; and
                (2) incomplete records pertaining to flight crew rest, duty,
            and flight times.

        (d) Organ Transportation Flights.--In updating guidance and policy
    pursuant to subsection (b), the Administrator shall consider and allow
    for appropriate accommodations, including accommodations related to
    subsections (b)(2) and (b)(4) for operators--
                (1) performing organ transportation operations; and
                (2) who have in place a means by which to identify and
            mitigate risks associated with flight crew duty and rest.
    SEC. 352. FLIGHT DATA RECOVERY FROM OVERWATER OPERATIONS.

        (a) Flight Data Recovery From Overwater Operations.--Chapter 447 of
    title 49, United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end
    the following:
    ``Sec. 44746. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44746.>> Flight data recovery from
                        overwater operations

        ``(a) In General.-- <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> 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 require that, not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of
    this section, all applicable aircraft are--
                ``(1) fitted with 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) equipped with a tamper-resistant method to broadcast
            sufficient information to a ground station to establish the
            location where an applicable aircraft terminates flight as the
            result of such an event; and
                ``(3) equipped with an airframe low-frequency underwater
            locating device that functions for at least 90 days and that can
            be detected by appropriate equipment.

        ``(b) <<NOTE: Effective date.>>  Applicable Aircraft Defined.--In
    this section, the term `applicable aircraft' means an aircraft
    manufactured on or after January 1, 2028, that is--
                ``(1) operated under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations;
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Requirement.>>  required by regulation to have
            a cockpit voice recorder and a flight data recorder; and
                ``(3) used in extended overwater operations.''.

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 447 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44701.>> is further amended by
    adding at the end the following:

    ``44746. Flight data recovery from overwater operations.''.

    SEC. 353. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 44701 note.>>  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 shall
    initiate a Call to Action safety review of airport ramp worker safety
    and ways to minimize or eliminate ingestion zone and jet blast zone
    accidents.
        (b) Contents.--The Call to Action safety review required pursuant to
    subsection (a) shall include--
                (1) a description of Administration regulations, guidance,
            and directives related to airport ramp worker safety procedures
            and oversight of such processes;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1113]]

                (2) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  a description of reportable
            accidents and incidents involving airport ramp workers in 5-year
            period preceding the date of enactment of this Act, including
            any identified contributing factors to the reportable accident
            or incident;
                (3) training and related educational materials for airport
            ramp workers, including supervisory and contract employees;
                (4) any recommended devices and methods for communication on
            the airport ramp, including considerations of requirements for
            operable radios and headsets;
                (5) a review of markings on the airport ramp that define
            restriction, staging, safety, or hazard zones, including
            markings to clearly define and graphically indicate the engine
            ingestion zones and envelope of safety for the variety of
            aircraft that may park at the same gate of the airport;
                (6) a review of aircraft jet blast and engine intake safety
            markings, including incorporation of markings on aircraft to
            indicate engine inlet danger zones; 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 appropriate committees of Congress 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 ways to
            mitigate such risks 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.

        (d) Training Materials.--Not later than 6 months after the
    completion of the safety review required under subsection (a), the
    Administrator shall develop and publish training and related educational
    materials about aircraft engine ingestion and jet blast hazards for
    ground crews, including supervisory and contract employees, that
    includes information on--
                (1) the specific dangers and consequences of entering engine
            ingestion or jet blast zones;
                (2) proper protocols to avoid entering an engine ingestion
            or jet blast zone; and
                (3) 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.

        (e) Consultation.--In carrying out this section, the Administrator
    shall consult with aviation safety experts, air carriers, aircraft
    manufacturers, relevant labor organizations, and airport operators.
        (f) Training Requirements.--Not later than 6 months after the
    publication of the training and related educational materials required
    under subsection (d), the Administrator may require any ramp worker, as
    appropriate, to receive the relevant engine ingestion and jet blast zone
    hazard training before such ramp worker may perform work on any airport
    ramp.
    SEC. 354. VOLUNTARY REPORTING PROTECTIONS.

        (a) In General.--Section 40123(a) of title 49, United States Code,
    is amended in the matter preceding paragraph (1)--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1114]]

                (1) by inserting ``, including section 552(b)(3)(B) of title
            5'' after ``Notwithstanding any other provision of law''; and
                (2) by inserting ``or third party'' after ``nor any
            agency''.

        (b) Review of Protection From <<NOTE: Deadline. Update. 49 USC 40123
    note.>> Disclosure.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator shall review and update part 193 of title
    14, Code of Federal Regulations, and review section 44735 of title 49,
    United States Code, to ensure such laws and regulations designate and
    protect from disclosure information or data submitted, collected, or
    obtained by the Administrator under voluntary safety programs, including
    the following:
                (1) Aviation Safety Action Program.
                (2) Flight Operational Quality Assurance.
                (3) Line Operations Safety Assessments.
                (4) Air Traffic Safety Action Program.
                (5) Technical Operations Safety Action Program.
                (6) Such other voluntarily submitted information or programs
            as the Administrator determines appropriate.
    SEC. 355. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 44718 note.>> TOWER MARKING
                            NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING.

        (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator 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 appropriate committees of Congress an annual report on the
    status of such rulemaking, including--
                (1) the reasons that the Administrator has failed to issue
            the rulemaking; and
                (2) <<NOTE: List. Time period.>>  a list of fatal aircraft
            accidents associated with unmarked towers that have occurred
            during the 5-year period preceding the date of submission of the
            report.
    SEC. 356. 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. 357. EDUCATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT.

        (a) In General.--Section 40104 of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended by inserting after subsection (b) (as redesignated by section
    356) the following:
        ``(c) Educational and Professional Development.--
                ``(1) In general.--In carrying out subsection (a), the
            Administrator shall support and undertake efforts to promote and
            support the education and professional development of current
            and future aerospace professionals.
                ``(2) Educational materials.--Based on the availability of
            resources, the Administrator shall--
                        ``(A) develop and distribute civil aviation
                    information and educational materials; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1115]]

                        ``(B) provide expertise to State and local school
                    administrators, college and university officials, and
                    officers of other interested organizations and entities.
                ``(3) Content.--In developing the educational materials
            under paragraph (2), the Administrator shall ensure such
            materials, including presentations, cover 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) <<NOTE: 49 USC 40104 note.>> Support for Professional
    Development and Continuing Education.--The Administrator may take such
    action as may be necessary to support or launch initiatives that seek to
    advance the professional development and continuing education of
    aerospace professionals.
    SEC. 358. GLOBAL AVIATION SAFETY.

        (a) In General.--Section 40104(d) of title 49, United States Code,
    (as redesignated by section 356) 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 aviation oversight
                          practices and policies;
                              ``(ii) harmonizing international aviation
                          standards for air traffic management, operator
                          certification, aircraft certification, airports,
                          and certificated or credentialed individuals;
                              ``(iii) validating and accepting foreign
                          aircraft design and production approvals;
                              ``(iv) preparing for new aviation
                          technologies, including powered-lift aircraft,
                          products, and articles; and
                              ``(v) 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 as required under paragraph (5) and provide
                    technical assistance as described in paragraph (6);
                        ``(E) validate foreign aviation products and ensure
                    reciprocal validation of products for which the United
                    States is the state of design or production;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1116]]

                        ``(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 safety activities of
                    the United States aviation sector;
                        ``(H) maintain valuable relationships with entities
                    with aviation 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 356) is
    further amended by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
                ``(3) International offices.--In carrying out the
            responsibilities described in subsection (a), the
            Administrator--
                        ``(A) shall maintain international offices of the
                    Administration;
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  every 5 years, may
                    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);
                          and
                        ``(C) shall 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 aviation operations or
                          manufacturing.''.

        (c) Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreements; Technical Assistance.--
                (1) Establishment.--Section 40104(d) of title 49, United
            States Code, (as redesignated by section 356) is further amended
            by adding at the end the following:
                ``(5) Bilateral aviation safety agreements.--
                        ``(A) In general.--
                    <<NOTE: Negotiation. Evaluation. Update.>> 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 aviation safety;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1117]]

                              ``(ii) increase harmonization of, and reduce
                          duplicative, requirements, processes, and
                          approvals to advance the aviation 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 aviation 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,
                          powered-lift aircraft, products, and articles;
                              ``(vii) aerodrome certification;
                              ``(viii) unmanned aircraft and associated
                          elements of such aircraft;
                              ``(ix) flight simulation training devices;
                              ``(x) new or emerging 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) Technical assistance updates.--Section 40113(e) of title
            49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the
            following:
                ``(6) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Technical assistance outside
            of agreements.--In the absence of a bilateral or multilateral
            agreement, the Administrator may provide technical assistance
            and training under this subsection if the Administrator
            determines that--
                        ``(A) a foreign government would benefit from
                    technical assistance pursuant to this subsection to
                    strengthen aviation safety, efficiency, and security;
                    and
                        ``(B) the engagement is to provide inherently
                    governmental technical assistance and training.
                ``(7) Inherently governmental technical assistance and
            training defined.--In this subsection, the term `inherently
            governmental technical assistance and training' means technical
            assistance and training that--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1118]]

                        ``(A) relies upon or incorporates Federal Aviation
                    Administration-specific program, system, policy, or
                    procedural matters;
                        ``(B) must be accomplished using agency expertise
                    and authority; and
                        ``(C) relates to--
                              ``(i) international aviation safety assessment
                          technical reviews and technical assistance;
                              ``(ii) aerodrome safety and certification;
                              ``(iii) aviation system certification
                          activities based on Federal Aviation
                          Administration regulations and requirements;
                              ``(iv) cybersecurity efforts to protect United
                          States aviation ecosystem components and
                          facilities;
                              ``(v) operation and maintenance of air
                          navigation system equipment, procedures, and
                          personnel; or
                              ``(vi) training and exercises in support of
                          aviation safety, efficiency, and security.''.
                (3) Validation of powered-lift <<NOTE: 49 USC 40104
            note.>> aircraft.--In carrying out section 40104(d) of title 49,
            United States Code (as amended by this Act), the Administrator
            shall ensure coordination with international civil aviation
            authorities regarding the establishment of mutual processes for
            efficient validation, acceptance, and working arrangements of
            certificates and approvals for powered-lift aircraft, products,
            and articles.
                (4) Report on international validation program
            performance.--
                        (A) In general.-- <<NOTE: Review. Evaluation.>> Not
                    later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this
                    Act, the Secretary shall initiate a review to evaluate
                    the performance of the type certificate validation
                    program of the FAA under bilateral or multilateral
                    aviation safety agreements, with a focus on agreed to
                    implementation procedures.
                        (B) Contents.--In conducting the review under
                    subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall consider, at
                    minimum, the following:
                              (i) Actions taken for the purposes of carrying
                          out section 243(a) of the FAA Reauthorization Act
                          of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44701 note).
                              (ii) Metrics from validation programs carried
                          out prior to the initiation of such review,
                          including the number and types of projects,
                          timeline milestones, and trends relating to the
                          repeated use of non-basic criteria.
                              (iii) Training on the minimum standards of
                          established validation work plans, including any
                          guidance on the level of involvement of the
                          validating authority, established justifications
                          for involvement, and procedures for compliance
                          document requests.
                              (iv) The perspectives of--
                                        (I) FAA employees responsible for
                                    type validation projects;
                                        (II) bilateral civil aviation
                                    regulatory partners; and
                                        (III) industry applicants seeking
                                    validation.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1119]]

                              (v) Adequacy of the funding and staffing
                          levels of the International Validation Branch of
                          the Compliance and Airworthiness Division of the
                          Aircraft Certification Service of the FAA.
                              (vi) Effectiveness of FAA training for FAA
                          employees.
                              (vii) Effectiveness of outreach conducted to
                          improve and enforce validation processes.
                              (viii) Efforts undertaken to strengthen
                          relationships with international certification
                          authorities.
                              (ix) Number of approvals issued by other
                          certifying authorities in compliance with
                          applicable bilateral agreements and implementation
                          procedures.
                        (C) Report.--Not later than 60 days after the
                    completion of the review initiated under this
                    subsection, the Administrator shall submit to the
                    appropriate committees of Congress a report regarding
                    such review.
                        (D) Definitions.--In this paragraph, the terms ``ODA
                    holder'' and ``ODA unit'' have the meanings given such
                    terms in section 44736(c) of title 49, United States
                    Code.

        (d) International Engagement Strategy.--Section 40104(d) of title
    49, United States Code, (as redesignated by section 356) is further
    amended by adding at the end the following:
                ``(7) 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 under
                    section 243(b) 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 export control laws;
                        ``(D) <<NOTE: Policies.>> policy regarding the
                    future direction and strategy of the United States
                    engagement with the International Civil Aviation
                    Organization;
                        ``(E) <<NOTE: Procedures.>>  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;
                        ``(G) <<NOTE: Update.>> 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; and
                        ``(H) a strategic methodology to facilitate the
                    ability of the United States aerospace industry to
                    efficiently operate and export new aerospace
                    technologies, products, and articles in key markets
                    globally.''.

        (e) <<NOTE: 49 USC 40104 note.>>  Powered-lift Aircraft.--In
    developing the methodology required under section 40104(d)(7)(H) of
    title 49, United States Code (as added by subsection (d)), the
    Administrator shall--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1120]]

                (1) <<NOTE: Assessments. Determination.>>  perform an
            assessment of existing bilateral aviation safety agreements,
            implementation procedures, and other associated bilateral
            arrangements to determine how current and future powered-lift
            products and articles can utilize the most appropriate
            validation mechanisms and procedures;
                (2) facilitate global acceptance of the approach of the FAA
            to certification of powered-lift aircraft, products, and
            articles; and
                (3) consider any other information determined appropriated
            by the Administrator.
    SEC. 359. 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) <<NOTE: Delegation.>>  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, aviation fuels, and
            other aviation standards, regulations, and initiatives adopted
            by the United States;
                ``(2) facilitating the adoption of United States approaches
            on such aviation standards and recommended practices at the
            International Civil Aviation Organization;
                ``(3) supporting the acceptance of Administration design and
            production approvals by other civil aviation authorities;
                ``(4) training Administration personnel and training
            provided to other persons;
                ``(5) engaging with regulated entities, including performing
            site visits;
                ``(6) activities associated with subsections (c) through
            (e); and
                ``(7) other activities as determined by the
            Administrator.''.
    SEC. 360. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44704 note.>> WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION.

        (a) In General.-- <<NOTE: Deadline. Regulation.>> Not later than 18
    months after the date of enactment of this Act, to ensure that
    sufficient firefighting resources are available to suppress wildfires
    and protect public safety and property, and notwithstanding any other
    provision of law or agency regulation, the Administrator shall issue a
    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) <<NOTE: Applicability. Determination.>> 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1121]]

                (3) the noise standards described in part 36 of such title
            14 shall not apply to such an operation.

        (b) Surplus Military Aircraft.--In issuing a rule under subsection
    (a), the Administrator may not enable any aircraft of a type that has
    been--
                (1) manufactured in accordance with the requirements of, and
            accepted for use by, the armed forces (as defined in section 101
            of title 10, United States Code); and
                (2) later modified to be used for wildfire suppression
            operations.

        (c) Conforming Amendments to FAA Documents.--In issuing a rule under
    subsection (a), the Administrator shall revise the order of the FAA
    titled ``Restricted Category Type Certification'', issued on February
    27, 2006 (FAA Order 8110.56), as well as any corresponding policy or
    guidance material, to reflect the requirements of this section.
        (d) Savings Provision.--Nothing in this section shall be construed
    to limit the authority of the Administrator 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.
    SEC. 361. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  CONTINUOUS AIRCRAFT TRACKING AND
                            TRANSMISSION FOR HIGH ALTITUDE BALLOONS.

        (a) Study on Effects of High Altitude Balloons on Aviation Safety.--
                (1) In general.-- <<NOTE: Briefing.>> Not later than 180
            days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator,
            in coordination with the heads of other relevant Federal
            agencies, shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on
            the effects of high altitude balloon operations that do not emit
            electronic or radio signals for identification purposes and are
            launched within the United States and the territories of the
            United States on aviation safety.
                (2) Considerations.--In carrying out this subsection, the
            Administrator shall consider--
                        (A) current technology available and employed to
                    track high altitude balloon operations described under
                    paragraph (1);
                        (B) how the flights of such operations have
                    affected, or could affect, aviation safety;
                        (C) how such operations have contributed, or could
                    contribute, to misidentified threats to civil or
                    military aviation operations or infrastructure; and
                        (D) how such operations have impacted, or could
                    impact, national security and air traffic control
                    operations.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1122]]

        (b) High Altitude Balloon Tracking Aviation Rulemaking Committee.--
                (1) Establishment.-- <<NOTE: Review. Recommenda-
            tions.>> Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of
            this Act, the Administrator shall establish an Aviation
            Rulemaking Committee (in this section referred to as the
            ``Committee'') to review and develop findings and
            recommendations to inform a standard for any high altitude
            balloon to be equipped with a system for continuous aircraft
            tracking that transmits, at a minimum, the altitude, location,
            and identity of the high altitude balloon in a manner that is
            accessible to air traffic controllers and ensures the safe
            integration of high altitude balloons into the national airspace
            system.
                (2) Composition.--The Committee shall consist of members
            appointed by the Administrator, including the following:
                        (A) Representatives of industry.
                        (B) Aviation safety experts, including experts with
                    specific knowledge--
                              (i) of high altitude balloon operations; or
                              (ii) FAA tracking and surveillance systems.
                        (C) Non-governmental researchers and educators.
                        (D) Representatives of the Department of Defense.
                        (E) Representatives of Federal agencies that conduct
                    high altitude balloon operations.
                (3) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions. Updates. Requirements.>>
            Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of
            this Act, the Committee shall submit to the Administrator a
            report detailing the findings and recommendations developed
            under paragraph (1), including recommendations regarding the
            following:
                        (A) How to update sections 91.215, 91.225, and 99.13
                    of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to require all
                    high altitude balloons to have a continuous aircraft
                    tracking and transmission system.
                        (B) Any necessary updates to the requirements for
                    high altitude balloons under subpart D of part 101 of
                    title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                        (C) Any necessary updates to other FAA regulations
                    or requirements deemed appropriate and necessary by the
                    Administrator to--
                              (i) ensure any high altitude balloon has a
                          continuous aircraft tracking and transmission
                          system;
                              (ii) <<NOTE: Data.>>  ensure all data relating
                          to the altitude, location, and identity of any
                          high altitude balloon is made available to air
                          traffic controllers;

                          (iii) <<NOTE: Determination. Criteria. Guidance.>>
                           determine criteria and provide approval guidance
                          for new equipment that provides continuous
                          aircraft tracking and transmission for high
                          altitude balloons and meets the performance
                          requirements described under section 91.225 of
                          title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, including
                          portable, battery-powered Automatic Dependent
                          Surveillance-Broadcast Out equipage; and
                              (iv) maintain airspace safety.
                (4) Use of prior work.--In developing the report under
            paragraph (3), the Committee may make full use of any research,
            comments, data, findings, or recommendations made by any prior
            aviation rulemaking committee.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1123]]

                (5) New technologies and solutions.--Nothing in this
            subsection shall require the Committee to develop
            recommendations requiring equipage of high altitude balloons
            with an Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast Out system or
            an air traffic control transponder transmission system, or
            preclude the Committee from making recommendations for the
            adoption of new systems or solutions that may require that a
            high altitude balloon be equipped with a system that can
            transmit, at a minimum, the altitude, location, and identity of
            the high altitude balloon.
                (6) Briefing.-- <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Not later than 6 months
            after receiving the report required under paragraph (3), the
            Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress
            on the contents of such report and the status of any
            recommendation received pursuant to such report.

        (c) Definitions.--In this section, the term ``high altitude
    balloon'' means a manned or unmanned free balloon operating not less
    than 18,000 feet above mean sea level.
    SEC. 362. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  CABIN AIR SAFETY.

        (a) Deadline for 2018 Study on Bleed Air.--Not later than 6 months
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
    complete the requirements of section 326 of the FAA Reauthorization Act
    of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) and submit to the appropriate
    Congressional committees the following:
                (1) The completed study required under subsection (c) of
            such section.
                (2) The report on the feasibility, efficacy, and cost-
            effectiveness of certification and installation of systems to
            evaluate bleed air quality required under subsection (d) of such
            section.

        (b) Reporting System for Smoke or Fume Events Onboard Commercial
    Aircraft.--
                (1) In general.-- <<NOTE: Standards.>> Not later than 180
            days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the
            Administrator shall develop a standardized submission system for
            air carrier employees to voluntarily report fume or smoke events
            onboard passenger-carrying aircraft operating under part 121 of
            title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                (2) Collected information.--In developing the system under
            paragraph (1), the Administrator shall ensure that the system
            includes a method for submitting information about a smoke or
            fume event that allows for the collection of the following
            information, if applicable:
                        (A) Identification of the flight number, type, and
                    registration of the aircraft.
                        (B) The date of the reported fume or smoke event
                    onboard the aircraft.
                        (C) Description of fumes or smoke in the aircraft,
                    including the nature, intensity, and visual consistency
                    or smell (if any).
                        (D) The location of the fumes or smoke in the
                    aircraft.
                        (E) The source (if discernible) of the fumes or
                    smoke in the aircraft.
                        (F) The phase of flight during which fumes or smoke
                    first became present.
                        (G) The duration of the fume or smoke event.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1124]]

                        (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) <<NOTE: Records.>>  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 publicly publish any--
                              (i) information specific to a fume or smoke
                          event that is submitted pursuant to this section;
                          and
                              (ii) any information that may be used to
                          identify the party submitting such information;
                        (B) <<NOTE: Public information. Publication.>>  may
                    only publicly publish information submitted pursuant to
                    this section that has been aggregated if--
                              (i) such information has been validated; and
                              (ii) the availability of such information
                          would improve aviation safety;
                        (C) <<NOTE: Data.>>  shall maintain a database of
                    such information;
                        (D) at the request of an air carrier, shall provide
                    to such air carrier any information submitted pursuant
                    to this section that is relevant to such air carrier,
                    except any information that may be used to identify the
                    party submitting such information;
                        (E) may not, without validation, assume that
                    information submitted pursuant to this section is
                    accurate for the purposes of initiating rulemaking or
                    taking an enforcement action;
                        (F) may use information submitted pursuant to this
                    section to inform the oversight of the safety management
                    system of an air carrier; and
                        (G) may use information submitted pursuant to this
                    section for the purpose of performing a study or
                    supporting a study sponsored by the Administrator.

        (c) National Academies Study on Overall Cabin Air Quality.--
                (1) In general.-- <<NOTE: Deadline. Contracts. Recommenda-
            tions. Public information.>> Not later than 3 years after the
            date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 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 or
            smoke events onboard a passenger-carrying aircraft operating
            under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                (2) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  Scope.--In carrying out a study
            pursuant to paragraph (1), the National Academies shall
            examine--
                        (A) 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;
                        (B) the information collected through the system
                    established pursuant to subsection (b);

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1125]]

                        (C) any health risks or impacts of fume or smoke
                    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 or smoke
                    events in such aircraft;
                        (E) instances of accidental, unexpected, or
                    irregularly occurring (as determined by the National
                    Academies) fume or smoke 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 air contaminants present during the
                    instances described in subparagraphs (D) and (E) and the
                    probable originating materials of such air contaminants;
                        (G) the frequencies, durations, and likely causes of
                    the instances described in subparagraphs (D) and (E);
                    and
                        (H) any additional data on fume or smoke events, as
                    determined appropriate by the National Academies.
                (3) Recommendations.--As a part of the study conducted under
            paragraph (1), the National Academies shall provide
            recommendations--
                        (A) that, at minimum, address how to--
                              (i) improve overall cabin air quality of
                          passenger-carrying aircraft;
                              (ii) improve the detection, accuracy, and
                          reporting of fume or smoke events; and
                              (iii) reduce the frequency and impact of fume
                          or smoke events; and
                        (B) to establish or update standards, guidelines, or
                    regulations that could help achieve the recommendations
                    described in subparagraph (A).
                (4) <<NOTE: Records.>>  Report to congress.--Not later than
            1 month after the completion of the study conducted under
            paragraph (1), the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate
            committees of Congress a copy of such study and recommendations
            submitted with such study.

        (d) <<NOTE: Deadline. Notice.>>  Rulemaking.--Not later than 1 year
    after the completion of the study conducted under subsection (c), the
    Administrator may, as appropriate to address the safety risks identified
    as a result of the actions taken pursuant to this section, issue a
    notice of proposed rulemaking to establish requirements for scheduled
    passenger air carrier operations under part 121 of title 14, Code of
    Federal Regulations that may include the following:
                (1) Training for flight attendants, pilots, aircraft
            maintenance technicians, airport first responders, and emergency
            responders on how to respond to incidents on aircraft involving
            fume or smoke events.
                (2) Required actions and procedures for air carriers to take
            after receiving a report of an incident involving a fume or
            smoke event in which at least 1 passenger or crew member
            required medical attention as a result of such incident.
                (3) Installation onboard aircraft of detectors and other air
            quality monitoring equipment.

        (e) Fume or Smoke Event Defined.--In this section, the term ``fume
    or smoke event'' means an event in which there is an atypical

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1126]]

    noticeable or persistent presence of fumes or air contaminants in the
    cabin, including, at a minimum, a smoke event.
    SEC. 363. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44705 note.>>  COMMERCIAL AIR TOUR AND
                            SPORT PARACHUTING SAFETY.

        (a) Safety Requirements for Commercial Air Tour Operators.--
                (1) Safety reforms.--
                        (A) Authority to conduct nonstop commercial air
                    tours.--
                              (i) In general. <<NOTE: Effective date.>> --
                          Subject to clause (ii), beginning on the date that
                          is 2 years after the date a final rule is
                          published pursuant to paragraph (3), no person may
                          conduct commercial air tours unless such person
                          either--
                                        (I) holds a certificate identifying
                                    the person as an air carrier or
                                    commercial operator under part 119 of
                                    title 14, Code of Federal Regulations
                                    and conducts all commercial air tours
                                    under the applicable provisions of part
                                    121 or part 135 of title 14, Code of
                                    Federal Regulations; or
                                        (II) conducts all commercial air
                                    tours pursuant to the requirements
                                    established by the Administrator under
                                    the final rule published pursuant to
                                    paragraph (3).
                              (ii) Small business exception.--The provisions
                          of clause (i) shall not apply to a person who
                          conducts 100 or fewer commercial air tours in a
                          calendar year.
                        (B) Additional safety requirements.--
                              (i) <<NOTE: Deadline. Regulations.>>  In
                          general.--Not later than 3 years after the date of
                          enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
                          issue new or revised regulations to require a
                          commercial air tour operator seeking to conduct an
                          operation with a removed or modified door and a
                          person conducting aerial photography operations
                          seeking to conduct an operation with a removed or
                          modified door to receive approval from the
                          Administrator prior to conducting such operation.
                              (ii) Conditions and restrictions.--In issuing
                          new or revised regulations under clause (i), the
                          Administrator may impose such conditions and
                          restrictions as determined necessary for safety.
                              (iii) Considerations.--In issuing new or
                          revised regulations under clause (i), the
                          Administrator shall require a commercial air tour
                          operator to demonstrate to any representative of
                          the FAA, upon request, that a pilot authorized to
                          operate such an air tour has received avoidance
                          training for controlled flight into terrain and
                          in-flight loss of control. Such training shall
                          address reducing the risk of accidents involving
                          unintentional flight into instrument
                          meteorological conditions to address day, night,
                          and low-visibility environments with special
                          attention paid to research available as of the
                          date of enactment of this Act on human factors
                          issues involved in such accidents, including, at a
                          minimum--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1127]]

                                        (I) specific terrain, weather, and
                                    infrastructure challenges relevant in
                                    the local operating environment that
                                    increase the risk of such accidents;
                                        (II) pilot decision-making relevant
                                    to the avoidance of instrument
                                    meteorological conditions while
                                    operating under visual flight rules;
                                        (III) use of terrain awareness
                                    displays;
                                        (IV) spatial disorientation risk
                                    factors and countermeasures; and
                                        (V) strategies for maintaining
                                    control, including the use of automated
                                    systems.
                (2) Aviation rulemaking committee.--
                        (A) In general. <<NOTE: Review. Recommenda-
                    tions.>> --The Administrator shall convene an aviation
                    rulemaking committee to review and develop findings and
                    recommendations to increase the safety of commercial air
                    tours.
                        (B) Considerations.--The aviation rulemaking
                    committee convened under subparagraph (A) shall
                    consider, at a minimum--
                              (i) potential changes to operations
                          regulations or requirements for commercial air
                          tours, including requiring--
                                        (I) the adoption of pilot training
                                    standards that are comparable, as
                                    applicable, to the standards under
                                    subpart H of part 135 of title 14, Code
                                    of Federal Regulations; and
                                        (II) the adoption of maintenance
                                    standards that are comparable, as
                                    applicable, to the standards under
                                    subpart J of part 135 of title 14, Code
                                    of Federal Regulations;
                              (ii) establishing a performance-based standard
                          for flight data monitoring for all commercial air
                          tour operators that reviews all available data
                          sources to identify deviations from established
                          areas of operation and potential safety issues;
                              (iii) requiring all commercial air tour
                          operators to install flight data recording devices
                          capable of supporting collection and dissemination
                          of the data incorporated in the Flight Operational
                          Quality Assurance Program under section 13.401 of
                          title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (or, if an
                          aircraft cannot be retrofitted with such
                          equipment, requiring the commercial air tour
                          operator for such aircraft to collect and maintain
                          flight data through alternative methods);
                              (iv) requiring all commercial air tour
                          operators to implement a flight data monitoring
                          program, such as a Flight Operational Quality
                          Assurance Program;
                              (v) establishing methods to provide effective
                          terrain awareness and warning; and
                              (vi) establishing methods to provide effective
                          traffic avoidance in identified high-traffic tour
                          areas, such as requiring commercial air tour
                          operators that operate within such areas be
                          equipped with an automatic dependent surveillance-
                          broadcast out- and in-supported traffic advisory
                          system that--
                                        (I) includes both visual and aural
                                    alerts;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1128]]

                                        (II) is driven by an algorithm
                                    designed to eliminate nuisance alerts;
                                    and
                                        (III) is operational during all
                                    flight operations.
                              (vii) codifying and uniformly applying Living
                          History Flight Experience exemption conditions and
                          limitations.
                        (C) Membership.--The aviation rulemaking committee
                    convened under subparagraph (A) shall consist of members
                    appointed by the Administrator, including--
                              (i) representatives of industry, including
                          manufacturers of aircraft and aircraft
                          technologies;
                              (ii) air tour operators or organizations that
                          represent such operators; and
                              (iii) aviation safety experts with specific
                          knowledge of safety management systems and flight
                          data monitoring programs under part 135 of title
                          14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                        (D) Duties.--
                              (i) In general. <<NOTE: Recommenda-
                          tions.>> --The Administrator shall direct the
                          aviation rulemaking committee to make findings and
                          submit recommendations regarding each of the
                          matters specified in clauses (i) through (vi) of
                          subparagraph (B).
                              (ii) Considerations.--In carrying out the
                          duties of the aviation rulemaking committee under
                          clause (i), the Administrator shall direct the
                          aviation rulemaking committee to consider--
                                        (I) recommendations of the National
                                    Transportation Safety Board;
                                        (II) recommendations of previous
                                    aviation rulemaking committees that
                                    reviewed flight data monitoring program
                                    requirements for commercial operators
                                    under part 135 of title 14, Code of
                                    Federal Regulations;
                                        (III) recommendations from industry
                                    safety organizations, including the
                                    Vertical Aviation Safety Team, the
                                    General Aviation Joint Safety Committee,
                                    and the United States Helicopter Safety
                                    Team;
                                        (IV) scientific data derived from a
                                    broad range of flight data recording
                                    technologies capable of continuously
                                    transmitting and that support a
                                    measurable and viable means of assessing
                                    data to identify and correct hazardous
                                    trends;
                                        (V) appropriate use of data for
                                    modifying behavior to prevent accidents;
                                        (VI) the need to accommodate
                                    technological advancements in flight
                                    data recording technology;
                                        (VII) data gathered from aviation
                                    safety reporting programs;
                                        (VIII) appropriate methods to
                                    provide effective terrain awareness and
                                    warning system protections while
                                    mitigating nuisance alerts for aircraft;
                                        (IX) the need to accommodate the
                                    diversity of airworthiness standards
                                    under part 27 and part 29 of title 14,
                                    Code of Federal Regulations;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1129]]

                                        (X) the need to accommodate
                                    diversity of operations and mission
                                    sets;
                                        (XI) benefits of third-party data
                                    analysis for large and small operations;
                                        (XII) accommodations necessary for
                                    small businesses; and
                                        (XIII) other issues, as necessary.
                        (E) Reports and regulations.--Not later than 20
                    months after the date of enactment of this Act, the
                    Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees
                    of Congress a report based on the findings of the
                    aviation rulemaking committee.
                (3) Rulemaking required.--
                        (A) Notice of proposed rulemaking.--Not later than 1
                    year after the date the Administrator submits a report
                    under paragraph (2)(E), the Administrator shall issue a
                    notice of proposed rulemaking establishing increasing
                    safety regulations for commercial air tour operators
                    based on the recommendations of the rulemaking committee
                    established under paragraph (2).
                        (B) Contents.--The notice of proposed rulemaking
                    under subparagraph (A) shall require, at a minimum--
                              (i) the adoption of pilot training standards
                          that are comparable, as applicable, to the
                          standards under subpart H of part 135 of title 14,
                          Code of Federal Regulations for commercial tour
                          operators;
                              (ii) the adoption of maintenance standards
                          that are comparable, as applicable, to the
                          standards under subpart J of part 135 of title 14,
                          Code of Federal Regulations for commercial tour
                          operators; and
                              (iii) that beginning on a date determined
                          appropriate by the Administrator, a helicopter
                          operated by a commercial air tour operator be
                          equipped with an approved flight data monitoring
                          system capable of recording flight performance
                          data.
                        (C) Final rule. <<NOTE: Deadline.>> --Not later than
                    2 years after the issuance of a notice of proposed
                    rulemaking under subparagraph (A), the Administrator
                    shall finalize the rule.

        (b) Safety Requirements for Sport Parachute Operations.--
                (1) Aviation rulemaking
            committee. <<NOTE: Review. Recommenda- tions.>> --The
            Administrator shall convene an aviation rulemaking committee to
            review and develop findings and recommendations to increase the
            safety of sport parachute operations.
                (2) Contents.--This aviation rulemaking committee convened
            under paragraph (1) shall consider, at a minimum--
                        (A) potential regulatory action governing parachute
                    operations that are conducted in the United States and
                    are subject to the requirements of part 105 of title 14,
                    Code of Federal Regulations, to address--
                              (i) whether FAA-approved aircraft maintenance
                          and inspection programs that consider, at a
                          minimum, minimum equipment standards informed by
                          recommended maintenance instructions of engine
                          manufacturers, such as service bulletins and
                          service information letters for time between
                          overhauls and component life limits, should be
                          implemented; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1130]]

                              (ii) initial and annual recurrent pilot
                          training and proficiency checks for pilots
                          conducting parachute operations that address, at a
                          minimum, operation- and aircraft-specific weight
                          and balance calculations, preflight inspections,
                          emergency and recovery procedures, and parachutist
                          egress procedures for each type of aircraft flown;
                          and
                        (B) the revision of guidance material contained in
                    the advisory circular of the FAA titled ``Sport
                    Parachuting'' (AC 105-2E) to include guidance for
                    parachute operations in implementing the FAA-approved
                    aircraft maintenance and inspection program and the
                    pilot training and pilot proficiency checking programs
                    required under any new or revised regulations; and
                        (C) the revision of guidance materials issued in the
                    order of the FAA titled ``Flight Standards Information
                    Management System'' (FAA Order 8900.1), to include
                    guidance for FAA inspectors who oversee an operation
                    conducted under--
                              (i) part 91 of title 14, Code of Federal
                          Regulations; and
                              (ii) an exception specified in section
                          119.1(e) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                (3) Membership. <<NOTE: Appointments.>> --The aviation
            rulemaking committee under paragraph (1) shall consist of
            members appointed by the Administrator, including--
                        (A) representatives of industry, including
                    manufacturers of aircraft and aircraft technologies;
                        (B) parachute operators, or organizations that
                    represent such operators; and
                        (C) aviation safety experts with specific knowledge
                    of safety management systems and flight data monitoring
                    programs under part 135 and part 105 of title 14, Code
                    of Federal Regulations.
                (4) Duties.--
                        (A) In general. <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>> --The
                    Administrator shall direct the aviation rulemaking
                    committee to make findings and submit recommendations
                    regarding each of the matters specified in subparagraphs
                    (A) through (C) of paragraph (2).
                        (B) Considerations.--In carrying out its duties
                    under subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall direct
                    the aviation rulemaking committee to consider--
                              (i) findings and recommendations of the
                          National Transportation Safety Board, as relevant,
                          and specifically such findings and recommendations
                          related to parachute operations, including the
                          June 21, 2019, incident in Mokuleia, Hawaii;
                              (ii) recommendations of previous aviation
                          rulemaking committees that considered similar
                          issues;
                              (iii) recommendations from industry safety
                          organizations, including, at a minimum, the United
                          States Parachute Association;
                              (iv) appropriate use of data for modifying
                          behavior to prevent accidents;
                              (v) data gathered from aviation safety
                          reporting programs;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1131]]

                              (vi) the need to accommodate diversity of
                          operations and mission sets;
                              (vii) accommodations necessary for small
                          businesses; and
                              (viii) other issues as necessary.
                (5) Reports and regulations.--
                        (A) In general.--Not later than 36 months after the
                    date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
                    submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a
                    report based on the findings of the aviation rulemaking
                    committee.
                        (B) Contents. <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>> --The
                    report under subparagraph (A) shall include--
                              (i) any recommendations submitted by the
                          aviation rulemaking committee; and
                              (ii) any actions the Administrator intends to
                          initiate, if necessary, as a result of such
                          recommendations.

        (c) 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) Commercial air tour.--The term ``commercial air tour''
            has the meaning given such term in section 136.1 of title 14,
            Code of Federal Regulations.
                (3) Commercial air tour operator.--The term ``commercial air
            tour operator'' has the meaning given such term in section 136.1
            of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                (4) Parachute operation.--The term ``parachute operation''
            has the meaning given such term in section 105.3 of title 14,
            Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation).
    SEC. 364. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44715 note.>>  HAWAII AIR NOISE AND
                            SAFETY TASK FORCE.

        (a) Participation.--To the extent acceptable to the State of Hawaii,
    the Administrator shall participate as a technical advisor in the air
    noise and safety task force established by State legislation in the
    State of Hawaii.
        (b) Rulemaking. <<NOTE: Deadline. Recommenda- tions.>> --Not later
    than 18 months after the date on which the task force described in
    subsection (a) delivers findings and consensus recommendations to the
    FAA, the Administrator shall, consistent with maintaining the safety and
    efficiency of the national airspace system--
                (1) issue an intent to proceed with a proposed rulemaking;
                (2) take other action sufficient to carry out feasible,
            consensus recommendations; or
                (3) <<NOTE: Statement. Determination.>>  issue a statement
            determining that no such rule or other action is warranted,
            including a detailed explanation of the rationale for such
            determination.

        (c) Considerations.--In determining whether to proceed with a
    proposed rulemaking, guidance, or other action under subsection (b) and,
    if applicable, in developing the proposed rule, guidance, or carrying
    out the other action, the Administrator shall consider the findings and
    consensus recommendations of the task force described in subsection (a).
        (d) Authorities.--In issuing the rule, guidance, or carrying out the
    other action described in subsection (b), the Administrator may take
    actions in the State of Hawaii to--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1132]]

                (1) provide commercial air tour operators with preferred
            routes, times, and minimum altitudes for the purpose of noise
            reduction, so long as such recommendations do not negatively
            impact safety conditions;
                (2) provide commercial air tour operators with information
            regarding quiet aircraft technology; and
                (3) <<NOTE: Public information.>>  establish a method for
            residents of the State of Hawaii to publicly report noise
            disruptions due to commercial air tours and for commercial air
            tour operators to respond to complaints.

        (e) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed as providing the Administrator with authority to ban
    commercial air tour flights in the State of Hawaii for the purposes of
    noise reduction.
        (f) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Commercial air tour.--The term ``commercial air tour''
            has the meaning given such term in section 136.1 of title 14,
            Code of Federal Regulations.
                (2) Commercial air tour operator.--The term ``commercial air
            tour operator'' has the meaning given such term in section 136.1
            of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    SEC. 365. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>>  MODERNIZATION AND
                            IMPROVEMENTS TO AIRCRAFT EVACUATION.

        (a) Study.--
                (1) In general. <<NOTE: Deadline.>> --Not later than 1 year
            after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
            conduct a study on improvements to the safety and efficiency of
            evacuation standards for manufacturers and carriers of transport
            category airplanes, as described in parts 25 and 121 of title
            14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                (2) Contents.--
                        (A) Requirements.--The study required under
                    paragraph (1) shall include--
                              (i) <<NOTE: Analysis. Evaluation.>>  a
                          prospective risk analysis, as well as an
                          evaluation of relevant past incidents with respect
                          to evacuation safety and evacuation standards;
                              (ii) <<NOTE: Assessment. Recommenda- tions.>>
                          an assessment of the evacuation testing procedures
                          described in section 25.803 of such title 14, as
                          well as recommendations for how to revise such
                          testing procedures to ensure that the testing
                          procedures assess, in a safe manner, the ability
                          of passengers with disabilities, including
                          passengers who use wheelchairs or other mobility
                          assistive devices, to safely and efficiently
                          evacuate an aircraft;
                              (iii) <<NOTE: Assessment. Recommenda-
                          tions.>>  an assessment of the evacuation
                          demonstration procedures described in such part
                          121, as well as recommendations for how to improve
                          such demonstration procedures to ensure that the
                          demonstration procedures assess, in a safe manner,
                          the ability of passengers with disabilities,
                          including passengers who use wheelchairs or other
                          mobility assistive devices, to safely and
                          efficiently evacuate an aircraft;
                              (iv) the research proposed in National
                          Transportation Safety Board Safety Recommendation
                          A-18-009; and
                              (v) <<NOTE: Analysis.>>  any other analysis
                          determined appropriate by the Administrator.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1133]]

                        (B) Considerations.--In conducting the study under
                    paragraph (1), the Administrator shall assess the
                    following:
                              (i) The ability of passengers of different
                          ages (including infants, children, and senior
                          citizens) to safely and efficiently evacuate a
                          transport category airplane.
                              (ii) The ability of passengers of different
                          heights and weights to safely and efficiently
                          evacuate a transport category airplane.
                              (iii) The ability of passengers with
                          disabilities to safely and efficiently evacuate a
                          transport category airplane.
                              (iv) The ability of passengers who cannot
                          speak, have difficulty speaking, use synthetic
                          speech, or are non-vocal or non-verbal to safely
                          and efficiently evacuate a transport category
                          airplane.
                              (v) The ability of passengers who do not speak
                          English to safely and efficiently evacuate a
                          transport category airplane.
                              (vi) The impact of the presence of carry-on
                          luggage and personal items (such as a purse,
                          briefcase, laptop, or backpack) on the ability of
                          passengers to safely and efficiently evacuate a
                          transport category airplane.
                              (vii) The impact of seat size and passenger
                          seating space and pitch on the ability of
                          passengers to safely and efficiently evacuate a
                          transport category airplane.
                              (viii) The impact of seats and other obstacles
                          in the pathway to the exit opening from the
                          nearest aisle on the ability of passengers to
                          safely and efficiently evacuate a transport
                          category airplane.
                              (ix) With respect to aircraft with parallel
                          longitudinal aisles, the impact of seat pods or
                          other seating configurations that block access
                          between such aisles within a cabin on the ability
                          of passengers to safely and efficiently evacuate a
                          transport category airplane.
                              (x) The impact of passenger load on the
                          ability of passengers to safely and efficiently
                          evacuate a transport category airplane.
                              (xi) The impact of animals approved to
                          accompany a passenger, including service animals,
                          on the ability of passengers to safely and
                          efficiently evacuate a transport category
                          airplane.
                              (xii) Whether an applicant for a type
                          certificate (as defined in section 44704(e)(7) of
                          title 49, United States Code) should be required
                          to demonstrate compliance with FAA emergency
                          evacuation regulations (as described in section
                          25.803 and Appendix J of part 25 of title 14, Code
                          of Federal Regulations) through live testing in
                          any case in which the Administrator determines
                          that the new aircraft design is significant.
                              (xiii) Any other factor determined appropriate
                          by the Administrator.
                        (C) Definitions.--In this paragraph:
                              (i) Passenger load.--The term ``passenger
                          load'' means the number of passengers relative to
                          the number of seats onboard the aircraft.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1134]]

                              (ii) Passengers with disabilities.--The term
                          ``passengers with disabilities'' means any
                          qualified individual with a disability, as defined
                          in section 382.3 of title 14, Code of Federal
                          Regulations.

        (b) Aviation Rulemaking Committee for Evacuation Standards.--
                (1) In general. <<NOTE: Deadline. Establishment.>> --Not
            later than 180 days after the completion of the study conducted
            under subsection (a), the Administrator shall establish an
            aviation rulemaking committee (in this section referred to as
            the ``Committee'') to--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review the findings of the
                    study; and
                        (B) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  develop and submit
                    to the Administrator recommendations regarding
                    improvements to the evacuation standards described in
                    parts 25 and 121 of title 14, Code of Federal
                    Regulations.
                (2) Composition.--The Committee shall consist of members
            appointed by the Administrator, including the following:
                        (A) Representatives of industry.
                        (B) Representatives of aviation labor organizations.
                        (C) Aviation safety experts with specific knowledge
                    of the evacuation standards and requirements under such
                    parts 25 and 121.
                        (D) Representatives of individuals with disabilities
                    with specific knowledge of accessibility standards
                    regarding evacuations in emergency circumstances.
                        (E) Representatives of the senior citizen community.
                        (F) Representatives of pediatricians.
                (3) Considerations.--In reviewing the findings of the study
            conducted under subsection (a) and developing recommendations
            regarding the improvement of the evacuation standards under
            subsection (b)(1)(B), the Committee shall consider the
            following:
                        (A) The recommendations made by any prior aviation
                    rulemaking committee regarding the evacuation standards
                    described in such parts 25 and 121.
                        (B) Scientific data derived from the study conducted
                    under subsection (a).
                        (C) Any data gathered from aviation safety reporting
                    programs.
                        (D) The cost-benefit analysis and risk analysis of
                    any recommended standards.
                        (E) Any other item determined appropriate by the
                    Committee.

        (c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 180 days after the date on
    which the Committee submits to the Administrator the recommendations
    under subsection (b)(1)(B), the Administrator shall submit to the
    appropriate committees of Congress a report on--
                (1) the findings of the study conducted under subsection
            (a);
                (2) the recommendations of the Committee under subsection
            (b)(1)(B); and
                (3) the Administrator's plan, if any, to implement such
            recommendations.

        (d) Rulemaking. <<NOTE: Notice.>> --Not later than 90 days after
    submitting to Congress the report under subsection (c), the
    Administrator shall

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1135]]

    issue a notice of proposed rulemaking to implement the recommendations
    of the Committee that the Administrator considers appropriate.
    SEC. 366. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>>  25-HOUR COCKPIT VOICE
                            RECORDER.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  In General.--
                (1) Cockpit voice recorder for newly manufactured
            aircraft.--A covered operator may not operate a covered aircraft
            manufactured later than the date that is 1 year after the date
            of enactment of this Act unless such aircraft has a cockpit
            voice recorder installed that retains the last 25 hours of
            recorded information using a recorder that meets the standards
            of Technical Standard Order TSO-C123c, or any later revision.
                (2) Cockpit voice recorder for covered aircraft.--Not later
            than 6 years after the date of enactment of this Act, a covered
            operator may not operate a covered aircraft unless such aircraft
            has a cockpit voice recorder installed that retains the last 25
            hours of recorded information using a recorder that meets the
            standards of Technical Standard Order TSO-C123c, or any later
            revision.

        (b) Prohibited Use.--The Administrator or any covered operator may
    not use a cockpit voice recorder recording for a certificate action,
    civil penalty, or disciplinary proceedings against a flight crewmember.
        (c) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Rulemaking.--Not later than 3 years after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall--
                (1) issue a final rule to update applicable regulations, as
            necessary, to conform to the requirements of subsection (a)(2);
            and
                (2) issue a rule to update applicable regulations, as
            necessary, to ensure, to the greatest extent practicable, that
            any data from a cockpit voice recorder--
                        (A) is protected from unlawful or unauthorized
                    disclosure to the public;
                        (B) is used exclusively by a Federal agency or a
                    foreign accident investigative agency for a criminal
                    investigation, aircraft accident, or aircraft incident
                    investigation; and
                        (C) is not deliberately erased or tampered with
                    following a National Transportation Safety Board
                    reportable event under part 830 of title 49, Code of
                    Federal Regulations, for which civil and criminal
                    penalties may be assessed in accordance with section
                    1155 of title 49, United States Code, and section 32 of
                    title 18, United States Code.

        (d) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section shall be construed as
    rescoping, constraining, or otherwise mandating delays to FAA actions in
    the notice of proposed rulemaking titled ``25-Hour Cockpit Voice
    Recorder (CVR) Requirements, New Aircraft Production'', issued on
    December 4, 2023 (88 Fed. Reg. 84090).
        (e) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed to affect--
                (1) the confidentiality of recording and transcripts under
            section 1114(c) of title 49, United States Code;
                (2) the ban on recording for civil penalty or certificate
            under section 121.359(h) of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations; or

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1136]]

                (3) the prohibition against use of data from flight
            operational quality assurance programs for enforcement purposes
            under section 13.401 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

        (f) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Covered aircraft.--The term ``covered aircraft'' means--
                        (A) an aircraft operated by an air carrier under
                    part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; or
                        (B) a transport category aircraft designed for
                    operations 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 aircraft.
                (2) Covered operator.--The term ``covered operator'' means
            the operator of a covered aircraft.
    SEC. 367. SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING MANDATED CONTENTS OF ONBOARD
                            EMERGENCY MEDICAL KITS.

        It is the sense of Congress that--
                (1) a regularly scheduled panel of experts should reexamine
            and provide an updated list of mandated contents of onboard
            emergency medical kits that is thorough and practical, keeping
            passenger safety and well-being paramount; and
                (2) such panel should consider including on the list of
            mandated contents of such medical kits, at a minimum, opioid
            overdose reversal medication.
    SEC. 368. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>>  PASSENGER AIRCRAFT FIRST
                            AID AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL KIT EQUIPMENT
                            AND TRAINING.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Notice.>>  In General.--Not later than 2 years
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall issue a
    notice of proposed rulemaking regarding first aid and emergency medical
    kit equipment and training required for flight crewmembers, as provided
    in part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, applicable to all
    certificate holders operating passenger aircraft under such part.

        (b) Considerations.--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;
                (2) whether the contents of the emergency medical kits
            include, at a minimum, appropriate medications and equipment
            that can practicably be administered to address--
                        (A) the emergency medical needs of children and
                    pregnant women;
                        (B) opioid overdose reversal;
                        (C) anaphylaxis; and
                        (D) cardiac arrest;
                (3) what contents of the emergency medical kits should be
            readily available, to the extent practicable, for use by flight
            crews without prior approval by a medical professional.

        (c) <<NOTE: Deadline. Time period.>>  Regular Review.--Not later
    than 5 years after the issuance of the final rule under subsection (a),
    and every 5 years thereafter, the Administrator shall evaluate and
    revise, if appropriate--
                (1) the first aid and emergency medical kit equipment and
            training required for flight crewmembers; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1137]]

                (2) any required training for flight crewmembers regarding
            the content, location, and function of such kit.
    SEC. 369. INTERNATIONAL AVIATION SAFETY ASSESSMENT PROGRAM.

        (a) Aviation Safety Oversight Measures Carried Out by Foreign
    Countries.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, is further
    amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``Sec. 44747. <<NOTE: Notifications. 49 USC 44747.>>  Aviation
                        safety oversight measures carried out by
                        foreign countries

        ``(a) Assessment.--
                ``(1) In general.--On a regular basis, the Administrator, in
            consultation with the Secretary of Transportation and the
            Secretary of State, shall assess aviation safety oversight
            measures carried out by any foreign country--
                        ``(A) from which a foreign air carrier is conducting
                    foreign air transportation to and from the United
                    States;
                        ``(B) from which a foreign air carrier seeks to
                    conduct foreign air transportation to and from the
                    United States;
                        ``(C) whose air carriers carry or seek to carry the
                    code of a United States air carrier; or
                        ``(D) as determined appropriate by the
                    Administrator.
                ``(2) Consultation and criteria.--In conducting an
            assessment described in paragraph (1), the Administrator shall--
                        ``(A) consult with the appropriate authorities of
                    the government of the foreign country;
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine the
                    efficacy with which such foreign country carries out and
                    complies with its aviation safety oversight
                    responsibilities consistent with--
                              ``(i) the Convention on International Civil
                          Aviation (in this section referred to as the
                          `Chicago Convention');
                              ``(ii) international aviation safety
                          standards; and
                              ``(iii) recommended practices set forth by the
                          International Civil Aviation Organization;
                        ``(C) use a standard approach and methodology that
                    will result in an analysis of the aviation safety
                    oversight activities of such foreign country that are
                    carried out to meet the minimum standards contained in
                    Annexes 1, 6, and 8 to the Chicago Convention in effect
                    on the date of the assessment, or any such successor
                    documents; and
                        ``(D) identify instances of noncompliance pertaining
                    to the aviation safety oversight activities of such
                    foreign country consistent with the Chicago Convention,
                    international aviation safety standards, and recommended
                    practices set forth by the International Civil Aviation
                    Organization.
                ``(3) Findings of noncompliance.--In any case in which the
            assessment described in subsection (a)(1) finds an instance of
            non-compliance, the Administrator shall--
                        ``(A) notify the foreign country that is the subject
                    of such finding;
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Deadline. Recommenda- tions.>>  not
                    later than 90 days after transmission of such
                    notification, request and initiate final discussions
                    with the foreign country to recommend actions by which
                    the foreign country can mitigate the noncompliance; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1138]]

                        ``(C) after the discussions described in
                    subparagraph (B) have concluded, determine whether or
                    not the noncompliance finding has been corrected;

        ``(b) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  Uncorrected Non-compliance.--If the
    Administrator finds that such foreign country has not corrected the non-
    compliance by the close of such final discussions--
                ``(1) the Administrator shall notify the Secretary of
            Transportation and the Secretary of State that the condition of
            noncompliance remains;
                ``(2) the Administrator, after consulting with informing the
            Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of State, shall
            notify the foreign country of such finding; and
                ``(3) notwithstanding section 40105(b), the Administrator,
            after consulting with the appropriate civil aviation authority
            of such foreign country and notifying the Secretary of
            Transportation and the Secretary of State, may withhold, revoke,
            or prescribe conditions on the operating authority of a foreign
            air carrier that--
                        ``(A) provides or seeks to provide foreign air
                    transportation to and from the United States; or
                        ``(B) carries or seeks to carry the code of an air
                    carrier.

        ``(c) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Authority.--Notwithstanding
    subsections (a) and (b), the Administrator retains the ability to take
    immediate safety oversight actions if the Administrator, in consultation
    with the Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of State, as
    needed, determines that a condition exists that threatens the safety of
    passengers, aircraft, or crew traveling to or from such foreign country.
    In this event that the Administrator makes a determination under this
    subsection, the Administrator shall immediately notify the Secretary of
    State of such determination so that the Secretary of State may issue a
    travel advisory with respect to such foreign country.

        ``(d) Public Notification.--
                ``(1) In general.--In any case in which the Administrator
            provides notification to a foreign country under subsection
            (b)(2), the Administrator shall--
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommend the
                    actions necessary to bring such foreign country into
                    compliance with the international standards contained in
                    the Chicago Convention;
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Web posting. Federal Register,
                    publication. Notice. Public information.>>  publish the
                    identity of such foreign country on the website of the
                    Federal Aviation Administration, in the Federal
                    Register, and through other mediums appropriate to
                    provide notice to the public; and
                        ``(C) 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 identity of such foreign country and a
                    summary of any critical safety information resulting
                    from an assessment described in subsection (a)(1).
                ``(2) Compliance.--If the Administrator finds that a foreign
            country subsequently corrects all outstanding noncompliances,
            the Administrator, after consulting with the appropriate civil
            aviation authority of such foreign country and notifying the
            Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of State, shall
            take actions as necessary to ensure the updated compliance
            status is reflected, including in the mediums invoked in
            paragraph (1)(B).

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1139]]

        ``(e) Accuracy of the IASA List.--A foreign country that does not
    have foreign air carrier activity, as described in subsection (a)(1),
    for an extended period of time, as determined by the Administrator,
    shall be removed for inactivity from the public listings described in
    subsection (d)(1)(B), after informing the Secretary of Transportation
    and the Secretary of State.
        ``(f) Consistency.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Data.>>  In general.--The Administration shall
            use data, tools, and methods that ensure transparency and
            repeatability of assessments conducted under this section.
                ``(2) Training.--The Administrator shall ensure that
            Administration personnel are properly and adequately trained to
            carry out the assessments set forth in this section, including
            with respect to the standards, methodology, and material used to
            make determinations under this section.''.

        (b) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  Report to Congress.--Not later than 2
    years after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter
    through 2028, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate
    committees of Congress a report on the assessments conducted under the
    amendments made by this section, including the results of any corrective
    actions taken by noncompliant foreign countries.

        (c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 447 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44701.>>  is further amended by
    adding at the end the following:

    ``44747. Aviation safety oversight measures carried out by foreign
               countries.''.

    SEC. 370. WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION ENFORCEMENT.

        Section 42121(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in the subsection heading by striking ``Department of
            labor complaint procedure'' and inserting ``Department of labor
            and federal aviation administration complaint procedure''; and
                (2) by striking paragraph (5) and inserting the following:
                ``(5) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  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) <<NOTE: Penalties.>>  the Administrator of the
                    Federal Aviation Administration may assess a civil
                    penalty pursuant to section 46301.''.
    SEC. 371. CIVIL PENALTIES FOR WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION PROGRAM
                            VIOLATIONS.

        Section 46301(d)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by
    inserting ``section 42121,'' before ``chapter 441''.
    SEC. 372. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44703 note.>>  ENHANCED QUALIFICATION
                            PROGRAM FOR RESTRICTED AIRLINE TRANSPORT
                            PILOT CERTIFICATE.

        (a) Program.--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1140]]

                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Requirements.>>  In general.--Not
            later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the
            Administrator shall establish the requirements for a program to
            be known as the Enhanced Qualification Program (in this section
            referred to as the ``Program'') under which--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Certification.>>  qualified air carriers
                    are certified by the Administrator to provide enhanced
                    training for eligible pilots seeking to obtain
                    restricted airline transport certificates, either
                    directly by the air carrier or by a certified training
                    institution under part 141 or part 142 of title 14, Code
                    of Federal Regulations, that is under contract with the
                    qualified air carrier; and
                        (B) qualified instructors and evaluators provide
                    enhanced training to eligible pilots pursuant to the
                    curriculum requirements under paragraph (4).
                (2) Qualified instructors and evaluators.--Under the
            Program--
                        (A) all testing and training shall be performed by
                    qualified instructors; and
                        (B) all evaluations shall be performed by qualified
                    evaluators.
                (3) <<NOTE: Guidelines.>>  Pilot assessment.--Under the
            Program, the Administrator shall establish guidelines for an
            assessment that prospective pilots are required to pass in order
            to participate in the training under the
            Program. <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  Such assessment shall include an
            evaluation of the pilot's aptitude, ability, and readiness for
            operation of transport category aircraft.
                (4) <<NOTE: Requirements.>>  Program curriculum.--Under the
            Program, the Administrator shall establish requirements for the
            curriculum to be provided under the Program. Such curriculum
            shall include--
                        (A) a nationally standardized, non-air carrier or
                    aircraft-specific training curriculum which shall--
                              (i) ensure prospective pilots have appropriate
                          knowledge at the commercial pilot certificate,
                          multi-engine rating, and instrument rating level;
                              (ii) introduce the pilots to concepts
                          associated with air carrier operations;
                              (iii) meet all requirements for an ATP
                          Certification Training Program under part 61.156
                          or part 142 of title 14, Code of Federal
                          Regulations; and
                              (iv) include a course of instruction designed
                          to prepare the prospective pilot to take the ATP
                          Multiengine Airplane Knowledge Test;
                        (B) an aircraft-specific training curriculum,
                    developed by the air carrier using objectives and
                    learning standards developed by the Administrator, which
                    shall--
                              (i) only be administered to prospective pilots
                          who have completed the requirements under
                          subparagraph (A);
                              (ii) resemble a type rating training
                          curriculum that includes aircraft ground and
                          flight training that culminates in--
                                        (I) the completion of a maneuvers
                                    evaluation that incorporates elements of
                                    a type rating practical test; or

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1141]]

                                        (II) at the discretion of the air
                                    carrier, an actual type rating practical
                                    test resulting in the issuance of a type
                                    rating for the specific aircraft; and
                              (iii) ensure the prospective pilot has an
                          adequate understanding and working knowledge of
                          transport category aircraft automation and
                          autoflight systems; and
                        (C) <<NOTE: Procedures.>>  air carrier-specific
                    procedures using objectives and learning standards
                    developed by the Administrator to further expand on the
                    concepts described in subparagraphs (A) and (B), which
                    shall--
                              (i) only be administered to prospective pilots
                          who have completed requirements under
                          subparagraphs (A) and (B) and an ATP Multiengine
                          Airplane Knowledge Test;
                              (ii) include instructions on air carrier
                          checklist usage and standard operating procedures;
                          and
                              (iii) integrate aircraft-specific training in
                          appropriate flight simulation training devices
                          representing the specific aircraft type, including
                          complete crew resource management and scenario-
                          based training.
                (5) <<NOTE: Process.>>  Application and certification.--
            Under the Program, the Administrator shall establish a process
            for air carriers to apply for training program certification.
            Such <<NOTE: Review.>>  process shall include a review to ensure
            that the training provided by the air carrier will meet the
            requirements of this section, including--
                        (A) the assessment requirements under paragraph (3);
                        (B) the curriculum requirements under paragraph (4);
                        (C) the requirements for qualified instructors under
                    subsection (d)(5); and
                        (D) the requirements for eligible pilots under
                    subsection (d)(2).
                (6) <<NOTE: Requirement. Oversight.>>  Data.--Under the
            Program, the Administrator shall require that each qualified air
            carrier participating in the Program collect and submit to the
            Administrator such data from the Program that the Administrator
            determines is appropriate for the Administrator to provide for
            oversight of the Program.
                (7) Regular inspection.--Under the Program, the
            Administrator shall provide for the regular inspection of
            qualified air carriers certified under paragraph (5) to ensure
            that the air carrier continues to meet the requirements under
            the Program.

        (b) <<NOTE: Guidance.>>  Regulations.--The Administrator may issue
    regulations or guidance as determined necessary to carry out the
    Program.

        (c) Clarification Regarding Required Flight Hours.--The provisions
    of this section shall have no effect on the total flight hours required
    under part 61.159 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to receive
    an airline transport pilot certificate, or the Administrator's authority
    under section 217(d) of the Airline Safety and Federal Aviation
    Administration Extension Act of 2010 (49 U.S.C. 44701 note) (as in
    effect on the date of enactment of this section).
        (d) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Air carrier.--The term ``air carrier'' has the meaning
            given that term in section 40102 of title 49, United States
            Code.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1142]]

                (2) Eligible pilot.--The term ``eligible pilot'' means a
            pilot that--
                        (A) has--
                              (i) graduated from a United States Armed
                          Forces undergraduate pilot training school;
                              (ii) obtained a degree with an aviation major
                          from an institution of higher education (as
                          defined in part 61.1 of title 14, Code of Federal
                          Regulations) that has been issued a letter of
                          authorization by the Administrator under part
                          61.169 of such title 14; or
                              (iii) completed flight and ground training for
                          a commercial pilot certificate in the airplane
                          category and an airplane instrument rating at a
                          certified training institution under part 141 of
                          such title 14;
                        (B) has a current commercial pilot certificate under
                    part 61.123 of such title 14, with airplane category
                    multi-engine and instrument ratings under part 61.129 of
                    such title 14; and
                        (C) meets the pilot assessment requirements under
                    subsection (a)(3).
                (3) Qualified air carrier.--The term ``qualified air
            carrier'' means an air carrier that has been issued a part 119
            operating certificate for conducting operations under part 121
            of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                (4) Qualified evaluator.--The term ``qualified evaluator''
            means an individual that meets the requirements for a training
            center evaluator under part 142.55 of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations, or for check airmen under part 121.411 of such
            title.
                (5) Qualified instructor.--The term ``qualified instructor''
            means an individual that--
                        (A) is qualified in accordance with the minimum
                    training requirements for an ATP Certification Training
                    Program under paragraphs (1) through (3) of part
                    121.410(b) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations;
                        (B) if the instructor is a flight instructor, is
                    qualified in accordance with part 121.410(b)(4) of such
                    title;
                        (C) if the instructor is administering type rating
                    practical tests, is qualified as an appropriate examiner
                    for such rating;
                        (D) received training in threat and error
                    management, facilitation, and risk mitigation determined
                    appropriate by the Administrator; and
                        (E) meets any other requirement determined
                    appropriate by the Administrator.

                       Subtitle B--Aviation Cybersecurity

    SEC. 391. FINDINGS.

        Congress finds the following:
                (1) Congress has tasked the FAA 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 included
            protecting

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1143]]

            against 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, pursuant to which the FAA enhanced the
            cybersecurity of the national airspace system by--
                        (A) developing a cybersecurity strategic plan;
                        (B) coordinating with other Federal agencies to
                    identify cyber vulnerabilities;
                        (C) developing a cyber threat model; and
                        (D) completing 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 FAA
                    facilities dedicated to improving the cybersecurity of
                    the national airspace system;
                        (B) required the FAA 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 FAA 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 FAA in order to
                    develop recommendations to increase the size, quality,
                    and diversity of such workforce.
                (4) Congress has declared that the FAA is the primary
            Federal agency to assess and address the threats posed from
            cyber incidents relating to FAA-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.
    SEC. 392. 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:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1144]]

        ``(g) Exclusive Rulemaking Authority.--Notwithstanding any other
    provision of law and except as provided in section 40131, 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 the cybersecurity of
    civil aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and appliances.''.
    SEC. 393. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS, POLICY, AND
                            GUIDANCE.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 401 of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``Sec. 40131. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40131.>>  National airspace system
                        cyber threat management process

        ``(a) Establishment.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation
    Administration, in consultation with the heads of 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 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 significant
            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 significant cyber
            incident responses with other appropriate Federal agencies;
                ``(6) track significant cyber incident detection, response,
            mitigation implementation, recovery, and closure;
                ``(7) establish a process, or utilize existing processes, to
            share relevant significant cyber incident data related to the
            national airspace system;
                ``(8) facilitate significant cybersecurity reporting,
            including through the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency;
            and
                ``(9) 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1145]]

            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.
                ``(6) Significant cyber incident.--The term `significant
            cyber incident' means a cyber incident, or a group of related
            cyber incidents, that the Administrator determines is likely to
            result in demonstrable harm to the national airspace system of
            the United States.''.

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 401 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 40101.>>  is amended by adding
    at the end the following:

    ``40131. National airspace system cyber threat management process.''.

    SEC. 394. SECURING AIRCRAFT AVIONICS 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) by striking
            ``consider, where appropriate, revising'' and inserting
            ``revise, as appropriate, 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 establish a process and timeline by which software-
            based systems and equipment, including aircraft flight critical
            systems of aircraft operated under part 121 of title 14, Code of
            Federal Regulations, can be regularly screened to attempt to
            determine whether the software-based systems and equipment have
            been compromised by unauthorized external or internal access.''.
    SEC. 395. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40131 note.>>  CIVIL AVIATION
                            CYBERSECURITY RULEMAKING COMMITTEE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Reviews.>>  In General.--Not later than 1 year
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall convene
    an aviation rulemaking committee on civil aircraft cybersecurity to
    conduct reviews (as segmented under subsection (c)) 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) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  Duties.--The Administrator shall--
                (1) for each segmented review conducted by the committee
            convened under subsection (a), submit to the appropriate
            committees of Congress a report based on the findings of such
            review; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1146]]

                (2) not later than 180 days after the date of submission of
            a 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 appropriate committees of Congress
                    a supplemental report with explanations for each
                    consensus recommendation not addressed, if applicable,
                    by a rulemaking under subparagraph (A).

        (c) Segmentation.--In tasking the aviation rulemaking committee with
    developing findings and recommendations relating to aviation
    cybersecurity, the Administrator shall direct such committee to segment
    and sequence work by the topic or subject matter of regulation,
    including by directing the committee to establish subgroups to consider
    different topics and subject matters.
        (d) 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 nonprofit which operates 1 or more federally funded
            research and development centers with specific knowledge of
            aviation and cybersecurity.

        (e) <<NOTE: Requirements.>>  Member Eligibility.--Prior to a
    member's appointment under subsection (c), the Administrator shall
    establish appropriate requirements related to nondisclosure, background
    investigations, security clearances, or other screening mechanisms for
    applicable members of the aviation rulemaking committee who require
    access to sensitive security information or other protected information
    relevant to the member's duties on the rulemaking committee. Members
    shall protect the sensitive security information in accordance with part
    1520 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations.

        (f) 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.
        (g) Considerations.--The Administrator may direct such committee to
    consider--
                (1) existing aviation cybersecurity standards, regulations,
            policies, and guidance, including those from other Federal
            agencies, and the need to harmonize or deconflict proposed and
            existing standards, regulations, policies, and guidance;
                (2) threat- and risk-based security approaches used by the
            aviation industry, including the assessment of the potential
            costs and benefits of cybersecurity actions;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1147]]

                (3) data gathered from cybersecurity or safety reporting;
                (4) the diversity of operations and systems on aircraft and
            amongst air carriers;
                (5) design approval holder aircraft network security
            guidance for operators;
                (6) FAA services, aviation industry services, and aircraft
            use of positioning, navigation, and timing data in the context
            of Executive Order No. 13905, as in effect on the date of
            enactment of this Act;
                (7) 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;
                (8) 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;
                (9) 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;
                (10) the response of the Administrator and aviation industry
            to, and recovery from, cyber incidents, including by
            coordinating with other Federal agencies, including intelligence
            agencies;
                (11) processes for members of the aviation industry to
            voluntarily report to the FAA cyber incidents that may affect
            aviation safety in a manner that protects trade secrets and
            confidential business information;
                (12) appropriate cybersecurity controls for aircraft
            networks, aircraft systems, and aeronautical products and
            articles to protect aviation safety, including airworthiness;
                (13) appropriate cybersecurity controls for airports
            relative to the size and nature of airside operations of such
            airports to ensure aviation safety;
                (14) minimum standards for protecting civil aircraft,
            aeronautical products and articles, aviation networks, aviation
            systems, services, and operations from cyber threats and cyber
            incidents;
                (15) 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;
                (16) activities of the Administrator under section 506 of
            the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44704 note) (as
            amended by section 394); and
                (17) any other matter the Administrator determines
            appropriate.

        (h) Definitions.--The definitions set forth in section 40131 of
    title 49, United States Code (as added by this subtitle), shall apply to
    this section.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1148]]

    SEC. 396. GAO REPORT ON CYBERSECURITY OF COMMERCIAL AVIATION
                            AVIONICS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Review.>>  In General.--The Comptroller General shall
    conduct a review on the consideration, identification, and inclusion of
    aircraft cybersecurity into the strategic framework of principles and
    policies developed pursuant to section 2111 of the FAA Extension,
    Safety, and Security Act of 2016 (49 U.S.C. 44903 note).

        (b) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  Contents.--In carrying out the review
    under subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall assess--
                (1) how onboard aircraft cybersecurity risks and
            vulnerabilities are defined, identified, and accounted for in
            the comprehensive and strategic framework described in
            subsection (a), including how the implementation of such
            framework protects and defends FAA networks and systems to
            mitigate risks to FAA missions and service delivery;
                (2) how onboard aircraft cybersecurity, particularly of
            aircraft avionics, is considered, incorporated, and prioritized
            for mitigation in the cybersecurity strategy, including pursuant
            to the framework described in paragraph (1);
                (3) how the Transportation Security Agency and FAA
            differentiate and manage the roles and responsibilities for the
            cybersecurity of aircraft and ground systems;
                (4) how cybersecurity vulnerabilities of aircraft and ground
            systems are considered, incorporated, and prioritized for
            mitigation in the cybersecurity strategy; and
                (5) the budgets of the parties responsible for implementing
            the strategy framework for aviation security, as identified in
            subsection (a), to satisfy mitigation requirements necessary to
            secure the aviation ecosystem from onboard cybersecurity
            vulnerabilities.

        (c) Report Required.--Not later than 2 years after the date of the
    enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit a report
    containing the results of the review required by this section to--
                (1) the appropriate committees of Congress;
                (2) the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of
            Representatives; and
                (3) the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental
            Affairs of the Senate.

                          TITLE IV--AEROSPACE WORKFORCE

    SEC. 401. 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, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44501.>>  is amended by
    striking the items relating to sections 44510 and 44515.
    SEC. 402. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44703 note.>>  CIVIL AIRMEN STATISTICS.

        (a) Publication Frequency.--The Administrator shall publish the
    study commonly referred to as the ``U.S. Civil Airmen Statistics'' on a
    monthly basis.
        (b) <<NOTE: Public information. Website.>>  Presentation of Data.--
    The Administrator shall make the data from the study under subsection
    (a) publicly available

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1149]]

    on the website of the Administration in a user-friendly, downloadable
    format.

        (c) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  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) <<NOTE: Deadline. Website.>>  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. 403. BESSIE COLEMAN WOMEN IN AVIATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Establishment.--Not later than 6 months
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish
    the Bessie Coleman Women in Aviation Advisory Committee (in this section
    referred to as the ``Committee'').

        (b) Purpose.--The Committee shall advise the Secretary and the
    Administrator on matters and policies related to promoting the
    recruitment, retention, employment, education, training, career
    advancement, and well-being 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 work from the Secretary or taskings approved by a majority of
    the voting members of the Committee 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, with
            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, training, and career advancement of women in aviation
            professions.
                (3) Evaluate opportunities for the Administration to improve
            the recruitment and retention of women in the Administration.
                (4) Periodically review and update the recommendations
            directed to the FAA and non-FAA entities produced by the
            Advisory Board created pursuant to section 612 of the FAA
            Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) to improve
            the implementation of such recommendations.
                (5) Coordinate with the Office of Civil Rights of the
            Department of Transportation and the Federal Women's Program of
            the FAA to ensure directives described in subsection (c) do not
            duplicate objectives of such office or program.

        (e) Membership.--
                (1) Voting members.--The Committee shall be composed of the
            following members:
                        (A) The Administrator, or the designee of the
                    Administrator.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1150]]

                        (B) <<NOTE: Appointments.>>  At least 25
                    individuals, appointed by the Secretary, representing
                    the following:
                              (i) Aircraft manufacturers and aerospace
                          companies.
                              (ii) Public and private aviation labor
                          organizations, including collective bargaining
                          representatives of--
                                        (I) aviation safety inspectors and
                                    safety engineers of the FAA;
                                        (II) air traffic controllers;
                                        (III) certified aircraft maintenance
                                    technicians; and
                                        (IV) commercial airline crewmembers.
                              (iii) General aviation operators.
                              (iv) Air carriers.
                              (v) Business aviation operators, including
                          powered-lift operators.
                              (vi) Unmanned aircraft systems operators.
                              (vii) Aviation safety management experts.
                              (viii) Aviation maintenance, repair, and
                          overhaul entities.
                              (ix) Airport owners, operators, and employees.
                              (x) 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)).
                              (xi) 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.
                              (xii) Aviation maintenance technician schools
                          governed under part 147 of title 14, Code of
                          Federal Regulations.
                              (xiii) Engineering business associations.
                              (xiv) Civil Air Patrol.
                              (xv) Nonprofit organizations within the
                          aviation industry.
                (2) Nonvoting members.--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Appointments.>>  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, at least 1 of which
                    shall be an employee of the Office of Civil Rights of
                    the FAA.
                        (B) Additional nonvoting members.--The Secretary may
                    invite representatives from the Department of Education
                    and Department of Labor to serve as nonvoting members on
                    the Committee.
                        (C) 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1151]]

                        (D) Limitation.--The nonvoting members may not
                    represent any stakeholder interest other than that of
                    the respective Federal agency of the member.
                (3) Terms.--Each voting member and nonvoting member of the
            Committee appointed by the Secretary shall be appointed for a
            term that expires not later than the date on which the
            authorization of the Committee expires under subsection (k).
                (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 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.
                (5) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Date.--Not later than 9 months
            after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall
            make the appointments described in this subsection.

        (f) Chairperson.--
                (1) In general.--The Committee shall select a chairperson
            from among the voting members of the Committee.
                (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.
                (3) Administrative support.--The Secretary shall furnish the
            Committee with logistical and administrative support to enable
            the Committee to perform the duties of the Committee.

        (h) Special Committees.--
                (1) Establishment.--The Committee may establish special
            committees composed of industry representatives, members of the
            public, labor representatives, and other relevant parties in
            complying with the consultation and participation requirements
            under subsection (d).
                (2) Applicable law.--Chapter 10 of title 5, United States
            Code, 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
                    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) Death or resignation.--If a member of the Committee dies
            or resigns during the term of service of such member,

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1152]]

            the Secretary shall designate a successor for the unexpired term
            of such member.

        (j) Reports.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Time period. Summaries.>>  Task reports.--The
            Committee shall submit to the Secretary and the appropriate
            committees of Congress annual reports detailing the completion
            of each directive summarizing the--
                        (A) findings and associated recommendations of the
                    Committee for any legislative and administrative actions
                    the Committee considers appropriate to improve the
                    advancement of women in aviation; and
                        (B) planned activities of the Committee, as directed
                    by the Secretary or approved by a majority of voting
                    members of the Committee, and proposed terms of work to
                    fulfill each activity.
                (2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Additional reports.--The
            Committee may submit to the appropriate committees of Congress,
            the Secretary, and the Administrator additional reports and
            recommendations related to education, training, recruitment,
            retention, and advancement of women in the aviation industry as
            the Committee determines appropriate.

        (k) Sunset.--The authorization of the Committee shall expire on
    October 1, 2028.
    SEC. 404. <<NOTE: 49 USC 106 note.>>  FAA ENGAGEMENT AND
                            COLLABORATION WITH HBCUS AND MSIS.

        (a) In General.--The Administrator--
                (1) shall continue--
                        (A) to partner with and conduct outreach to
                    Historically Black Colleges and Universities and
                    minority serving institutions to promote awareness of
                    educational and career opportunities, including the
                    Educational Partnership Initiative of the FAA, and
                    develop curriculum related to aerospace, aviation, and
                    air traffic control; and
                        (B) operation of the Minority Serving Institutions
                    Internship Program; and
                (2) may--
                        (A) make internship placements under the Minority
                    Serving Institutions Internship Program available during
                    academic sessions throughout the year; and
                        (B) extend an internship placement under the
                    Minority Serving Institutions Internship Program for a
                    student beyond a single academic session.

        (b) Program Data.--In carrying out the Minority Serving Institutions
    Internship Program, the Administrator shall track data, including annual
    metrics measuring the following with respect to such Program:
                (1) The total number of applicants.
                (2) The total number of applicants offered an internship and
            the total number of applicants who accept an internship.
                (3) The line of business in which each intern is placed.
                (4) The conversion rate of interns in the Program who are
            hired as full-time FAA employees.

        (c) Minority Serving Institution Defined.--In this section, the term
    ``minority serving institution'' means an institution described in
    paragraphs (1) through (7) of section 371(a) of the Higher Education Act
    of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1067q(a)).

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1153]]

    SEC. 405. AIRMAN KNOWLEDGE TESTING WORKING GROUP.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Establishment.>>  Working Group.--Not later
    than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
    shall task the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee to establish a
    working group to assess and evaluate the appropriateness of allowing 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 FAA-approved testing center.

        (b) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  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 with relevant findings and recommendations.

        (c) High School Defined.--In this section, 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).
    SEC. 406. AIRMAN CERTIFICATION STANDARDS.

        (a) In General.--The Administrator shall use the Aviation Rulemaking
    Advisory Committee Airman Certification System Working Group (in this
    section referred to as the ``Working Group'') to review airman
    certification standards and 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) Duties.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Working Group
    shall--
                (1) obtain industry recommendations on maintaining and
            updating airman certification standards, including guidance
            documents and airman tests;
                (2) ensure tasks carried out by the Working Group are
            addressed and completed in a timely and efficient manner; and
                (3) recommend to the Administrator a means by which the FAA
            may communicate to industry the process for establishing,
            updating, and maintaining airman certification standards,
            including relevant guidance documents, handbooks, and airman
            test materials.
    SEC. 407. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44703 note.>>  AIRMAN'S MEDICAL BILL OF
                            RIGHTS.

        (a) In General.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Development.--Not later than 1 year
            after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
            develop a document (in this section referred to as the
            ``Airman's Medical Bill of Rights'') detailing the rights of an
            individual before, during, and after a medical examination
            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 examination;
                        (B) terminate an exam in accordance with guidelines
                    from the Administrator for appropriately terminating
                    such exam;
                        (C) receive medical examination with respect and
                    recognition of the dignity of the individual;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1154]]

                        (D) be assured of privacy and confidentiality;
                        (E) select an Aviation Medical Examiner of the
                    choice of the individual, as long as the Aviation
                    Medical Examiner has the required designations;
                        (F) privacy when changing, undressing, and using the
                    restroom;
                        (G) ask questions about FAA medical standards and
                    the applicability to the current health status of the
                    individual;
                        (H) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  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
                    FAA;
                        (I) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  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
                    medical examination 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 (or any successor
                    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) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  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 (or any successor
                    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. 408. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44703 note.>>  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 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) <<NOTE: Web posting.>>  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--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1155]]

                        (A) the designee locator search webpage; and
                        (B) the webpage of the Office of Audit and
                    Evaluation of the FAA.
                (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) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review the efforts of
                          the Administration to improve the reporting
                          process and solutions developed to respond to and
                          investigate allegations of misconduct;
                              (ii) <<NOTE: Analysis.>>  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) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine
                          whether the reporting process results in
                          appropriate action, including reviewing,
                          investigating, and closing out reports; and
                              (iv) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  if
                          applicable, make recommendations to improve the
                          reporting process.
                        (C) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  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 appropriate committees of Congress 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. 409. REPORT ON SAFE UNIFORM OPTIONS FOR CERTAIN AVIATION
                            EMPLOYEES.

        (a) <<NOTE: Review.>>  In General.--The Administrator shall review
    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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1156]]

    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) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 2 years after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the
    appropriate committees of Congress on the results of the review required
    under subsection (a).
    SEC. 410. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44516 note.>>  HUMAN FACTORS
                            PROFESSIONALS.

        The Administrator shall take such actions as may be necessary to
    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. 411. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44703 note.>>  AEROMEDICAL INNOVATION AND
                            MODERNIZATION WORKING GROUP.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Review. Recommenda- tions.>>  Establishment.--
    Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator 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) <<NOTE: Appointments.>>  not less than 15
                    individuals appointed by the Administrator, each of whom
                    shall have knowledge or a background in aerospace
                    medicine, psychiatry, neurology, cardiology, or internal
                    medicine.
                (2) Co-chairs.--The working group shall be co-chaired by--
                        (A) the Federal Air Surgeon of the FAA; 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; and
                        (D) individuals having demonstrated research and
                    expertise in aeromedical research or sciences.

        (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) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assess the medical conditions an
            Aviation Medical Examiner may issue a medical certificate
            directly to an individual;
                (2) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine the appropriateness
            of the list of such medical conditions as of the date of
            enactment of this Act;
                (3) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assess the special issuance
            process;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1157]]

                (4) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine the appropriateness
            of whether a renewal of a special issuance can be based on a
            medical evaluation and treatment plan by the treating medical
            specialist of the individual pursuant to approval from an
            Aviation Medical Examiner;
                (5) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  evaluate advancements in
            technologies to address forms of red-green color blindness and
            determine whether such technologies may be approved for use by
            airmen;
                (6) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review policies and guidance relating
            to Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Attention
            Deficit Disorder;
                (7) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  evaluate whether medications used
            to treat such disorders may be safely prescribed to airmen;
                (8) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review protocols pertaining to the
            Human Intervention Motivation Study of the FAA;
                (9) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review protocols and policies
            relating to--
                        (A) neurological disorders; and
                        (B) cardiovascular conditions to ensure alignment
                    with medical best practices, latest research;
                (10) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review mental health protocols and
            medications approved for treating such mental health conditions,
            including such actions taken resulting from recommendations by
            the Mental Health and Aviation Medical Clearances Rulemaking
            Committee;
                (11) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assess processes and protocols
            pertaining to recertification of airmen receiving disability
            insurance post-recovery from the medical condition, injury, or
            disability that precludes airmen from exercising the privileges
            of an airman certificate;
                (12) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assess processes and protocols
            pertaining to the certification of veterans reporting a
            disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs; and
                (13) <<NOTE: Assessment. Evaluation.>>  assess and evaluate
            the user interface and information-sharing capabilities of any
            online medical portal administered by the FAA.

        (d) Aviation Workforce Mental Health Task Group.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Evaluation.>>  Establishment.--Not
            later than 120 days after the working group pursuant to
            subsection (a) is established, the co-chairs of such working
            group shall establish an aviation workforce mental health task
            group (referred to in this subsection as the ``task group'') to
            oversee, monitor, and evaluate efforts of the Administrator
            related to supporting the mental health of the aviation
            workforce.
                (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)(10);
                        (B) soliciting feedback from aviation industry
                    professionals or other licensed professionals
                    representing air carrier operations under part 121 and
                    part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and
                    general aviation operations under part 91 of title 14,
                    Code of Federal Regulations;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1158]]

                        (C) reviewing and evaluating guidance issued by the
                    International Civil Aviation Organization on aviation
                    workforce mental health;
                        (D) providing advice, as appropriate, on the
                    implementation of the final recommendations issued by
                    the inspector general of the Department of
                    Transportation in the report titled, ``FAA Conduct
                    Comprehensive Evaluations of Pilots With Mental Health
                    Challenges, but Opportunities Exist to Further Mitigate
                    Safety Risks'', published on July 12, 2023 (AV2023038);
                        (E) monitoring and evaluating the implementation of
                    recommendations by the Mental Health and Aviation
                    Medical Clearances Rulemaking Committee;
                        (F) expanding and improving mental health outreach,
                    education, and assistance programs for the aviation
                    workforce; and
                        (G) reducing the stigma associated with mental
                    healthcare in the aviation workforce.
                (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 and the appropriate committees of Congress a
            report detailing--
                        (A) the results of the review under paragraph
                    (3)(A); and
                        (B) progress on the implementation of
                    recommendations pursuant to subparagraphs (D) and (E) of
                    paragraph (3); and
                        (C) the activities carried out pursuant to
                    fulfilling the duties described in subparagraphs (F) and
                    (G) of paragraph (3).

        (e) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  Support.--The Administrator shall seek to
    enter into 1 or more agreements with the National Academies to support
    the activities of the working group described in subsection (c).

        (f) <<NOTE: Time period. Reports.>>  Findings and Recommendations.--
    Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, and
    annually thereafter, the working group shall submit to the Administrator
    and the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the findings and
    recommendations resulting from the activities carried out under
    subsection (c).

        (g) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  Implementation.--Not later than 1 year after
    receiving recommendations outlined in the report under subsection (f),
    the Administrator may take such action, as appropriate, to implement
    such recommendations.

        (h) Sunset.--The working group shall terminate on October 1, 2028.
    SEC. 412. FRONTLINE MANAGER WORKLOAD STUDY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 2 years after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 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 Administrator may--
                (1) consider--
                        (A) workload challenges including--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1159]]

                              (i) the 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 Administrator considers
                    appropriate; and
                (2) describe recommendations for updates to the Frontline
            Manager's Quick Reference Guide that reflect current operational
            standards.

        (c) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 3 years after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the
    appropriate committees of Congress on the results of the study conducted
    under subsection (a).
    SEC. 413. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44703 note.>>  MEDICAL PORTAL
                            MODERNIZATION TASK GROUP.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Establishment.--Not later than 120 days
    after the working group pursuant to section 411 is established, the co-
    chairs of such working group shall establish a medical portal
    modernization task group (in this section referred to as the ``task
    group'') to evaluate the user interface and information sharing
    capabilities of an online medical portal administered by the FAA.

        (b) Composition.--The co-chairs of the working group provided for in
    section 411 shall appoint--
                (1) a Chair of the task group; and
                (2) members of the task group from among the members of the
            working group appointed by the Administrator under section
            411(b).

        (c) Assessment; Recommendations.--The task group shall, at a
    minimum, assess and evaluate the capabilities of any such medical portal
    and provide recommendations to improve the following:
                (1) The cybersecurity protections and protocols of any such
            medical portal, including the secure exchange of health
            information and records between Aviation Medical Examiners and
            pilots, or their designee, including the ability for airmen to
            submit additional information requested by the Administrator.
                (2) The status of an airman's medical application and the
            disclosure of how long an airman can expect to wait for a final
            determination to be issued by the Administrator.
                (3) The disclosure of the name and contact information of
            the Administrator's representative managing an airman's case so
            that an Aviation Medical Examiner has a point of contact within
            the Administration who is familiar with an airman's application.

        (d) Consultation.--In carrying out the duties described in
    subsection (c), the task group may consult with cybersecurity experts
    and individuals with a knowledge of securing electronic health care
    transactions.
        (e) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 1 year
    after the date of the establishment of the task group, the task group
    shall submit to

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1160]]

    the Administrator and the appropriate committees of Congress a report
    detailing activities and recommendations of the task group.

        (f) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Implementation.--Not later than 1 year
    after receiving the report described in subsection (e), the
    Administrator may take such action as may be necessary to implement
    recommendations of the task group to improve any such medical portal.
    SEC. 414. <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  STUDY OF HIGH SCHOOL AVIATION
                            MAINTENANCE TRAINING PROGRAMS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 1 year after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall
    initiate a study to assess high school aviation maintenance technician
    programs and identify any barriers for graduates of such programs with
    respect to--
                (1) pursuing post-secondary or vocational academic training
            at an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school; or
                (2) obtaining the training and experience necessary to
            become an FAA-certificated mechanic through on-the-job training
            or alternative pathways.

        (b) Contents.--The study required under subsection (a) shall assess
    the following:
                (1) The number of high school aviation maintenance programs
            in the United States and the typical career outcomes for
            graduates of such programs.
                (2) The extent to which such programs offer curricula that
            align with FAA mechanic Airman Certification Standards.
                (3) The number of such programs that partner with FAA-
            approved aviation maintenance technician schools (as described
            in part 147 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations).
                (4) The level of engagement between the FAA and high school
            aviation maintenance programs with respect to developing
            curricula to build the foundational knowledge and skills
            necessary for a student to attain FAA mechanic certification and
            associated ratings.
                (5) Barriers to accessing the general knowledge test
            described in section 65.71(a)(3) of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations.
                (6) The applicability of all FAA regulations and policies in
            effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act as
            such regulations and policies apply to student enrollees of high
            school aviation maintenance programs and whether such
            regulations or policies pose any barriers to students interested
            in pursuing a career in the field of aviation maintenance.

        (c) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 2 years
    after the completion of the study required under this section, the
    Comptroller General shall provide to the Administrator and the
    appropriate committees of Congress a report on the findings of such
    study, including recommendations for any legislative and administrative
    actions as the Comptroller General determines appropriate.
    SEC. 415. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 44506 note.>>  IMPROVED ACCESS
                            TO AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SIMULATION
                            TRAINING.

        (a) In General.--The Administrator shall continue making tower
    simulator systems (in this section referred to as ``TSS'') more
    accessible to all air traffic controller specialists assigned to an

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1161]]

    air traffic control tower of the FAA (in this section referred to as an
    ``ATCT''), regardless of facility assignment.
        (b) Cloud-based Visual Database and Software System.--Not later than
    30 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
    shall develop and implement a cloud-based visual database and software
    system that is compatible with existing and future TSS that, at a
    minimum, includes--
                (1) the unique runway layout, approach paths, and lines of
            sight of every ATCT; and
                (2) specifications that meet all applicable data security
            requirements.

        (c) TSS Upgrades.--Not later than 2 years after the date of
    enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall upgrade existing,
    permanent TSS so that the TSS is, at a minimum, capable of--
                (1) securely and quickly downloading data from the cloud-
            based visual database and software system described in
            subsection (b); and
                (2) running scenarios for each ATCT involving differing
            levels of air traffic volume and varying complexities,
            including, aircraft emergencies, rapidly changing weather,
            issuance of safety alerts, special air traffic procedures for
            events of national or international significance, and recovering
            from unforeseen events or losses of separation.

        (d) Mobile TSS.--Not later than 4 years after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator shall acquire and implement mobile TSS at
    each ATCT that is without an existing, permanent TSS so that the mobile
    TSS is capable of, at a minimum, the capabilities described in
    paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (c).
        (e) Collaboration.--In carrying out this section, the Administrator
    may collaborate with the exclusive bargaining representative of air
    traffic controllers certified under section 7111 of title 5, United
    States Code.
    SEC. 416. AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER INSTRUCTOR RECRUITMENT, HIRING,
                            AND RETENTION.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Study. Time periods.>>  In General.--No later
    than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
    shall initiate a study examining the recruitment, hiring, and retention
    of air traffic controller instructors and the projected number of
    instructors needed to maintain the safety of the national airspace
    system over a 5-year period beginning with fiscal year 2025.

        (b) Contents.--The Administrator shall include in the study required
    under subsection (a) the following:
                (1) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  An examination of projected
            instructor staffing targets, including the number of on-the-job
            instructors needed for the instruction and training of Certified
            Professional Controllers (in this section referred to as
            ``CPCs'') in training.
                (2) <<NOTE: Analysis.>>  An analysis on whether involving
            additional retired CPCs as instructors, including for classroom
            training, would produce improvements in air traffic controller
            instruction and training.
                (3) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Recommendations on how and
            where to utilize retired CPCs.
                (4) The effect on the ability of active CPCs to carry out
            on-the-job duties, other than instruction, and any related
            efficiencies if additional retired CPCs were involved as
            instructors.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1162]]

                (5) The known vulnerabilities, as categorized by FAA Air
            Traffic Organization regions, in cases in which the FAA requires
            CPCs to provide instruction and training to CPCs in training is
            a significant burden on FAA air traffic controller staffing
            levels.

        (c) <<NOTE: Briefing.>>  Deadline.--Not later than 2 years after the
    date on which the Administrator initiates the study required under
    subsection (a), the Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees
    of Congress on the results of the study and any actions that may be
    taken by the Administrator based on such results.
    SEC. 417. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44506 note.>>  ENSURING HIRING OF AIR
                            TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALISTS IS BASED ON
                            ASSESSMENT OF JOB-RELEVANT APTITUDES.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Review.>>  Review of the Air Traffic Skills
    Assessment.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this
    Act, the Administrator shall review and revise, if necessary, the Air
    Traffic Skills Assessment (in this section referred to as the ``AT-SA'')
    administered to air traffic controller applicants described in clauses
    (ii) and (iii) of section 44506(f)(1)(B) of title 49, United States
    Code, in accordance with the following requirements, the Administrator
    shall:
                (1) <<NOTE: Evaluation. Determination.>>  Evaluate all
            questions on the AT-SA and determine whether a peer-reviewed job
            analysis that ensures all questions test job-relevant aptitudes
            would result in improvements in the air traffic control
            specialist workforce training and hiring process.
                (2) Assess the assumptions and methodologies used to develop
            the AT-SA, the job-relevant aptitudes measured, and the scoring
            process for the assessment.
                (3) Assess whether any other revisions to the AT-SA are
            necessary to enhance the air traffic control specialist
            workforce training and hiring process.

        (b) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  DOT Inspector General Report.--Not
    later than 180 days after the completion of the review and any necessary
    revision of the AT-SA required under subsection (a), the inspector
    general of the Department of Transportation shall submit to the
    Administrator, the appropriate committees of Congress, and, upon
    request, to any member of Congress, a report that assesses the AT-SA and
    any applicable revisions, a description of any associated actions taken
    by the Administrator, and any other recommendations to address the
    results of the report.
    SEC. 418. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40132 note.>>  PILOT PROGRAM TO PROVIDE
                            VETERANS WITH PILOT TRAINING SERVICES.

        (a) In General.--The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary
    of Education and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, shall establish a
    pilot program to provide grants to eligible entities to provide pilot
    training activities and related education to support a pathway for
    veterans to become commercial aviators.
        (b) <<NOTE: Definition.>>  Eligible Entity.--In this section, the
    term ``eligible entity'' means a pilot school or provisional pilot
    school that--
                (1) holds an Air Agency Certificate under part 141 of title
            14, Code of Federal Regulations; and
                (2) has an established employment pathway with at least 1
            air carrier operating under part 121 or 135 of title 14, Code of
            Federal Regulations.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1163]]

        (c) Priority Application.--In selecting eligible entities under this
    section, the Secretary shall prioritize eligible entities that meet the
    following criteria:
                (1) An eligible entity accredited (as defined in section
            61.1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations) by an accrediting
            agency recognized by the Secretary of Education.
                (2) An eligible entity that holds a letter of authorization
            issued in accordance with section 61.169 of title 14, Code of
            Federal Regulations.

        (d) Use of Funds.--Amounts from a grant received by an eligible
    entity under the pilot program established under subsection (a) shall be
    used for the following:
                (1) Administrative costs related to implementation of the
            program described in subsection (a) not to exceed 5 percent of
            the amount awarded.
                (2) To provide guidance and pilot training services,
            including tuition and flight training fees for veterans enrolled
            with an eligible entity, to support such veterans in obtaining
            any of the following pilot certificates and ratings:
                        (A) Private pilot certificate with airplane single-
                    engine or multi-engine ratings.
                        (B) Instrument rating.
                        (C) Commercial pilot certificate with airplane
                    single-engine or multi-engine ratings.
                        (D) Multi-engine rating.
                        (E) Certificated flight instructor single-engine
                    certificate, if applicable to the degree sought.
                        (F) Certificated flight instructor multi-engine
                    certificate, if applicable to the degree sought.
                        (G) Certificated flight instructor instrument
                    certificate, if applicable to the degree sought.
                (3) To provide educational materials, training materials,
            and equipment to support pilot training activities and related
            education for veterans enrolled with the eligible entity.
                (4) To provide periodic reports to the Secretary on use of
            the grant funds, including documentation of training completion
            of the certificates and ratings described in subparagraphs (A)
            through (G) of paragraph (2).

        (e) Award Amount Limit.--An award granted to an eligible entity
    shall not exceed more than $750,000 in any given fiscal year.
        (f) Appropriations.--To carry out this section, there is authorized
    to be appropriated $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through
    2028.
    SEC. 419. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44720 note.>>  PROVIDING NON-FEDERAL
                            WEATHER OBSERVER TRAINING TO AIRPORT
                            PERSONNEL.

        The Administrator may take such actions as are necessary to provide
    training that is easily accessible and streamlined for airport personnel
    to become certified as non-Federal weather observers so that such
    personnel can manually provide weather observations in any case in which
    automated surface observing systems and automated weather observing
    systems experience outages and errors to ensure operational safety at
    airports.
    SEC. 420. PROHIBITION OF REMOTE DISPATCHING.

        (a) Amendments to Prohibition.--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1164]]

                (1) In general.--Section 44711(a) of title 49, United States
            Code, is amended--
                        (A) in paragraph (9) by striking ``or'' after the
                    semicolon;
                        (B) by redesignating paragraph (10) as paragraph
                    (11); and
                        (C) by inserting after paragraph (9) the following:
                ``(10) 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; or''.
                (2) <<NOTE: Deadline. Compliance. 49 USC 44711 note.>>
            Regulations.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
            of this Act, the Administrator shall issue regulations requiring
            persons to comply with section 44711(a)(10) of title 49, United
            States Code (as added by paragraph (1)).

        (b) Aircraft Dispatching.--
                (1) In general.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United States
            Code, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``Sec. 44748. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44748.>>  Aircraft dispatching

        ``(a) Aircraft Dispatching Certificate.--No person may serve as an
    aircraft dispatcher for an air carrier unless such person holds the
    appropriate aircraft dispatcher certificate issued by the Administrator
    of the Federal Aviation Administration.
        ``(b) Proof of Certification.--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.--Each air carrier shall establish and
            maintain sufficient dispatch centers and flight following
            centers necessary to maintain operational control of each flight
            of the air carrier at all times.
                ``(2) Requirements.--An air carrier shall ensure that each
            dispatch center and flight following center of the air carrier--
                        ``(A) has a sufficient number of aircraft
                    dispatchers on duty at the dispatch center or flight
                    following center to ensure proper operational control of
                    each flight of the air carrier at all times;
                        ``(B) has the necessary equipment, in good repair,
                    to maintain proper operational control of each flight of
                    the air carrier at all times; and
                        ``(C) includes the presence of physical security and
                    cybersecurity protections to prevent unauthorized access
                    to the dispatch center or flight following center or to
                    the operations of either such center.

        ``(d) Prohibition.--
                ``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), an
            air carrier may not dispatch aircraft from any location other
            than the dispatch center or flight following center of the air
            carrier.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  Emergency authority.--In the
            event of an emergency or other event that renders a dispatch
            center or a flight following center inoperable, an air carrier
            may dispatch aircraft from a location other than the dispatch
            center or flight following center of the air carrier for a
            period of time not to exceed

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1165]]

            14 consecutive days per location without approval of the
            Administrator.''.
                (2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 447 of
            such title <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44701.>>  is further amended by
            adding at the end the following:

    ``44748. Aircraft dispatching.''.

    SEC. 421. <<NOTE: 49 USC 41701 note.>>  CREWMEMBER PUMPING
                            GUIDANCE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  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.
    SEC. 422. GAO STUDY AND REPORT ON EXTENT AND EFFECTS OF COMMERCIAL
                            AVIATION PILOT SHORTAGE ON REGIONAL/
                            COMMUTER CARRIERS.

        (a) Study.--The Comptroller General shall conduct a study to
    identify the extent and effects of the commercial aviation pilot
    shortage on regional/commuter carriers (as such term is defined in
    section 41719(d) of title 49, United States Code).
        (b) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 12 months
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall
    submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report containing the
    results of the study conducted under subsection (a), including
    recommendations for such legislation and administrative action as the
    Comptroller General determines appropriate.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1166]]

    SEC. 423. REPORT ON IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS OF FEDERAL
                            AVIATION ADMINISTRATION YOUTH ACCESS TO
                            AMERICAN JOBS IN AVIATION TASK FORCE.

        Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Secretary, acting through the Administrator, shall submit to the
    appropriate committees of Congress a report on the implementation of the
    following recommendations of the Youth Access to American Jobs in
    Aviation Task Force of the FAA established under section 602 of the FAA
    Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254):
                (1) Improve information access about careers in aviation and
            aerospace.
                (2) Collaboration across regions of the FAA on outreach and
            workforce development programs.
                (3) Increase opportunities for mentoring, pre-
            apprenticeships, and apprenticeships in aviation.
    SEC. 424. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON IMPROVING UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM
                            STAFFING AT FAA.

        It is the sense of Congress that the Administrator should leverage
    the Unmanned Aircraft System Collegiate Training Initiative to address
    any staffing challenges and skills gaps within the FAA to support
    efforts to facilitate the safe integration of unmanned aircraft systems
    and other new airspace entrants into the national airspace system.
    SEC. 425. JOINT AVIATION EMPLOYMENT TRAINING WORKING GROUP.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Establishment.--Not later than 120 days
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish
    an interagency working group (in this section referred to as the
    ``working group'') to advise the Secretary and the Secretary of Defense
    on matters and policies related to increasing awareness of the
    eligibility, training, and experience requirements needed to become an
    FAA-certified or a military-covered aviation professional in order to
    improve career transitions 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 FAA, 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; and
                        (B) a representative of the Department of Defense,
                    to be appointed by the Secretary of Defense.

        (c) Activities.--The working group shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  evaluate and compare all
            eligibility, training, and experience requirements for
            individuals interested in becoming FAA-certified, or serving in
            the armed forces, as covered aviation professionals, including
            agency policies, guidance, and orders affecting covered aviation
            professionals;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1167]]

                (2) identify challenges that inhibit recruitment, training,
            and retention within the respective workforces of such
            professionals;
                (3) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assess methods to improve
            outreach, engagement, and awareness of eligibility, training,
            and experience requirements needed to enter careers of covered
            aviation professionals;
                (4) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  consult with representatives
            from nonprofit organizations supporting veterans and
            representatives from aviation industry organizations
            representing covered aviation professionals in the development
            of recommendations required pursuant to subsection (d)(2)(B);
            and
                (5) identify opportunities for increased interagency
            information sharing across workforces on matters related to
            certification pathways, 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 establishes the working group, the working
            group shall submit to the covered 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), including feedback offered by
                    representatives described in subsection (c)(4); and
                        (B) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommendations
                    for regulatory, policy, or legislative action to improve
                    awareness of the eligibility, training, and experience
                    requirements needed to become FAA-certified or military-
                    covered aviation professionals across the civilian and
                    military workforces.

        (e) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  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 covered committees of Congress a report--
                (1) describing the continued activities of the working
            group;
                (2) describing any progress made by the Secretary 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) Covered committees of congress.--The term ``covered
            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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1168]]

                (2) Covered aviation professional.--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. 426. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 44703 note.>>  MILITARY
                            AVIATION MAINTENANCE TECHNICIANS RULE.

        (a) Streamlined Certification for Eligible Military Maintenance
    Technicians.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Notice.>>  Rulemaking.--Not later than 18 months
            after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
            issue a notice of proposed rulemaking to revise part 65 of title
            14, Code of Federal Regulations, to--
                        (A) create a military mechanic written competency
                    test that addresses gaps between military and civilian
                    experience; and
                        (B) develop, as necessary, a relevant Airman
                    Certification Standard to qualify eligible military
                    maintenance technicians for a civilian mechanic
                    certificate with airframe or powerplant ratings.
                (2) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  Consideration.--In carrying out
            paragraph (1), the Administrator shall evaluate and consider--
                        (A) whether to 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) aeronautical knowledge subject areas contained
                    in the Aviation Mechanic General, Airframe, and
                    Powerplant Airman Certification Standards as described
                    in section 65.75 of title 14, Code of Federal
                    Regulations, as appropriate, to the rating sought; and
                        (C) any applicable recommendations by the Aviation
                    Rulemaking Advisory Committee Airman Certification
                    System Working Group.

        (b) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Expansion of Testing Locations.--Not
    later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense and the
    Secretary of Homeland Security, shall determine--
                (1) whether an expansion of the number of active testing
            locations operated within military installation testing centers
            would increase access to testing; and
                (2) how to implement such expansion, if appropriate.

        (c) <<NOTE: Plan.>>  Outreach and Awareness.--Not later than 1 year
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in
    coordination with the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Veterans
    Affairs, and the Secretary of Homeland Security, shall develop a plan to
    increase outreach and awareness regarding services made available by the
    JSAMTCC and how such services can assist in facilitating

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1169]]

    the transition between military and civilian aviation maintenance
    careers.

        (d) Briefings.--
                (1) Initial briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the
            date on which the Administrator develops the outreach and
            awareness plan pursuant to subsection (c), the Administrator
            shall provide to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
            Transportation and the Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the
            Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
            and the Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the House of
            Representatives a briefing on the activities planned to
            implement the outreach and awareness plan.
                (2) Periodic briefing.--Not later than 2 years after the
            date of enactment of this Act, and 2 years thereafter, the
            Administrator shall provide to the Committee on Commerce,
            Science, and Transportation and the Committee on Veterans'
            Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and
            Infrastructure and the Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the
            House of Representatives a briefing on any rulemaking activities
            carried out pursuant to subsection (a), including a timeline for
            the issuance of a final rule.

        (e) Eligible Military Maintenance Technician Defined.--For purposes
    of this section, the term ``eligible military maintenance technician''
    means an individual who--
                (1) has been a maintenance technician during service in the
            armed forces who was honorably discharged or has retired from
            the armed forces (as defined in section 101 of title 10, United
            States Code);
                (2) presents an official record of service in the armed
            forces confirming that the individual has been a military
            aviation maintenance technician, holding an appropriate Military
            Occupational Specialty Code, as determined by the Administrator,
            in coordination with the Secretary of Defense; and
                (3) presents documentary evidence of experience in
            accordance with the requirements under section 65.77 of title
            14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    SEC. 427. CREWMEMBER SELF-DEFENSE TRAINING.

        Section 44918 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in subsection (a) by--
                        (A) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``and unruly
                    passenger behavior'' before the period at the end;
                        (B) in paragraph (2)--
                              (i) by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting
                          the following:
                        ``(A) Recognize suspicious behavior and activities
                    and determine the seriousness of any occurrence of such
                    behavior and activities.'';
                              (ii) by striking subparagraph (H) and
                          inserting the following:
                        ``(H) De-escalation training based on
                    recommendations issued by the Air Carrier Training
                    Aviation Rulemaking Committee.'';
                              (iii) by redesignating subparagraphs (I) and
                          (J) as subparagraphs (J) and (K), respectively;
                          and
                              (iv) by inserting after subparagraph (H) the
                          following:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1170]]

                        ``(I) Methods to subdue and restrain an active
                    attacker.'';
                        (C) by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the
                    following:
                ``(4) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Minimum standards.--Not later
            than 180 days after the date of enactment of the FAA
            Reauthorization Act of 2024, 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 any for recurrent training; and
                        ``(B) the individuals or entities providing such
                    training.''; and
                        (D) in paragraph (6)--
                              (i) 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
                              (ii) in the third sentence by inserting ``,
                          including self-defense training expertise and
                          experience'' before the period at the end; and
                (2) in subsection (b)--
                        (A) in paragraph (4) by striking ``Neither'' and
                    inserting ``Except as provided in paragraph (8),
                    neither''; and
                        (B) 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. 428. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44502 note.>>  DIRECT-HIRE AUTHORITY
                            UTILIZATION.

        (a) In General.--The Administrator shall utilize direct hire
    authorities (as such authorities existed on the day before the date of
    enactment of this Act) to hire individuals on a non-competitive basis
    for positions related to aircraft certification and aviation safety. In
    utilizing such authorities, the Administrator shall take into
    consideration any staffing gaps in the safety workforce of the FAA,
    including in positions supporting the safe integration of unmanned
    aircraft systems and other new airspace entrants.
        (b) <<NOTE: Deadline. Time period.>>  Congressional Briefing.--Not
    later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, and
    annually thereafter through 2028, the Administrator shall brief the
    appropriate committees of Congress on the--
                (1) utilization of the Administrator's direct-hire
            authorities described in subsection (a);
                (2) utilization of the Administrator's direct-hire
            authorities with respect to the Unmanned Aircraft System
            Collegiate Training Initiative of the FAA; and
                (3) number of employees hired as a result of the utilization
            of such authorities by the Administrator, the relevant lines

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1171]]

            of business or offices in which such employees were hired, and
            the occupational series of the positions filled.
    SEC. 429. FAA WORKFORCE REVIEW AUDIT.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Time period.>>  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 any FAA
    workforce plans completed during the 5 fiscal years preceding the fiscal
    year in which such audit is initiated related to occupations the agency
    relies on to accomplish its aviation safety mission.

        (b) Contents.--In conducting the audit under subsection (a), the
    inspector general shall--
                (1) identify whether any safety-critical positions have not
            been reviewed within the period specified in subsection (a);
                (2) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assess staffing levels and
            workforce retention trends relating to safety-critical
            occupations within all offices of the FAA that support such
            services;
                (3) review FAA workforce gaps in safety-critical and senior
            positions, including the average vacancy period of such
            positions during the most recent fiscal year in the period
            specified in subsection (a);
                (4) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  evaluate any applicable
            assessments of the historic workload of safety-critical
            positions and changes in workload demands over time;
                (5) <<NOTE: Analysis.>>  analyze any applicable assessments
            of critical competencies and skills gaps among safety-critical
            positions conducted by the FAA and any relevant agency actions
            in response;
                (6) review whether existing FAA workforce development
            programs are producing intended results, especially in rural
            communities, such as increased recruitment and retention of
            agency personnel; and
                (7) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  review opportunities (as such
            opportunities exist on the date of enactment of this Act) for
            employees of the FAA to gain or enhance expertise, knowledge,
            skills, and abilities through cooperative training with
            appropriate aerospace companies and organizations, including--
                        (A) assessing the appropriateness of existing
                    cooperative training programs and any conflicts of
                    interest or the appearance of such conflicts with FAA
                    policies and obligations relating to FAA employee
                    interactions with aviation industry;
                        (B) identifying a means by which to leverage such
                    programs to support credentialing and recurrent training
                    activities for FAA employees, as appropriate;
                        (C) assessing the policies and procedures the FAA
                    has established to avoid both conflicts of interest and
                    the appearance of such conflicts for employees
                    participating in such opportunities, which may include
                    requirements under--
                              (i) chapter 131 of title 5, United States
                          Code;
                              (ii) chapter 11 of title 18, United States
                          Code;
                              (iii) subchapter B of chapter XVI of title 5,
                          Code of Federal Regulations; and
                              (iv) sections 2635.101 and 2635.502 of title
                          5, Code of Federal Regulations; and
                        (D) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  evaluating whether the
                    conflict of interest policies and procedures of the FAA
                    for such opportunities provide

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1172]]

                    for the appropriate means by which employees return to
                    work at the FAA after having engaged in such
                    opportunities.

        (c) Inspector General Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date
    of enactment of this Act, the inspector general shall submit to the
    Administrator and the appropriate committees of Congress--
                (1) a report on the results of the audit conducted under
            subsection (a); and
                (2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommendations for such
            legislative and administrative action as the inspector general
            determines appropriate.
    SEC. 430. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>>  STAFFING MODEL FOR
                            AVIATION SAFETY INSPECTORS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Review.>>  In General.--Not later than 2 years
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall review
    and, as necessary, revise the staffing model for aviation safety
    inspectors.

        (b) Requirements.--
                (1) Consideration of prior studies and reports.--In
            reviewing and revising the model, the Administrator shall take
            into consideration the contents and recommendations contained in
            the following:
                        (A) The 2006 report released by the National
                    Research Council titled ``Staffing Standards for
                    Aviation Safety Inspectors''.
                        (B) The 2007 study released by the National Academy
                    of Sciences titled ``Staffing Standards for Aviation
                    Safety Inspectors''.
                        (C) The 2013 report released by Grant Thornton LLP,
                    titled ``ASTARS Gap Analysis Study: Comparison of the
                    AVS Staffing Model for Aviation Safety Inspectors to the
                    National Academy of Sciences' Recommendations Final
                    Report''.
                        (D) The 2021 report released by the inspector
                    general of the Department of Transportation titled ``FAA
                    Can Increase Its Inspector Staffing Model's
                    Effectiveness by Implementing System Improvements and
                    Maximizing Its Capabilities''.
                        (E) The FAA Fiscal Year 2023 Aviation Safety
                    Workforce Plan conducted to satisfy the requirements of
                    section 104 of the Aircraft Certification, Safety, and
                    Accountability Act, as enacted in the Consolidated
                    Appropriations Act, 2021 (49 U.S.C. 44701 note).
                (2) Assessments.--In carrying out this section, the
            Administrator shall assess the following:
                        (A) Projected staffing needs at the service and
                    office level.
                        (B) Forecasted attrition of the aviation safety
                    inspector workforce.
                        (C) Forecasted workload of aviation safety
                    inspectors, including responsibilities associated with
                    overseeing aviation manufacturers and new airspace
                    entrants.
                        (D) Means by which field managers use the model to
                    assess aviation safety inspector staffing and provide
                    feedback on resources needed at the office level.
                        (E) Work performed by aviation safety inspectors in
                    comparison to designees acting on behalf of the
                    Administrator.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1173]]

                        (F) Any associated performance metrics to inform
                    periodic comparisons to actual aviation safety inspector
                    staffing level results.
                (3) Consultation.--In carrying out this section, the
            Administrator shall consult with interested persons, including
            the exclusive collective bargaining representative for aviation
            safety inspectors certified under section 7111 of title 5,
            United States Code.
    SEC. 431. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>>  SAFETY-CRITICAL STAFFING.

        (a) Implementation of Staffing Standards for Safety Inspectors.--
    Upon completion of the revised staffing model for aviation safety
    inspectors under section 430, and validation of the model by the
    Administrator, the Administrator shall take all appropriate actions in
    response to the number of aviation safety inspectors, aviation safety
    technicians, and operation support positions that are identified in such
    model to meet the responsibilities of the Flight Standards Service and
    Aircraft Certification Service, including potentially increasing the
    number of safety critical positions in the Flight Standards Service and
    Aircraft Certification Service each fiscal year, as appropriate, so long
    as such staffing increases are measured relative to the number of
    individuals serving in safety-critical positions as of September 30,
    2023.
        (b) Availability of Appropriations.--Any increase in safety critical
    staffing pursuant to this subsection shall be subject to the
    availability of appropriations.
        (c) Safety-critical Positions Defined.--In this section, the term
    ``safety-critical positions'' means--
                (1) aviation safety inspectors, aviation safety specialists
            (1801 job series), aviation safety technicians, and operations
            support positions in the Flight Standards Service; and
                (2) manufacturing safety inspectors, pilots, engineers,
            Chief Scientist Technical Advisors, aviation safety specialists
            (1801 job series), safety technical specialists, and operational
            support positions in the Aircraft Certification Service.
    SEC. 432. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>>  DETERRING CREWMEMBER
                            INTERFERENCE.

        (a) Task Force.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--Not later than 120
            days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
            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 of representatives of--
                        (A) air carriers;
                        (B) airport sponsors and airport law enforcement
                    agencies;
                        (C) other Federal agencies determined necessary by
                    the Administrator;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1174]]

                        (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) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  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) <<NOTE: Applicability.>>  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. 433. 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. 434. EMPLOYEE ASSAULT PREVENTION AND RESPONSE PLAN STANDARDS
                            AND BEST PRACTICES.

        (a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
                (1) each air carrier operating under part 121 of title 14,
            Code of Federal Regulations, shall submit to the Administrator
            an Employee Assault Prevention and Response Plan pursuant to
            section 551 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C.
            44903 note);
                (2) each such air carrier should have in place and deploy an
            Employee Assault Prevention and Response Plan to facilitate
            appropriate protocols, standards, and training to equip
            employees with best practices and the experience necessary to
            respond effectively to hostile situations and disruptive
            behavior and maintain a safe traveling experience; and
                (3) any air carrier formed after the date of enactment of
            this Act should develop and implement an Employee Assault
            Prevention and Response Plan.

        (b) Required Briefing.--Section 551 of the FAA Reauthorization Act
    of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44903 note) is amended by adding at the end the
    following:
        ``(f) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Briefing to Congress.--Not later than 90
    days after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Administrator
    of the Federal Aviation Administration shall provide to the appropriate
    committees of Congress a briefing on the Employee Assault Prevention and
    Response Plan submitted by each air carrier pursuant to this section.''.
    SEC. 435. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44903 note.>>  FORMAL POLICY ON SEXUAL
                            ASSAULT AND HARASSMENT ON AIR CARRIERS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 180 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, passenger air carriers operating
    under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, shall issue, in
    consultation with labor unions representing personnel, a formal policy
    with respect to sexual assault or harassment incidents.

        (b) Contents.--Each policy required under subsection (a) shall
    include--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1175]]

                (1) a statement indicating that no sexual assault or
            harassment incident is acceptable under any circumstance;
                (2) procedures that facilitate the reporting of a 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 sexual assault or harassment incident, including
            actions to protect affected individuals from continued sexual
            assault or harassment and to notify law enforcement, including
            the Federal Bureau of Investigation, when appropriate;
                (4) procedures that may limit or prohibit, to the extent
            practicable, future travel with the air carrier by any passenger
            who commits a sexual assault or harassment incident; and
                (5) training that is required for all appropriate personnel
            with respect to each such policy, including specific training
            for personnel who may receive reports of sexual assault or
            harassment incidents.

        (c) <<NOTE: Web posting.>>  Passenger Information.--An air carrier
    described in subsection (a) shall display, on the website of the air
    carrier and through the use of appropriate signage, a written statement
    that informs passengers and personnel of the procedure for reporting a
    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 described in subsection (a) has acted with any requisite
    standard of care.
        (e) Rules of Construction.--
                (1) Effect on authorities.--Nothing in this section shall be
            construed as granting the Secretary any additional authorities
            beyond ensuring that a passenger air carrier operating under
            part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations issues a
            formal policy and displays required information in compliance
            with this section.
                (2) Effect on other laws.--Nothing in this section shall be
            construed to alter existing authorities of the Equal Employment
            Opportunity Commission, the Department of Labor, or the
            Department of Justice to enforce applicable employment and
            sexual assault and sexual harassment laws.

        (f) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Personnel.--The term ``personnel'' means an employee or
            contractor of passenger air carrier operating under part 121 of
            title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                (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) Sexual assault or harassment incident.--The term
            ``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 personnel against
                          another passenger or personnel; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1176]]

                              (ii) within an aircraft or in an area in which
                          passengers are entering or exiting an aircraft.
    SEC. 436. 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. 437. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44506 note.>>  AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL
                            WORKFORCE STAFFING.

        (a) Maximum Hiring.--Subject to the availability of appropriations,
    for each of fiscal years 2024 through 2028, the Administrator shall set
    as the minimum 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.
        (b) Transportation Research Board Assessment.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Attestation. Contracts.>>  Review.--
            Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act,
            the Administrator shall submit an attestation to the appropriate
            committees of Congress demonstrating an agreement entered into
            with the with the National Academies Transportation Research
            Board to--
                        (A) compare the Certified Professional Controller
                    (in this section referred to as ``CPC'') operational
                    staffing models and methodologies in determining the FAA
                    Controller Staffing Standard included in the 2023 Air
                    Traffic Controller Workforce Plan of the FAA, with such
                    models and methodologies developed by the Collaborative
                    Resource Workgroup of the FAA (in this subsection
                    referred to as ``CRWG'') to determine CPC operational
                    staffing targets necessary to meet facility operational,
                    statutory, contractual and safety requirements,
                    including--
                              (i) the availability factor multiplier and
                          other formula components;
                              (ii) the independent facility staffing targets
                          of CPCs able to control traffic;
                              (iii) air traffic controller position
                          utilization;
                              (iv) attrition rates at each air traffic
                          control facility operated by the Administration;
                          and
                              (v) the time needed to meet facility
                          operational, statutory, and contractual
                          requirements, including relevant resources to
                          develop, evaluate, and implement processes and
                          initiatives affecting the national airspace
                          system;
                        (B) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  examine the current and
                    estimated budgets of the FAA to implement the FAA
                    Controller Staffing Standard included in the 2023
                    Controller Workforce Plan in comparison to the funding
                    needed to implement the CRWG CPC operational staffing
                    targets;
                        (C) assess future needs of the air traffic control
                    system and potential impacts on staffing standards,
                    including projected air traffic in the airspace of each
                    air traffic control facility operated by the
                    Administration; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1177]]

                        (D) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine which
                    staffing models and methodologies evaluated pursuant to
                    this subsection best accounts for the operational
                    staffing needs of the air traffic control system and
                    provide a justification for such determination.
                (2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than
            180 days after the agreement entered into pursuant to paragraph
            (b)(1), the Transportation Research Board of the National
            Academies shall submit a report to the Administrator and
            appropriate committees of Congress on the findings and
            recommendations under this subsection, including the
            determination pursuant to subparagraph (D).
                (3) Consultation.--In conducting the assessment under this
            subsection, the Transportation Research Board shall consult
            with--
                        (A) the exclusive bargaining representatives of air
                    traffic control specialists of the Administration
                    certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States
                    Code;
                        (B) front line managers of the air traffic control
                    system;
                        (C) managers and employees responsible for training
                    air traffic controllers;
                        (D) the MITRE Corporation;
                        (E) the Chief Operating Officer of the Air Traffic
                    Organization of the FAA, and other Federal Government
                    representatives;
                        (F) users and operators in the air traffic control
                    system;
                        (G) relevant industry representatives; and
                        (H) other parties determined appropriate by the
                    Transportation Research Board of the National Academies.

        (c) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  Required Implementation of Identified
    Staffing Model.--
                (1) Use of staffing model.--The Administrator shall, as
            appropriate, take such action that may be necessary to implement
            and use the staffing model identified by the Transportation
            Research Board pursuant to subsection (b)(1)(D), including any
            recommendations for improving such model, not later than one
            year after enactment of this Act.
                (2) Briefing.--Not later than 90 days after taking such
            actions to implement and use the staffing model identified by
            the Transportation Research Board pursuant to subsection
            (b)(1)(D), the Administrator shall brief the appropriate
            committees of Congress regarding the reasons for why any
            recommendation by the Transportation Research Board study was
            not incorporated into the implemented staffing model.

        (d) Revised Staffing Standards.--The Administration shall revise the
    FAA CPC operational staffing standards of the Administration implemented
    under subsection (c) to--
                (1) provide that the controller and management workforce is
            sufficiently staffed to safely and efficiently manage and
            oversee the air traffic control system;
                (2) account for the target number of CPCs 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.

        (e) Interim Adoption of Collaborative Resource Workgroup Models.--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1178]]

                (1) <<NOTE: Publication.>>  In general.--In submitting a
            Controller Workforce Plan of the FAA to Congress published after
            the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall adopt
            and use the staffing models and methodologies developed by the
            Collaborative Resource Workgroup that were recommended in the
            2023 Controller Workforce Plan.
                (2) Revisions to the controller workforce plan.--Section
            44506(e) of title 49, United States Code is amended--
                        (A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``the number of air
                    traffic controllers needed'' and inserting ``the number
                    of fully certified air traffic controllers needed'';
                        (B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as
                    paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively; and
                        (C) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
                ``(2) for each air traffic control facility operated by the
            Federal Aviation Administration--
                        ``(A) the current certified professional controller
                    staffing levels;
                        ``(B) the operational staffing targets for certified
                    professional controllers;
                        ``(C) the anticipated certified professional
                    controller attrition for each of the next 3 years; and
                        ``(D) the number of certified professional
                    controller trainees;''.
                (3) Effective date.--The requirements of paragraph (1) shall
            cease to be effective upon the adoption and implementation of a
            revised staffing model by the Administrator as required under
            subsection (c).

        (f) <<NOTE: Publication.>>  Controller Training.--In any Controller
    Workforce Plan of the FAA published after the date of enactment of this
    Act, the Administrator shall--
                (1) identify all limiting factors on the ability of the
            Administrator to hire and train controllers in line with the
            staffing standards target set out in such Plan; and
                (2) describe what actions the Administrator intends to take
            to rectify any impediments to meeting staffing standards targets
            and identify contributing factors that are outside the control
            of the Administrator.
    SEC. 438. AIRPORT SERVICE WORKFORCE ANALYSIS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Review.>>  In General.--Not later than 1 year
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall
    complete a comprehensive review of the domestic airport service
    workforce and examine the role of, impact on, and importance of such
    workforce to the aviation economy.

        (b) Working Group.--
                (1) Report.--Upon completion of the review required under
            subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall submit to the
            Secretary a report containing such review.
                (2) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  Public working group.--The
            Secretary may convene a public working group to evaluate and
            discuss the report under paragraph (1) containing--
                        (A) the entities the Comptroller General consulted
                    with in carrying out the review under subsection (a);
                        (B) representatives of other relevant Federal
                    agencies; and
                        (C) any other appropriate stakeholder.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1179]]

                (3) Termination.--If the Secretary convenes a working group
            under paragraph (2), such working group shall terminate on the
            date that is 1 year after the date on which the working group is
            convened.
    SEC. 439. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION ACADEMY AND FACILITY
                            EXPANSION PLAN.

        (a) Plan.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--No later than 90 days
            after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
            initiate the development of a plan to 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.
                (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 Academy;
                        (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;
                        (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 education
                    platforms, including the number of on-the-job
                    instructors needed to educate and train additional
                    developmental air traffic controllers;
                        (F) the costs of expanding FAA capacity at the
                    existing air traffic control academy (as described in
                    paragraph (1)(A));
                        (G) 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
                        (H) other logistical and financial considerations as
                    determined appropriate by the Administrator.

        (b) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees
    of Congress the plan developed under subsection (a).
        (c) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  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.
    SEC. 440. IMPROVING FEDERAL AVIATION WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
                            PROGRAMS.

        (a) In General.--Section 625 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018
    (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) <<NOTE: 49 USC 40132 note.>>  is amended to read
    as follows:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1180]]

    ``SEC. 625. AVIATION WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS.

        ``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall establish--
                ``(1) a program to provide grants for eligible projects to
            support the education and recruitment of future aircraft pilots
            and the development of the aircraft pilot workforce;
                ``(2) a program to provide grants for eligible projects to
            support the education and recruitment of aviation maintenance
            technical workers and the development of the aviation
            maintenance workforce; and
                ``(3) a program to provide grants for eligible projects to
            support the education and recruitment of aviation manufacturing
            technical workers and aerospace engineers and the development of
            the aviation manufacturing workforce.

        ``(b) Project Grants.--
                ``(1) In general.--Out of amounts made available under
            section 48105 of title 49, United States Code, there is
            authorized to be appropriated--
                        ``(A) $20,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025
                    through 2028 to provide grants under the program
                    established under subsection (a)(1);
                        ``(B) $20,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025
                    through 2028 to provide grants under the program
                    established under subsection (a)(2); and
                        ``(C) $20,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025
                    through 2028 to provide grants under the program
                    established under subsection (a)(3).
                ``(2) Dollar amount limit.--In providing grants under the
            programs established under subsection (a), the Secretary may not
            make any grant more than $1,000,000 to any eligible entity in
            any 1 fiscal year.
                ``(3) Education projects.--The Secretary shall ensure that
            not less than 20 percent of the amounts made available under
            this subsection is used to carry out a grant program that shall
            be referred to as the `Willa Brown Aviation Education Program'
            under which the Secretary shall provide grants for eligible
            projects described in subsection (d) that are carried out 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).
                ``(4) Set aside for technical assistance.--The Secretary may
            set aside up to 2 percent of the funds appropriated to carry out
            this subsection for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2028 to
            provide technical assistance to eligible applicants for a grant
            under this subsection.
                ``(5) Consideration for certain applicants.--In reviewing
            and selecting applications for grants under the programs
            established under subsection (a), the Secretary may give
            consideration to applicants that provide an assurance--
                        ``(A) to use grant funds to encourage the
                    participation of populations that are underrepresented
                    in the aviation industry, including in economically
                    disadvantaged geographic areas and rural communities;
                        ``(B) to address the workforce needs of rural and
                    regional airports; or
                        ``(C) to strengthen aviation programs at a minority-
                    serving institution (as described in section 371(a) of
                    the

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1181]]

                    Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1067q(a)), a
                    public institution of higher education, or a public
                    postsecondary vocational institution.

        ``(c) Eligible Applications.--
                ``(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 such term is 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 accredited institution of higher education,
                    a postsecondary vocational institution, or a high school
                    or secondary school;
                        ``(D) a flight school that provides flight training,
                    as such term is 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
                    aircraft 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 accredited institution of higher education,
                    a postsecondary vocational institution, or a high school
                    or secondary school;
                        ``(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) a holder of a type or production certificate
                    or similar authorization issued under section 44704 of
                    title 49, United States Code;
                        ``(B) an accredited institution of higher education,
                    a postsecondary vocational institution, or a high school
                    or secondary school;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1182]]

                        ``(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;
                        ``(D) a labor organization representing aerospace
                    engineering, design, or manufacturing workers; or
                        ``(E) a State, local, territorial, or Tribal
                    governmental entity.

        ``(d) Eligible Projects.--
                ``(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 a program or curriculum
                    that provides high school or secondary school students
                    and students of institutions of higher education with
                    meaningful aviation education to become aircraft pilots
                    or unmanned aircraft systems operators, including
                    purchasing and operating a computer-based simulator
                    associated with such curriculum;
                        ``(B) to establish or improve registered
                    apprenticeship, internship, or scholarship programs for
                    individuals pursuing employment as a professional
                    aircraft pilot or unmanned aircraft systems operator;
                        ``(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 the transition to professional
                    aircraft pilot or unmanned systems operator careers,
                    including for members and veterans of the armed forces;
                        ``(E) to support robust outreach about careers in
                    commercial aviation as a professional aircraft pilot or
                    unmanned system operator, including outreach to
                    populations that are underrepresented in the aviation
                    industry; or
                        ``(F) to otherwise enhance or expand the aircraft
                    pilot or unmanned aircraft system operator workforce.
                ``(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 a program or curriculum
                    that provides high school and secondary school students
                    and students of institutions of higher education 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 establish or improve registered
                    apprenticeship, internship, or scholarship programs for
                    individuals pursuing employment in the aviation
                    maintenance industry;
                        ``(C) to support the transition to aviation
                    maintenance careers, including for members and veterans
                    of the armed forces;
                        ``(D) to support robust outreach about careers in
                    the aviation maintenance industry, including outreach to
                    populations that are underrepresented in the aviation
                    industry; or

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1183]]

                        ``(E) to otherwise enhance or expand the aviation
                    maintenance technical workforce.
                ``(3) Aviation manufacturing program.--For purposes of the
            program established under subsection (a)(3), an eligible project
            is a project--
                        ``(A) to create and deliver a program or curriculum
                    that provides high school and secondary school students
                    and students of institutions of higher education with
                    meaningful aviation manufacturing education to become an
                    aviation manufacturing technical worker or aerospace
                    engineer, including teaching technical skills used in
                    the engineering and production of components, parts, or
                    systems thereof for inclusion in an aircraft, aircraft
                    engine, propeller, or appliance;
                        ``(B) to establish registered apprenticeship,
                    internship, or scholarship programs for individuals
                    pursuing employment in the aviation manufacturing
                    industry;
                        ``(C) to support the transition to aviation
                    manufacturing careers, including for members and
                    veterans of the armed forces;
                        ``(D) to support robust outreach about careers in
                    the aviation manufacturing industry, including outreach
                    to populations that are underrepresented in the aviation
                    industry; or
                        ``(E) to otherwise enhance or expand the aviation
                    manufacturing workforce.

        ``(e) 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 subsection (a).
        ``(f) 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 appropriate Committees of Congress advance notice of a grant
            to be made under this section.

        ``(g) Grant Authority.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Termination date.>>  Limit on faa authority.--
            The authority of the Administrator of the Federal Aviation
            Administration, acting on behalf of the Secretary, to issue
            grants under this section shall terminate on October 1, 2027.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Effective date.>>  Nondelegation.--Beginning
            on October 1, 2027, the Secretary shall issue grants under this
            section and may not delegate any of the authorities or
            responsibilities under this section to the Administrator.

        ``(h) <<NOTE: Effective date.>>  Program Name Redesignation.--
    Beginning on October 1, 2027, the Secretary shall redesignate the name
    of the program established under subsection (a) as the `Cooperative
    Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and Employment Readiness Program' or
    the `CAREER Program'.

        ``(i) Consultation With Secretary of Education.--The Secretary may
    consult with the Secretary of Education, as appropriate, in--
                ``(1) reviewing applications for grants for eligible
            projects under this section; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1184]]

                ``(2) developing considerations regarding program quality
            and measurement of student outcomes.

        ``(j) <<NOTE: Time periods.>>  Report.--Not later than September 30,
    2028, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of
    Congress a report on the administration of the programs established
    under subsection (a) covering each of fiscal years 2025 through 2028
    that includes--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Summary.>>  a summary of projects awarded
            grants under this section and the progress of each recipient
            towards fulfilling program expectations;
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  an evaluation of how such
            projects cumulatively impact the future supply of individuals in
            the United States aviation workforce, including any related best
            practices for carrying out such projects;
                ``(3) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommendations for
            better coordinating actions by governmental entities,
            educational institutions, and businesses, aviation labor
            organizations, or other stakeholders to support aviation
            workforce growth;
                ``(4) <<NOTE: Review.>>  a review of how many grant
            recipients engaged with veterans and the resulting impact, if
            applicable, on recruiting and retaining veterans as part of the
            aviation workforce; and
                ``(5) <<NOTE: Review.>>  a review of outreach conducted by
            grant recipients to encourage individuals to participate in
            aviation careers and the resulting impact, if applicable, on
            recruiting and retaining such individuals as part of the
            aviation workforce.

        ``(k) Program Authority Sunset.--The authority of the Secretary to
    issue grants under this section shall expire on October 1, 2028.
        ``(l) Definitions.--In this section:
                ``(1) Armed forces.--The term `armed forces' has the meaning
            given such term in section 101 of title 10, United States Code.
                ``(2) 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)).
                ``(3) Institution of higher education.--The term
            `institution of higher education' has the meaning given such
            term in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
            U.S.C. 1001(a)).
                ``(4) Postsecondary vocational institution.--The term
            `postsecondary vocational institution' has the meaning given
            such term in section 102(c) of the Higher Education Act of 1965
            (20 U.S.C. 1002(c)).
                ``(5) 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)).''.

        (b) <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  Effective Date.--The amendment
    made by subsection (a) shall take effect on October 1, 2024.
    SEC. 441. NATIONAL STRATEGIC PLAN FOR AVIATION WORKFORCE
                            DEVELOPMENT.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 401 of title 49, United States Code, is
    further amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``Sec. 40132. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40132.>>  National strategic plan for
                        aviation workforce development

        ``(a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than September 30,
    2025, the Secretary of Transportation shall, in consultation with other
    Federal

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1185]]

    agencies and the Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and
    Employment Readiness Council (in this section referred to as the `CAREER
    Council') established in subsection (c), establish and maintain a
    national strategic plan to improve recruitment, hiring, and retention
    and address projected challenges in the civil aviation workforce,
    including--
                ``(1) any short-term, medium-term, and long-term workforce
            challenges relevant to the economy, workforce readiness, and
            priorities of the United States aviation sector;
                ``(2) any existing or projected workforce shortages; and
                ``(3) any workforce situation or condition that warrants
            special attention by the Federal Government.

        ``(b) Requirements.--The national strategic plan described in
    subsection (a) shall--
                ``(1) take into account the activities and accomplishments
            of all Federal agencies that are related to carrying out such
            plan;
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  include recommendations
            for carrying out such plan; and
                ``(3) project and identify, on an annual basis, aviation
            workforce challenges, including any applicable workforce
            shortages.

        ``(c) Career Council.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Establishment.--Not later than
            September 30, 2025, the Secretary, in consultation with the
            Administrator, shall establish a council comprised of
            individuals with expertise in the civil aviation industry to--
                        ``(A) assist with developing and maintaining the
                    national strategic plan described in subsection (a); and
                        ``(B) provide advice to the Secretary, as
                    appropriate, relating to the CAREER Program established
                    under section 625 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of
                    2018, including as such advice relates to program
                    administration and grant application selection, and
                    support the development of performance metrics regarding
                    the quality and outcomes of the Program.
                ``(2) Appointment.--The CAREER Council shall be appointed by
            the Secretary from candidates nominated by national associations
            representing various sectors of the aviation industry,
            including--
                        ``(A) commercial aviation;
                        ``(B) general aviation;
                        ``(C) aviation labor organizations, including
                    collective bargaining representatives of Federal
                    Aviation Administration aviation safety inspectors,
                    aviation safety engineers, and air traffic controllers;
                        ``(D) aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul;
                        ``(E) aviation manufacturers; and
                        ``(F) unmanned aviation.
                ``(3) Term.--Each council member appointed by the Secretary
            under paragraph (2) shall serve a term of 2 years.

        ``(d) Nondelegation.--The Secretary may not delegate any of the
    authorities or responsibilities under this section to the Administrator
    of the Federal Aviation Administration.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1186]]

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 401 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 40101.>>  is further amended by
    adding at the end the following:

    ``40132. National strategic plan for aviation workforce development.''.

                   TITLE V--PASSENGER EXPERIENCE IMPROVEMENTS

                        Subtitle A--Consumer Enhancements

    SEC. 501. 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 (in this subsection
            referred to as the `Office') to administer and enforce the
            aviation consumer protection and civil rights authorities
            provided to the Department by statute, including the authorities
            under section 41712--
                        ``(A) to assist, educate, and protect passengers;
                    and
                        ``(B) to monitor compliance with, conduct
                    investigations relating to, and enforce, with support of
                    attorneys in the Office of the General Counsel,
                    including by taking appropriate action to address
                    violations of aviation consumer protection and civil
                    rights.
                ``(2) Leadership.--The Office shall be headed by the
            Assistant Secretary for Aviation Consumer Protection (in this
            subsection referred to as the `Assistant Secretary').
                ``(3) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Transition.--Not later than 180
            days after funding is appropriated for an Office of Aviation
            Consumer Protection headed by an Assistant Secretary, 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. <<NOTE: Determination.>>  The Secretary shall
            determine which employees are necessary to fulfill the
            responsibilities of the new Office of Aviation Consumer
            Protection and such employees shall be transferred from the
            Office of the General Counsel, as appropriate, to the newly
            established Office of Aviation Consumer Protection.
                ``(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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1187]]

                        ``(B) the duties and activities of the Office
                    described in subparagraphs (A) through (C) of paragraph
                    (1).
                ``(5) <<NOTE: Public information. Web posting.>>  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) <<NOTE: Analyses.>>  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) <<NOTE: Appropriation authorization.>>  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 to carry out this
            subsection.''.
    SEC. 502. 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) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Increase in slot exemptions.--Not
            later than 60 days after the date of enactment of the FAA
            Reauthorization Act of 2024, the Secretary shall grant, by
            order, 10 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 domestic airports
                    located within or beyond the perimeter described in
                    section 49109; and
                        ``(B) the requirements of subparts K, S, and T of
                    part 93 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                ``(2) Non-limited incumbents.--Of the slot exemptions made
            available under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall make 8
            available to incumbent air carriers qualifying for status as a
            non-limited incumbent carrier at Ronald Reagan Washington
            National Airport as of the date of enactment of the FAA
            Reauthorization Act of 2024.
                ``(3) Limited incumbents.--Of the slot exemptions made
            available under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall make 2
            available to incumbent air carriers qualifying for status as a
            limited incumbent carrier at Ronald Reagan Washington National
            Airport as of the date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization
            Act of 2024.
                ``(4) Allocation procedures.--The Secretary shall allocate
            the 10 slot exemptions provided under paragraph (1) pursuant to
            the application process established by the Secretary under
            subsection (d), subject to the following:
                        ``(A) Limitations.--Each air carrier that is
                    eligible under paragraph (2) and paragraph (3) shall be
                    eligible to operate no more and no less than 2 of the
                    newly authorized slot exemptions.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1188]]

                        ``(B) Criteria.--The Secretary shall consider the
                    extent to which the exemptions will--
                              ``(i) enhance options for nonstop travel to
                          beyond-perimeter airports that do not have nonstop
                          service from Ronald Reagan Washington National
                          Airport as of the date of enactment of the FAA
                          Reauthorization Act of 2024; or
                              ``(ii) have a positive impact on the overall
                          level of competition in the markets that will be
                          served as a result of those exemptions.
                ``(5) Prohibition.--
                        ``(A) In general.--The Metropolitan Washington
                    Airports Authority may not assess any penalty or similar
                    levy against an individual air carrier solely for
                    obtaining and operating a slot exemption authorized
                    under this subsection.
                        ``(B) Rule of construction.--Subparagraph (A) shall
                    not be construed as prohibiting the Metropolitan
                    Washington Airports Authority from assessing and
                    collecting any penalty, fine, or other levy, such as a
                    handling fee or landing fee, that is--
                              ``(i) authorized by the Metropolitan
                          Washington Airports Regulations;
                              ``(ii) agreed to in writing by the air
                          carrier; or
                              ``(iii) charged in the ordinary course of
                          business to an air carrier operating at Ronald
                          Reagan Washington National Airport regardless of
                          whether or not the air carrier obtained a slot
                          exemption authorized under this subsection.''.

        (b) Conforming Amendments.--Section 41718(c)(2)(A) of title 49,
    United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in clause (i) by striking ``and (b)'' and inserting ``,
            (b), and (i)''; and
                (2) in clause (ii) by striking ``and (g)'' and inserting
            ``(g), and (i)''.

        (c) <<NOTE: 49 USC 41718 note.>>  Preservation of Existing Within
    Perimeter Service.--Nothing in this section, or the amendments made by
    this section, shall be construed as authorizing the conversion of a
    within-perimeter exemption or slot at Ronald Reagan Washington National
    Airport that is in effect on the date of enactment of this Act to serve
    an airport located beyond the perimeter described in section 49109 of
    title 49, United States Code.
    SEC. 503. REFUNDS.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 423 of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended by inserting after section 42304 the following:
    ``Sec. 42305. <<NOTE: 49 USC 42305.>>  Refunds for cancelled or
                        significantly delayed or changed flights

        ``(a) In General.--In the case of a passenger that holds a
    nonrefundable ticket on a scheduled flight to, from, or within the
    United States, an air carrier or a foreign air carrier shall, upon
    request as set forth in subsection (f), provide a full refund, including
    any taxes and ancillary fees, for the fare such carrier collected for
    any cancelled flight or significantly delayed or changed flight where
    the passenger chooses not to--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1189]]

                ``(1) fly on the significantly delayed or changed flight or
            accept rebooking on an alternative flight; or
                ``(2) accept any voucher, credit, or other form of
            compensation offered by the air carrier or foreign air carrier
            pursuant to subsection (c).

        ``(b) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  Timing of Refund.--Any refund required
    under subsection (a) shall be issued by the air carrier or foreign air
    carrier--
                ``(1) in the case of a ticket purchased with a credit card,
            not later than 7 business days after the earliest date the
            refund was requested as set forth in subsection (f); or
                ``(2) in the case of a ticket purchased with cash or another
            form of payment, not later than 20 days after the earliest date
            the refund was requested as set forth in subsection (f).

        ``(c) Alternative to Refund.--An air carrier and a foreign air
    carrier may offer a voucher, credit, or other form of compensation as an
    explicit alternative to providing a refund required by subsection (a)
    but only if--
                ``(1) the offer includes a clear and conspicuous notice of--
                        ``(A) the terms of the offer; and
                        ``(B) the passenger's right to a full refund under
                    this section;
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  the voucher, credit, or other
            form of compensation offered explicitly as an alternative to
            providing a refund required by subsection (a) remains valid and
            redeemable by the consumer for a period of at least 5 years from
            the date on which such voucher, credit, or other form of
            compensation is issued;
                ``(3) upon the issuance of such voucher, credit, or other
            form of compensation, an air carrier, foreign air carrier, or
            ticket agent, where applicable, notifies the recipient of the
            expiration date of the voucher, credit, or other form of
            compensation; and
                ``(4) upon request by an individual who self-identifies as
            having a disability (as defined in section 382.3 of title 14,
            Code of Federal Regulations), an air carrier, foreign air
            carrier, or ticket agent provides a notification under paragraph
            (3) in an electronic format that is accessible to the recipient.

        ``(d) Significantly Delayed or Changed Flight Defined.--In this
    section, the term `significantly delayed or changed flight' includes, at
    a minimum, a flight where the passenger arrives at a destination
    airport--
                ``(1) in the case of a domestic flight, 3 or more hours
            after the original scheduled arrival time; and
                ``(2) in the case of an international flight, 6 or more
            hours after the original scheduled arrival time.

        ``(e) Application to Ticket Agents.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Regulations.>>  In general.--Not
            later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section,
            the Secretary shall issue a final rule to apply refund
            requirements to ticket agents in the case of cancelled flights
            and significantly delayed or changed flights.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Regulations.>>  Transfer of funds.--The
            Secretary shall issue regulations requiring air carriers and
            foreign air carriers to promptly transfer funds to a ticket
            agent if--
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  the Secretary has
                    determined that the ticket agent is responsible for
                    providing the refund; and
                        ``(B) the ticket agent does not possess the funds of
                    the passenger.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1190]]

                ``(3) <<NOTE: Compliance.>>  Timing and alternatives.--A
            refund provided by a ticket agent shall comply with the
            requirements in subsections (b) and (c) of this section.

        ``(f) Refund.--An air carrier and a foreign air carrier shall
    consider a passenger to have requested a refund if--
                ``(1) a flight is cancelled and a passenger is not offered
            an alternative flight or any voucher, credit, or other form of
            compensation by the air carrier or foreign air carrier pursuant
            to subsection (c);
                ``(2) a passenger rejects the significantly delayed or
            changed flight, rebooking on an alternative flight, or any
            voucher, credit, or other form of compensation offered by the
            air carrier or foreign air carrier pursuant to subsection (c);
            or
                ``(3) a passenger does not respond to an offer of--
                        ``(A) a significantly delayed or changed flight or
                    an alternative flight and the flight departs without the
                    passenger; or
                        ``(B) a voucher, credit, or other form of
                    compensation by the date on which the cancelled flight
                    was scheduled to depart or the date that the
                    significantly delayed or changed flight departs.

        ``(g) <<NOTE: Update.>>  Refund Notification.--An air carrier and a
    foreign air carrier shall update their passenger notification systems to
    ensure passengers owed a refund under this section are notified of their
    right to receive a refund.''.

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 423 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 42301.>>  is amended by
    inserting after the item relating to section 42304 the following:

    ``42305. Refunds for cancelled or significantly delayed or changed
               flights.''.

    SEC. 504. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS POSTERS.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 423 of title 49, United States Code, is
    further amended by inserting after section 42305 the following:
    ``Sec. 42306. <<NOTE: 49 USC 42306.>>  Know Your Rights posters

        ``(a) In General.--Each large hub airport, medium hub airport, and
    small hub airport with scheduled passenger service shall prominently
    display posters that clearly and concisely outline the rights of airline
    passengers under Federal law with respect to, at a minimum--
                ``(1) flight delays and cancellations;
                ``(2) refunds;
                ``(3) bumping of passengers from flights and the oversale of
            flights; and
                ``(4) lost, delayed, or damaged baggage.

        ``(b) Location.--Posters described in subsection (a) shall be
    displayed in conspicuous locations throughout the airport, including
    ticket counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates.
        ``(c) Accessibility Assistance.--Each large hub airport, medium hub
    airport, and small hub airport with scheduled passenger service shall
    ensure that passengers with a disability (as such term is defined in
    section 382.3 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations) who identify
    themselves as having such a disability are notified of the availability
    of accessibility assistance and shall assist such passengers in
    connecting to the appropriate entities to obtain the same information
    required in this section that is provided to other passengers.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1191]]

        (b) Exemption.--Section 46301(a)(1)(A) of title 49, United States
    Code, is further amended by striking ``chapter 423'' and inserting
    ``chapter 423 (except section 42306)''.
        (c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 423 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 42301.>>  is further amended by
    inserting after the item relating to section 42305 the following:

    ``42306. Know Your Rights posters.''.

        (d) <<NOTE: 49 USC 42306 note.>>  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.
    SEC. 505. ACCESS TO CUSTOMER SERVICE ASSISTANCE FOR ALL TRAVELERS.

        (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
                (1) In the event of a cancelled or delayed flight, it is
            important for customers to be able to easily access information
            about the status of their flight and any alternative flight
            options.
                (2) Customers should be able to access real-time assistance
            from customer service agents of air carriers without an
            excessive wait time, particularly during times of mass
            disruptions.

        (b) Transparency Requirements.--
                (1) Requirement to maintain a live customer chat or
            monitored text messaging number.--Chapter 423 of title 49,
            United States Code, is further amended by inserting after
            section 42306 the following:
    ``Sec. 42307. <<NOTE: 49 USC 42307.>>  Requirement to maintain a
                        live customer chat or monitored text messaging
                        number

        ``(a) Requirement.--
                ``(1) In general.--A covered air carrier that operates a
            domestic or international flight to, from, or within the United
            States shall maintain--
                        ``(A) a customer service telephone line staffed by
                    live agents;
                        ``(B) a customer chat option that allows for
                    customers to speak to a live agent within a reasonable
                    time, to the greatest extent practicable; or
                        ``(C) a monitored text messaging number that enables
                    customers to communicate and speak with a live agent
                    directly.
                ``(2) Provision of services.--The services required under
            paragraph (1) shall be provided to customers without charge for
            the use of such services, and shall be available at all times.

        ``(b) Rulemaking Authority.--The Secretary shall promulgate such
    rules as may be necessary to carry out this section.
        ``(c) Covered Air Carrier Defined.--In this section, the term
    `covered air carrier' means an air carrier that sells tickets for
    scheduled passenger air transportation on an aircraft that, as
    originally designed, has a passenger capacity of 30 or more seats.
        ``(d) <<NOTE: Compliance. Time period.>>  Effective Date.--Beginning
    on the date that is 120 days after the date of enactment of this
    section, a covered air carrier shall comply with the requirement
    specified in subsection (a) without regard to whether the Secretary has
    promulgated any rules to carry out this section as of the date that is
    120 days after such date of enactment.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1192]]

                (2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 423 of
            title 49, United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 42301.>>  is
            further amended by inserting after the item relating to section
            42306 the following:

    ``42307. Requirement to maintain a live customer chat or monitored text
               messaging number.''.

    SEC. 506. AIRLINE CUSTOMER SERVICE DASHBOARDS.

        (a) Dashboards.--
                (1) In general.--Chapter 423 of title 49, United States
            Code, is further amended by inserting after section 42307 the
            following:
    ``Sec. 42308. <<NOTE: 49 USC 42308.>>  DOT airline customer
                        service dashboards

        ``(a) Requirement To Establish and Maintain Publicly Available
    Dashboards.--The Secretary of Transportation shall establish, maintain,
    and make publicly available the following online dashboards for purposes
    of keeping aviation consumers informed with respect to certain policies
    of, and services provided by, large air carriers (as such term is
    defined by the Secretary) to the extent that such policies or services
    exceed what is required by Federal law:
                ``(1) Delay and cancellation dashboard.--A dashboard that
            displays information regarding the services and compensation
            provided by each large air carrier to mitigate any passenger
            inconvenience caused by a delay or cancellation due to
            circumstances in the control of such carrier.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Web posting.>>  Explanation of
            circumstances.--The website on which such dashboard is displayed
            shall explain the circumstances under which a delay or
            cancellation is not due to circumstances in the control of the
            large air carrier (such as a delay or cancellation due to a
            weather event or an instruction from the Federal Aviation
            Administration Air Traffic Control System Command Center)
            consistent with section 234.4 of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations.
                ``(3) Family seating dashboard.--A dashboard that displays
            information regarding which large air carriers guarantee that
            each child shall be seated adjacent to an adult accompanying the
            child without charging any additional fees.
                ``(4) Seat size dashboard.--A dashboard that displays
            information regarding aircraft seat size for each large air
            carrier, including the pitch, width, and length of a seat in
            economy class for the aircraft models and configurations most
            commonly flown by such carrier.
                ``(5) Family seating sunset.--The requirement in subsection
            (a)(3) shall cease to be effective on the date on which the rule
            in section 516 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 is
            effective.

        ``(b) <<NOTE: Consultation. Determination.>>  Accessibility
    Requirement.--In developing the dashboards required in subsection (a),
    the Secretary shall, in order to ensure the dashboards are accessible
    and contain pertinent information for passengers with disabilities,
    consult with the Air Carrier Access Act Advisory Committee, the
    Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board, any other
    relevant department or agency to determine appropriate accessibility
    standards, and disability organizations, including advocacy and
    nonprofit organizations that represent or provide services to
    individuals with disabilities.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1193]]

        ``(c) Limitation on Dashboards.--After the rule required in section
    516 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 is effective, the Secretary
    may not establish or maintain more than 4 different customer service
    dashboards at any given time.
        ``(d) Provision of Information.--Each large air carrier shall
    provide to the Secretary such information as the Secretary requires to
    carry out this section.
        ``(e) Sunset.--This section shall cease to be effective on October
    1, 2028.''.
                (2) <<NOTE: Deadline. 49 USC 42308 note.>>  Establishment.--
            The Secretary shall establish each of the online dashboards
            required by section 42308(a) of title 49, United States Code,
            not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act.

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 423 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 42301.>>  is further amended by
    inserting after the item relating to section 42307 the following:

    ``42308. DOT airline customer service dashboards.''.

    SEC. 507. INCREASE IN CIVIL PENALTIES.

        (a) In General.--Section 46301(a)(1) of title 49, United States
    Code, is amended in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) by striking
    ``$25,000'' and inserting ``$75,000''.
        (b) <<NOTE: 49 USC 46301 note.>>  Effective Date.--The amendment
    made by subsection (a) shall apply to violations occurring on or after
    the date of enactment of this Act.

        (c) <<NOTE: 49 USC 46301 note.>>  Conforming Regulations.--The
    Secretary shall revise such regulations as necessary to conform to the
    amendment made by subsection (a).
    SEC. 508. ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR AVIATION CONSUMER PROTECTION.

        (a) Extension.--Section 411(h) of the FAA Modernization and Reform
    Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 42301 prec. note) is amended by striking ``May
    10, 2024'' and inserting ``September 30, 2028''.
        (b) Coordination.--Section 411 of the FAA Modernization and Reform
    Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 42301 prec. note) is amended by adding at the end
    the following:
        ``(i) Consultation.--The Advisory Committee shall consult, as
    appropriate, with foreign air carriers, air carriers with an ultra-low-
    cost business model, nonprofit public interest groups with expertise in
    disability and accessibility matters, ticket agents, travel management
    companies, and any other groups as determined by the Secretary.''.
    SEC. 509. 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 ``May 10, 2024'' and inserting
    ``October 1, 2028''.
    SEC. 510. CODIFICATION OF CONSUMER PROTECTION PROVISIONS.

        (a) Section 429 of FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018.--
                (1) In general.--Section 429 of the FAA Reauthorization Act
            of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 42301 prec. note) <<NOTE: 49 USC 41727.>>  is
            amended--
                        (A) by transferring such section to appear after
                    section 41726 of title 49, United States Code;
                        (B) by redesignating such section as section 41727
                    of such title; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1194]]

                        (C) by amending the section heading of such section
                    to read as follows:
    ``Sec. 41727. Passenger Rights''.
                (2) Technical amendment.--Section 41727 of title 49, United
            States Code, as transferred and redesignated by paragraph (1),
            is amended in subsection (a) by striking ``Not later than 90
            days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary''
            and inserting ``The Secretary''.

        (b) Section 434 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018.--
                (1) In general.--Section 434 of the FAA Reauthorization Act
            of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 41705 note) <<NOTE: 49 USC 41728.>>  is
            amended--
                        (A) by transferring such section to appear after
                    section 41727 of title 49, United States Code, as
                    transferred and redesignated by subsection (a)(1);
                        (B) by redesignating such section 434 as section
                    41728 of such title; and
                        (C) by amending the section heading of such section
                    41728 to read as follows:
    ``Sec. 41728. Airline passengers with disabilities bill of
                        rights''.
                (2) Technical amendment.--Section 41728 of title 49, United
            States Code, as transferred and redesignated by paragraph (1),
            is amended--
                        (A) in subsection (a) by striking ``the section
                    41705 of title 49, United States Code'' and inserting
                    ``section 41705'';
                        (B) in subsection (c) by striking ``the date of
                    enactment of this Act'' and inserting ``the date of
                    enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018''; and
                        (C) in subsection (f) by striking ``ensure
                    employees'' and inserting ``ensure that employees''.

        (c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 417 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 41701.>>  is amended by
    inserting after the item relating to section 41726 the following:

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

    SEC. 511. <<NOTE: 49 USC 6302 note.>>  BUREAU OF TRANSPORTATION
                            STATISTICS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Rulemaking.--Not later than 60 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the Bureau of
    Transportation Statistics shall initiate a rulemaking to revise section
    234.4 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to create a new ``cause
    of delay'' category (or categories) that identifies and tracks
    information on delays and cancellations of air carriers (as defined in
    section 40102 of title 49, United States Code) that are due to
    instructions from the FAA Air Traffic Control System and to make any
    other changes necessary to carry out this section.

        (b) Air Carrier Code.--The following causes shall not be included
    within the Air Carrier code specified in section 234.4 of title 14, Code
    of Federal Regulations, for cancelled and delayed flights:
                (1) Aircraft cleaning necessitated by the death of a
            passenger.
                (2) Aircraft damage caused by extreme weather, foreign
            object debris, or sabotage.
                (3) A baggage or cargo loading delay caused by an outage of
            a bag system not controlled by a carrier or its contractor.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1195]]

                (4) Cybersecurity attacks (provided that the air carrier is
            in compliance with applicable cybersecurity regulations).
                (5) A shutdown or system failure of government systems that
            directly affects the ability of an air carrier to safely conduct
            flights and is unexpected.
                (6) Overheated brakes due to a safety incident resulting in
            the use of emergency procedures.
                (7) Unscheduled maintenance, including in response to an
            airworthiness directive, manifesting outside a scheduled
            maintenance program that cannot be deferred or must be addressed
            before flight.
                (8) An emergency that required medical attention through no
            fault of the carrier.
                (9) The removal of an unruly passenger.
                (10) An airport closure due to the presence of volcanic ash,
            wind, or wind shear.

        (c) Family Seating Complaints.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Update.>>  In general.--The Director of the
            Bureau of Transportation Statistics shall update the reporting
            framework of the Bureau to create a new category to identify and
            track information on complaints related to family seating.
                (2) Sunset.--The requirements in paragraph (1) shall cease
            to be effective on the date on which the rulemaking required by
            section 513 is effective.

        (d) Air Travel Consumer Report.--
                (1) ATCSCC delays.--The Secretary shall include information
            on delays and cancellations that are due to instructions from
            the FAA Air Traffic Control System Command Center in the Air
            Travel Consumer Report issued by the Office of Aviation Consumer
            Protection of the Department of Transportation.
                (2) Family seating complaints.--The Secretary shall include
            information on complaints related to family seating--
                        (A) in the Air Travel Consumer Report issued by the
                    Office of Aviation Consumer Protection of the Department
                    of Transportation; and
                        (B) on the family seating dashboard required by
                    subsection (a)(2).
                (3) Sunset.--The requirements in paragraph (2) shall cease
            to be effective on the date on which the rulemaking required by
            section 513 is effective.
    SEC. 512. <<NOTE: 49 USC note prec. 42301.>>  REIMBURSEMENT FOR
                            INCURRED COSTS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Policies.>>  In General.--Not later than 1
    year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary 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) <<NOTE: Time periods.>>  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 a domestic flight, 3 or more hours after
            the original scheduled arrival time; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1196]]

                (2) in the case of an international flight, 6 or more hours
            after the original scheduled arrival time.

        (c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed as providing the Secretary with any additional authorities
    beyond the authority to require air carriers establish the policies
    referred to in subsection (a).
    SEC. 513. <<NOTE: 49 USC note prec. 42301.>>  STREAMLINING OF
                            OFFLINE TICKET DISCLOSURES.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Update.>>  In General.--Not later than 18
    months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary 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. 514. GAO STUDY ON COMPETITION AND CONSOLIDATION IN THE AIR
                            CARRIER INDUSTRY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  Study.--The Comptroller General shall
    conduct a study assessing competition and consolidation in the United
    States air carrier industry. Such study shall include an assessment of
    data related to--
                (1) the history of mergers in the United States air carrier
            industry, including whether any claimed efficiencies have been
            realized;
                (2) the effect of consolidation in the United States air
            carrier industry, if any, on consumers;
                (3) the effect of consolidation in the United States air
            carrier industry, if any, on air transportation service in small
            and rural markets; and
                (4) the current state of competition in the United States
            air carrier industry as of the date of enactment of this Act.

        (b) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 1 year
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall
    submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report containing the
    results of the study conducted under subsection (a), and recommendations
    for such legislative and administrative action as the Comptroller
    General determines appropriate.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1197]]

    SEC. 515. GAO STUDY AND REPORT ON THE OPERATIONAL PREPAREDNESS OF
                            AIR CARRIERS FOR CERTAIN EVENTS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  Study.--
                (1) In general.--The Comptroller General shall study and
            assess the operational preparedness of air carriers for changing
            weather and other events related to changing conditions and
            natural hazards, including flooding, extreme heat, changes in
            precipitation, storms, including winter storms, coastal storms,
            tropical storms, and hurricanes, and fire conditions.
                (2) Requirements.--As part of the study required under
            paragraph (1), the Comptroller General shall assess the
            following:
                        (A) The extent to which air carriers are preparing
                    for weather events and natural disasters, as well as
                    changing conditions and natural hazards, that may impact
                    operational investments of air carriers, staffing levels
                    and safety policies, mitigation strategies, and other
                    resiliency planning.
                        (B) How the FAA oversees operational resilience of
                    air carriers relating to storms, natural disasters, and
                    changing conditions.
                        (C) Steps the Federal Government and air carriers
                    can take to improve operational resilience relating to
                    storms, natural disasters, and changing conditions.

        (b) Briefing and Report.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Briefing.--Not later than
            1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller
            General shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on
            the results of the study required under subsection (a), and
            recommendations for such legislative and administrative action
            as the Comptroller General determines appropriate.
                (2) Report.--Not later than 6 months after the briefing
            required by paragraph (1) is provided, the Comptroller General
            shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report
            on the results of the study required under subsection (a), and
            recommendations for such legislative and administrative action
            as the Comptroller General determines appropriate.

        (c) Definition of Air Carrier.--In this section, the term ``air
    carrier'' has the meaning given such term in section 40102 of title 49,
    United States Code.
    SEC. 516. <<NOTE: 49 USC note prec. 42301.>>  FAMILY SEATING.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Notice. Regulations.>>  In General.--Not later
    than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary
    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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1198]]

        (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) <<NOTE: Definition.>>  Young Child.--In this section, the term
    ``young child'' means an individual who has not attained 14 years of
    age.
    SEC. 517. PASSENGER EXPERIENCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Establishment.>>  In General.--The Secretary shall
    establish an advisory committee to advise the Secretary and the
    Administrator in carrying out activities relating to the improvement of
    the passenger experience in air transportation customer service. The
    advisory committee shall not duplicate the work of any other advisory
    committee.

        (b) <<NOTE: Appointments.>>  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 FAA Air Traffic Organization;
                (13) aircraft manufacturers;
                (14) entities representing individuals with disabilities;
                (15) certified labor organizations representing aviation
            workers, including--
                        (A) FAA 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1199]]

        (e) <<NOTE: Designation.>>  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) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  providing recommendations
            to the Secretary and the Administrator, if determined necessary
            during the evaluations considered in paragraphs (1) through (4).

        (g) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions. Time period.>>  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) <<NOTE: Applicability.>>  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. 518. <<NOTE: Deadline. 49 USC 44701 note.>>  UPDATING
                            PASSENGER INFORMATION REQUIREMENT
                            REGULATIONS.

        (a) ARAC Tasking.--Not later than 3 years after the date of
    enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall task the Aviation
    Rulemaking Advisory Committee with--
                (1) <<NOTE: Review.>>  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) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  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 shall issue a final regulation
    revising section 121.317 of title 14, Code of Federal

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1200]]

    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. 519. <<NOTE: Deadline. 49 USC note prec. 42301.>>  SEAT
                            DIMENSIONS.

        Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Regulations.>>  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); or
                (2) <<NOTE: Briefing.>>  if the Administrator decides not to
            pursue the rulemaking described in paragraph (1), the
            Administrator shall brief appropriate committees of Congress on
            the justification of such decision.
    SEC. 520. MODERNIZATION OF CONSUMER COMPLAINT SUBMISSIONS.

        Section 42302 of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as
    follows:
    ``Sec. 42302. <<NOTE: Website. 49 USC 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) <<NOTE: Notification. Public information.>>  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) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1201]]

                ``(2) the accessible website and any related mobile device
            application of such provider.''.

    Subtitle B-- <<NOTE: Disabled persons.>> Accessibility
    SEC. 541. 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 ``May 10, 2024'' and
            inserting ``September 30, 2028''.

        (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 1(b) of the FAA Reauthorization
    Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254) <<NOTE: 132 Stat. 3186.>>  is amended
    by striking the item relating to section 439 and inserting the
    following:

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

    SEC. 542. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 41728 note.>>  IMPROVED
                            TRAINING STANDARDS FOR ASSISTING
                            PASSENGERS WHO USE WHEELCHAIRS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Notice. Requirements.>>  Rulemaking.--Not later than 6
    months after the date of enactment of this Act, 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 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 board or deplane using an
    aisle chair or other boarding device--
                (1) before being allowed to assist a passenger using an
            aisle chair or other boarding device to board or deplane, be
            able to successfully demonstrate skills (during hands-on
            training sessions) on--
                        (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; and
                        (C) how to effectively communicate with, and take
                    instruction from, the passenger;
                (2) are trained regarding the availability of accessible
            lavatories and on-board wheelchairs and the right of a qualified
            individual with a disability to request an on-board wheelchair;
            and
                (3) <<NOTE: Certification. Time period.>>  complete
            refresher training within 18 months of an initial training and
            be recertified on the job every 18 months

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1202]]

            thereafter by a relevant superior in order to remain qualified
            for providing aisle chair assistance.

        (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,
            administering, and auditing training;
                (2) whether to require air carriers and foreign air carriers
            to use a lift device, instead of an aisle chair, to board and
            deplane passengers with mobility disabilities; and
                (3) 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. 543. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 41728 note.>>  TRAINING
                            STANDARDS FOR STOWAGE OF WHEELCHAIRS AND
                            SCOOTERS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Notice.>>  Rulemaking.--Not later than 6 months after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary 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) before being allowed to handle or stow a wheelchair or
            scooter, be able to successfully demonstrate skills (during
            hands-on training sessions) on--
                        (A) how to properly handle and configure, at a
                    minimum, the most commonly used 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; and
                        (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; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Certification. Time period.>>  complete
            refresher training within 18 months of an initial training and
            be recertified on the job every 18 months thereafter by a
            relevant superior in order to remain qualified for handling and
            stowing wheelchairs and scooters.

        (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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1203]]

    wheelchair or scooter manufacturers, national disability and disabled
    veterans organizations representing individuals who use wheelchairs and
    scooters, and aircraft manufacturers, in developing, administering, and
    auditing 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. 544. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 41728 note.>>  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 shall require air carriers
            to publish in 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.
                (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 <<NOTE: Time period.>> 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) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine whether there are
            trends with respect to the data evaluated under paragraph (1);
            and
                (3) <<NOTE: Public information. Web posting. Reports.>>
            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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1204]]

            under paragraphs (1) and (2) and a description of how the
            Secretary plans to address such results.

        (d) Report to Congress on Mishandled Wheelchairs.--Upon completion
    of each annual report required under subsection (c), the Secretary shall
    transmit to the appropriate committees of Congress such report.
        (e) Feasibility of In-Cabin Wheelchair Restraint Systems.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Public information. Strategic roadmap.>>
            Roadmap.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
            this Act, 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, 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 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) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  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 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) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 1
            year after the date on which the study under paragraph (2) is
            completed, the Secretary

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1205]]

            shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a
            publicly available report describing the results of the study
            conducted under paragraph (2) and any recommendations the
            Secretary determines appropriate.

        (f) 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), and
            includes power wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, and scooters.
    SEC. 545. <<NOTE: 49 USC 41728 note.>>  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 shall
    submit to the appropriate committees of Congress, and make publicly
    available, a report on aviation consumer complaints related to
    passengers with a disability filed with the Department of
    Transportation.
        (b) Contents.--Each annual report submitted under subsection (a)
    shall, at a minimum, include the following:
                (1) The number of aviation consumer complaints reported to
            the Secretary related to passengers with a disability 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, including reported issues
            with--
                        (A) an air carrier, including an air carrier's staff
                    training or lack thereof;
                        (B) mishandling of passengers with a disability or
                    their accessibility equipment, including mobility aids
                    and wheelchairs;
                        (C) the condition, availability, or lack of
                    accessibility of equipment operated by an air carrier or
                    a contractor of an air carrier;
                        (D) the accessibility of in-flight services,
                    including accessing and using on-board lavatories, for
                    passengers with a disability;
                        (E) difficulties experienced by passengers with a
                    disability in communicating with air carrier personnel;
                        (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) issues experienced by passengers with a
                    disability traveling with a service animal; and
                        (I) such other issues as the Secretary determines
                    appropriate.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1206]]

                (3) <<NOTE: Overview. Time period.>>  An overview of the
            review process for such complaints received during such calendar
            year.
                (4) The median length of time for how quickly review of such
            complaints was initiated by the Secretary.
                (5) The median length of time for how quickly such
            complaints were resolved or otherwise addressed.
                (6) 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.
                (7) How many aviation consumer complaints related to
            passengers with a disability were referred to the Department of
            Justice for an enforcement action under--
                        (A) section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
                    (29 U.S.C. 794);
                        (B) the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42
                    U.S.C. 12101 et seq.); or
                        (C) any other provision of law.
                (8) How many aviation consumer complaints related to
            passengers with a disability filed with the Department of
            Transportation that involved airport staff (or other matters
            under the jurisdiction of the FAA) were referred to the FAA.
                (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) Definitions.--
                (1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the
            definitions set forth in section 40102 of title 49, United
            States Code, and section 382.3 of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations, apply to this section.
                (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) Passengers with a disability.--In this section, the term
            ``passengers 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. 546. <<NOTE: 49 USC 41728 note.>>  ACCOMMODATIONS FOR
                            QUALIFIED INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES.

        (a) <<NOTE: Notices. Regulations.>>  In General.--
                (1) Advanced notice of proposed rulemaking.--Not later than
            180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 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 18 months
            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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1207]]

                (3) Final rule.--Not later than 30 months after the date on
            which the notice of proposed rulemaking under subparagraph (B)
            is completed, the Secretary shall issue a final rule pursuant to
            the rulemaking conducted under this subsection.

        (b) Considerations.--In carrying out the advanced notice of proposed
    rulemaking required in subsection (a)(1), 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, appropriate
            seating accommodations.
                (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) Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program.--
                (1) In general.--The Secretary shall establish a pilot
            program to allow approved program participants as known service
            animals for purposes 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.
                (2) Requirements.--The pilot program established under
            paragraph (1) shall--
                        (A) be optional for a service animal accompanying a
                    qualified individual with a disability;
                        (B) provide for assistance for applicants, including
                    over-the-phone assistance, throughout the application
                    process for the program; and
                        (C) 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 (or any successor regulations).
                (3) Consultation.--In establishing the pilot program under
            paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consult with--
                        (A) disability organizations, including advocacy and
                    nonprofit organizations that represent or provide
                    services to individuals with disabilities;
                        (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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1208]]

                    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.
                (4) 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 assistance 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.
                (5) <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts.>>  Clarification.--The
            Secretary may award a grant or enter into a contract or
            cooperative agreement in order to carry out this subsection.
                (6) Nominal fee.--The Secretary may require an applicant to
            pay a nominal fee, not to exceed $25, to participate in the
            pilot program.
                (7) <<NOTE: Time period. Public information.>>  Reports to
            congress.--Not later than 1 year after the establishment of the
            pilot program under this subsection, and annually thereafter
            until the date described in paragraph (8), the Secretary shall
            submit to the appropriate committees of Congress and make
            publicly available report on the progress of the pilot program.
                (8) Sunset.--The pilot program shall terminate on the date
            that is 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act.

        (d) Accredited Service Animal Training Programs and Authorized
    Registrars.--Not <<NOTE: Web posting. List.>> later than 6 months after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall publish and
    maintain, on the website of the Department of Transportation, 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 Act, 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 in total, and how
            many requests were made by qualified individuals with
            disabilities; 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 but not fraudulent; or
                        (C) denied as fraudulent.

        (f) Training.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Guidance. Contracts.>>  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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1209]]

                (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 nonvisible 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:
                (1) Air carrier.--The term ``air carrier'' has the meaning
            given that term in section 40102 of title 49, United States
            Code.
                (2) Foreign air carrier.--The term ``foreign air carrier''
            has the meaning given that term in section 40102 of title 49,
            United States Code.
                (3) 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.
                (4) Service animal.--The term ``service animal'' has the
            meaning given that term in section 382.3 of title 14, Code of
            Federal Regulations.
    SEC. 547. <<NOTE: 49 USC 41728 note.>>  EQUAL ACCESSIBILITY TO
                            PASSENGER PORTALS.

        (a) Applications and Information Communication Technologies.--
    <<NOTE: Deadline. Regulations. Standards.>> Not later than 2 years after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall, in consultation
    with the United States Architectural and Transportation Barriers
    Compliance Board, issue regulations setting forth minimum standards to
    ensure that individuals with disabilities are able to access customer-
    focused kiosks, software applications, and websites of air carriers,
    foreign air carriers, and airports, in a manner that is equally as
    effective, and has a substantially equivalent ease of use, as for
    individuals without disabilities.

        (b) Consistency With Guidelines.--The standards set forth under
    subsection (a) shall be consistent with the standards contained 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 of such Guidelines.
        (c) Review.--
                (1) Air carrier access act advisory committee review.--
            The <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Air Carrier Access Act
            Advisory Committee shall periodically review, and make
            appropriate recommendations regarding, the accessibility of
            websites, kiosks, and information communication technology of
            air carriers, foreign air carriers, and airports, and make such
            recommendations publicly available.
                (2) <<NOTE: Deadlines. Regulations.>>  DOT review.--Not
            later than 5 years after issuing regulations under subsection
            (a), and every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary shall--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1210]]

                        (A) review the recommendations of the Air Carrier
                    Access Act Advisory Committee regarding the regulations
                    issued under this subsection; and
                        (B) update such regulations as necessary.
    SEC. 548. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 41728 note.>>  AIRCRAFT ACCESS
                            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 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) <<NOTE: Notice.>>  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) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--Not later than
                    1 year after completion of the report required by
                    section 544(e)(2), 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1211]]

                    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 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) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  Visual and Tactilely Accessible
    Announcements.--The Advisory Committee established under section 439 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) <<NOTE: Regulations.>>  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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1212]]

                (4) Foreign air carrier.--The term ``foreign air carrier''
            has the meaning given such term in section 40102 of title 49,
            United States Code.
    SEC. 549. 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) <<NOTE: Deadline. Regulations.>>  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) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  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. 550. 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, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 41701.>>  is amended by
    striking the item relating to section 41705 and inserting the following:

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

    SEC. 551. <<NOTE: 49 USC 41728 note.>>  ON-BOARD WHEELCHAIRS IN
                            AIRCRAFT CABIN.

        (a) In General.--If an individual informs an air carrier or foreign
    air carrier at the time of booking a ticket for air transportation on a
    covered aircraft that the individual requires the use of any wheelchair,
    the air carrier or foreign air carrier shall provide information
    regarding the provision and use of on-board wheelchairs, including the
    rights and responsibilities of the air carrier and passenger as such
    rights and responsibilities relate to the provision and use of on-board
    wheelchairs.
        (b) <<NOTE: Public information. Web posting. Requirements.>>
    Availability of Information.--An air carrier or foreign air carrier that
    operates a covered aircraft shall provide on a publicly available
    website of the carrier information regarding the rights and
    responsibilities of both passengers on such aircraft and the air carrier
    or foreign air carrier relating to on-board wheelchairs, including--
                (1) that an air carrier or foreign air carrier is required
            to equip aircraft that have more than 60 passenger seats and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1213]]

            that have an accessible lavatory (whether or not having such a
            lavatory is required by section 382.63 of title 14, Code of
            Federal Regulations) with an on-board wheelchair, unless an
            exception described in such section 382.65 applies;
                (2) that a qualified individual with a disability (as
            defined in section 382.3 of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations (as in effect on date of enactment of this Act)) 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 on-board wheelchair;
                (3) <<NOTE: Advanced notice.>>  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 title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, in order for
            the individual to be provided with the on-board wheelchair; and
                (4) if the air carrier or foreign air carrier requires the
            advance notice described in paragraph (3), information on how
            such a qualified individual with a disability can make such a
            request.

        (c) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Applicability of terms.--The definitions contained in
            section 40102 of title 49, United States Code, apply to this
            section.
                (2) Covered aircraft.--The term ``covered aircraft'' means
            an aircraft that is required to be equipped with on-board
            wheelchairs in accordance with section 382.65 of title 14, Code
            of Federal Regulations.
    SEC. 552. AIRCRAFT ACCESSIBILITY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Study. Evaluation.>>  In General.--Not later
    than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall
    initiate a program to study and evaluate the accessibility of new
    transport category aircraft designs certified, including, at a minimum--
                (1) considering the safe boarding and deplaning processes
            for such aircraft, including individuals who use wheelchairs or
            other mobility aids, are blind or have limited vision, or are
            deaf or hard of hearing; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determining such aircraft can
            provide accessible lavatories.

        (b) Consultation.--In conducting the study and evaluation under this
    section, the Secretary shall consult with--
                (1) air carriers;
                (2) aircraft manufacturers and aerospace supply companies;
            and
                (3) other stakeholders as determined appropriate by the
            Secretary.

        (c) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Report and Recommendations.--Not later than
    3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall
    submit to the appropriate committees of Congress--
                (1) a report on the findings of the study and evaluation
            under subsection (a); and
                (2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  any recommendations based
            on the findings of such study and evaluation.

        (d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed to require the Secretary to require the retrofit of transport

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1214]]

    category aircraft based on the findings and evaluation under subsection
    (a).

                       Subtitle C--Air Service Development

    SEC. 561. ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE REFORMS.

        (a) Reduction in Subsidy Cap.--
                (1) In general.--Section 41731(a)(1)(C) of title 49, United
            States Code, is amended to read as follows:
                        ``(C) had an average subsidy per passenger, as
                    determined by the Secretary--
                              ``(i) of less than $1,000 during the most
                          recent fiscal year beginning before October 1,
                          2026, regardless of driving miles to the nearest
                          large or medium hub airport;
                              ``(ii) of less than $850 during the most
                          recent fiscal year beginning after September 30,
                          2026, regardless of driving miles to the nearest
                          medium or large hub airport; and
                              ``(iii) of less than $650 during the most
                          recent fiscal year for locations that are less
                          than 175 miles from the nearest large or medium
                          hub airport; and''.
                (2) Notice.--Section 41731(a)(1)(D)(ii) is amended by
            striking ``90-day'' and inserting ``140-day''.
                (3) Waivers.--Section 41731(e) of title 49, United States
            Code, is amended to read as follows:

        ``(e) <<NOTE: Effective dates. Time periods.>>  Waivers.--
                ``(1) In general.--The Secretary may waive, on an annual
            basis, subsections (a)(1)(B) and (a)(1)(C)(iii) with respect to
            an eligible place if such place demonstrates to the Secretary's
            satisfaction that the reason the eligibility requirements of
            such subsections are not met is due to a temporary decline in
            demand.
                ``(2) Limitation.--Beginning with fiscal year 2027, the
            Secretary may not provide a waiver of subsection (a)(1)(B) to
            any location--
                        ``(A) in more than 2 consecutive fiscal years; or
                        ``(B) in more than 5 fiscal years within 25
                    consecutive years.
                ``(3) Limitation.--Beginning in fiscal year 2027, the
            Secretary may not provide a waiver of subsection (a)(1)(C)(iii)
            to any location--
                        ``(A) in more than 2 consecutive fiscal years; or
                        ``(B) in more than 5 fiscal years within 25
                    consecutive years.''.
                (4) <<NOTE: Repeals.>>  Conforming amendments.--
                        (A) Section 332 of the Department of Transportation
                    and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2000 (Public
                    Law 106-69; 49 U.S.C. 41731 note) is repealed.
                        (B) Subsections (c) and (d) of section 426 of the
                    FAA Modernization and Reform Act (49 U.S.C. 41731 note)
                    are repealed.

        (b) Restriction on Length of Routes.--
                (1) In general.--Section 41732(a)(1) of title 49, United
            States Code, is amended to read as follows:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1215]]

                ``(1) to a medium or large hub airport less than 650 miles
            from an eligible place (unless such airport or eligible place
            are located in a noncontiguous State); or''.
                (2) <<NOTE: 49 USC 41732 note.>>  Exception.--The amendment
            made by paragraph (1) shall not apply to an eligible place that
            is served by an air carrier selected to receive essential air
            service compensation under subchapter II of chapter 417 of title
            49, United States Code, if--
                        (A) such service is in effect upon the date of
                    enactment of this Act; and
                        (B) such service is provided by the same air carrier
                    that provided service on the date of enactment of this
                    Act.
                (3) Sunset.--Paragraph (2) shall cease to have effect on
            October 1, 2028.

        (c) Improvements to Basic Essential Air Service.--Section 41732 of
    title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in subsection (a)(2) by inserting ``medium or large''
            after ``nearest''; and
                (2) in subsection (b)--
                        (A) by striking paragraphs (3) and (4);
                        (B) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (3);
                    and
                        (C) by striking paragraph (6).

        (d) Level of Basic Essential Air Service.--Section 41733 of title
    49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in subsection (c)(1)--
                        (A) by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the
                    following:
                ``(B) the contractual, marketing, code-share, or interline
            arrangements the applicant has made with a larger air carrier
            serving the hub airport;'';
                        (B) by striking subparagraph (C);
                        (C) by redesignating subparagraphs (D) through (F)
                    as subparagraphs (C) through (E), respectively;
                        (D) in subparagraph (C), as so redesignated, by
                    striking ``giving substantial weight to'' and inserting
                    ``including'';
                        (E) in subparagraph (D), as so redesignated, by
                    striking ``and'' at the end;
                        (F) in subparagraph (E), as so redesignated, by
                    striking the period and inserting ``; and''; and
                        (G) by adding at the end the following:
                ``(F) the total compensation proposed by the air carrier for
            providing scheduled air service under this section.''; and
                (2) in subsection (h) by striking ``by section 332 of the
            Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations
            Act, 2000 (Public Law 106-69; 113 Stat. 1022)'' and inserting
            ``under section 41731(a)(1)(C)''.

        (e) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that route
    structures to rural airports serve a critical function to the Nation by
    connecting many military installations to major regional airline hubs.
        (f) Ending, Suspending, and Reducing Basic Essential Air Service.--
    Section 41734 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in subsection (a)--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1216]]

                        (A) by striking ``An air carrier'' and inserting
                    ``Subject to subsection (d), an air carrier''; and
                        (B) by striking ``90'' and inserting ``140'';
                (2) by striking subsection (d) and inserting the following:

        ``(d) Continuation of Compensation After Notice Period.--
                ``(1) In general.--If an air carrier receiving compensation
            under section 41733 for providing basic essential air service to
            an eligible place is required to continue to provide service to
            such place under this section after the 140-day notice period
            under subsection (a), the Secretary--
                        ``(A) shall provide the carrier with compensation
                    sufficient to pay to the carrier the amount required by
                    the then existing contract for performing the basic
                    essential air service that was being provided when the
                    140-day notice was given under subsection (a);
                        ``(B) may pay an additional amount that represents a
                    reasonable return on investment; and
                        ``(C) may pay an additional return that recognizes
                    the demonstrated additional lost profits from
                    opportunities foregone and the likelihood that those
                    lost profits increase as the period during which the
                    carrier or provider is required to provide the service
                    continues.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  Authority.--The Secretary may
            incorporate contract termination penalties or conditions on
            compensation into a contract for an air carrier to provide
            service to an eligible place that take effect in the event an
            air carrier provides notice that it is ending, suspending, or
            reducing basic essential air service.'';
                (3) in subsection (e) by striking ``providing that service
            after the 90-day notice period'' and all that follows through
            the period at the end of paragraph (2) and inserting ``providing
            that service after the 140-day notice period required by
            subsection (a), the Secretary may provide the air carrier with
            compensation after the end of the 140-day notice period to pay
            for the fully allocated actual cost to the air carrier of
            performing the basic essential air service that was being
            provided when the 140-day notice was given under subsection (a)
            plus a reasonable return on investment that is at least 5
            percent of operating costs.''; and
                (4) in subsection (f) by inserting ``air'' after ``find
            another''.

        (g) Enhanced Essential Air Service.--Section 41735 of title 49,
    United States Code, and the item relating to such section in the
    analysis for subchapter II of chapter 417 <<NOTE: Repeals. 49 USC prec.
    41701.>>  of such title, are repealed.

        (h) Compensation Guidelines, Limitations, and Claims.--Section
    41737(d) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) by striking ``(1)'' before ``The Secretary may''; and
                (2) by striking paragraph (2).

        (i) Joint Proposals.--Section 41740 of title 49, United States Code,
    and the item relating to such section in the analysis for subchapter II
    of chapter 417 of such title, <<NOTE: Repeals. 49 USC prec. 41701.>>
    are repealed.

        (j) Preservation of Basic Essential Air Service at Single Carrier
    Dominated Hub Airports.--Section 41744 of title 49, United States Code,
    and the item relating to such section in the analysis for subchapter II
    of chapter 417 of such title, <<NOTE: Repeals. 49 USC prec. 41701.>>
    are repealed.

        (k) Community and Regional Choice Programs.--Section 41745 of title
    49, United States Code, is amended--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1217]]

                (1) in subsection (a)(3), by striking subparagraph (E) and
            redesignating subparagraph (F) as subparagraph (E);
                (2) by striking subsections (b) and (c); and
                (3) by redesignating subsections (d) through (g) as
            subsections (b) through (e), respectively.

        (l) Marketing Program.--Section 41748 of title 49, United States
    Code, and the item relating to such section in the analysis for
    subchapter II of chapter 417 of such title, <<NOTE: Repeals. 49
    USC prec. 41701.>>  are repealed.
    SEC. 562. SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT GRANTS.

        Section 41743 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in subsection (c)--
                        (A) in paragraph (4)(B), by striking ``10-year'' and
                    inserting ``5-year''; and
                        (B) in paragraph (5)--
                              (i) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through
                          (G) as subparagraphs (C) through (H),
                          respectively;
                              (ii) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the
                          following:
                        ``(B) the community has demonstrated support from at
                    least 1 air carrier to provide service;''; and
                              (iii) in subparagraph (F), as so redesignated,
                          by inserting ``or substantially reduced (as
                          measured by enplanements, capacity (seats),
                          schedule, connections, or routes)'' after
                          ``terminated'';
                (2) in subsection (d)--
                        (A) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``, which shall
                    begin with each new grant, including same-project new
                    grants, and which shall be calculated on a non-
                    consecutive basis for air carriers that provide air
                    service that is seasonal'' after ``3 years''; and
                        (B) in paragraph (2) by inserting ``, or an airport
                    where air service has been terminated or substantially
                    reduced,'' before ``to obtain service'';
                (3) in subsection (e)--
                        (A) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``or the
                    community's current air service needs'' after ``the
                    project''; and
                        (B) in paragraph (2) by striking ``$10,000,000 for
                    each of fiscal years 2018 through 2023'' and all that
                    follows through ``May 10, 2024'' and inserting
                    ``$15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2024 through
                    2028'';
                (4) in subsection (g)(4) by striking ``and the creation of
            aviation development zones''; and
                (5) by striking subsections (f) and (h) and redesignating
            subsection (g) (as amended by paragraph (4)) as subsection (f).
    SEC. 563. GAO STUDY AND REPORT ON THE ALTERNATE ESSENTIAL AIR
                            SERVICE PILOT PROGRAM.

        (a) Study.--The Comptroller General shall study the effectiveness of
    the alternate essential air service pilot program established under
    section 41745 of title 49, United States Code, (in this section referred
    to as the ``Alternate EAS program''), including challenges, if any, that
    have impeded robust community participation in the Alternate EAS
    program.
        (b) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  Contents.--The study required under
    subsection (a) shall include an assessment of potential changes to the
    Alternate EAS

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1218]]

    program and the basic essential air service programs under subchapter II
    of chapter 417 of title 49, United States Code, including changes in
    which Governors of States or territories containing essential air
    service communities would be given block grants in lieu of essential air
    service subsidies.

        (c) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 3 years
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall
    submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the study
    required under subsection (a), including any recommendations for
    legislation and administrative action as the Comptroller General
    determines appropriate.
    SEC. 564. <<NOTE: Deadline. Review. Time periods.>>  ESSENTIAL AIR
                            SERVICE IN PARTS OF ALASKA.

        Not later than September 1, 2024, the Secretary, in consultation
    with the appropriate State authority of Alaska, shall review all
    domestic points in the State of Alaska that were deleted from carrier
    certificates between July 1, 1968, and October 24, 1978, and that were
    not subsequently determined to be an eligible place prior to January 1,
    1982, as a result of being unpopulated at that time due to destruction
    during the 1964 earthquake and its resultant tidal wave, to determine
    whether such points have been resettled or relocated and should be
    designated as an eligible place entitled to receive a determination of
    the level of essential air service supported, if necessary, with Federal
    funds.
    SEC. 565. ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE COMMUNITY PETITION FOR REVIEW.

        (a) In General.--Section 41733 of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended--
                (1) in subsection (b)(2) by inserting ``, as defined by the
            Secretary'' after ``appropriate representative of the place'';
            and
                (2) by adding at the end the following:

        ``(i) <<NOTE: Determinations.>>  Community Petition for Review.--
                ``(1) Petition.--An appropriate representative of an
            eligible place, as defined by the Secretary, may submit to the
            Secretary a petition expressing no confidence in the air carrier
            providing basic essential air service under this section and
            requesting a review by the Secretary. A petition submitted under
            this subsection shall demonstrate that the air carrier--
                        ``(A) is unwilling or unable to meet the operational
                    specifications outlined in the order issued by the
                    Secretary specifying the terms of basic essential air
                    service to such place;
                        ``(B) is experiencing reliability challenges with
                    the potential to adversely affect air service to such
                    place; or
                        ``(C) is no longer able to provide service to such
                    place at the rate of compensation specified by the
                    Secretary.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Review.--Not later than 2 months
            after the date on which the Secretary receives a petition under
            paragraph (1), the Secretary shall review the operational
            performance of the air carrier providing basic essential air
            service to such place that submitted such petition and determine
            whether such air carrier is fully complying with the obligations
            specified in the order issued by the Secretary specifying the
            terms of basic essential air service to such place.
                ``(3) Termination.--If based on a review under paragraph
            (2), the Secretary determines noncompliance by an air carrier

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1219]]

            with an order specifying the terms for basic essential air
            service to the community, the Secretary may--
                        ``(A) terminate the order issued to the air carrier;
                    and
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Notice.>>  issue a notice pursuant to
                    subsection (c) that an air carrier may apply to provide
                    basic essential air service to such place for
                    compensation under this section and select an applicant
                    pursuant to such subsection.
                ``(4) Continuation of service.--If the Secretary makes a
            determination under paragraph (3) to terminate an order issued
            to an air carrier under this section, the Secretary shall ensure
            continuity in air service to the affected place.''.
    SEC. 566. 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'' and all that follows
    through ``May 10, 2024,'' and inserting ``$348,544,000 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''.
    SEC. 567. GAO STUDY ON COSTS OF ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE.

        (a) Study.--The Comptroller General 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) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  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; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Review.>>  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;
                        (E) airport costs; and
                        (F) the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

        (c) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the appropriate
    committees of Congress a report on the results of the study conducted
    under subsection (a).
    SEC. 568. <<NOTE: 49 USC 41731 note.>>  RESPONSE TIME FOR
                            APPLICATIONS TO PROVIDE ESSENTIAL AIR
                            SERVICE.

        The <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Secretary shall take such actions as are
    necessary to respond with an approval or denial of any application filed
    by an applicant to provide essential air service under subchapter II of
    chapter 417 of title 49, United States Code, to the greatest extent
    practicable not later than 6 months after receiving such application.
    The <<NOTE: Review. Analyses. Time period.>>  Assistant General Counsel
    for International and Aviation Economic Law shall ensure the timely
    review of all orders proposed by the Essential Air Service Office, and
    such timeliness shall be analyzed annually by the General Counsel of the
    Department of Transportation.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1220]]

    SEC. 569. <<NOTE: State listing.>>  GAO STUDY ON CERTAIN AIRPORT
                            DELAYS.

        The Comptroller General shall conduct a study on flight delays in
    the States of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut and the possible
    causes of such delays.
    SEC. 570. REPORT ON RESTORATION OF SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Contracts.>>  In General.--Not later than 90
    days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall seek
    to enter into an agreement with the National Academies to conduct a
    study on the loss of commercial air service in small communities in the
    United States and options to restore such service.

        (b) Contents.--In conducting the study required under subsection
    (a), that National Academies shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Assessment. Time period. Termination date.>>
            assess the reduction of scheduled commercial air service to
            small communities over a 5-year period ending on the date of
            enactment of this Act, to include small communities that have
            lost all scheduled commercial air service;
                (2) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review economic trends that have
            resulted in reduction or loss of scheduled commercial air
            service to such communities;
                (3) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review the economic losses of such
            communities who have suffered a reduction or loss of scheduled
            commercial air service;
                (4) identify the causes that prompted air carriers to reduce
            or eliminate scheduled commercial air service to such
            communities;
                (5) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assess the impact of changing
            aircraft economics; and
                (6) identify recommendations that can be implemented by such
            communities or Federal, State, or local agencies to aid in the
            restoration or replacement of scheduled commercial air service.

        (c) <<NOTE: Assessment. Time period.>>  Case Studies.--In conducting
    the study required under subsection (a), the National Academies shall
    assess not fewer than 7 communities that have lost commercial air
    service or have had commercial air service significantly reduced in the
    past 15 years, including--
                (1) Williamsport Regional Airport;
                (2) Alamogordo-White Sands Regional Airport; and
                (3) Chautauqua County Jamestown Airport.

        (d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the National Academies shall submit to the Secretary and the
    appropriate committees of Congress a report containing--
                (1) the results of the study described in subsection (a);
            and
                (2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommendations to
            Congress and communities on action that can be taken to improve
            or restore scheduled commercial service to small communities.

        (e) Funding.--No funding made available to carry out subchapter II
    of chapter 417 of title 49, United States Code, may be used to carry out
    this section.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1221]]

               TITLE VI--MODERNIZING THE NATIONAL AIRSPACE SYSTEM

    SEC. 601. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  INSTRUMENT LANDING SYSTEM
                            INSTALLATION.

        (a) In General.--Not later than January 1, 2025, the Administrator
    shall expedite the installation of at least 15 instrument landing
    systems (in this section referred to as ``ILS'') in the national
    airspace system by utilizing the existing ILS contract vehicle and the
    employees of the FAA.
        (b) Requirements.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator
    shall--
                (1) incorporate lessons learned from installations under
            section 44502(a)(4) of title 49, United States Code;
                (2) record metrics of cost and time savings of expedited
            installations;
                (3) consider opportunities to further develop ILS technical
            expertise among the employees of the FAA; and
                (4) consider the cost-benefit analysis of utilizing the
            existing ILS contract vehicle, the employees of the FAA, or
            both, to accelerate the installation and deployment of procured
            equipment.

        (c) Briefing to Congress.--Not later than June 30, 2025, the
    Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress--
                (1) on the installation of ILS under this section;
                (2) describing any planned near-term ILS installations; and
                (3) outlining the approach of the FAA to accelerate future
            procurement and installation of ILS throughout the national
            airspace system in a manner consistent with the requirements of
            title VIII of division J of the Infrastructure Investment and
            Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58).
    SEC. 602. NAVIGATION AIDS STUDY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1222]]

        (c) Report.--Not later than 24 months after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the inspector general shall submit to the appropriate
    committees of Congress a report describing the results of the study
    conducted under subsection (a).
    SEC. 603. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  NEXTGEN ACCOUNTABILITY REVIEW.

        (a) <<NOTE: Contracts. Review.>>  In General.--Not later than
    December 31, 2026, the Administrator shall seek to enter into an
    agreement with the National Academy of Public Administration to initiate
    a review to assess the performance of the FAA in delivering and
    implementing quantifiable operational benefits to the national airspace
    system within the NextGen program.

        (b) Review Requirements.--In conducting the review required under
    subsection (a), the National Academy of Public Administration shall--
                (1) leverage metrics used by the FAA to quantify the
            benefits of NextGen technology and investments;
                (2) validate metrics and identify additional metrics the FAA
            can use to track national airspace system throughput and savings
            as a result of NextGen investments--
                        (A) by calculating a per flight average, weighted by
                    distance, of the--
                              (i) reduction and cumulative savings of track
                          miles and time savings;
                              (ii) reduction and cumulative savings of
                          emissions and fuel burn; and
                              (iii) reduction of aircraft operation time;
                          and
                        (B) by using any other metrics that the National
                    Academy determines may provide insights into the
                    quantifiable benefits for operators in the national
                    airspace system; and
                (3) validate current metrics and identify additional metrics
            the FAA can use to track and assess fleet equipage across
            operators in the national airspace system, including
            identifying--
                        (A) the percentage of aircraft equipped with NextGen
                    avionics equipment as recommended in the report of the
                    NextGen Advisory Committee titled ``Minimum Capabilities
                    List (MCL) Ad Hoc Team NAC Task 19-1 Report'', issued on
                    November 17, 2020;
                        (B) quantified costs and benefits for an operator to
                    properly equip an aircraft with baseline NextGen
                    avionics equipment over the lifecycle of such aircraft;
                    and
                        (C) cumulative unrealized NextGen benefits
                    associated with rates of mixed equipage across
                    operators.

        (c) Industry Consultation.--In conducting the review required under
    subsection (a), the National Academy of Public Administration may
    consult with aviation industry stakeholders.
        (d) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 270 days
    after the initiation of the review under subsection (a), the National
    Academy shall submit to the Administrator and the appropriate committees
    of Congress a report containing any findings and recommendations under
    such review.

        (e) <<NOTE: Website.>>  Publication.--Not later than 180 days after
    receiving the report required under subsection (d), the Administrator
    shall establish a website of the FAA that can be used to monitor and
    update--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1223]]

                (1) the metrics identified by the review conducted under
            subsection (a) on a quarterly and annual basis through 2030, as
            appropriate; and
                (2) the total amount invested in NextGen technologies and
            resulting quantifiable benefits on a quarterly basis until the
            Administrator announces the completion of NextGen
            implementation.
    SEC. 604. <<NOTE: Deadline. 49 USC 40103 note.>>  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, 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 such access.

        (b) Briefing.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Plan.>>  In general.--Not later than 3 months
            after the completion of review the under subsection (a), the
            Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress
            on the findings of such review and a proposed action plan to
            improve access to airspace for users of the national airspace
            system.
                (2) Contents.--In the briefing 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) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  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) Actions for streamlining and expediting the
                    airspace access process, including potential regulatory
                    changes, technological advancements, and enhanced
                    coordination among relevant stakeholders and Federal
                    agencies.
                        (D) <<NOTE: Determination. Implementation plan.>>
                    If determined appropriate, an implementation plan for a
                    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) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  An assessment of the
                    impact of airspace access improvements described in
                    paragraph (1) on the safety of, efficiency of, 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.--The Administrator shall take such
                    actions as are necessary to implement the action plan
                    developed pursuant to this section.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1224]]

                        (B) Coordination.--In implementing the action plan
                    under subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall
                    coordinate with relevant stakeholders, including
                    airspace users and the Secretary of Defense, to ensure
                    effective implementation of such action plan, and
                    ongoing collaboration in addressing airspace access
                    challenges.
                        (C) <<NOTE: Updates.>>  Progress reports.--The
                    Administrator shall provide to the appropriate
                    committees of Congress periodic briefings on the
                    implementation of the action plan developed under this
                    subparagraph (A), including updates on--
                              (i) the adoption of streamlined procedures;
                              (ii) technological enhancements; and
                              (iii) any regulatory changes necessary to
                          improve airspace access and flexibility.
    SEC. 605. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 47124 note.>>  FAA CONTRACT
                            TOWER WORKFORCE AUDIT.

        (a) In General.--Not later than 120 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 Contract Tower
    Program, as established under section 47124 of title 49, United States
    Code.
        (b) Contents.--In conducting the audit required under subsection
    (a), the inspector general shall, at a minimum--
                (1) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review the assumptions and
            methodologies used in assessing FAA contract towers staffing
            levels and determine the adequacy of staffing levels at such
            towers;
                (2) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  evaluate the supply and demand of
            trained and certificated personnel prepared for work and such
            towers;
                (3) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  examine efforts to establish an
            air traffic controller training program or curriculum to allow
            contract tower contractors to conduct--
                        (A) initial training of controller candidates
                    employed or soon to be employed by such contractors who
                    do not have a Control Tower Operator certificate or a
                    FAA tower credential;
                        (B) any initial training for controller candidates
                    who have completed an approved Air Traffic Collegiate
                    Training Initiative program from an accredited school
                    that has a demonstrated successful curriculum; or
                        (C) on-the-job training of such candidates described
                    in subparagraphs (A) or (B);
                (4) <<NOTE: Assessment. Contracts.>>  assess whether
            establishing pathways to allow contract tower contractors to use
            the air traffic technical training academy of the FAA, or other
            means such as higher educational institutions, to provide
            initial technical training for air traffic controllers employed
            by such contractors could improve the workforce needs of the
            contract tower program and any related impact such training may
            have on air traffic controller staffing more broadly; and
                (5) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  consult with the exclusive
            bargaining representative of the air traffic controllers
            certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code.

        (c) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 90 days
    after the completion of the audit under subsection (a), the inspector
    general shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report
    on the findings of such audit and any recommendations as a result of
    such audit.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1225]]

        (d) Implementation.--The Administrator shall take such actions as
    are necessary to implement any recommendations included in the report
    required under subsection (c) with which the Administrator concurs.
        (e) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this subsection shall be
    construed as a delegation of authority by the Administrator to air
    traffic control contractors for the purposes of issuing initial
    certifications to air traffic controllers.
    SEC. 606. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47124 note.>>  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
    shall prioritize the safety of the national airspace system, the safety
    of employees of the Administration, the operational reliability of such
    air traffic control tower, and the costs of such tower.
    SEC. 607. AIR TRAFFIC SERVICES DATA REPORTS.

        Section 45303(g)(2)(A) of title 49, United States Code, is amended
    by striking ``8 years'' and inserting ``14 years''.
    SEC. 608. CONSIDERATION OF SMALL HUB CONTROL TOWERS.

        In selecting projects for the replacement of federally owned air
    traffic control towers from funds made available under the heading
    ``Federal Aviation Administration--Facilities and Equipment'' in title
    VIII of division J of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public
    Law 117-58), the Administrator shall consider selecting projects at
    small hub commercial service airports with control towers that are at
    least 50 years old.
    SEC. 609. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44505 note.>>  FLIGHT PROFILE
                            OPTIMIZATION.

        (a) Pilot Program.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Grants.>>  Establishment.--The Administrator
            shall establish a pilot program to award grants to air traffic
            flow management technology providers to develop prototype
            capabilities to incorporate flight profile optimization (in this
            section referred to as ``FPO'') into the trajectory based-
            operations air traffic flow management system of the FAA.
                (2) Considerations.--In establishing the pilot program under
            paragraph (1), the Administrator shall consider the following:
                        (A) The extent to which developed FPO capabilities
                    may reduce strain on the national airspace system
                    infrastructure while facilitating safe and efficient
                    flow of future air traffic volumes and diverse range of
                    aircraft and advanced aviation aircraft.
                        (B) The extent to which developed FPO capabilities
                    may achieve environmental benefits and time savings.
                        (C) The perspectives of FAA employees responsible
                    for air traffic flow management development projects,
                    bilateral civil aviation regulatory partners, and
                    industry applicants on the performance of the FAA in
                    carrying out air traffic flow management system
                    development projects.
                        (D) Any other information the Administrator
                    determines appropriate.
                (3) <<NOTE: Requirement.>>  Application.--To be eligible to
            receive a grant under the program, an air traffic flow
            management technology provider shall submit an application to
            the Administrator at such

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1226]]

            time, in such manner, and containing such information as the
            Administrator may require.
                (4) Maximum amount.--A grant awarded under the program may
            not exceed $2,000,000 to a single air traffic flow management
            technology provider.

        (b) <<NOTE: Deadline. Time period. Recommenda- tions.>>  Briefing to
    Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this
    Act, and annually thereafter until the termination of the pilot program
    under subsection (d) established under this section, the Administrator
    shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on the progress of
    such pilot program, including any implementation challenges of the
    program, detailed metrics of the program, and any recommendations to
    achieve the adoption of FPO.

        (c) Trajectory-based Operations Defined.--In this section, the term
    ``trajectory-based operations'' means an air traffic flow management
    method for strategically planning, managing, and optimizing flights that
    uses time-based management, performance-based navigation, and other
    capabilities and processes to achieve air traffic flow management
    operational objectives and improvements.
        (d) Sunset.--The pilot program under this section shall terminate on
    October 1, 2028.
    SEC. 610. EXTENSION OF ENHANCED AIR TRAFFIC SERVICES PILOT
                            PROGRAM.

        Section 547 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40103
    note) is amended--
                (1) by striking subsection (d) and inserting the following:

        ``(d) Definitions.--In this section:
                ``(1) Certain nextgen avionics.--The term `certain NextGen
            avionics' means those avionics and baseline capabilities as
            recommended in the report of the NextGen Advisory Committee
            titled `Minimum Capabilities List (MCL) Ad Hoc Team NAC Task 19-
            1 Report', issued on November 17, 2020.
                ``(2) Preferential basis.--The term `preferential basis'
            means prioritizing aircraft equipped with certain NextGen
            avionics by providing them more efficient service, shorter
            queuing, or priority clearances to the maximum extent possible
            without reducing overall capacity or safety of the national
            airspace system.''; and
                (2) in subsection (e) by striking ``May 10, 2024'' and
            inserting ``September 30, 2028''.
    SEC. 611. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47124 note.>>  FEDERAL CONTACT TOWER WAGE
                            DETERMINATIONS AND POSITIONS.

        (a) In General.--The Secretary shall request that the Secretary of
    Labor--
                (1) <<NOTE: Review. Update.>>  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) <<NOTE: Reassessment.>>  reassess the basis for air
            traffic controller occupation codes;
                (3) create a new wage determination category or occupation
            code for managers of air traffic controllers who are employed at
            air traffic control towers operated under the Contract Tower
            Program; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1227]]

                (4) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  consult with the Administrator
            in carrying out the requirements of paragraphs (1) through (3).

        (b) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor,
    shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report that
    includes--
                (1) a description of the findings and conclusions of the
            review and reassessment made under subsection (a);
                (2) an explanation of and justification for the basis for
            the wage determination; and
                (3) a description of the actions taken by the Department of
            Transportation and the Department of Labor to ensure that
            contract tower air traffic controller wages are adjusted for
            inflation and are assigned the appropriate occupation codes.
    SEC. 612. BRIEFING ON RADIO COMMUNICATIONS COVERAGE AROUND
                            MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Arkansas.>>  Briefing Requirement.--Not later
    than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
    shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress 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) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Recommendations on changes
            to increase radio communications coverage below 4,000 feet above
            ground level within such airspace.
    SEC. 613. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44505 note.>>  AERONAUTICAL MOBILE
                            COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES.

        (a) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  Satellite Voice Communications
    Services.--The Administrator shall evaluate the addition of satellite
    voice communication services (in this section referred to as
    ``SatVoice'') to the Aeronautical Mobile Communications program (in this
    section referred to as the ``AMCS program'') that provides for the
    delivery of air traffic control messages in oceanic and remote
    continental airspace.

        (b) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Analysis and Implementation Procedures.--
    Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall begin to develop the safety case analysis and
    implementation procedures for SatVoice instructions over the controlled
    oceanic and remote continental airspace regions of the FAA.

        (c) Requirements.--The analysis and implementation procedures
    required under subsection (b) shall include, at a minimum, the
    following:
                (1) Network and protocol testing and integration with
            satellite service providers.
                (2) Operational testing with aircraft to identify and
            resolve performance issues.
                (3) <<NOTE: Definition. Standards.>>  A definition of Satcom
            Standards and Recommended Practices established through a
            collaboration with the International Civil Aviation
            Organization, which shall include an RCP-130 performance
            standard as well as SatVoice standards.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1228]]

                (4) Training for radio operators on new operation procedures
            and protocols.
                (5) <<NOTE: Implementation plan.>>  A phased implementation
            plan for incorporating SatVoice services into the AMCS program.
                (6) <<NOTE: Cost estimate.>>  The estimated cost of the
            implementation procedures for relevant stakeholders.

        (d) HF/VHF Minimum Equipage.--
                (1) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
            construed to affect the HF/VHF equipage requirement for
            communications in oceanic and remote continental airspace as of
            the date of enactment of this Act.
                (2) Maintenance of hf/vhf services.--The Administrator shall
            maintain HF/VHF services existing as of the date of enactment of
            this Act as minimum equipage under the AMCS program to provide
            for auxiliary communication and maintain safety in the event of
            a satellite outage.
    SEC. 614. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44505 note.>>  DELIVERY OF CLEARANCE TO
                            PILOTS VIA INTERNET PROTOCOL.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Evaluation. Determination.>>  In General.--Not
    later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall establish a pilot program to conduct testing and an
    evaluation to determine the feasibility of the use, in air traffic
    control towers, of technology for mobile clearance delivery for general
    aviation and on-demand air carriers operating under part 135 of title
    14, Code of Federal Regulations, at suitable airports that do not have
    tower data link services.

        (b) <<NOTE: Designations.>>  Airport Selection.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  In general.--The Administrator
            shall designate 5 suitable airports for participation in the
            program established under subsection (a) after consultation with
            the exclusive representatives of air traffic controllers
            certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code,
            airport sponsors, aircraft and avionics manufacturers, MITRE,
            and aircraft operators
                (2) Airport size and complexity.--In designating airports
            under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall designate airports
            of different size and complexity.

        (c) Program Objective.--The program established under subsection (a)
    shall address and include safety, security, and operational requirements
    for mobile clearance delivery at airports and heliports across the
    United States.
        (d) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 1 year
    after the date on which the program under subsection (a) is established,
    the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress
    a report on the safety, security, and operational performance of mobile
    clearance delivery at airports pursuant to this section and
    recommendations on how best to improve the program.

        (e) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Mobile clearance delivery.--The term ``mobile clearance
            delivery'' means the delivery of access to departure clearance
            and clearance cancellation via internet protocol via
            applications to pilots while aircraft are on the ground where
            traditional data link installations are not feasible or
            possible.
                (2) Tower data link services.--The term ``tower data link
            services'' means communications between controllers and pilots
            using controller-pilot data link communications.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1229]]

                (3) Suitable airport.--The term ``suitable airport'' means
            towered airports, non-towered airports, and heliports.
    SEC. 615. STUDY ON CONGESTED AIRSPACE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Study.--Not later than 270 days after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall initiate a
    study on the efficiency and efficacy of scheduled commercial air service
    transiting congested airspace.

        (b) <<NOTE: Examinations.>>  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 launch and reentry activities;
                (6) weather; and
                (7) air traffic controller staffing.

        (c) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 18 months
    after the initiation of the study under subsection (a), the Comptroller
    General shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report
    on the results of the study and recommendations to reduce the impacts to
    scheduled air service transiting congested airspace.
    SEC. 616. BRIEFING ON LIT VORTAC PROJECT.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 180 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the
    appropriate committees of Congress on the Little Rock Port Authority
    Very High Frequency Omni-Directional Radio Range Tactical Air Navigation
    Aid Project (in this section referred to as ``LIT VORTAC'').

        (b) Briefing Contents.--The briefing required under subsection (a)
    shall include the following:
                (1) The status of the efforts by the FAA to relocate the LIT
            VORTAC.
                (2) The status of new flight planning of the relocated LIT
            VORTAC.
                (3) <<NOTE: Timeline.>>  A description of and timeline for
            each remaining phase of the relocation of the LIT VORTAC.
    SEC. 617. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note. Deadline. Review.>>  SURFACE
                            SURVEILLANCE.

        (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator shall conduct

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1230]]

     a review of surface surveillance systems that are operational as of
    such date of enactment.
        (b) Contents.--In carrying out the review under subsection (a), the
    Administrator shall--
                (1) demonstrate that any change to the configuration of
            surface surveillance systems or decommissioning of a sensor from
            such systems provides an equivalent level of safety as the
            current system;
                (2) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine how a technology
            refresh of legacy sensor equipment can reduce operational and
            maintenance costs of surface surveillance systems compared to
            current costs and extend the useful life and affordability of
            such systems; and
                (3) consider how to enhance such systems through new
            capabilities and software tools that improve the safety of
            terminal airspace and the airport surface.

        (c) Consultation.--In carrying out the review under subsection (a),
    the Administrator shall consult with--
                (1) aviation safety experts with specific knowledge of
            surface surveillance technology, including multilateration and
            automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast;
                (2) representatives of the exclusive bargaining
            representative of the air traffic controllers certified under
            section 7111 of title 5, United States Code, with expertise in
            surface safety; and
                (3) representatives of the exclusive bargaining
            representative of airway transportation systems specialists of
            the FAA certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States
            Code.

        (d) Briefing.--Upon completion of the review under subsection (a),
    the Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on
    the findings of such review.
        (e) Implementation.--The Administrator may implement changes to
    surface surveillance systems consistent with the findings of the review
    described in subsection (d).
    SEC. 618. 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) in paragraph (1) by striking ``facilities and
                    equipment'' and inserting ``facilities, services, and
                    equipment'';
                        (C) in paragraph (2)--
                              (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)
                          by striking ``first and 2d years'' and inserting
                          ``first and second years''; and
                              (ii) in subparagraph (C) by striking
                          ``subclauses (A) and (B) of this clause'' and
                          inserting ``subparagraphs (A) and (B)'';
                        (D) in paragraph (3)--
                              (i) by striking ``the 3d, 4th, and 5th'' and
                          inserting ``the third, fourth, and fifth''; and
                              (ii) by striking ``systems and facilities''
                          and inserting ``systems, services, and
                          facilities''; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1231]]

                        (E) in paragraph (4)(B) by striking ``growth of
                    aviation'' and inserting ``growth of the aerospace
                    industry''.

        (b) Systems, Procedures, Facilities, Services, and Devices.--
                (1) In general.--Section 44505 of title 49, United States
            Code, is amended--
                        (A) in the section heading by striking ``and
                    devices'' and inserting ``services, and devices'';
                        (B) in subsection (a) by striking ``and devices''
                    and inserting ``services, and devices'' each place it
                    appears; and
                        (C) in subsection (b) by striking ``develop dynamic
                    simulation models'' and inserting ``develop or procure
                    dynamic simulation models and tools'' each place it
                    appears.
                (2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 445 of
            title 49, United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44501.>>  is
            amended by striking the item relating to section 44505 and
            inserting the following:

    ``44505. Systems, procedures, facilities, services, and devices.''.

    SEC. 619. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 40101 note.>>  NEXTGEN
                            PROGRAMS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  In General.--Not later than 180 days
    after the date of enactment of this Act, and periodically thereafter as
    the Administrator determines appropriate, the Administrator shall
    convene FAA 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 shall give priority to the following activities:
                (1) Performance-based navigation.
                (2) Data communications.
                (3) Terminal flight data manager.
                (4) Aeronautical information management.
                (5) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Other activities as
            recommended by the NextGen Advisory Committee and determined by
            the Administrator to be appropriate.

        (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. <<NOTE: Regulations. Publication.>> --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.
                (4) Utilization action plan.--Not later than 180 days after
            enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall, in consultation
            with certified labor representatives of air traffic

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1232]]

            controllers and the NextGen Advisory Committee, develop an
            action plan to utilize performance-based navigation procedures
            as a primary means of navigation to further reduce the
            dependency on legacy systems within the national airspace
            system.

        (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 and Other Systems.--
                (1) Terminal flight data
            manager. <<NOTE: Determination.>> --Not later than 4 years after
            the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
            install the Terminal Flight Data Manager system at not less than
            89 airports in the United States based on the highest number of
            annual aircraft operations or a determination of operational
            need and the impact of installation and deployment on the
            national airspace system.
                (2) Electronic flight strips.--At a minimum, the
            Administrator shall implement electronic flight strips at the
            air traffic control towers of airports described in paragraph
            (1).
                (3) Flow management data and services.--Not later than 4
            years after the date of enactment of this Act, if the
            Administrator finds that Terminal Flight Data Manager systems
            would be beneficial to safety or efficiency, the Administrator
            shall install Flow Management Data and Services at airports
            described under paragraph (1).
                (4) Appropriations.--The activities under paragraphs (1),
            (2), and (3) of this subsection shall be contingent on the
            appropriation of funds to carry out this subsection.

        (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 FAA 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1233]]

                    systems of aeronautical information management systems
                    to be independent and self-sufficient from one another.

        (g) Nextgen Equipage Plan.--
                (1) In general.--Not later than 14 months after the date of
            enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall develop a 2-year
            implementation plan to further incentivize the acceleration of
            the equipage rates of certain NextGen avionics within the fleets
            of air carriers (as such term is defined in section 40102(a) of
            title 49, United States Code.
                (2) Contents.--In developing the plan required under
            paragraph (1), the Administrator shall, at a minimum--
                        (A) provide for further implementation and
                    deployment of NextGen operational improvements to
                    incentivize universal equipage of commercial and
                    regional aircraft with certain NextGen avionics;
                        (B) identify any remaining barriers for operators of
                    commercial and regional aircraft to properly equip such
                    aircraft with certain NextGen avionics, including any
                    methods to address such barriers;
                        (C) provide for the use of the best methods to
                    highlight and enhance to operators of commercial and
                    regional aircraft the benefits of equipping such
                    aircraft with certain NextGen avionics; and
                        (D) <<NOTE: Guidelines. Regulations.>>  include in
                    such plan any equipage guidelines and regulations the
                    Administrator determines necessary and appropriate.
                (3) Consultation.--In developing the plan under paragraph
            (1), the Administrator shall consult with representatives from--
                        (A) trade associations representing air carriers;
                        (B) trade associations representing avionics
                    manufacturers;
                        (C) certified labor organizations representing air
                    traffic controllers; and
                        (D) any other representatives the Administrator
                    determines appropriate.
                (4) Submission of plan.--Not later than 15 months after the
            date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to
            the appropriate committees of Congress the plan required under
            this subsection.
                (5) <<NOTE: Regulations.>>  Implementation.--Not later than
            18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the
            Administrator shall initiate such actions necessary to implement
            the plan developed under paragraph (1), including initiating any
            required rulemaking.
                (6) Definition.--In this subsection, the term ``certain
            NextGen avionics'' means those avionics and baseline
            capabilities as recommended in the report of the NextGen
            Advisory Committee titled ``Minimum Capabilities List (MCL) Ad
            Hoc Team NAC Task 19-1 Report'', issued on November 17, 2020.

        (h) Effect of Failure to Meet Deadline.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Notification of congress.--For
            each deadline established under subsections (a) through (g), if
            the Administrator determines that the Administrator has not met
            or will not meet each such deadline, the Administrator shall,
            not later than 30 days after such determination, notify the
            appropriate committees of Congress about the failure to meet
            each deadline.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1234]]

                (2) Contents of notification.--Each notification under
            paragraph (1) shall be accompanied by the following:
                        (A) An explanation as to why the Administrator will
                    not or did not meet the deadline described in such
                    paragraph.
                        (B) A description of the actions the Administrator
                    plans to take to meet the deadline described in such
                    paragraph.
                        (C) Actions Congress can take to assist the
                    Administrator in meeting the deadline described in such
                    paragraph.
                (3) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  Briefing.--If the Administrator
            is required to provide notice under paragraph (1), the
            Administrator shall provide the appropriate committees of
            Congress quarterly briefings as to the progress made by the
            Administrator regarding implementation under the respective
            subsection for which the deadline will not be or was not met
            until such time as the Administrator has completed the required
            work under such subsection.

        (i) NextGen Advisory Committee Consultation.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  In general.--The
            Administrator shall consult and task the NextGen Advisory
            Committee with providing recommendations on ways to expedite,
            prioritize, and fully implement the NextGen program 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 the NextGen program and
                    subsequent air traffic modernization programs and
                    efforts.
    SEC. 620. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  CONTRACT TOWER PROGRAM.

        Section 47124 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in subsection (b)(3) by adding at the end the following:
                        ``(H) Period for completion of an operational
                    readiness inspection.--The Secretary shall provide
                    airport sponsors acting in good faith 7 years to
                    complete an operational readiness inspection after
                    receiving a benefit-to-cost ratio of air traffic control
                    services for an airport.''; and
                (2) by adding at the end the following:

        ``(f) Improving Controller Situational Awareness.--
                ``(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
            enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall allow air
            traffic controllers at towers operated under the Contract Tower
            Program to use approved advanced equipment and technologies to
            improve operational situational awareness, including Standard
            Terminal Automation Replacement System radar displays, Automatic
            Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast, Flight Data Input/Output, and
            Automatic Terminal Information System.
                ``(2) Installation and maintenance.--Not later than 2 years
            after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary
            shall allow airports to--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1235]]

                        ``(A) procure a Standard Terminal Automation
                    Replacement System or any equivalent system through the
                    Federal Aviation Administration, and install and
                    maintain such system using Administration services; or
                        ``(B) purchase a Standard Terminal Automation
                    Replacement System, or any equivalent system, and
                    install and maintain such system using services directly
                    from an original equipment manufacturer.
                ``(3) Requirements.--To help facilitate the integration of
            the equipment and technology described in paragraph (1), the
            Secretary--
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Standards.>>  shall establish minimum
                    performance and technical standards that ensure the safe
                    use of equipment and technology, including commercial
                    radar displays capable of displaying primary and
                    secondary radar targets, for use by controllers in
                    contract towers to improve situational awareness;
                        ``(B) shall identify approved vendors for such
                    equipment and technology, to the maximum extent
                    practicable;
                        ``(C) shall establish, in consultation with contract
                    tower operators, an appropriate training program to
                    periodically train air traffic controllers employed by
                    such operators to ensure proper and efficient
                    integration and use of the situational awareness
                    equipment and technology described in paragraph (1) into
                    contract tower operations;
                        ``(D) may add Standard Terminal Automation
                    Replacement System equipment or any equivalent system to
                    the minimum level of equipage necessary for Federal
                    contract towers to perform the function of such towers,
                    as applicable; and
                        ``(E) shall require that any technology, system, or
                    equipment procured pursuant to this subsection be
                    procured using non-Federal funds, except as made
                    available under a grant issued pursuant to 47124(b)(4).

        ``(g) <<NOTE: Determinations.>>  Liability Insurance.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  In general.--Not later than
            18 months after the date of enactment of this subsection, the
            Secretary shall consult with aviation industry experts,
            including air traffic control contractors and aviation insurance
            professionals, to determine adequate limits of liability for the
            Contract Tower Program.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Requirement.>>  Interim steps.--Not later than
            6 months after the date of enactment of this subsection and
            until the Secretary makes a determination on liability limits
            under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall require air traffic
            control contractors to have excess liability insurance (as
            determined by the Secretary) to ensure continuity of such
            coverage should a major accident occur.
                ``(3) Briefing.--Not later than 24 months after the date of
            enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall brief the
            Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
            Representatives and the Commerce, Science, and Transportation of
            the Senate on the findings, conclusions, and actions taken and
            planned to be taken to carry out this subsection.''.
    SEC. 621. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  REMOTE TOWERS.

        (a) In General.--Section 47124 of title 49, United States Code, is
    further amended--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1236]]

                (1) by adding at the end the following:

        ``(h) Milestones for Design Approval of Remote Towers.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Publication.>>  In general.--Not later than
            180 days after the date of enactment of this subsection, the
            Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall
            create a program and publish milestones to achieve system design
            and operational approval for a remote tower system.
                ``(2) Requirements.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the
            Administrator shall--
                        ``(A) rely on support from the Office of Airports of
                    the Federal Aviation Administration and the Air Traffic
                    Organization of the Federal Aviation Administration,
                    including the Air Traffic Services Service Unit and the
                    Technical Operations Service Unit;
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  consult with relevant
                    stakeholders, as the Administrator determines
                    appropriate;
                        ``(C) establish requirements for the system design
                    and operational approval of remote towers, including--
                              ``(i) visual siting processes and requirements
                          for electro-optical sensors;
                              ``(ii) datalink latency requirements;
                              ``(iii) visual presentation design
                          requirements for monitors used to display sensor
                          and camera feeds; and
                              ``(iv) any other wireless telecommunications
                          infrastructure requirements to enable the
                          operation of such towers;
                        ``(D) use a safety risk management panel process to
                    address any safety issues with respect to a remote
                    tower;
                        ``(E) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  if a 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;
                        ``(F) allow the use of surface surveillance
                    technology, either standalone or integrated into the
                    visual automation platform, as a situational awareness
                    tool;
                        ``(G) <<NOTE: Protocols. Procedures.>>  establish
                    protocols for contingency operations and procedures in
                    the event of remote tower technology failures and
                    malfunctions; and
                        ``(H) support active testing of a remote tower
                    system that has achieved system design approval by the
                    William J. Hughes Technical Center at an airport that
                    has installed remote tower infrastructure to support
                    such system.
                ``(3) System design approval and evaluation process.--Not
            later than December 31, 2024, the Administrator shall expand the
            system design approval and evaluation process for a digital or
            remote tower system to not less than 3 airports at which a
            digital or remote tower will be installed or operated at
            airports not located at the William J. Hughes Technical Center
            and using the criteria under section 161 of the FAA
            Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 47104 note), to the
            extent the Administrator has willing technology providers and
            airports interested in the installation and operation of such
            towers.
                ``(4) Preservation of existing design approvals.--Nothing in
            this subsection shall be construed to invalidate any system
            design approval activity carried out by the William

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1237]]

            J. Hughes Technical Center prior to the date of enactment of
            this subsection.
                ``(5) Prioritization for remote tower certification.--In
            carrying out the program established under paragraph (1), the
            Administrator shall prioritize system design and operational
            approval for a remote tower system at--
                        ``(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 subsection into the
                    Contract Tower Program.''.

        (b) <<NOTE: Time period. Termination date.>>  Briefing to
    Congress.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this
    Act, and every 6 months thereafter through October 1, 2028, the
    Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on--
                (1) the status of remote and digital tower projects in the
            system design approval and commissioning process;
                (2) 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); and
                (3) any other issues related to the demand for and potential
            use of remote tower technology that the Administrator determines
            are appropriate.

        (c) Conforming Amendments.--Section 47124(b) of title 49, United
    States Code, is amended--
                (1) in paragraph (3)(B)(ii) by inserting ``or a remote air
            traffic control tower equipment that has received System Design
            Approval from the Federal Aviation Administration'' after ``an
            operating air traffic control tower''; and
                (2) in paragraph (4)(A)--
                        (A) in clause (i)(III) by inserting ``or remote air
                    traffic control tower equipment that has received System
                    Design Approval from the Federal Aviation
                    Administration'' after ``certified by the Federal
                    Aviation Administration''; and
                        (B) in clause (ii)(III) by inserting ``or remote air
                    traffic control tower equipment that has received System
                    Design Approval from the Federal Aviation
                    Administration'' after ``certified by the Federal
                    Aviation Administration''.

        (d) Extension.--Section 161(a)(10) of the FAA Reauthorization Act of
    2018 (49 U.S.C. 47104 note) is amended by striking ``May 10, 2024'' and
    inserting ``September 30, 2028''.
    SEC. 622. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44505 note.>>  AUDIT OF LEGACY SYSTEMS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Determination.>>  In General.--Not later than
    120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
    shall initiate an audit of all legacy systems of the national airspace
    system to determine the level of operational risk, functionality, and
    security of such systems and the compatibility of such systems with
    current and future technology.

        (b) Scope of Audit.--The audit required under subsection (a)--
                (1) shall be conducted by an independent third-party
            contractor or a federally funded research and development center
            selected by the Administrator;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1238]]

                (2) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  shall include an assessment of
            whether a legacy system is an outdated, insufficient, unsafe, or
            unstable legacy system;
                (3) with respect to any legacy systems identified in the
            audit as an outdated, insufficient, unsafe, or unstable legacy
            system, shall include--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Analysis.>>  an analysis of the
                    operational risks associated with using such legacy
                    systems;
                        (B) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommendations
                    for replacement or enhancement of such legacy systems;
                    and
                        (C) <<NOTE: Analysis.>>  an analysis of any
                    potential impact on aviation safety and efficiency; and
                (4) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions. Assessment.>>  shall include
            recommended performance metrics by which the Administrator can
            assess the circumstances in which safety-critical communication,
            navigation, and surveillance aviation infrastructure within the
            national airspace system can remain in operational service,
            which take into account--
                        (A) the expected lifespan of such aviation
                    infrastructure;
                        (B) the number and type of mechanical failures of
                    such aviation infrastructure;
                        (C) <<NOTE: Costs. Time period.>>  the average
                    annual costs of maintaining such aviation infrastructure
                    over a 5-year period and whether such costs exceed the
                    cost to replace such aviation infrastructure; and
                        (D) the availability of replacement parts or labor
                    capable of maintaining such aviation infrastructure.

        (c) Deadline.--Not later than 15 months after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the audit required under subsection (a) shall be completed.
        (d) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 180 days
    after the audit required under subsection (a) is completed, the
    Administrator shall provide to the appropriate committees of Congress a
    report on the findings and recommendations of such audit, including--
                (1) <<NOTE: Inventory.>>  an inventory of the legacy systems
            in use;
                (2) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  an assessment of the operational
            condition of the legacy systems in use, including the
            interoperability of such systems;
                (3) the average age of such legacy systems and, for each
            such legacy system, the intended design life of the system, by
            type; and
                (4) the availability of replacement parts, equipment, or
            technology to maintain such legacy systems.

        (e) Plan to Accelerate Drawdown, Replacement, or Enhancement of
    Identified Legacy Systems.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--Not later than 120
            days after the date on which the Administrator provides the
            report under subsection (d), the Administrator shall develop and
            implement a plan, in consultation with industry representatives,
            to accelerate the drawdown, replacement, or enhancement of any
            legacy systems that are identified in the audit required under
            subsection (a) as outdated, insufficient, unsafe, or unstable
            legacy systems.
                (2) Priorities.--In developing the plan under paragraph (1),
            the Administrator shall prioritize the drawdown, replacement, or
            enhancement of such legacy systems based on the operational
            risks such legacy systems pose to aviation safety and the costs
            associated with the replacement or enhancement of such legacy
            systems.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1239]]

                (3) Collaboration with external experts.--In carrying out
            this subsection, the Administrator shall--
                        (A) collaborate with industry representatives and
                    other external experts in information technology to
                    develop the plan under paragraph (1) within a reasonable
                    timeframe;
                        (B) 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 FAA; and
                        (C) maintain consistency with the acquisition
                    management system established and updated pursuant to
                    section 40110(d) of title 49, United States Code.
                (4) <<NOTE: Termination date.>>  Progress updates.--The
            Administrator shall provide the appropriate committees of
            Congress with semiannual updates through September 30, 2028 on
            the progress made in carrying out the plan under paragraph (1).
                (5) Inspector general review.--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Deadline. Assessment.>>  In general.--
                    Not later than 3 years after the Administrator develops
                    the plan required under paragraph (1), the inspector
                    general of the Department of Transportation shall assess
                    such efforts of the Administration to drawdown, replace,
                    or enhance any legacy systems identified under
                    subsection (a).
                        (B) Report.--The inspector general shall submit to
                    the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the
                    results of the review carried out under subparagraph
                    (A).

        (f) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Industry.--The term ``industry'' means aviation industry
            organizations with expertise in aviation-dedicated network
            systems, systems engineering platforms, aviation software
            services, air traffic management, flight operations, and
            International Civil Aviation Organization standards.
                (2) Legacy system.--The term ``legacy system'' means any
            communication, navigation, surveillance, or automation or
            network applications or ground-based aviation infrastructure, or
            other critical software and hardware systems owned by the FAA,
            that were deployed prior to the year 2000, including the Notice
            to Air Missions system.
                (3) Outdated, insufficient, unsafe, or unstable legacy
            system.--The term ``outdated, insufficient, unsafe, or unstable
            legacy system'' means a legacy system for which the likelihood
            of failure of such system creates a risk to air safety or
            security due to the age, ability to be maintained in a cost-
            effective manner, vulnerability to degradation, errors, or
            malicious attacks of such system, or any other factors that may
            compromise the performance or security of such system, including
            a legacy system--
                        (A) that is vulnerable or susceptible to mechanical
                    failure; and
                        (B) with a risk of a single point of failure or that
                    lacks sufficient contingencies in the event of such
                    failure.
    SEC. 623. <<NOTE: Deadlines. Recommenda- tions.>>  AIR TRAFFIC
                            CONTROL FACILITY REALIGNMENT STUDY.

        (a) Examination.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  In general.--Not later than 180
            days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
            shall seek to enter into an agreement with a federally funded
            research and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1240]]

            development center to conduct an Air Traffic Control Facility
            Realignment study to examine consolidating or otherwise
            reorganizing air traffic control facilities and the management
            of airspace controlled by such facilities.
                (2) Contents.--In the study required under paragraph (1),
            the federally funded research and development center shall--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  evaluate the potential
                    efficiencies that may result from a reorganization;
                        (B) identify whether certain areas prone to airspace
                    congestion or facility staff shortages would benefit
                    from any enhanced flexibilities or operational changes;
                    and
                        (C) recommend opportunities for integration of
                    separate facilities to create a more collaborative and
                    efficient traffic control environment.
                (3) Consultation.--In carrying out this subsection, the
            federally funded research and development center shall consult
            with the exclusive representatives of air traffic controllers
            certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code.

        (b) Report.--Not later than 15 months after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the federally funded research and development center shall
    submit to the Administrator a report detailing the findings of the study
    required under subsection (a) and recommendations related to
    consolidation or reorganization of air traffic control work facilities
    and locations.
        (c) Congressional Briefing.--Not later than 18 months after
    receiving the report under subsection (b), the Administrator shall brief
    the appropriate committees of Congress on the results of the study under
    subsection (a) and any recommendations under subsection (b) related to
    consolidation or reorganization of air traffic control work facilities
    and locations.
    SEC. 624. 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 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) <<NOTE: Criteria. Determination.>>  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) <<NOTE: Investigation. Determination.>>  what types of
            investigation the Administrator carries out to determine if an
            air traffic control tower facility should be replaced;
                (4) <<NOTE: Timeline.>>  a timeline of the replacement
            process for an individual air traffic control tower facility
            replacement;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1241]]

                (5) <<NOTE: List.>>  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) <<NOTE: 49 USC 47124 note.>>  List of Replaced Air Traffic
    Control Tower Facilities.-- <<NOTE: Web posting.>> The Administrator
    shall establish, maintain, and publish on the website of the FAA a list
    of the following:
                (1) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  All air traffic control tower
            facilities replaced within the 10-year period preceding the date
            of enactment of this Act.
                (2) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Any air traffic control tower
            facilities for which the Administrator has made a determination
            requiring replacement, but for which such replacement has not
            yet been completed.
    SEC. 625. CONTRACT TOWER PROGRAM SAFETY ENHANCEMENTS.

        (a) <<NOTE: 49 USC 47124 note.>>  Pilot Program for Transitioning to
    FAA Towers.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--Not later than 18
            months after the date of enactment of this Act, the
            Administrator shall establish a pilot program to convert high-
            activity air traffic control towers operating under the Contract
            Tower Program as established under section 47124 of title 49,
            United States Code, (in this section referred to as the
            ``Contract Tower Program'') to a level I (Visual Flight Rules)
            tower staffed by the FAA.
                (2) Priority.--In selecting air traffic control towers to
            participate in the pilot program established under paragraph
            (1), the Administrator shall prioritize air traffic control
            towers operating under the Contract Tower Program that--
                        (A) either--
                              (i) had over 200,000 annual tower operations
                          in calendar year 2022; or
                              (ii) served a small hub airport with more than
                          900,000 passenger enplanements in calendar year
                          2021;
                        (B) are either currently owned by the FAA or are
                    constructed to FAA standards; and
                        (C) operate within complex airspace, including
                    airspace that serves air carrier, general aviation, and
                    military aircraft.
                (3) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Tower selection.--The number
            of air traffic control towers selected to participate in the
            pilot program established under paragraph (1) shall be
            determined based on the availability of funds for the pilot
            program and the interest of the airport sponsor related to such
            facility.
                (4) <<NOTE: Appointment.>>  Controller retention.--With
            respect to any high-activity air traffic control tower selected
            to be converted under the pilot program established under
            paragraph (1), the Administrator shall appoint to the position
            of air traffic controller any air traffic controller who--
                        (A) is employed at such air traffic control tower as
                    of the date on which the Administrator selects such
                    tower to be converted;
                        (B) meets the qualifications contained in section
                    44506(f)(1)(A) of title 49, United States Code; and
                        (C) has all other pre-employment qualifications
                    required by law to be a certified controller of the FAA.
                (5) Safety analysis.--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1242]]

                        (A) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  In general.--The
                    Administrator shall conduct a safety analysis to
                    determine whether the conversion of any air traffic
                    control tower described in paragraph (1) negatively
                    impacts aviation safety at such air traffic control
                    tower and take such actions needed to address any
                    negative impact.
                        (B) Report.--Not later than 3 years after the date
                    of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit
                    to the appropriate committees of Congress a report
                    describing the results of the safety analysis under
                    subparagraph (A), any actions taken to address any
                    negative impacts to safety, and the overall results of
                    the pilot program established under this subsection.
                (6) Authorization of appropriations.--Out of amounts made
            available under section 106(k) of title 49, United States Code,
            there is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
            subsection $30,000,000 to remain available for 5 fiscal years.

        (b) Air Traffic Controller Staffing Levels at Small and Medium Hub
    Airports.--Section 47124(b)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended--
                (1) by striking ``The Secretary may'' and inserting the
            following:
                        ``(A) In general.--The Secretary may''; and
                (2) by adding at the end the following:
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Requirement. Deadline.>>  Small or
                    medium hub airports.--In the case of a contract entered
                    into on or after the date of enactment of this
                    subparagraph to operate an airport traffic control tower
                    at a small or medium hub airport, the contract shall
                    require the Secretary, after coordination with the
                    airport sponsor and the entity, State, or subdivision,
                    and not later than 18 months after the date of enactment
                    of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, to provide
                    funding sufficient for the cost of wages and benefits of
                    at least 2 air traffic controllers for each tower
                    operating shift.''.

        (c) Priorities for Facility Selection.--Section 47124(b)(3)(C) of
    title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the
    following:
                              ``(viii) Air traffic control towers at
                          airports with safety or operational problems
                          related to the lack of an existing tower.
                              ``(ix) Air traffic control towers at airports
                          with projected commercial and military increases
                          in aircraft or flight operations.
                              ``(x) Air traffic control towers at airports
                          with a variety of aircraft operations, including a
                          variety of commercial and military flight
                          operations.''.
    SEC. 626. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON USE OF ADVANCED SURVEILLANCE IN
                            OCEANIC AIRSPACE.

        It is the sense of Congress the FAA shall continue to evaluate the
    potential uses for space-based automatic dependent surveillance
    broadcast to improve surveillance coverage of domestic airspace
    including improving surveillance coverage over remote terrain and in
    oceanic airspace. If determined appropriate by the Administrator, the
    FAA shall consider whether additional testing would meaningfully
    contribute to the FAA's processes for developing separation standards
    and more efficient routes.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1243]]

    SEC. 627. LOW-ALTITUDE ROUTES FOR VERTICAL FLIGHT.

        (a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the
    national airspace system requires additional rotorcraft, powered-lift
    aircraft, and low-altitude instrument flight rules, routes leveraging
    advances in performance based navigation in order to provide direct,
    safe, and reliable routes that ensure sufficient separation from higher
    altitude fixed wing aircraft traffic.
        (b) <<NOTE: 49 USC 40103 note.>>  Low-altitude Rotorcraft and
    Powered-lift Aircraft Instrument Flight Routes.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Regulations. Update. Procedure.>>  In
            general.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of
            this Act, the Administrator shall initiate a rulemaking process
            to establish or update, as appropriate, low altitude routes and
            flight procedures to ensure safe rotorcraft and powered-lift
            aircraft operations in the national airspace system.
                (2) Requirements.--In carrying out this subsection, the
            Administrator shall--
                        (A) incorporate instrument flight rules rotorcraft
                    operations into the low-altitude performance based
                    navigation procedure infrastructure;
                        (B) prioritize the development of new helicopter
                    area navigation instrument flight rules routes as part
                    of the United States air traffic service route structure
                    that utilize performance based navigation, such as
                    Global Positioning System and Global Navigation
                    Satellite System equipment; and
                        (C) consider the impact of such low altitude flight
                    routes on other airspace users and impacted communities
                    to ensure that such routes are designed to minimize--
                              (i) the potential for conflict with existing
                          national airspace system operations;
                              (ii) the workload of air traffic controllers;
                          and
                              (iii) negative effects to impacted
                          communities.
                (3) Consultation.--In carrying out the rulemaking process
            under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall consult with--
                        (A) stakeholders in the airport, heliport,
                    rotorcraft manufacturer and operator, general aviation
                    operator, powered-lift operator, air carrier, and
                    performance based navigation technology manufacturer
                    sectors;
                        (B) the United States Helicopter Safety Team;
                        (C) exclusive bargaining representatives of air
                    traffic controllers certified under section 7111 of
                    title 5, United States Code; and
                        (D) other stakeholders determined appropriate by the
                    Administrator.
    SEC. 628. 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,

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1244]]

                    information, and recommendations provided by the
                    advisory group to the Administrator and the Director.''.
    SEC. 629. <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  UPGRADING AND REPLACING AGING
                            AIR TRAFFIC SYSTEMS.

        (a) Study.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Contracts.>>  In general.--Not later
            than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
            Administrator shall seek to enter into an agreement with a
            qualified organization to conduct a study to assess the need for
            upgrades to or replacement of existing automated surface
            observation systems/automated weather observing systems (in this
            section referred to as ``ASOS/AWOS'') located in non-contiguous
            States.
                (2) <<NOTE: Analyses.>>  Contents.--The study conducted
            under paragraph (1) shall include an analysis of--
                        (A) the age of each ASOS/AWOS located in non-
                    contiguous States;
                        (B) the number of days in the calendar year
                    preceding the date on which the study is conducted that
                    each such ASOS/AWOS was not able to accurately
                    communicate or disseminate data for any period of time;
                        (C) impacts of extreme severe weather on ASOS/AWOS
                    outages;
                        (D) the effective coverage of the existing ASOS/
                    AWOS;
                        (E) detailed upgrade requirements for each existing
                    ASOS/AWOS, including an assessment of whether
                    replacement would be the most cost-effective
                    recommendation;
                        (F) prior maintenance expenditures for each existing
                    ASOS/AWOS;
                        (G) a description of all upgrades or replacements
                    made by the FAA to ASOS/AWOS prior to the date of
                    enactment of this Act;
                        (H) impacts of an outage or break in service in the
                    FAA Telecommunications Infrastructure on such ASOS/AWOS;
                    and
                        (I) any other matter determined appropriate by the
                    Administrator.

        (b) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees
    of Congress a report on the findings of the study conducted under
    subsection (a), and include in such report--
                (1) <<NOTE: Plan.>>  a plan for executing upgrades to or
            replacements of existing ASOS/AWOS located in non-contiguous
            States;
                (2) <<NOTE: Plan.>>  a plan for converting and upgrading
            such ASOS/AWOS communications to the FAA Telecommunications
            Infrastructure;
                (3) an assessment of the use of unmonitored navigational
            aids to allow for alternate airport planning for commercial and
            cargo aviation to limit ASOS/AWOS service disruptions;
                (4) <<NOTE: Evaluation. Compliance.>>  an evaluation of
            additional alternative methods of compliance for obtaining
            weather elements that would be as sufficient as current data
            received through ASOS/AWOS; and
                (5) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  any other recommendation
            determined appropriate by the Administrator.

        (c) Funding.--To carry out the study under this section, the
    Administrator may use amounts made available pursuant to section
    48101(c)(1) of title 49, United States Code.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1245]]

    SEC. 630. 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 should prioritize the development and
            deployment of technologies to improve visibility of space launch
            and reentry operations within FAA 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.--
    <<NOTE: Time periods. Determination. Deadline.>> Out of amounts made
    available under section 48101 of title 49, United States Code,
    $10,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2028 (or until
    such time as the Administrator determines that the project meeting the
    requirements of this section has reached an operational status) is
    available for the Administrator to carry out a project to expedite the
    development, acquisition, and deployment of technologies or capabilities
    to aid in space launch and reentry integration with the objective of
    operational readiness not later than December 31, 2026, which may
    include--
                (1) technologies recommended by the Airspace Access
            Priorities aviation rulemaking committee in the final report
            titled ``ARC Recommendations Final Report'', issued on August
            21, 2019;
                (2) systems to enable the integration of launch and reentry
            data directly onto air traffic controller displays; and
                (3) automated systems to enable near real-time planning and
            dynamic rerouting of commercial aircraft during and following
            commercial space launch and reentry operations.
    SEC. 631. <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  UPDATE TO FAA ORDER ON AIRWAY
                            PLANNING STANDARD.

        Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall take such actions as may be necessary to update ,the
    order of the FAA titled ``Airway Planning Standard Number One-Terminal
    Air Navigation Facilities and Air Traffic Control Services'' (FAA Order
    7031.2c), to lower the remote radar bright display scope installation
    requirement from 30,000 annual itinerant operations to 15,000 annual
    itinerant operations.

                  TITLE VII--MODERNIZING AIRPORT INFRASTRUCTURE

              Subtitle A--Airport Improvement Program Modifications

    SEC. 701. DEVELOPMENT OF AIRPORT PLANS.

        Section 47101(g) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1246]]

                (1) in paragraph (1) in the second sentence, by inserting
            ``(including long-term resilience from the impact of natural
            hazards and severe weather events)'' after ``environmental'';
            and
                (2) in paragraph (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 new
                    subparagraph:
                        ``(E) consider the impact of hazardous weather
                    events on long-term operational resilience.''.
    SEC. 702. AIP DEFINITIONS.

        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 such 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)--
                              (i) in clause (iii) by inserting ``and fuel
                          infrastructure for such equipment to remove snow''
                          after ``surveillance equipment'';
                              (ii) in clause (ix) by striking ``and'' at the
                          end;
                              (iii) in clause (x) by striking the period and
                          inserting ``; and''; and
                              (iv) by adding at the end the following:
                              ``(xi) a medium intensity approach lighting
                          system with runway alignment indicator lights.'';
                        (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)--
                              (i) by striking ``improve the reliability and
                          efficiency of the airport's power supply'' and
                          inserting ``improve reliability and efficiency of
                          the power supply of the airport or meet current
                          and future electrical power demand'';

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1247]]

                              (ii) by inserting ``, renewable energy
                          generation and storage infrastructure (including
                          necessary substation upgrades to support such
                          infrastructure)'' after ``electrical generators'';
                              (iii) by striking ``supply, and'' and
                          inserting ``supply,''; and
                              (iv) by striking the period at the end and
                          inserting ``, and smart glass (including
                          electrochromic glass).''; and
                        (G) by adding at the end the following:
                        ``(S) acquisition of advanced digital construction
                    management systems and related technology used in the
                    planning, design and engineering, construction, and
                    maintenance of airport facilities when such systems or
                    technologies are acquired to carry out a project
                    approved by the Secretary under this subchapter.
                        ``(T) improvements, or planning for improvements
                    (including monitoring equipment or services), that would
                    be necessary to sustain commercial service flight
                    operations or permit the resumption of such flight
                    operations following a natural disaster (including an
                    earthquake, flooding, high water, wildfires, hurricane,
                    storm surge, tidal wave, tornado, tsunami, wind driven
                    water, sea level rise, tropical storm, cyclone, land
                    instability, or winter storm) at--
                              ``(i) a primary airport; or
                              ``(ii) a nonprimary airport that is designated
                          as a Federal staging area or incident support base
                          by the Administrator of the Federal Emergency
                          Management Agency.
                        ``(U) a project to comply with rulemakings and
                    recommendations on airport cybersecurity standards from
                    the aviation rulemaking committee convened under section
                    395 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024.
                        ``(V) reconstructing or rehabilitating an existing
                    crosswind runway (regardless of the wind coverage of the
                    primary runway) if the reconstruction or rehabilitation
                    of such crosswind runway is in the most recently
                    approved airport layout plan of the sponsor.
                        ``(W) constructing or acquiring such airport-owned
                    infrastructure or equipment, notwithstanding revenue
                    producing capability of such infrastructure or
                    equipment, as may be required for--
                              ``(i) the on-airport distribution or storage
                          of unleaded aviation gasoline for piston-driven
                          aircraft, including on-airport construction or
                          expansion of pipelines, storage tanks, low-
                          emission fuel systems, and airport-owned fuel
                          trucks providing exclusively unleaded aviation
                          fuels (unless the Secretary determines that an
                          alternative fuel may be safely used in such fuel
                          truck for a limited time); or
                              ``(ii) fueling systems for type certificated
                          hydrogen-powered aircraft.
                        ``(X) constructing, reconstructing, or
                    rehabilitating a taxiway or taxilane that serves non-
                    exclusive use aeronautical facilities, including
                    aircraft storage facilities, except for the 50 feet of
                    pavement immediately in front of an ineligible building.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1248]]

                        ``(Y) any other activity (excluding terminal
                    development) that the Secretary concludes will
                    reasonably improve the safety of the airport.'';
                (3) in paragraph (5)--
                        (A) in subparagraph (A) by inserting ``and catchment
                    area analyses'' after ``planning'';
                        (B) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``and'' at the
                    end;
                        (C) in subparagraph (C) by striking the period at
                    the end and inserting ``; and''; and
                        (D) by adding at the end the following:
                        ``(D) assessing current and future electrical power
                    demand for airport airside and landside activities.'';
                (4) in paragraph (20)--
                        (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) the Republic of the Marshall Islands,
                    Federated States of Micronesia, and Republic of
                    Palau.'';
                (5) in paragraph (27) by striking ``the Trust Territory of
            the Pacific Islands,''; and
                (6) in paragraph (28)(B) 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''.
    SEC. 703. 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) <<NOTE: 49 USC 47107 note.>>  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. 704. EXTENSION OF COMPETITIVE ACCESS REPORT REQUIREMENT.

        Section 47107(r)(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by
    striking ``May 11, 2024'' and inserting ``October 1, 2028''.
    SEC. 705. 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.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1249]]

    SEC. 706. 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 section 47133, 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) <<NOTE: Applicability.>>  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) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  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) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  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 purchased
                          using funds from a Federal grant for acquiring
                          land issued prior to January 1, 1989;
                              ``(iv) <<NOTE: Statement. Time period.>>  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) <<NOTE: Contracts. Time periods.>>  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) <<NOTE: Certification.>>  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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1250]]

                        ``(B) 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 January 1, 1989;
                              ``(ii) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  to airport
                          property that has been continuously leased or
                          licensed through a written agreement with a
                          governmental entity or non-profit entity for
                          recreational or public park uses since July 1,
                          2003;
                              ``(iii) <<NOTE: Statement.>>  if the airport
                          sponsor has provided a written statement to the
                          Administrator that the recreational or public park
                          use does not impact the aeronautical use of the
                          airport and that the property to be permanently
                          restricted for recreational or 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) <<NOTE: Certification.>>  if the
                          airport sponsor provides a certification to the
                          Administrator that the sponsor is not responsible
                          for operations, maintenance, or any other costs
                          associated with the recreational or public park
                          use;
                              ``(v) if the recreational purpose is
                          consistent with Federal land use compatibility
                          criteria under section 47502; and
                              ``(vi) if the airport sponsor will--
                                        ``(I) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  lease
                                    the property to a local government
                                    entity or non-profit entity to operate
                                    and maintain the property at no cost to
                                    the airport sponsor; or
                                        ``(II) transfer title to the
                                    property to a local government entity
                                    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
            leasing or selling a portion of airport property as described in
            paragraph (2)(B)(vi) may--
                        ``(A) lease or 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 lease or sale of such
                    portion of airport property for use in accordance with
                    section 47133.
                ``(4) <<NOTE: Statement. Certification. Requirement.>>
            Secretary review and approval.--Notwithstanding any other
            provision of law, and subject to the sponsor providing a written
            statement certifying such sponsor meets the requirements under
            this subsection, no actions permitted under this subsection
            shall require the review or approval of the Secretary of
            Transportation.
                ``(5) 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.
                ``(6) Aeronautical use; aeronautical purpose defined.--In
            this subsection, the terms `aeronautical use' and `aeronautical
            purpose'--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1251]]

                        ``(A) mean all activities that involve or are
                    directly related to the operation of aircraft, including
                    activities that make the operation of aircraft possible
                    and safe;
                        ``(B) include services located at an airport that
                    are directly and substantially related to the movement
                    of passengers, baggage, mail, and cargo; and
                        ``(C) do not include any uses of an airport that are
                    not described in subparagraph (A) or (B), including any
                    aviation-related uses that do not need to be located at
                    an airport, such as flight kitchens and airline
                    reservation centers.''.
    SEC. 707. 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), based on creditable
                    appraisals at the time of the acquisition or a court
                    award in a condemnation proceeding, by not more than the
                    greater of--
                              ``(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) <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts.>>  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. 708. UPDATING UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT'S SHARE OF PROJECT
                            COSTS.

        Section 47109 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding
    at the end the following:
        ``(h) Special Rule for Fiscal Years 2025 and 2026.--Notwithstanding
    subsection (a), the Government's share of allowable project

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1252]]

    costs for a grant made to a nonhub or nonprimary airport in each of
    fiscal years 2025 and 2026 shall be 95 percent.''.
    SEC. 709. 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. 710. 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.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Schedule. Reimbursement.>>  Contents.--In the
            letter issued under paragraph (1), the Secretary 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.
                ``(3) 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.
                ``(4) Financing.--Allowable project costs under paragraphs
            (1) and (2) may include costs associated with making payments
            for debt service on indebtedness incurred to carry out the
            project.
                ``(5) Requirements.--The Secretary shall issue a letter of
            intent under paragraph (1) only if--
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Notification.>>  the sponsor notifies
                    the Secretary, before the project begins, of the intent
                    of the sponsor to carry out the project and requests a
                    letter of intent; and
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Compliance.>>  the sponsor agrees to
                    comply with all statutory and administrative
                    requirements that would apply to the

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1253]]

                    project if it were carried out with amounts made
                    available under this subchapter.
                ``(6) Assessment.--In reviewing a request for a letter of
            intent under this subsection, the Secretary shall consider the
            grant history of an airport, the enplanements or operations of
            an airport, and such other factors as the Secretary determines
            appropriate.
                ``(7) 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), or 47114(d)(6),
                          including funds apportioned under such sections in
                          multiple fiscal years pursuant to section
                          47117(b)(1); and
                              ``(ii) are necessary to the continued safe
                          operation or development of an airport; and
                        ``(B) structure the reimbursement schedules under
                    such letters in a manner that minimizes unnecessary or
                    undesirable project segmentation.
                ``(8) No obligation or commitment.--
                        ``(A) In general.--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.
                        ``(B) Obligation or commitment.--An obligation or
                    administrative commitment may be made only as amounts
                    are provided in authorization and appropriation Acts.
                ``(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. 711. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  PROHIBITION ON PROVISION
                            OF AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT GRANT FUNDS TO
                            CERTAIN ENTITIES THAT HAVE VIOLATED
                            INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS OF UNITED
                            STATES ENTITIES.

        (a) <<NOTE: Effective date.>>  In General.--Beginning on the date
    that is 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, amounts
    provided as project grants under subchapter I of chapter 471 of title
    49, United States Code, may not be used to enter into a covered contract
    with any entity on the list required under subsection (b).

        (b) List Required.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Public information.>>  In general.--
            Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act,
            and thereafter as required under paragraph (2), the United
            States Trade Representative, the Attorney General, and the
            Administrator shall make available

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1254]]

            to the Administrator a publicly-available list of entities
            manufacturing airport passenger boarding infrastructure or
            equipment that--
                        (A) <<NOTE: China.>>  are owned, directed by, or
                    subsidized in whole or in part by the People's Republic
                    of China;
                        (B) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  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;
                        (C) own or control, are owned or controlled by, are
                    under common ownership or control with, or are
                    successors to an entity described in subparagraph (A);
                    or
                        (D) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  have entered into an
                    agreement with or accepted funding from, whether in the
                    form of minority investment interest or debt, have
                    entered into a partnership with, or have entered into
                    another contractual or other written arrangement with an
                    entity described in subparagraph (A).
                (2) <<NOTE: Time periods.>>  Updates to list.--The United
            States Trade Representative shall update the list required under
            paragraph (1), based on information provided by the Attorney
            General and the Administrator--
                        (A) not less frequently than every 90 days during
                    the 180-day period following the initial publication of
                    the list under paragraph (1); and
                        (B) not less frequently than annually thereafter.

        (c) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) <<NOTE: Applicability.>>  In general.--The definitions
            in section 47102 of title 49, United States Code, shall apply.
                (2) Covered contract.--The term ``covered contract'' means a
            contract or other agreement for the procurement of
            infrastructure or equipment for a passenger boarding bridge at
            an airport.
    SEC. 712. 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1255]]

                        ``(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) <<NOTE: Time periods.>>  Public airports with
                    military use.--Notwithstanding any other provision of
                    law, a public airport shall be considered a primary
                    airport in each of fiscal years 2025 through 2028 for
                    purposes of this chapter if such airport was--
                              ``(i) designated as a primary airport in
                          fiscal year 2017; and
                              ``(ii) in use by an air reserve station in the
                          calendar year used to calculate apportionments to
                          airport sponsors in a fiscal year.
                        ``(F) Special rule for fiscal year 2024.--
                    Notwithstanding any other provision of this paragraph or
                    the absence of scheduled passenger service at an
                    airport, the Secretary shall apportion in fiscal year
                    2024 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
                          fiscal year 2024.''.
                (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'';

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1256]]

                        (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) <<NOTE: Determinations.>>  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 Northern
                    Mariana Islands, or the 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 Amendments.--
                (1) Project grant application approval.--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)''.
                (2) Air traffic control contract program.--Section
            47124(b)(4) of title 49, United States Code, is further
            amended--
                        (A) in subparagraph (A)(ii)--
                              (i) in subclause (I) by striking ``sections
                          47114(c)(2) and 47114(d)'' and inserting
                          ``subsections (c) and (d) of section 47114'';

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1257]]

                              (ii) in subclause (II) by striking ``sections
                          47114(c)(2) and 47114(d)(3)(A)'' and inserting
                          ``sections 47114(c) and 47114(d)(2)(A)''; and
                              (iii) in subclause (III) by striking
                          ``sections 47114(c)(2) and 47114(d)(3)(A)'' and
                          inserting ``sections 47114(c) and
                          47114(d)(2)(A)''; and
                        (B) in subparagraph (B)(v) by striking ``section
                    47114(d)(2) or 47114(d)(3)(B)'' and inserting ``section
                    47114(d)(2)(B)''.
    SEC. 713. 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'';
                        (B) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``50 percent''
                    and inserting ``40 percent'' each place it appears; and
                        (C) 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) <<NOTE: Applicability. Time period.>>  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) <<NOTE: Time period. 49 USC 47114 note.>>  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. 714. AIRPORT SAFETY AND RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE
                            DISCRETIONARY PROGRAM.

        (a) In General.--Section 47115(j) of title 49, United States Code,
    is amended--
                (1) in the heading by striking ``Supplemental Discretionary
            Funds'' and inserting ``Airport Safety and Resilient
            Infrastructure Discretionary Program'';
                (2) <<NOTE: Grants.>>  in paragraph (3) by striking
            subparagraph (B) and inserting the following:
                        ``(B) Minimum allocation.--Not less than 50 percent
                    of the amounts available under this subsection shall be
                    used to provide grants at nonprimary, nonhub, and small
                    hub airports.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1258]]

                        ``(C) Prioritization.--In making grants for projects
                    eligible under subparagraph (D)(iii), the Secretary
                    shall prioritize grants to large and medium hub
                    airports.
                        ``(D) Eligibilities.--In making grants under this
                    subsection, the Secretary shall provide grants to
                    airports for projects that--
                              ``(i) meet the definition of `airport
                          development' under section 47102(3)(T);
                              ``(ii) would otherwise increase the resilience
                          of airport infrastructure against changing
                          flooding or inundation patterns; or
                              ``(iii) reduce runway incursions or increase
                          runway or taxiway safety.'';
                (3) in paragraph (4)(A) by striking clauses (i) through (vi)
            and inserting the following:
                              ``(i) $532,392,074 for fiscal year 2024.
                              ``(ii) $200,000,000 for fiscal year 2025.
                              ``(iii) $200,000,000 for fiscal year 2026.
                              ``(iv) $200,000,000 for fiscal year 2027.
                              ``(v) $200,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.'';
                          and
                (4) in paragraph (4)(B) by striking ``2 fiscal years'' and
            inserting ``3 fiscal years''.

        (b) Briefing.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Time period.>>  In general.--Not later
            than 6 months after the Secretary first awards a grant for
            fiscal year 2025 under section 47115(j) of title 49, United
            States Code, and annually thereafter through 2028, the Secretary
            shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on the grant
            program established under such section.
                (2) Contents.--In briefing the appropriate committees of
            Congress under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall include--
                        (A) a description of each project funded under the
                    grant program established under section 47115(j),
                    including the vulnerabilities such program addresses;
                        (B) a description of projects completed that
                    received funding under such program, including the total
                    time between award and project completion;
                        (C) a description of the consultation with other
                    agencies that the Secretary has undertaken in carrying
                    out such program;
                        (D) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommendations to
                    improve the administration of such program, including
                    additional consultation with other agencies and whether
                    additional appropriation levels are appropriate; and
                        (E) other items determined appropriate by the
                    Secretary.
    SEC. 715. SPECIAL CARRYOVER ASSUMPTION RULE.

        Section 47115 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding
    at the end the following:
        ``(l) Special Carryover Assumption Rule.--Notwithstanding any other
    provision of law, in addition to amounts made available under paragraphs
    (1) and (2) of subsection (a), the Secretary may add to the
    discretionary fund an amount equal to one-third of the apportionment
    funds made available under section 47114 that were not required during
    the previous fiscal year pursuant to section 47117(b)(1) out of the
    anticipated amount of apportionment funds

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1259]]

    made available under section 47114 that will not be required during the
    current fiscal year pursuant to section 47117(b)(1).''.
    SEC. 716. 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 Transient Aprons.--In distributing amounts
    from the fund described in subsection (a) to sponsors described in
    subsection (b)(2) and (b)(3), 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. 717. 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''; and
                (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), (P), (Q), and (W)
                                    of section 47102(3)'';

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1260]]

                                        (IV) by striking ``to comply with
                                    the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et
                                    seq.)''; and
                                        (V) by inserting ``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.'' after ``being met in that
                                    fiscal year.''; and
                              (ii) by striking subparagraph (C); and
                        (B) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the
                    following:
                ``(3) <<NOTE: Effective date. Grants.>>  Special rule.--
            Beginning in fiscal year 2026, 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
            apportionment funds made available under section 47114 that are
            not required during the fiscal year pursuant to subsection
            (b)(1) 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.''.
    SEC. 718. DISCRETIONARY FUND FOR TERMINAL DEVELOPMENT COSTS.

        (a) Terminal Projects at Transitioning Airports.--Section 47119(c)
    of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in paragraph (4) by striking ``or'' after the semicolon;
                (2) in paragraph (5)--
                        (A) by striking ``section 47114(d)(3)(A)'' and
                    inserting ``sections 47114(c) and 47114(d)(2)(A)''; and
                        (B) by striking the period at the end and inserting
                    ``; or''; and
                (3) by adding at the end the following:
                ``(6) <<NOTE: Determination. Study.>>  not more than
            $20,000,000 of the amount that may be distributed for the fiscal
            year from the discretionary fund established under section
            47115, to the sponsor of a nonprimary airport to pay costs
            allowable under subsection (a) for terminal development
            projects, if the Secretary determines (which may be based on
            actual and projected enplanement trends, as well as completion
            of an air service development study, demonstrated commitment by
            airlines to provide commercial service accommodating at least
            10,000 annual enplanements, the documented commitment of a
            sponsor to providing the remaining funding to complete the
            proposed project, and a favorable environmental finding
            (including all required permits) in support of the proposed
            project) that the status of the nonprimary airport is reasonably
            expected to change to primary status based on enplanements for
            the third calendar year after the issuance of the discretionary
            grant.''.

        (b) Limitation.--Section 47119(f) of title 49, United States Code,
    is amended by striking ``$20,000,000'' and inserting ``$30,000,000''.
    SEC. 719. <<NOTE: Determinations.>>  PROTECTING GENERAL AVIATION
                            AIRPORTS FROM CLOSURE.

        (a) Non-surplus Property.--Section 47125 of title 49, United States
    Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1261]]

        ``(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) <<NOTE: List.>>  Annual reporting.--The Secretary
            shall include a list and description of each waiver granted
            pursuant to paragraph (1) in the plan required under section
            47103.''.

        (b) Surplus Property.--
                (1) In general.--Section 47151 of title 49, United States
            Code, is amended by striking subsection (d) and inserting the
            following:

        ``(d) <<NOTE: Notice. Time period.>>  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.''.
                (2) Waiving and adding terms.--Section 47153 of title 49,
            United States Code, is amended by striking subsection (c) and
            inserting the following:

        ``(c) Restrictions on Waiver.--Notwithstanding subsections (a) and
    (b), the Secretary may not waive any term under this

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1262]]

    section that an interest in land be used for an aeronautical purpose
    unless--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Notice. Time period.>>  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. 720. STATE BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM.

        (a) 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.''.

        (b) 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) <<NOTE: Memorandum.>>  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.--
                        ``(A) In general.--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.
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Requirement.>>  Parity.--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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1263]]

                    respect to such action if the State did not participate
                    in the program.
                ``(3) Responsibilities.--Unless the State expressly agrees
            to retain responsibility, the Administrator shall retain
            responsibility for the following:
                        ``(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, compatibility
                    planning, and airport layout plan review and approval
                    (consistent with section 47107(x)) 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.''.

        (c) <<NOTE: Distributions.>>  IIJA State Block Grant Program
    Administrative Funding.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--Not later than 180
            days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary
            shall distribute administrative funding to assist States
            participating in the State block grant program under section
            47128 of title 49, United States Code, with program
            implementation of airport infrastructure projects under the
            Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58).
                (2) Funding source.--In distributing administrative funds to
            States under this subsection, the Secretary shall distribute
            such funds from the funds made available in the Infrastructure
            Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58) for personnel,
            contracting, and other costs to administer and oversee grants of
            the Airport Infrastructure Grants, Contract Tower Competitive
            Grant Program, and Airport Terminal Program.
                (3) <<NOTE: Time periods.>>  Administrative funds.--With
            respect to administrative funds made available for fiscal years
            2022 through 2026--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  the amount of
                    administrative funds available for distribution under
                    paragraph (2) shall be an amount equal to a percentage
                    determined by the Secretary, but not less than 2
                    percent, of the annual allocations provided under the
                    heading ``AIRPORT INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS'' under the
                    heading ``FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION'' 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 Grant program;
                        (B) administrative funds distributed under paragraph
                    (2) shall be used by such States to--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1264]]

                              (i) administer and oversee, as outlined in a
                          memorandum of agreement or other agreement between
                          the FAA and the State, all airport grant program
                          funds provided under the Infrastructure Investment
                          and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58) to non-primary
                          airports participating in the State's block grant
                          program, whether through direct allocation or
                          through competitive selection; and
                              (ii) carry out the public purposes of
                          supporting eligible and justified airport
                          development and infrastructure projects as
                          provided in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs
                          Act (Public Law 117-58); and
                        (C) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  except as provided in
                    paragraph (4), such administrative funds shall be
                    distributed to such States through a cooperative
                    agreement executed between the State and the FAA not
                    later than December 1 of each fiscal year in which the
                    Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-
                    58) provides airport grant program funds.
                (4) <<NOTE: Time periods. Contracts. Deadline.>>  Initial
            distribution.--With respect to administrative funds made
            available for fiscal years 2022 through 2024, funds available as
            of the date of enactment of this Act shall be distributed to
            States through a cooperative agreement executed between the
            State and the FAA not later than 30 days after such date of
            enactment.

        (d) Report.--The Comptroller General shall issue to the appropriate
    committees of Congress a report on the Office of Airports of the FAA 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.
    SEC. 721. <<NOTE: Grants.>>  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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1265]]

                ``(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. 722. 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. 723. 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) <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts.>>  Pilot Program.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Pilot program.--Not later than
            270 days after the date of enactment of this section, the
            Secretary shall establish a pilot program under which the
            Administrator may award grants for integrated project delivery
            contracts, as described in subsection (d)(2), to carry out up to
            5 building construction projects at airports in the United
            States with a grant awarded under section 47104.
                ``(2) Application.--
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Requirement.>>  Eligibility.--A
                    sponsor of an airport may submit to the Secretary an
                    application, in such time and manner and containing such
                    information as the Secretary may require, to carry out a
                    building construction project under the pilot program
                    that would otherwise be eligible for assistance under
                    this chapter.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1266]]

                        ``(B) Approval.--The Secretary may approve the
                    application of a sponsor of an airport submitted under
                    paragraph (1) to authorize such sponsor to award an
                    integrated project delivery contract using a selection
                    process permitted under applicable State or local law
                    if--
                              ``(i) <<NOTE: Criteria.>>  the Secretary
                          approves the application using criteria
                          established by the Secretary;
                              ``(ii) the integrated project delivery
                          contract is in a form that is approved by the
                          Secretary;
                              ``(iii) the Secretary is satisfied that the
                          contract will be executed pursuant to competitive
                          procedures and contains a schematic design and any
                          other material that the Secretary determines
                          sufficient to approve the grant;
                              ``(iv) the Secretary is satisfied that the use
                          of an integrated project delivery contract will be
                          cost effective and expedite the project;
                              ``(v) the Secretary is satisfied that there
                          will be no conflict of interest; and
                              ``(vi) the Secretary is satisfied that the
                          contract selection process will be open, fair, and
                          objective and that not less than 2 sets of
                          proposals will be submitted for each team entity
                          under the selection process.
                ``(3) Reimbursement of costs.--
                        ``(A) In general.--The Secretary may reimburse a
                    sponsor of an airport for any design or construction
                    costs incurred before a grant is made pursuant to this
                    section if--
                              ``(i) the project funding is approved by the
                          Secretary in advance;
                              ``(ii) the project is carried out in
                          accordance with all administrative and statutory
                          requirements under this chapter; and
                              ``(iii) the project is carried out under this
                          chapter after a grant agreement has been executed.
                        ``(B) Accounting.--Reimbursement of costs shall be
                    based on transparent cost accounting or open book cost
                    accounting.

        ``(d) 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 through alternative
            project delivery methods, including construction manager-at-risk
            and progressive design build; 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) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 2 years after the
    Secretary establishes the pilot program under section 47142(c) of title
    49, United

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1267]]

    States Code (as amended by subsection (a)), the Secretary shall brief
    the appropriate committees of Congress on whether integrated project
    delivery or other covered project delivery contracts authorized under
    such section resulted in any project efficiencies.

        (c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 471 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 47101.>>  is amended by
    striking the item relating to section 47142 and inserting the following:

    ``47142. Alternative project delivery.''.

    SEC. 724. NONMOVEMENT AREA SURVEILLANCE SURFACE DISPLAY SYSTEMS
                            PILOT PROGRAM.

        Section 47143(c) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by
    striking ``May 11, 2024'' and inserting ``October 1, 2028''.
    SEC. 725. AIRPORT ACCESSIBILITY.

        (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. <<NOTE: Grants. Disabled persons. 49 USC 47145.>>
                        Pilot program for airport accessibility

        ``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall establish
    and carry out a pilot program to award grants to sponsors to carry out
    capital projects to upgrade the accessibility of commercial service
    airports for individuals with disabilities by increasing the number of
    commercial service airports, airport terminals, or airport facilities
    that meet or exceed the standards and regulations under the Americans
    with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12131 et seq.) and the
    Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 701 note).
        ``(b) Use of Funds.--
                ``(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), a sponsor shall
            use a grant awarded under this section--
                        ``(A) for a project to repair, improve, or relocate
                    the infrastructure of an airport, airport terminal, or
                    airport facility to increase accessibility for
                    individuals with disabilities, or as part of a plan to
                    increase accessibility for individuals with
                    disabilities;
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Plan.>>  to develop or modify a plan
                    (as described in subsection (e)) for a project that
                    increases accessibility for individuals with
                    disabilities, including--
                              ``(i) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  assessments of
                          accessibility or assessments of planned
                          modifications to an airport, airport terminal, or
                          airport facility for passenger use, performed by
                          the disability advisory committee of the recipient
                          airport (if applicable), the protection and
                          advocacy system for individuals with disabilities
                          in the applicable State, a center for independent
                          living, or a disability organization, including an
                          advocacy or nonprofit organization that represents
                          or provides services to individuals with
                          disabilities; or
                              ``(ii) coordination by the disability advisory
                          committee of the recipient airport with a
                          protection and advocacy system, center for
                          independent living, or such disability
                          organization; or
                        ``(C) to carry out any other project that meets or
                    exceeds the standards and regulations described in
                    subsection (a).
                ``(2) Limitation.--Eligible costs for a project funded with
            a grant awarded under this section shall be limited to the costs
            associated with carrying out the purpose authorized under
            subsection (a).

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1268]]

        ``(c) Eligibility.--A sponsor may use a grant under this section to
    upgrade a commercial service airport that is accessible to and usable by
    individuals with disabilities--
                ``(1) consistent with the current (as of the date of the
            upgrade) standards and regulations described in subsection (a);
            and
                ``(2) even if the related service, program, or activity,
            when viewed in the entirely of the service, program, or
            activity, is readily accessible and usable as so described.

        ``(d) Selection Criteria.--In making grants to sponsors under this
    section, the Secretary shall give priority to sponsors that are
    proposing--
                ``(1) a capital project to upgrade the accessibility of a
            commercial service airport that is not accessible to and usable
            by individuals with disabilities consistent with standards and
            regulations described in subsection (a); or
                ``(2) to meet or exceed the Airports Council International
            accreditation under the Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation,
            through the incorporation of universal design principles.

        ``(e) <<NOTE: Plan.>>  Accessibility Commitment.--A sponsor that
    receives a grant under this section shall adopt a plan under which the
    sponsor commits to pursuing airport accessibility projects that--
                ``(1) enhance the passenger experience and maximize
            accessibility of commercial service airports, airport terminals,
            or airport facilities for individuals with disabilities,
            including by--
                        ``(A) upgrading bathrooms, counters, or pumping
                    rooms;
                        ``(B) increasing audio and visual accessibility on
                    information boards, security gates, or paging systems;
                        ``(C) <<NOTE: Updates.>>  updating airport terminals
                    to increase the availability of accessible seating and
                    power outlets for durable medical equipment (such as
                    powered wheelchairs);
                        ``(D) <<NOTE: Updates. Websites.>>  updating airport
                    websites and other information communication technology
                    to be accessible for individuals with disabilities; or
                        ``(E) increasing the number of elevators, including
                    elevators that move power wheelchairs to an aircraft;
                ``(2) improve the operations of, provide efficiencies of
            service to, and enhance the use of commercial service airports
            for individuals with disabilities;
                ``(3) <<NOTE: Establishment.>>  establish a disability
            advisory committee if the airport is a small, medium, or large
            hub airport; and
                ``(4) make improvements in personnel, infrastructure, and
            technology that can assist passenger self-identification
            regarding disability and needing assistance.

        ``(f) Coordination With Disability Advocacy Entities.--In
    administering grants under this section, the Secretary shall encourage--
                ``(1) engagement with disability advocacy entities (such as
            the disability advisory committee of the sponsor) and a
            protection and advocacy system for individuals with disabilities
            in the applicable State, a center for independent living, or a
            disability organization, including an advocacy or nonprofit
            organization that represents or provides services to individuals
            with disabilities; and
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  assessments of accessibility
            or assessments of planned modifications to commercial service
            airports to the extent merited by the scope of the capital
            project of the sponsor proposed

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1269]]

            to be assisted under this section, taking into account any such
            assessment already conducted by the Federal Aviation
            Administration.

        ``(g) Federal Share of Costs.--The Government's share of allowable
    project costs for a project carried out with a grant under this section
    shall be the Government's share of allowable project costs specified
    under section 47109.
        ``(h) Definitions.--In this section:
                ``(1) Center for independent living.--The term `center for
            independent living' has the meaning given such term in section
            702 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 796a).
                ``(2) Disability advisory committee.--The term `disability
            advisory committee' means a body of stakeholders (including
            airport staff, airline representatives, and individuals with
            disabilities) that provide to airports and appropriate
            transportation authorities input from individuals with
            disabilities, including identifying opportunities for removing
            barriers, expanding accessibility features, and improving
            accessibility for individuals with disabilities at airports.
                ``(3) Protection and advocacy system.--The term `protection
            and advocacy system' means a system established in accordance
            with section 143 of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance
            and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 15043).

        ``(i) <<NOTE: Time periods.>>  Funding.--Notwithstanding any other
    provision of this chapter, for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2028,
    the Secretary may use up to $20,000,000 of the amounts that would
    otherwise be used to make grants from the discretionary fund under
    section 47115 for each such fiscal year to carry out this section.''.

        (b) Conforming Amendment.--The analysis for subchapter I of chapter
    471 of title 49, United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 47101.>>  is
    amended by inserting after the item relating to section 47144 the
    following:

    ``47145. Pilot program for airport accessibility.''.

    SEC. 726. GENERAL AVIATION AIRPORT RUNWAY EXTENSION PILOT PROGRAM.

        (a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 471 of title 49, United
    States Code, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``Sec. 47146. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47146.>>  General aviation program
                        runway extension pilot program

        ``(a) <<NOTE: Grants.>>  Establishment.--The Secretary of
    Transportation shall establish and carry out a pilot program to provide
    grants to general aviation airports to increase the usable runway length
    capability at such airports in order to--
                ``(1) expand access to such airports for larger aircraft;
            and
                ``(2) support the development and economic viability of such
            airports.

        ``(b) Grants.--
                ``(1) In general.--For the purpose of carrying out the pilot
            program established in subsection (a), the Secretary shall make
            grants to not more than 2 sponsors of general aviation airports
            per fiscal year.
                ``(2) Use of funds.--A sponsor of a general aviation airport
            shall use a grant awarded under this section to plan, design, or
            construct a project to extend an existing primary runway by not
            greater than 1,000 feet in order to accommodate large

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1270]]

            turboprop or turbojet aircraft that cannot be accommodated with
            the existing runway length.
                ``(3) <<NOTE: Requirement.>>  Eligibility.--To be eligible
            to receive a grant under this section, a sponsor of a general
            aviation airport shall submit an application to the Secretary at
            such time, in such form, and containing such information as the
            Secretary may require.
                ``(4) Selection.--In selecting an applicant for a grant
            under this section, the Secretary shall prioritize projects that
            demonstrate that the existing runway length at the airport is--
                        ``(A) inadequate to support the near-term operations
                    of 1 or more business entities operating at the airport
                    as of the date of submission of such application;
                        ``(B) a direct aircraft operational impediment to
                    airport economic viability, job creation or retention,
                    or local economic development; and
                        ``(C) not located within 20 miles of another
                    National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems airport with
                    comparable runway length.

        ``(c) Project Justification.--A project that demonstrates the
    criteria described in subsection (b) shall be considered a justified
    cost with respect to the pilot program, notwithstanding--
                ``(1) any benefit-cost analysis required under section
            47115(d); or
                ``(2) a project justification determination described in
            section 3 of chapter 3 of FAA Order 5100.38D, Airport
            Improvement Program Handbook (dated September 30, 2014) (or any
            successor document).

        ``(d) Federal Share.--The Government's share of allowable project
    costs for a project carried out with a grant under this section shall be
    the Government's share of allowable project costs specified under
    section 47109.
        ``(e) <<NOTE: Evaluations.>>  Report to Congress.--Not later than 5
    years after the establishment of the pilot program under subsection (a),
    the Secretary 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 evaluates
    the pilot program, including--
                ``(1) information regarding the level of applicant interest
            in grants for increasing runway length;
                ``(2) the number of large aircraft that accessed each
            general aviation airport that received a grant under the pilot
            program in comparison to the number of such aircraft that
            accessed the airport prior to the date of enactment of the FAA
            Reauthorization Act of 2024, based on data provided to the
            Secretary by the airport sponsor not later than 6 months before
            the submission date described in this subsection; and
                ``(3) a description, provided to the Secretary by the
            airport sponsor not later than 6 months before the submission
            date described in this subsection, of the economic development
            opportunities supported by increasing the runway length at
            general aviation airports.

        ``(f) <<NOTE: Time periods.>>  Funding.--For each of fiscal years
    2025 through 2028, the Secretary may use funds under section 47116(b)(2)
    to carry out this section.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1271]]

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for subchapter I of chapter
    471 of title 49, United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 47101.>>  is
    further amended by inserting after the item relating to section 47145
    the following:

    ``47146. General aviation airport runway extension pilot program.''.

    SEC. 727. 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 <<NOTE: 49 USC prec.
    47301.>>  of such title, are repealed.
    SEC. 728. TRANSFERS OF AIR TRAFFIC SYSTEMS ACQUIRED WITH AIP
                            FUNDING.

        (a) In General.--Section 44502(e) of title 49, United States Code,
    is amended--
                (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``An airport'' and
            inserting ``Subject to paragraph (4), an airport in a non-
            contiguous State'';
                (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 new
                    subparagraph:
                        ``(D) a Medium Intensity Approach Lighting System
                    with Runway Alignment Indicator Lights.''; and
                (3) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
                ``(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 air traffic 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.''.

        (b) <<NOTE: 49 USC 44502 note.>>  Effective Date.--The amendments
    made by this section shall take effect beginning on October 1, 2024.
    SEC. 729. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  NATIONAL PRIORITY SYSTEM
                            FORMULAS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Review. Update.>>  In General.--Not later than
    1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall
    review and update the National Priority System prioritization formulas
    contained in FAA 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1272]]

    that increase or maintain the safety, efficiency, and capacity of the
    aviation system.
    SEC. 730. 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 pose 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, 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;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1273]]

                        ``(F) a group of entities described in subparagraphs
                    (A) through (E); or
                        ``(G) any other organization considered appropriate
                    by the Secretary.''.
    SEC. 731. EXTENSION OF PROVISION RELATING TO 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
    ``2018'' and all that follows through ``2024'' and inserting ``2024
    through 2028''.
    SEC. 732. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47103 note.>>  POPULOUS COUNTIES WITHOUT
                            AIRPORTS.

        Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary 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) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  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 FAA airport design standards;
                (6) submits a benefit-cost analysis;
                (7) <<NOTE: Plan.>>  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. 733. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 47101 note.>>  AIP HANDBOOK
                            UPDATE.

        (a) In General.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator shall revise the Airport Improvement
    Program Handbook (FAA Order 5100.38D) (in this section referred to as
    the ``AIP 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 Relating to Alaska.--In revising the AIP Handbook
    under subsection (a) (and in any subsequent revision), the
    Administrator, in consultation with the Governor of Alaska, shall
    identify and incorporate reasonable exceptions to the general
    requirements of the AIP Handbook to meet the unique circumstances, and
    advance the safety needs, of airports in Alaska, including with respect
    to the following:
                (1) Snow Removal Equipment Building size and configuration.
                (2) Expansion of lease areas.
                (3) Shared governmental use of airport equipment and
            facilities in remote locations.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1274]]

                (4) Ensuring the resurfacing or reconstruction of legacy
            runways to support--
                        (A) aircraft necessary to support critical health
                    needs of a community;
                        (B) remote fuel deliveries; and
                        (C) firefighting response.
                (5) The use of runway end identifier lights at airports in
            Alaska.

        (c) Additional Requirement.--In revising the AIP Handbook under
    subsection (a), the Administrator shall include updates to reflect
    whether a light emitting diode system is an appropriate replacement for
    any existing halogen system.
        (d) Public Comment.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Publication. Time period.>>  In general.--Not
            later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the
            Administrator shall publish a draft revision of the AIP Handbook
            and make such draft available for public comment for a period of
            not less than 90 days.
                (2) Review.--The Administrator shall--
                        (A) review all comments submitted during the public
                    comment period described under paragraph (1);
                        (B) as the Administrator considers appropriate,
                    incorporate changes based on such comments into the
                    final revision of the Handbook; and
                        (C) provide a response to all significant comments.

        (e) <<NOTE: Guidance letters.>>  Interim Implementation of
    Changes.--
                (1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), 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 made by this Act to
            the Airport Improvement Program.
                (2) Alaska exceptions.--Not later than 60 days after the
            date on which the Administrator identified reasonable exceptions
            under subsection (b), the Administrator, in consultation with
            the Regional Administrator of the FAA Alaskan Region, shall
            issue program guidance letters to provide for the interim
            application of such exceptions.
    SEC. 734. GAO AUDIT OF AIRPORT FINANCIAL REPORTING PROGRAM.

        (a) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Audit.--Not later than 18 months
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall
    initiate an audit of the airport financial reporting program of the FAA
    and provide recommendations to the Administrator on improvements to such
    program.

        (b) Requirements.--In conducting the audit required under subsection
    (a), the Comptroller General shall, at a minimum--
                (1) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review relevant FAA 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) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  evaluate the information
            requested or required by the Administrator from airports for
            completeness and usefulness by the FAA and the public;
                (3) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assess the costs associated with
            collecting, reporting, and maintaining such information for
            airports and the FAA;
                (4) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine if such information
            provided is--
                        (A) updated on a regular basis to make such
                    information useful; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1275]]

                        (B) audited and verified in an appropriate manner;
                (5) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assess if the Administrator has
            addressed the issues the Administrator 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) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine whether the airport
            financial reporting program as structured as of the date of
            enactment of this Act provides value to the FAA, the aviation
            industry, or the public.

        (c) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  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 appropriate
    committees of Congress 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. 735. GAO STUDY OF ONSITE AIRPORT GENERATION.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Study.--Not later than 1 year after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General 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) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  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) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 2 years
    after the initiation of the study under subsection (a), the Comptroller
    General shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report
    containing the results of the study and any recommendations based on
    such results.

        (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. 736. <<NOTE: Examinations.>>  TRANSPORTATION DEMAND
                            MANAGEMENT AT AIRPORTS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Study.>>  In General.--Not later than 2 years
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General 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 a minimum--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1276]]

                (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 appropriate committees
    of Congress a report on such study.
        (d) Transportation Demand Management Strategy Defined.--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. 737. COASTAL AIRPORTS ASSESSMENT.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 2 years after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in coordination
    with the Chief of Engineers and Commanding General of the United States
    Army Corps of Engineers, and the Administrator of the National Oceanic
    and Atmospheric Administration, shall initiate an assessment on the
    resiliency of airports in coastal or flood-prone areas of the United
    States.

        (b) Contents.--The assessment required under subsection (a) shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  examine the impact of hazardous
            weather and other environmental factors that pose risks to
            airports in coastal or flood-prone areas; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  identify and evaluate initiatives
            and best practices to prevent and mitigate the impacts of
            factors described in paragraph (1) on airports in coastal or
            flood-prone areas.

        (c) Report.--Upon completion of the assessment, the Administrator
    shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress and the Committee
    on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives a
    report on--
                (1) the results of the assessment required under subsection
            (a); and
                (2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommendations for
            legislative or administrative action to improve the resiliency
            of airports in coastal or flood-prone areas in the United
            States.
    SEC. 738. 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.--
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Requirement.>>  In general.--Prior to
                    approving an application submitted under subsection (a),
                    the Secretary may require a benefit-cost analysis.
                        ``(B) Finding.--If a benefit-cost analysis is
                    required, the Secretary shall issue a preliminary and
                    conditional finding, which shall--
                              ``(i) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  be issued not later
                          than 60 days after the date on which the sponsor
                          submits all information required by the Secretary;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1277]]

                              ``(ii) be based upon a collaborative review
                          process that includes the sponsor or a
                          representative of the sponsor;
                              ``(iii) not constitute the issuance of a
                          Federal grant or obligation to issue a grant under
                          this chapter or other provision of law; and
                              ``(iv) 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. 739. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  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 of the FAA titled ``National Plan of Integrated
            Airport Systems (NPIAS) 2023-2027'', published on September 30,
            2022 may submit to the Secretary 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) <<NOTE: Statement.>>  A sworn statement and
                    accompanying documentation that demonstrates how the
                    airport would satisfy the requirements of FAA 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) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  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) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  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 safety, security, capacity, access, compliance
            with Federal grant assurances, and protection of natural
            resources of the airport 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) <<NOTE: Requirement.>>  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 Secretary.--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1278]]

                (1) <<NOTE: Criteria.>>  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) <<NOTE: Notice.>>  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), the Secretary shall provide
            notice of disapproval to such airport not later than 60 days
            after receiving the request under subsection (a)(1), and 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) October 1, 2025, for any request granted under
            subsection (c)(1); and
                (2) October 1, 2026, for any request granted after the
            submission of a corrective action plan under subsection (c)(2).
    SEC. 740. <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  PERMANENT SOLAR POWERED TAXIWAY
                            EDGE LIGHTING SYSTEMS.

        Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall produce an engineering brief that describes the
    acceptable use of permanent solar powered taxiway edge lighting systems
    at regional, local, and basic general aviation airports (as categorized
    in the most recent National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems of the
    FAA titled ``National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS) 2023-
    2027'', published on September 30, 2022).
    SEC. 741. 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 shall
    consider permitting a nonhub or small hub airport to use such funds to
    extend secondary runways, notwithstanding the level of operational
    activity at such airport.
    SEC. 742. INCREASING ENERGY EFFICIENCY OF AIRPORTS AND MEETING
                            CURRENT AND FUTURE ENERGY POWER DEMANDS.

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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1279]]

    ``Sec. 47140. Meeting current and future energy 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) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  conduct airport
                    planning that assesses the airport's--
                              ``(i) current and future energy power
                          requirements, including--
                                        ``(I) heating and cooling;
                                        ``(II) on-road airport vehicles and
                                    ground support equipment;
                                        ``(III) gate electrification;
                                        ``(IV) electric aircraft charging;
                                    and
                                        ``(V) vehicles and equipment used to
                                    transport passengers and employees
                                    between the airport and--
                                                ``(aa) nearby facilities
                                            owned or controlled by the
                                            airport or which otherwise
                                            directly support the functions
                                            or services provided by the
                                            airport; or
                                                ``(bb) an intermodal surface
                                            transportation facility adjacent
                                            to the airport; and
                              ``(ii) existing energy 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 improve energy
                    efficiency, increase peak load savings at the airport,
                    and meet future electrical power demands as identified
                    in subparagraph (A); and
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Reimbursement.>>  reimburse the airport
            sponsor for the costs incurred in conducting the assessment
            under paragraph (1)(A).

        ``(b) Grants.--The Secretary shall make grants to airport sponsors
    from amounts made available under section 48103 to assist such sponsors
    that have completed the assessment described in subsection (a)(1)--
                ``(1) to acquire or construct equipment that will improve
            energy efficiency at the airport; and
                ``(2) to pursue an airport development project described in
            subsection (a)(1)(B).

        ``(c) <<NOTE: Certification. Requirement.>>  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 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.''.

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 471 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 47101.>>  is amended by
    striking the item relating to section 47140 and inserting the following:

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

    SEC. 743. REVIEW OF AIRPORT LAYOUT PLANS.

        (a) <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  In General.--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) [Reserved].''; and
                (2) by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1280]]

        ``(b) [Reserved].''.
        (b) Airport Layout Plan Approval Authority.--Section 47107 of title
    49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in subsection (a)(16)--
                        (A) by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the
                    following:
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Review. Approval.>>  subject to
                    subsection (x), the Secretary will review and approve or
                    disapprove the plan and any revision or modification of
                    the plan before the plan, revision, or modification
                    takes effect;''; and
                        (B) in subparagraph (C)(i) by striking
                    ``subparagraph (B)'' and inserting ``subsection (x)'';
                    and
                (2) by adding at the end the following:

        ``(x) Scope of Airport Layout Plan Review and Approval Authority of
    Secretary.--
                ``(1) Authority over projects on land acquired without
            federal assistance.--For purposes of subsection (a)(16)(B), with
            respect to any project proposed on land acquired by an airport
            owner or operator without Federal assistance, the Secretary may
            review and approve or disapprove only the portions of the plan
            (or any subsequent revision to the plan) that--
                        ``(A) materially impact the safe and efficient
                    operation of aircraft at, to, or from the airport;
                        ``(B) adversely affect the safety of people or
                    property on the ground as a result of aircraft
                    operations; or
                        ``(C) adversely affect the value of prior Federal
                    investments to a significant extent.
                ``(2) Limitation on non-aeronautical review.--
                        ``(A) In general.--The Secretary may not require an
                    airport to seek approval for (including in the
                    submission of an airport layout plan), or directly or
                    indirectly regulate or place conditions on (including
                    through any grant assurance), any project that is not
                    subject to paragraph (1).
                        ``(B) Review and approval authority.--If only a
                    portion of a project proposed by an airport owner or
                    operator is subject to the review and approval of the
                    Secretary under subsection (a)(16)(B), the Secretary
                    shall not extend review and approval authority to other
                    non-aeronautical portions of the project.
                ``(3) Notice.--
                        ``(A) In general.--An airport owner or operator
                    shall submit to the Secretary a notice of intent to
                    proceed with a proposed project (or a portion thereof)
                    that is outside of the review and approval authority of
                    the Secretary, as described in this subsection, if the
                    project was not on the most recently submitted airport
                    layout plan of the airport.
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Failure to object.--If
                    not later than 45 days after receiving the notice of
                    intent described in subparagraph (A), the Secretary
                    fails to object to such notice, the proposed project (or
                    portion thereof) shall be deemed as being outside the
                    scope of the review and approval authority of the
                    Secretary under subsection (a)(16)(B).''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1281]]

    SEC. 744. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44718 note.>>  PROTECTION OF SAFE AND
                            EFFICIENT USE OF AIRSPACE AT AIRPORTS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Evaluation. Determination.>>  Airspace Review Process
    Requirements.--The Administrator shall consider the following additional
    factors in the evaluation of cumulative impacts when making a
    determination of hazard or no hazard, or objection or no objection, as
    applicable, under part 77 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations,
    regarding proposed construction or alteration within 3 miles of the
    runway ends and runway centerlines (as depicted in the FAA-approved
    Airport Layout Plan of the airport) on any land not owned by any such
    airport:
                (1) The accumulation and spacing of structures or other
            obstructions that might constrain radar or communication
            capabilities, thereby reducing the capacity of an airport,
            flight procedure minimums or availability, or aircraft takeoff
            or landing capabilities.
                (2) Safety risks of lasers, lights, or light sources,
            inclusive of lighted billboards and screens, affixed to
            structures, that may pose hazards to air navigation.
                (3) Water features or hazardous wildlife attractants, as
            defined by the Administrator.
                (4) Impacts to visual flight rule traffic patterns for both
            fixed and rotary wing aircraft, inclusive of special visual
            flight rule procedures established by Letters of Agreement
            between air traffic facilities, the airport, and flight
            operators.
                (5) Impacts to FAA-funded airport improvement projects,
            improvements depicted on or described in FAA-approved Airport
            Layout Plans and master plans, and preservation of the navigable
            airspace necessary for achieving the objectives and utilization
            of the projects and plans.

        (b) <<NOTE: Notice.>>  Required Information.--A notice submitted
    under part 77 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, shall include
    the following:
                (1) Actual designs of an entire project and property,
            without regard to whether a proposed construction or alteration
            within 3 miles of the end of a runway of an airport and runway
            centerlines as depicted in the FAA-approved Airport Layout Plan
            of the airport is limited to a singular location on a property.
                (2) If there are any changes to such designs or addition of
            equipment, such as cranes used to construct a building, after
            submission of such a notice, all information included with the
            notice submitted before such change or addition shall be
            resubmitted, along with information regarding the change or
            addition.

        (c) <<NOTE: Determinations.>>  Expiration.--
                (1) In general.--Unless extended, revised, or terminated,
            each determination of no hazard issued by the Administrator
            under part 77 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, shall
            expire 18 months after the effective date of the determination,
            or on the date the proposed construction or alteration is
            abandoned, whichever is earlier.
                (2) After expiration.--Determinations under paragraph (1)
            are no longer valid with regard to whether a proposed
            construction or alteration would be a hazard to air navigation
            after such determination has expired.

        (d) Authority to Consolidate OEI Surface Criteria.--The
    Administrator may develop a single set of One Engine Inoperative

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1282]]

    surface criteria that is specific to an
    airport. <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  The Administrator shall consult with
    the airport operator and flight operators that use such airport, on the
    development of such surface criteria.

        (e) Development of Policies to Protect OEI Surfaces.--
    Not <<NOTE: Deadline. Briefing.>>  later than 6 months after the date of
    enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the appropriate
    committees of Congress regarding the status of the efforts of the FAA to
    protect One Engine Inoperative surfaces from encroachment at United
    States certificated and federally obligated airports, including the
    current status of efforts to incorporate such protections into FAA
    Obstruction Evaluation/Airport Airspace Analysis processes.

        (f) Authority to Consult With Other Agencies.--The Administrator may
    consult with other Federal, State, or local agencies as necessary to
    carry out the requirements of this section.
        (g) Applicability.--This section shall only apply to an airport in a
    county adjacent to 2 States with converging intersecting cross runway
    operations within 12 nautical miles of an Air Force base.
    SEC. 745. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44504 note.>>  ELECTRIC AIRCRAFT
                            INFRASTRUCTURE PILOT PROGRAM.

        (a) In General.--The Secretary may establish a pilot program under
    which airport sponsors 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 terminate on October 1, 2028.
    SEC. 746. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  CURB MANAGEMENT PRACTICES.

        Nothing in this Act shall be construed to prevent airports from--
                (1) engaging in curb management practices, including
            determining and assigning curb designations and regulations;
                (2) installing and maintaining 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
                (3) 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.
    SEC. 747. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  NOTICE OF FUNDING
                            OPPORTUNITY.

        Notwithstanding part 200 of title 2, Code of Federal Regulations, or
    any other provision of law, funds made available as part

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1283]]

    of the Airport Improvement Program under subchapter I of chapter 471 or
    chapter 475 of title 49, United States Code, shall not be subject to any
    public notice of funding opportunity requirement.
    SEC. 748. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47115 note.>>  RUNWAY SAFETY PROJECTS.

        In awarding grants under section 47115 of title 49, United States
    Code, for runway safety projects, the Administrator shall, to the
    maximum extent practicable--
                (1) reduce unnecessary or undesirable project segmentation;
            and
                (2) complete the entire project in an expeditious manner.
    SEC. 749. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44502 note.>>  AIRPORT DIAGRAM
                            TERMINOLOGY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Updates.>>  In General.--The Administrator 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 pursuant to
    subsection (a) in publications produced by the Committee.
    SEC. 750. GAO STUDY ON FEE TRANSPARENCY BY FIXED BASED OPERATORS.

        (a) In General.--The Comptroller General shall conduct a study
    reviewing the efforts of fixed based operators to meet their commitments
    to improve the online transparency of prices and fees for all aircraft
    and enhancing the customer experience for general and business aviation
    users.
        (b) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  Contents.--In conducting the study
    described in subsection (a), the Comptroller General, at a minimum,
    should evaluate the fixed based operator industry commitment to ``Know
    Before You Go'' best business practices including--
                (1) fixed based operators provisions for all general
            aviation and business aircraft types regarding a description of
            available services and a listing of applicable retail fuel
            prices, fees, and charges;
                (2) the accessibility of fees and charges described in
            paragraph (1) to aircraft operators on-line and in a user-
            friendly manner and with sufficient clarity that a pilot
            operating a particular aircraft type can determine what will be
            charged;
                (3) efforts by fixed based operators to invite and encourage
            customers to contact them so that operators can ask questions,
            know any options, and make informed decisions; and
                (4) any practices imposed by an airport operator that
            prevent fixed based operators from fully disclosing fees and
            charges.

        (c) Report Required.--Not later than 18 months after the date of
    enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1284]]

    to the appropriate committees of Congress a report containing the
    results of the review required under this section.
    SEC. 751. MINORITY AND DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS PARTICIPATION.

        Section 157(b)(2) of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C.
    47113 note) is amended by adding at the end the following:
                        ``(D) <<NOTE: Reports. Public information. Web
                    posting. Effective date.>>  Publishing data.--The
                    Secretary of Transportation shall report on a publicly
                    accessible website the uniform report of DBE awards/
                    commitments and payments specified in part 26 of title
                    49, Code of Federal Regulations, and the uniform report
                    of ACDBE Participation for non-car rental and car rental
                    concessions, for each airport sponsor beginning with
                    fiscal year 2025.''.
    SEC. 752. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47106 note.>>  PROHIBITION ON CERTAIN
                            RUNWAY LENGTH REQUIREMENTS.

        Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary may not
    require an airport to shorten the length or width of the runway, apron,
    or taxiway of the airport as a condition for the receipt of federal
    financial assistance if the airport directly supports a base of the
    United States Air Force or the Air National Guard at the airport,
    regardless of the stationing of military aircraft.
    SEC. 753. REPORT ON INDO-PACIFIC AIRPORTS.

        The Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of State,
    shall submit to Congress a report on airports of strategic importance in
    the Indo-Pacific region that includes each of the following:
                (1) An identification of airports and air routes critical to
            national security, defense operations, emergency response, and
            continuity of government activities.
                (2) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  An assessment of the economic
            impact and contribution of airports and air routes to national
            and regional economies.
                (3) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  An evaluation of the connectivity
            and accessibility of airports and air routes, including their
            importance in supporting domestic and international travel,
            trade, and tourism.
                (4) <<NOTE: Analysis.>>  An analysis of infrastructure and
            technological requirements necessary to maintain and enhance the
            strategic importance of identified airports and air routes.
                (5) An identification of potential vulnerabilities, risks,
            and challenges faced by airports and air routes of strategic
            importance, including cybersecurity threats and physical
            infrastructure vulnerabilities.
                (6) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Any recommendations for
            improving the security, resilience, and efficiency of the
            identified airports and air routes, including potential
            infrastructure investments and policy changes.
    SEC. 754. <<NOTE: Foreign countries. Reports.>>  GAO STUDY ON
                            IMPLEMENTATION OF GRANTS AT CERTAIN
                            AIRPORTS.

        The Comptroller General shall conduct a study on the implementation
    of grants provided to airports located in the Republic of the Marshall
    Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, and Republic of Palau under
    section 47115(i) of title 49, United States Code and submit to the
    appropriate committees of Congress a report on the results of such
    study.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1285]]

    SEC. 755. GAO STUDY ON TRANSIT ACCESS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  In General.--Not later than 18 months after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall conduct
    a study on transit access to airports and submit to the appropriate
    committees of Congress a report on the results of such study.

        (b) <<NOTE: Review.>>  Contents.--In carrying out the study under
    subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall review public
    transportation access to commercial service airports throughout the
    United States, including accessibility and other potential barriers for
    individuals.
    SEC. 756. <<NOTE: California.>>  BANNING MUNICIPAL AIRPORT.

        (a) In General.--The United States, acting through the
    Administrator, 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 FAA, to the
    extent such restrictions, conditions, and limitations are enforceable by
    the Administrator.
        (b) <<NOTE: Determinations.>>  Conditions.--The release under
    subsection (a) shall not be executed before the City of Banning,
    California, or its designee, transfers to the United States Government
    the following:
                (1) <<NOTE: Reimbursement. Review.>>  A reimbursement for
            1983 grant the City of Banning, California received from the FAA
            for the purchase of 20 acres of land, at 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) 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 the Department of
            Transportation of the State of California to be salvageable for
            use at other airports.

        (c) 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.
    SEC. 757. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  DISPUTED CHANGES OF
                            SPONSORSHIP AT FEDERALLY OBLIGATED,
                            PUBLICLY OWNED AIRPORT.

        (a) Approval Authority.--
                (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), in the case of a
            disputed change of airport sponsorship, the Administrator shall
            have the sole legal authority to approve any change in the
            sponsorship of, or operational responsibility for, the airport

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1286]]

            from the airport sponsor of record to another public or private
            entity.
                (2) Exclusion.--This section shall not apply to a change of
            sponsorship or ownership of a privately-owned airport, a
            transfer under the Airport Investment Partnership Program, a
            change when the Federal Government exercises a right of
            reverter, or a change that is not disputed.

        (b) Conditions for Approval.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Notices.>>  In general.--Subject to paragraphs
            (2) and (3), the Administrator shall not approve any disputed
            change of airport sponsorship unless the Administrator
            receives--
                        (A) written documentation from the airport sponsor
                    of record consenting to the change in sponsorship or
                    operation;
                        (B) notice of a final, non-reviewable judicial
                    decision requiring such change; or
                        (C) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  notice of a legally-
                    binding agreement between the parties involved.
                (2) Pending judicial review.--The Administrator may not
            evaluate or approve a disputed change of airport sponsorship
            where a legal dispute is pending before a court of competent
            jurisdiction.
                (3) Technical assistance.--
                        (A) In general.--Any State or local legislative body
                    or public agency considering whether to take an action
                    (including by drafting legislation) that would impact
                    the ownership, sponsorship, governance, or operations of
                    a federally obligated, publicly owned airport may
                    request from the Administrator, at any point in the
                    deliberative process--
                              (i) technical assistance regarding the
                          interrelationship between Federal and State or
                          local requirements applicable to any such action;
                          and
                              (ii) review and comment on such action.
                        (B) Failure to seek technical assistance.--The
                    Administrator may deny a change in the ownership,
                    sponsorship, or governance of, or operational
                    responsibility for, a federally obligated, publicly
                    owned airport if a State or local legislative body or
                    public agency does not seek technical assistance under
                    subparagraph (A) with respect to such change.

        (c) <<NOTE: Determinations. Requirements.>>  Final Decision
    Authority.--In addition to the conditions outlined in subsection (b),
    the Administrator shall independently determine whether the proposed
    sponsor or operator is able to satisfy Federal requirements for airport
    sponsorship or operation and shall ensure, by requiring whatever terms
    and conditions the Administrator determines necessary, that any change
    in the ownership, sponsorship, or governance of, or operational
    responsibility for, a federally obligated, publicly owned airport is
    consistent with existing Federal law, regulations, existing grant
    assurances, and Federal land conveyance obligations.

        (d) Definition of Disputed Change of Airport Sponsorship.--In this
    section, the term ``disputed change of airport sponsorship'' means any
    action that seeks to change the ownership, sponsorship, or governance
    of, or operational responsibility for, a federally obligated, publicly
    owned airport, including any such change directed by judicial action or
    State or local legislative action, where

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1287]]

    the airport sponsor of record initially does not consent to such change.
    SEC. 758. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  PROCUREMENT REGULATIONS
                            APPLICABLE TO FAA MULTIMODAL PROJECTS.

        (a) In General.--Any multimodal airport development project that
    uses grant funding from funds made available to the Administrator to
    carry out subchapter I of chapter 471 of title 49, United States Code,
    or airport infrastructure projects under the Infrastructure Investment
    and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58) shall abide by the procurement
    regulations applicable to--
                (1) the FAA; and
                (2) subject to subsection (b), the component of the project
            relating to transit, highway, or rail, respectively.

        (b) <<NOTE: Requirement.>>  Multiple Component Projects.--In the
    case of a multimodal airport development project described in subsection
    (a) that involves more than 1 component described in paragraph (2) of
    such subsection, such project shall only be required to apply the
    procurement regulations applicable to the component where the greatest
    amount of Federal financial assistance will be expended.
    SEC. 759. <<NOTE: Arizona.>>  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 to 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) 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.

        (c) 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,

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1288]]

            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.
    SEC. 760. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  WASHINGTON, DC METROPOLITAN AREA
                            SPECIAL FLIGHT RULES AREA.

        (a) Submission of Study to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation
    with the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Secretary of Defense,
    shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation
    and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the
    Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the
    Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives a study
    on the Special Flight Rules Area and the Flight Restricted Zone under
    subpart V of part 93 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
        (b) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  Contents of Study.--In carrying out the
    study under subsection (a), the Administrator shall assess specific
    proposed changes to the Special Flight Rules Area and the Flight
    Restricted Zone that will decrease operational impacts and improve
    general aviation access to airports in the National Capital Region that
    are currently impacted by the Special Flight Rules Area and the Flight
    Restricted Zone.

        (c) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator shall provide to the committees of
    Congress described in subsection (a) a briefing on the feasibility
    (including any associated costs) of--
                (1) installing equipment that allows a pilot to communicate
            with air traffic control using a very high frequency radio for
            the purposes of receiving an instrument flight rules clearance,
            activating a DC FRZ flight plan, or activating a DC SFRA flight
            plan (as applicable) at--
                        (A) non-towered airports in the Flight Restricted
                    Zone; and
                        (B) airports in the Special Flight Rules Area that
                    do not have the communications equipment described in
                    this paragraph;
                (2) allowing a pilot approved by the Transportation Security
            Administration in accordance with section 1562.3 of title 49,
            Code of Federal Regulations, to electronically file a DC FRZ
            flight plan or instrument flight rules flight plan that departs
            from, or arrives at, an airport in the Flight Restricted Zone;
            and
                (3) allowing a pilot to electronically file a standard very
            high frequency radio flight plan that departs from, or arrives
            at, an airport in the Special Flight Rules Area or Flight
            Restricted Zone.

        (d) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) DC frz flight plan; dc sfra flight plan.--The terms ``DC
            FRZ flight plan'' and ``DC SFRA flight plan'' have the meanings
            given such terms in section 93.335 of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations.
                (2) Standard vfr flight plan.--The term ``standard VFR
            flight plan'' means a VFR flight plan (as such term is described

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1289]]

            in section 91.153 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations) that
            includes search and rescue services.
    SEC. 761. STUDY ON AIR CARGO OPERATIONS IN PUERTO RICO.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--No later than 1 year after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall conduct a
    study on air cargo operations in Puerto Rico.

        (b) Contents.--In conducting the study required under subsection
    (a), the Comptroller General shall address the following:
                (1) The economic impact of waivers authorized by the
            Secretary related to air cargo operations in Puerto Rico.
                (2) Recommendations for security measures that may be
            necessary to support increased air cargo operations in Puerto
            Rico.
                (3) Potential need for additional staff to safely
            accommodate additional air cargo operations.
                (4) Airport infrastructure improvements that may be needed
            in the 3 international airports located in Puerto Rico to
            support increased air cargo operations.
                (5) Alternatives to increase private stakeholder engagement
            and use of the 3 international airports in Puerto Rico to
            attract increased air cargo operations.
                (6) Possible national benefits of increasing air cargo
            operations in Puerto Rico.

        (c) Report.--Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the appropriate
    committees of Congress a report on the results of the study described in
    subsection (a).
    SEC. 762. PROGRESS REPORTS ON THE NATIONAL TRANSITION PLAN RELATED
                            TO A FLUORINE-FREE FIREFIGHTING FOAM.

        (a) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  In General.--Not later than 180 days
    after the date of enactment of this Act, and every 180 days thereafter
    until the progress report termination date described in subsection (c),
    the Administrator, in consultation with the Administrator of the
    Environmental Protection Agency and the Secretary of Defense, shall
    submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a progress report on
    the development and implementation of a national transition plan related
    to a fluorine-free firefighting foam that meets the performance
    standards referenced in chapter 6 of the advisory circular of the FAA
    titled ``Aircraft Fire Extinguishing Agents'', issued on July 8, 2004
    (Advisory Circular 150/5210-6D) and is acceptable under section
    139.319(l) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, for use at part 139
    airports.

        (b) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  Required Information.--Each progress
    report under subsection (a) shall include the following:
                (1) <<NOTE: Guidance.>>  An assessment of the progress made
            by the FAA with respect to providing part 139 airports with--
                        (A) guidance from the Environmental Protection
                    Agency on acceptable environmental limits relating to
                    fluorine-free firefighting foam;
                        (B) guidance from the Department of Defense on the
                    transition of the Department of Defense to a fluorine-
                    free firefighting foam;
                        (C) best practices for the decontamination of
                    existing aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles,
                    systems, and other equipment used to deploy firefighting
                    foam at part 139 airports; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1290]]

                        (D) <<NOTE: Timelines.>>  timelines for the release
                    of policy and guidance relating to the development of
                    implementation plans for part 139 airports to obtain
                    approved military specification products and
                    firefighting personnel training.
                (2) <<NOTE: List.>>  A comprehensive list of the amount of
            aqueous film-forming firefighting foam at each part 139 airport
            as of the date of the submission of the progress report,
            including the amount of such firefighting foam held in
            firefighting equipment and the number of gallons regularly kept
            in reserve at each such airport.
                (3) An assessment of the progress made by the FAA with
            respect to providing airports that are not part 139 airports and
            local authorities with responsibility for inspection and
            oversight with guidance described in subparagraphs (A) and (B)
            of paragraph (1) as such guidance relates to the use of
            fluorine-free firefighting foam at such airports.
                (4) Any other information that the Administrator determines
            is appropriate.

        (c) <<NOTE: Notification.>>  Progress Report Termination Date.--The
    progress report termination date described in this subsection is the
    date on which the Administrator notifies the appropriate committees of
    Congress that development and implementation of the national transition
    plan described in subsection (a) is complete.

        (d) Part 139 Airport Defined.--In this section, the term ``part 139
    airport'' means an airport certified under part 139 of title 14, Code of
    Federal Regulations.
    SEC. 763. REPORT ON AIRPORT NOTIFICATIONS.

        Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a
    report on the activities of the FAA with respect to--
                (1) collecting more accurate data in notices of
            construction, alteration, activation, and deactivation of
            airports as required under part 157 of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations; and
                (2) making the database under part 157 of title 14, Code of
            Federal Regulations, more accurate and useful for aircraft
            operators, particularly for helicopter and rotary wing type
            aircraft operators.
    SEC. 764. <<NOTE: New York. New Jersey.>>  STUDY ON COMPETITION
                            AND AIRPORT ACCESS.

        Not <<NOTE: Deadline. Briefing.>>  later than 180 days after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall brief the appropriate
    committees of Congress on--
                (1) specific actions the Secretary and the Administrator,
            using existing legal authority, can take to expand access for
            lower cost passenger air carriers to capacity constrained
            airports in the United States, including New York John F.
            Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark
            Liberty International Airport; and
                (2) any additional legal authority the Secretary and the
            Administrator require in order to make additional slots at New
            York John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport
            and runway timings at Newark Liberty International Airport
            available to lower cost passenger air carriers.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1291]]

    SEC. 765. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 47101 note.>>  REGIONAL
                            AIRPORT CAPACITY STUDY.

        (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator shall initiate a study on the following:
                (1) Existing FAA policy and guidance that govern the siting
            of new airports or the transition of general aviation airports
            to commercial service.
                (2) Ways that existing regulations and policies could be
            streamlined to facilitate the development of new airport
            capacity, particularly in high-demand air travel regions looking
            to invest in new airport capacity.
                (3) Whether Federal funding sources (existing as of the date
            of enactment of this Act) that are authorized by the Secretary
            could be used for such purposes.
                (4) Whether such Federal funding sources meet the needs of
            the national airspace system for adding new airport capacity
            outside of the commercial service airports in operation as of
            the date of enactment of this Act.
                (5) <<NOTE: Determination. Estimate.>>  If such Federal
            funding sources are determined by the Administrator to be
            insufficient for the purposes described in this subsection, an
            estimate of the funding gap.

        (b) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 30 months
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit
    to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the results of the
    study conducted under subsection (a), together with recommendations for
    such legislative or administrative action as the Administrator
    determines appropriate.

        (c) Guidance.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator shall, if appropriate, revise FAA guidance
    to incorporate the findings of the study conducted under subsection (a)
    to assist airports and State and local departments of transportation in
    increasing airport capacity to meet regional air travel demand.
    SEC. 766. STUDY ON AUTONOMOUS AND ELECTRIC-POWERED TRACK SYSTEMS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Study.--The Administrator may conduct
    a study to determine the feasibility and economic viability of
    autonomous or electric-powered track systems that--
                (1) are located underneath the pavement at an airport; and
                (2) allow a transport category aircraft to taxi without the
            use of the main engines of the aircraft.

        (b) Briefing.--If the Administrator conducts a study under
    subsection (a), the Administrator shall provide a briefing to the
    appropriate committees of Congress on the results of such study.
    SEC. 767. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44706 note.>>  PFAS-RELATED RESOURCES FOR
                            AIRPORTS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Reimbursement. Costs. Effective date.>>  PFAS
    Replacement Program for Airports.--Not later than 90 days after the date
    of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the
    Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall establish a
    program to reimburse sponsors of eligible airports for the reasonable
    and appropriate costs incurred after September 12, 2023, and associated
    with any of the following:
                (1) The one-time initial acquisition by the sponsor of an
            eligible airport of an approved fluorine-free firefighting agent

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1292]]

            under Military Specification MIL-PRE-32725, dated January 12,
            2023, in a quantity of--
                        (A) the capacity of all required aircraft rescue and
                    firefighting equipment listed in the most recent FAA-
                    approved Airport Certification Manual, regardless of how
                    the equipment was initially acquired; and
                        (B) twice the quantity carried onboard each required
                    truck available in the fire station for the eligible
                    airport.
                (2) The disposal of perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl
            products, including fluorinated aqueous film-forming agents, to
            the extent such disposal is necessary to facilitate the
            transition to such approved fluorine-free firefighting agent,
            including aqueous film-forming agents currently in firefighting
            equipment and vehicles and any wastewater generated during the
            cleaning of firefighting equipment and vehicles.
                (3) The cleaning or disposal of existing equipment or
            components thereof, to the extent such cleaning or disposal is
            necessary to facilitate the transition to such approved
            fluorine-free firefighting agent.
                (4) The acquisition of any equipment, or components thereof,
            necessary to facilitate the transition to such approved
            fluorine-free firefighting agent.
                (5) The replacement of any aircraft rescue and firefighting
            equipment determined necessary to be replaced by the Secretary.

        (b) Distribution of Funds.--
                (1) Grants to replace aircraft rescue and firefighting
            vehicles.--
                        (A) In general.--Of the amounts made available to
                    carry out the PFAS replacement program, the Secretary
                    shall reserve up to $30,000,000 to make grants to each
                    eligible airport that is designated under part 139 as an
                    Index A airport and does not have existing capabilities
                    to produce fluorine-free firefighting foam for the
                    replacement of aircraft rescue and firefighting
                    vehicles.
                        (B) Amount.--The maximum amount of a grant made
                    under subparagraph (A) may not exceed $2,000,000.
                (2) Remaining amounts.--
                        (A) Determination of need.--With respect to the
                    amount of firefighting foam concentrate required for
                    foam production commensurate with applicable aircraft
                    rescue and firefighting equipment required in accordance
                    with the most recent FAA-approved Airport Certification
                    Manual, the Secretary shall determine--
                              (i) for each eligible airport, the total
                          amount of such concentrate required for all of the
                          federally required aircraft rescue and
                          firefighting vehicles that meet index requirements
                          under part 139, in gallons; and
                              (ii) for all eligible airports, the total
                          amount of firefighting foam concentrate, in
                          gallons.
                        (B) Determination of grant amounts.--The Secretary
                    shall make a grant to the sponsor of each eligible
                    airport in an amount equal to the product of--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1293]]

                              (i) the amount of funds made available to
                          carry out this section that remain available after
                          the Secretary reserves the amount described in
                          paragraph (1); and
                              (ii) the ratio of the amount determined under
                          subparagraph (A)(i) for such eligible airport to
                          the amount determined under subparagraph (A)(ii).

        (c) Program Requirements.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  In general.--The Secretary
            shall determine the eligibility of costs payable under the PFAS
            replacement program by taking into account all engineering,
            technical, and environmental protocols and generally accepted
            industry standards that are developed or established for
            approved fluorine-free firefighting foams.
                (2) Compliance with applicable law.--To be eligible for
            reimbursement under the program established under subsection
            (a), the sponsor of an eligible airport shall carry out all
            actions related to the acquisition, disposal, and transition to
            approved fluorine-free firefighting foams, including the
            cleaning and disposal of equipment, in full compliance with all
            applicable Federal laws in effect at the time of obligation of a
            grant under this section.
                (3) Federal share.--The Federal share of allowable costs
            under the PFAS replacement program shall be 100 percent.

        (d) Authorization of Appropriations.--
                (1) In general.--There is authorized to be appropriated not
            more than $350,000,000 to carry out the PFAS replacement
            program.
                (2) Requirements.--Amounts made available to carry out the
            PFAS replacement program shall--
                        (A) remain available for expenditure for a period of
                    5 fiscal years; and
                        (B) be available in addition to any other funding
                    available for similar purposes under any other Federal,
                    State, local, or Tribal program.

        (e) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Eligible airport.--The term ``eligible airport'' means
            an airport holding an Airport Operating Certificate issued under
            part 139.
                (2) Part 139.--The term ``part 139'' means part 139 of title
            14, Code of Federal Regulations.
                (3) PFAS replacement program.--The term ``PFAS replacement
            program'' means the program established under subsection (a).
    SEC. 768. 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1294]]

            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) <<NOTE: Definitions.>>  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) <<NOTE: Applicability.>>  International agreements.--
            This subsection shall be applied in a manner consistent with the
            obligations of the United States under international agreements.
                ``(4) Waiver.--
                        ``(A) In general.--The Secretary may waive the
                    limitation described in paragraph (1) using the criteria
                    described in subsection (b).
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Notification.--Not later
                    than 10 days after issuing a waiver under subparagraph
                    (A), the Secretary shall notify the Committee on
                    Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
                    Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science,
                    and Transportation of the Senate.''.

        (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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1295]]

            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. 769. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44706 note.>>  MAINTAINING SAFE FIRE AND
                            RESCUE STAFFING LEVELS.

        (a) Update to Regulation.--The Administrator 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, at a small, medium, or large hub
    airport.
        (b) <<NOTE: Deadline. Evaluation.>>  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,
    rescue, and emergency medical 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 appropriate
    committees of Congress a report containing the results of the review.
    SEC. 770. GRANT ASSURANCES.

        (a) General Written Assurances.--Section 47107(a) of title 49,
    United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in paragraph (20) by striking ``and'' at the end;
                (2) in paragraph (21) by striking the period at the end and
            inserting ``; and''; and
                (3) by adding at the end the following:
                ``(22) <<NOTE: Time period. Effective dates.>>  the airport
            owner or operator may not restrict or prohibit the sale or self-
            fueling of any 100-octane low lead aviation gasoline for
            purchase or use by operators of general aviation aircraft if
            such aviation gasoline was available at such airport at any time
            during calendar year 2022, until the earlier of--
                        ``(A) December 31, 2030; or
                        ``(B) the date on which the airport or any retail
                    fuel seller at such airport makes available an unleaded
                    aviation gasoline that--
                              ``(i) has been authorized for use by the
                          Administrator of the Federal Aviation
                          Administration as a replacement for 100-octane low
                          lead aviation gasoline for use in nearly all
                          piston-engine aircraft and engine models; and
                              ``(ii) meets either an industry consensus
                          standard or other standard that facilitates the
                          safe use, production, and distribution of such
                          unleaded aviation gasoline, as determined
                          appropriate by the Administrator.''.

        (b) Civil Penalties for Grant Assurances Violations.--Section
    46301(a) of title 49, United States Code, is further amended--
                (1) in paragraph (1)(A) by inserting ``section 47107(a)(22)
            (including any assurance made under such section),'' after
            ``chapter 451,''; and
                (2) by adding at the end the following:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1296]]

        ``(8) Failure to Continue Offering Aviation Fuel.--Notwithstanding
    paragraph (1), the maximum civil penalty for a violation of section
    47107(a)(22) (including any assurance made under such section) committed
    by a person, including if the person is an individual or a small
    business concern, shall be $5,000 for each day that the person is in
    violation of that section.''.
    SEC. 771. AVIATION FUEL IN ALASKA.

        (a) <<NOTE: 49 USC 44714 note.>>  In General.--
                (1) Prohibition on restriction of fuel usage or
            availability.-- <<NOTE: Effective dates.>> The Administrator of
            the Federal Aviation Administration and the Administrator of the
            Environmental Protection Agency shall not restrict the continued
            use or availability of 100-octane low lead aviation gasoline in
            the State of Alaska until the earlier of--
                        (A) December 31, 2032; or
                        (B) 6 months after the date on which the
                    Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration
                    finds that an unleaded aviation fuel is widely
                    commercially available at airports throughout the State
                    of Alaska that--
                              (i) has been authorized for use by the
                          Administrator of the Federal Aviation
                          Administration as a replacement for 100-octane low
                          lead aviation gasoline; and
                              (ii) meets either an industry consensus
                          standard or other standard that facilitates and
                          ensures the safe use, production, and distribution
                          of such unleaded aviation fuel.
                (2) Savings clause.--Nothing in this section shall limit the
            authority of the Administrator of the Federal Aviation
            Administration or the Administrator of the Environmental
            Protection Agency to address the endangerment to public health
            and welfare posed by lead emissions--
                        (A) in the United States outside of the State of
                    Alaska; or
                        (B) within the State of Alaska after the date
                    specified in paragraph (1).

        (b) GAO Report on Transitioning to Unleaded Aviation Fuel in the
    State of Alaska.--
                (1) Evaluation.--The Comptroller General of the United
            States shall conduct an evaluation of the following:
                        (A) The aircraft, routes, and supply chains in the
                    State of Alaska utilizing leaded aviation gasoline,
                    including identification of remote and rural communities
                    that rely upon leaded aviation gasoline.
                        (B) <<NOTE: Cost estimates.>>  The estimated costs
                    and benefits of transitioning aircraft and the supply
                    chain in the State of Alaska to aviation fuel that meets
                    the requirements described in clauses (i) and (ii) of
                    section 47107(a)(22)(B) of title 49, United States Code,
                    as added by section 770, including direct costs of new
                    aircraft and equipment and indirect costs, including
                    transportation from refineries to markets, foreign
                    imports, and changes in leaded aviation gasoline prices
                    as a result of reduced supply.
                        (C) The programs of the Environmental Protection
                    Agency, the Federal Aviation Administration, and other

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1297]]

                    government agencies that can be utilized to assist
                    individuals, communities, industries, and the State of
                    Alaska with the costs described in subparagraph (B).
                        (D) A reasonable time frame to permit any limitation
                    on 100-octane low-lead aviation gasoline in the State of
                    Alaska.
                        (E) Other logistical considerations associated with
                    the transition described in subparagraph (B).
                (2) Report.--Not later than 3 years after the date of
            enactment of this section, the Comptroller General shall submit
            a report containing the results of the evaluation conducted
            under paragraph (1) to--
                        (A) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
                    Transportation of the Senate;
                        (B) the Committee on Environment and Public Works of
                    the Senate;
                        (C) the Committee on Transportation and
                    Infrastructure of the House of Representatives; and
                        (D) the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the
                    House of Representatives.
    SEC. 772. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  APPLICATION OF AMENDMENTS.

        The amendments to the Airport Improvement Program apportionment and
    discretionary formulas under chapter 471 of title 49, United States
    Code, made by this Act (except as they relate to the extension of
    provisions or authorities expiring on May 10, 2024, or May 11, 2024)
    shall not apply in a fiscal year beginning before the date of enactment
    of this Act.
    SEC. 773. <<NOTE: Time periods. Florida.>>  PROHIBITION ON USE OF
                            AMOUNTS TO PROCESS OR ADMINISTER ANY
                            APPLICATION FOR THE JOINT USE OF HOMESTEAD
                            AIR RESERVE BASE WITH CIVIL AVIATION.

        No amounts appropriated or otherwise made available to the Federal
    Aviation Administration for fiscal years 2024 through 2028 may be used
    to process or administer any application for the joint use of Homestead
    Air Reserve Base, Homestead, Florida, by the Air Force and civil
    aircraft.
    SEC. 774. UNIVERSAL CHANGING STATION.

        (a) Grant Assurances.--Section 47107 of title 49, United States
    Code, as amended by section 743(b)(2), is further amended by adding at
    the end the following:
        ``(y) Universal Changing Station.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Time periods. Approval. Applicability.>>  In
            general.--In fiscal year 2030 and each fiscal year thereafter,
            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 install or maintain (in compliance with the
            requirements of section 35.133 of title 28, Code of Federal
            Regulations), as applicable--
                        ``(A) at least 1 private, single-use room with a
                    universal changing station that--
                              ``(i) meets the standards established under
                          paragraph (2)(A); and
                              ``(ii) is accessible to all individuals for
                          purposes of use by an individual with a disability
                          in each passenger terminal building of the
                          airport; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1298]]

                        ``(B) signage at or near the entrance to the
                    changing station indicating the location of the changing
                    station.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Standards required.--Not later
            than 2 years after the date of enactment of this subsection, the
            United States Access Board shall--
                        ``(A) establish--
                              ``(i) comprehensive accessible design
                          standards for universal changing tables; and
                              ``(ii) standards on the privacy,
                          accessibility, and sanitation equipment of the
                          room in which such table is located, required to
                          be installed, or maintained under this subsection;
                          and
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  in establishing the
                    standards under subparagraph (A), consult with entities
                    with appropriate expertise relating to the use of
                    universal changing stations used by individuals with
                    disabilities.
                ``(3) Applicability.--
                        ``(A) Airport size.--The requirement in paragraph
                    (1) shall only apply to applications submitted by the
                    airport sponsor of a medium or large hub airport.
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Determinations.>>  Special rule.--The
                    requirement in paragraph (1) 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 universal
                    changing station to be located in the sterile area of
                    the building.
                ``(4) <<NOTE: Determination. Compliance.>>  Exception.--Upon
            application by an airport sponsor, the Secretary may determine
            that a universal changing station in existence before the date
            of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, complies
            with the requirements of paragraph (1) (including the standards
            established under paragraph (2)(A)), notwithstanding the absence
            of 1 or more of the standards or characteristics required under
            such paragraph.
                ``(5) Definition.--In this section:
                        ``(A) Disability.--The term `disability' has the
                    meaning given that term in section 3 of the Americans
                    with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12102).
                        ``(B) Sterile area.--The term `sterile area' has the
                    same meaning given that term in section 1540.5 of title
                    49, Code of Federal Regulations.
                        ``(C) Universal changing station.--The term
                    `universal changing station' means a universal or adult
                    changing station that meets the standards established by
                    the United States Access Board under paragraph (2)(A).
                        ``(D) United states access board.--The term `United
                    States Access Board' means the Architectural and
                    Transportation Barriers Compliance Board established
                    under section 502(a)(1) of the Rehabilitation Act of
                    1973 (29 U.S.C. 792(a)(1)).''.

        (b) Terminal Development Costs.--Section 47119(a) of title 49,
    United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
                ``(4) <<NOTE: Approval.>>  Universal changing stations.--In
            addition to the projects described in paragraph (1), the
            Secretary may approve a project for terminal development for the
            construction or

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1299]]

            installation of a universal changing station (as defined in
            section 47107(y)) at a commercial service airport.''.
    SEC. 774A. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44738 note.>>  AIRPORT HUMAN TRAFFICKING
                              PREVENTION GRANTS.

        (a) In General.--The Secretary shall establish a grant program to
    provide grants to airports described in subsection (b)(1) to address
    human trafficking awareness, education, and prevention efforts,
    including by--
                (1) coordinating human trafficking prevention efforts across
            multimodal transportation operations within a community; and
                (2) accomplishing the best practices and recommendations
            provided by the Department of Transportation Advisory Committee
            on Human Trafficking.

        (b) Distribution.--
                (1) In general.--The Secretary shall distribute amounts made
            available for grants under this section to--
                        (A) the 75 airports in the United States with the
                    highest number of passenger enplanements annually, based
                    on the most recent data available; and
                        (B) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  as the Secretary
                    determines to be appropriate, an airport not described
                    in subparagraph (A) that serves an area with a high
                    prevalence of human trafficking, on application of the
                    airport.
                (2) Priority; considerations.--In distributing amounts made
            available for grants under this section, the Secretary shall--
                        (A) give priority in grant amounts to airports
                    referred to in paragraph (1) that serve regions with a
                    higher prevalence of human trafficking; and
                        (B) take into consideration the effect the amounts
                    would have on surrounding areas.
                (3) Consultation.--In distributing amounts made available
            for grants under this section, the Secretary shall consult with
            the Department of Transportation Advisory Committee on Human
            Trafficking in determining the amounts to be distributed to each
            grant recipient to ensure the best use of the funds.

        (c) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
    appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $10,000,000 for
    each of fiscal years 2025 through 2028.
    SEC. 774B. <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  STUDY ON IMPROVEMENTS FOR
                              CERTAIN NONHUB AIRPORTS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 90 days after
    the date of enactment of this section, the Comptroller General shall
    conduct a study on the challenges faced by nonhub airports not
    designated as essential air service communities and recommend ways to
    help secure and retain flight schedules using existing Federal programs,
    such as the Small Community Air Service Development program.

        (b) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Report.--Not later than 1 year after
    the date of enactment of this section, the Comptroller General shall
    submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the results
    of the study conducted under subsection (a), including recommendations
    for such legislation and administrative action as the Comptroller
    General determines appropriate.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1300]]

                     Subtitle B--Passenger Facility Charges

    SEC. 775. ADDITIONAL PERMITTED USES OF PASSENGER FACILITY CHARGE
                            REVENUE.

        Section 40117(a)(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by
    adding at the end the following:
                        ``(H) A project at a small hub airport for a noise
                    barrier where the day-night average sound level from
                    commercial, general aviation, or cargo operations is
                    expected to exceed 55 decibels as a result of new
                    airport development.
                        ``(I) A project for the replacement of existing
                    workspace elements (including any associated in-kind
                    facility or equipment within or immediately adjacent to
                    a terminal development or renovation project at such
                    airport) related to the relocation of a Federal agency
                    on airport grounds due to such terminal development or
                    renovation project for which development costs are
                    eligible costs under this section.''.
    SEC. 776. PASSENGER FACILITY CHARGE STREAMLINING.

        (a) In General.--Section 40117 of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended--
                (1) in subsection (b)--
                        (A) in paragraph (1)--
                              (i) by striking ``The Secretary'' and
                          inserting ``Except as provided under subsection
                          (l), the Secretary''; and
                              (ii) by striking ``$1, $2, or $3'' and
                          inserting ``$1, $2, $3, $4, or $4.50'';
                        (B) by striking paragraph (4);
                        (C) by redesignating paragraphs (5) through (7) as
                    paragraphs (4) through (6), respectively;
                        (D) in paragraph (5), as so redesignated--
                              (i) by striking ``paragraphs (1) and (4)'' and
                          inserting ``paragraph (1)''; and
                              (ii) by striking ``paragraph (1) or (4)'' and
                          inserting ``paragraph (1)''; and
                        (E) in paragraph (6)(A), as so redesignated--
                              (i) by striking ``paragraphs (1), (4), and
                          (6)'' and inserting ``paragraphs (1) and (5)'';
                          and
                              (ii) by striking ``paragraph (1) or (4)'' and
                          inserting ``paragraph (1)'';
                (2) in subsection (e)(1)--
                        (A) in subparagraph (A) by inserting ``or a
                    passenger facility charge imposition is authorized under
                    subsection (l)'' after ``of this section''; and
                        (B) in subparagraph (B) by inserting ``reasonable''
                    after ``subject to''; and
                (3) in subsection (l)--
                        (A) in the subsection heading, by striking ``Pilot
                    Program for Passenger Facility Charge Authorizations''
                    and inserting ``Passenger Facility Charge
                    Streamlining'';
                        (B) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the
                    following:
                ``(1) In general.--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1301]]

                        ``(A) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe
                    regulations to streamline the process for authorizing
                    eligible agencies for airports to impose passenger
                    facility charges.
                        ``(B) Passenger facility charge.--An eligible agency
                    may impose a passenger facility charge of $1, $2, $3,
                    $4, or $4.50 in accordance with the provisions of this
                    subsection instead of using the procedures otherwise
                    provided in this section.'';
                        (C) by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the
                    following:
                ``(4) Acknowledgment of receipt and indication of
            objection.--
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--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 60 days after receipt of
                    the eligible agency's notice.
                        ``(B) Prohibited objection.--The Secretary may not
                    object to an eligible airport-related project that
                    received Federal financial assistance for airport
                    development, terminal development, airport planning, or
                    for the purposes of noise compatibility, if the Federal
                    financial assistance and passenger facility charge
                    collection (including interest and other returns on the
                    revenue) do not exceed the total cost of the project.
                        ``(C) Allowed objection.--The Secretary may only
                    object to the imposition of a passenger facility charge
                    under this subsection for a project that--
                              ``(i) establishes significant policy
                          precedent;
                              ``(ii) raises significant legal issues;
                              ``(iii) garners significant controversy, as
                          evidenced by significant opposition to the
                          proposed action by the applicant or other airport
                          authorities, airport users, governmental agencies,
                          elected officials, or communities;
                              ``(iv) raises significant revenue diversion,
                          airport noise, or access issues, including
                          compliance with section 47111(e) or subchapter II
                          of chapter 475;
                              ``(v) includes multimodal components; or
                              ``(vi) serves no aeronautical purpose.'';
                        (D) by striking paragraph (6); and
                        (E) by redesignating paragraph (7) as paragraph (6).

        (b) <<NOTE: Deadline. 49 USC 40117 note.>>  Rulemaking.--Not later
    than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
    shall initiate a rulemaking to implement the amendments made by
    subsection (a).

        (c) <<NOTE: 49 USC 40117 note.>>  Interim Guidance.--The interim
    guidance established in the memorandum of the FAA titled ``PFC 73-20.
    Streamlined Procedures for Passenger Facility Charge (PFC)
    Authorizations at Small-, Medium-, and Large-Hub Airports'', issued on
    January 22, 2020, including any modification to such guidance necessary
    to conform with the amendments made by subsection (a), shall remain in
    effect until the effective date of the final rule issued under
    subsection (b).

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1302]]

          Subtitle C--Noise And Environmental Programs And Streamlining

    SEC. 781. STREAMLINING CONSULTATION PROCESS.

        Section 47101(h) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by
    striking ``shall'' and inserting ``may''.
    SEC. 782. 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 or
                          maintenance 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. 783. EXPEDITED ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW AND ONE FEDERAL DECISION.

        Section 47171 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) 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'';
                (2) 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 Secretary may designate an
                    aviation safety project for priority environmental
                    review.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1303]]

                        ``(B) Requirements.--A designated project shall be
                    subject to the coordinated and expedited environmental
                    review process requirements set forth in this section.
                        ``(C) Guidelines.--
                              ``(i) In general.--The Secretary shall
                          establish guidelines for the designation of an
                          aviation safety project or aviation security
                          project for priority environmental review.
                              ``(ii) Consideration.--Guidelines established
                          under clause (i) 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.'';
                (3) 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)'';
                (4) 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)'';
                (5) in subsection (h) by striking ``designated under
            subsection (b)(3)'' and all that follows through ``congested
            airports'' and inserting ``described in subsection (b)(1)'';
                (6) 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 Secretary shall define the purpose and
            need of a project not later than 45 days after--
                        ``(A) the submission of the appropriately completed
                    proposed purpose and need description of the airport
                    sponsor; and
                        ``(B) any appropriately completed proposed revision
                    to a development project that affects the purpose and
                    need description previously prepared or accepted by the
                    Federal Aviation Administration.
                ``(3) Assistance.--The Secretary shall provide all airport
            sponsors with technical assistance in drafting purpose and need
            statements and necessary supporting documentation for projects
            involving Federal approvals from more than 1 Federal agency.'';
                (7) 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'';

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1304]]

                        (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 (42 U.S.C.
                    4321 et seq.) and other applicable law.'';
                (8) in subsection (l) by striking the period at the end and
            inserting ``and section 1503 of title 40, Code of Federal
            Regulations.''; and
                (9) by striking subsection (m) and inserting the following:

        ``(m) Coordination and Schedule.--
                ``(1) Coordination plan.--
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Deadline. Notice. Assessment.>>  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 Secretary of
                    Transportation 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). <<NOTE: Memorandum.>>
                    The coordination plan may be incorporated into a
                    memorandum of understanding.
                        ``(B) Cloud-based, interactive digital platforms.--
                    The Secretary is encouraged to utilize cloud-based,
                    interactive digital platforms to meet community
                    engagement and agency coordination requirements under
                    subparagraph (A).
                        ``(C) Schedule.--
                              ``(i) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  In general.--
                          The Secretary 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
                          Secretary 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1305]]

                              ``(iii) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  Maximum
                          project schedule.--To the maximum extent
                          practicable and consistent with applicable Federal
                          law, the Secretary 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
                                    Secretary and participating agencies (or
                                    amongst participating agencies) during
                                    the environmental review process shall
                                    be addressed expeditiously to avoid
                                    delay.
                                        ``(II) Responsibilities.--The
                                    Secretary 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) Secretary
                                    responsibilities.--
                                                ``(aa) In general.--The
                                            Secretary shall make information
                                            available to each cooperating
                                            and participating agency and
                                            project sponsor as early as
                                            practicable in the environmental
                                            review regarding the
                                            environmental, historic, and
                                            socioeconomic resources located
                                            within the project area and the
                                            general locations of the
                                            alternatives under
                                            consideration.
                                                ``(bb) Sources of
                                            information.--The information
                                            described in item (aa) may be
                                            based on existing data sources,
                                            including geographic information
                                            systems mapping.
                                        ``(IV) Cooperating and participating
                                    agency responsibilities.--Each
                                    cooperating and participating agency
                                    shall--
                                                ``(aa) identify, as early as
                                            practicable, any issues of
                                            concern regarding any potential
                                            environmental impacts of the
                                            project, including any issues
                                            that could substantially delay
                                            or prevent an agency from
                                            completing any environmental
                                            review or authorization required
                                            for the project; and
                                                ``(bb) communicate any
                                            issues described in item (aa) to
                                            the project sponsor.
                                        ``(V) Elevation for missed
                                    milestone.--If a dispute between the
                                    Secretary and participating agencies (or
                                    amongst participating agencies) causes a
                                    milestone to be missed or extended, or

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1306]]

                                    the Secretary anticipates that a
                                    permitting timetable milestone will be
                                    missed or will need to be extended, the
                                    dispute shall be elevated to an official
                                    designated by the relevant agency for
                                    resolution. The elevation of a dispute
                                    shall take place as soon as practicable
                                    after the Secretary becomes aware of the
                                    dispute or potential missed milestone.
                                        ``(VI) Exception.--Disputes that do
                                    not impact the ability of an agency to
                                    meet a milestone may be elevated as
                                    appropriate.
                                        ``(VII) <<NOTE: Time period.>>
                                    Further evaluation.--If a resolution has
                                    not been reached at the end of the 30-
                                    day period after a relevant milestone
                                    date or extension date after a dispute
                                    has been elevated to the designated
                                    official, the relevant agencies shall
                                    elevate the dispute to senior agency
                                    leadership for resolution.
                        ``(D) Consistency with other time periods.--A
                    schedule under subparagraph (C) shall be consistent with
                    any other relevant time periods established under
                    Federal law.
                        ``(E) Modification.--
                              ``(i) In general.--Except as provided in
                          clause (ii), the Secretary may lengthen or shorten
                          a schedule established under subparagraph (C) for
                          good cause. The Secretary may consider a decision
                          by the project sponsor to change, modify, expand,
                          or reduce the scope of a project as good cause for
                          purposes of this clause.
                              ``(ii) Limitations.--
                                        ``(I) <<NOTE: Time period.>>
                                    Lengthened schedule.--The Secretary 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
                                    Secretary.
                                        ``(II) Shortened schedule.--The
                                    Secretary 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.
                        ``(F) Failure to meet deadline.--If a cooperating
                    Federal agency fails to meet a deadline established
                    under subparagraph (D)(ii)(I)--
                              ``(i) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  the cooperating
                          Federal agency shall, not later than 10 days after
                          failing to meet the deadline, submit to the
                          Secretary a report that describes the reasons why
                          the deadline was not met; and
                              ``(ii) the Secretary shall--
                                        ``(I) <<NOTE: Records.>>  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) <<NOTE: Public
                                    information. Web posting.>>  make the
                                    report under clause (i) publicly
                                    available on a website of the Department
                                    of Transportation.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1307]]

                        ``(G) <<NOTE: Records.>>  Dissemination.--A copy of
                    a schedule under subparagraph (C), and of any
                    modifications to the schedule under subparagraph (E),
                    shall be--
                              ``(i) provided to all participating agencies
                          and to the State department of transportation 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 Secretary shall establish the
            following deadlines for comment during the environmental review
            process for a project:
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Federal Register,
                    publication. Notice.>>  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) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  For all other comment
                    periods established by the lead agency for agency or
                    public comments in the environmental review process, a
                    period of not more than 45 days from availability of the
                    materials on which comment is requested, unless--
                              ``(i) a different deadline is established by
                          agreement of the Secretary, the project sponsor,
                          and all participating agencies; or
                              ``(ii) the deadline is extended by the lead
                          agency for good cause.
                ``(3) <<NOTE: Requirement. Public information. Web
            posting. Notices. Time periods.>>  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 Secretary 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 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 and publish on a website of the
            Department of Transportation--
                        ``(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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1308]]

        ``(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 such 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 such
                    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.--To the maximum extent practicable
                    and consistent with Federal law, all Federal permits and
                    reviews for a project shall rely on a single
                    environmental document prepared under the National
                    Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et
                    seq.) under the leadership of the Secretary.
                        ``(B) Use of document.--
                              ``(i) In general.--To the maximum extent
                          practicable, the Secretary 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.--In carrying out this subparagraph,
                          other participating agencies shall cooperate with
                          the lead agency and provide timely information.
                        ``(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 Secretary 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.
                        ``(D) <<NOTE: Waiver authority.>>  Exceptions.--The
                    Secretary may waive the application of subparagraph (A)
                    with respect to a project if--
                              ``(i) the project sponsor requests that
                          agencies issue separate environmental documents;
                              ``(ii) the obligations of a cooperating agency
                          or participating agency under the National
                          Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321
                          et seq.) have already been satisfied with respect
                          to the project; or
                              ``(iii) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  the
                          Secretary determines that reliance on a single
                          environmental document (as described in
                          subparagraph (A)) would not facilitate timely
                          completion of the environmental review process for
                          the project.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1309]]

                ``(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 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) <<NOTE: Errata sheets.>>  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
            Secretary 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 Secretary 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) <<NOTE: Records.>>  Single document.--To the maximum
            extent practicable, for a project subject to a coordinated
            review process under this section, the Secretary 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1310]]

                    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 such Act.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Identification.--If a lead
            or cooperating 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.--Such 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 lead and cooperating
                    agencies decide the appropriate scope of environmental
                    review for the project; or
                        ``(B) occur later in the environmental review
                    process, as appropriate.
                ``(5) <<NOTE: Incorporation by
            reference. Determination. Processes.>>  Conditions.--Such agency
            in the environmental review process may adopt or incorporate by
            reference a planning product under this section if such agency
            determines, with the concurrence of the lead agency, if
            appropriate, 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, if
            appropriate, 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) <<NOTE: Public information. Notice.>>  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
                    such agency has--
                              ``(i) <<NOTE: Public comment.>>  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) <<NOTE: Notice.>>  provided notice of
                          the intention of the such 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1311]]

                    the continued validity or appropriateness of the
                    planning product or portions thereof.
                        ``(G) <<NOTE: Data.>>  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 such 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) <<NOTE: Process. Time period.>>  In general.--The
            Secretary shall carry out a process to track, and annually
            submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of
            the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce,
            Science, and Transportation of the Senate, the Committee on
            Natural Resources of the House of Representatives, and the
            Committee on Environment and Public Works 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) <<NOTE: Statement.>>  for an environmental
                    impact statement--
                              ``(i) <<NOTE: Notice. Federal Register,
                          publication.>>  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 Secretary
                          issues a record of decision, including, if
                          necessary, a revised record of decision; and
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Assessment. Determinations.>>  for an
                    environmental assessment--
                              ``(i) begins on the date on which the
                          Secretary makes a determination to prepare an
                          environmental assessment; and
                              ``(ii) ends on the date on which the Secretary
                          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 Secretary
                    during the reporting period;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1312]]

                        ``(B) the number of proposed actions for which a
                    documented categorical exclusion was applied by the
                    Secretary 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
                    Secretary is pending;
                        ``(D) the number of proposed actions for which an
                    environmental assessment was issued by the Secretary
                    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
                    Secretary;
                        ``(G) the number of proposed actions for which a
                    final environmental impact statement was completed by
                    the Secretary during the reporting period;
                        ``(H) the length of time that the Secretary 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 such
                    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 such
                    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 Secretary
                    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 Secretary 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).''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1313]]

    SEC. 784. 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 meaning given such term in section 47102.''.
    SEC. 785. PILOT PROGRAM EXTENSION.

        Section 190 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 47104
    note) is amended--
                (1) in subsection (a) by inserting ``in each fiscal year''
            after ``6 projects''; and
                (2) in subsection (i) by striking ``5 years'' and all that
            follows through the period at the end and inserting ``on October
            1, 2028.''.
    SEC. 786. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 47501 note.>>  PART 150 NOISE
                            STANDARDS UPDATE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Review. Regulations.>>  In General.--Not later than 1
    year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
    review and revise, as appropriate, 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) <<NOTE: Clarification.>>  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 and in
    airport adjacent communities before implementing any changes to any
    noise policies or standards.

        (c) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 90 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, and every 6 months thereafter, the
    Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress
    regarding the review conducted under subsection (a).

        (d) Sunset.--The requirement under subsection (c) shall terminate on
    the earlier of--
                (1) October 1, 2028; or
                (2) the date on which 1 briefing is provided under
            subsection (c) after the changes in subsection (a) are
            implemented.
    SEC. 787. <<NOTE: Procedures. 49 USC 47501 note.>>  REDUCING
                            COMMUNITY AIRCRAFT NOISE EXPOSURE.

        In implementing or substantially revising a flight procedure, the
    Administrator shall consider 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, based on a consensus community
            recommendation.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1314]]

                (2) Work with airport sponsors and potentially impacted
            neighboring communities in establishing or modifying aircraft
            arrival and departure routes.
                (3) In collaboration with local governments, 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. 788. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47171 note.>>  CATEGORICAL EXCLUSIONS.

        (a) Categorical Exclusion for Projects of Limited Federal
    Assistance.--An action by the Administrator 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 FAA 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) <<NOTE: Cost estimate.>>  has 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 FAA 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 with concurrence of 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) <<NOTE: Time period. Effective date.>>  commenced within
            a 2-year period beginning on the date of a declaration described
            in this section.

        (c) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  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 such term in section 1508.1(d)
            of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1315]]

                (2) Public-use airport; sponsor.--The terms ``public-use
            airport'' and ``sponsor'' have the meanings given such terms in
            section 47102 of title 49, United States Code.
    SEC. 789. <<NOTE: Deadline. List. 49 USC 47171 note.>>  UPDATING
                            PRESUMED TO CONFORM LIMITS.

        Not later than 24 months after the date of enactment of this Act,
    the Administrator shall take such actions as are necessary to update the
    FAA'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. 790. RECOMMENDATIONS ON REDUCING ROTORCRAFT NOISE IN DISTRICT
                            OF COLUMBIA.

        (a) Study.--The Comptroller General shall conduct a study on
    reducing rotorcraft noise in the District of Columbia.
        (b) Contents.--In carrying out the study under subsection (a), the
    Comptroller General 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) <<NOTE: Briefing.>>  Report.--Not later than 1 year after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall brief the
    appropriate committees of Congress 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) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  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. 791. UFP STUDY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Contracts. Examination.>>  In General.--Not
    later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall seek to enter into an agreement with the National
    Academies under which the

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1316]]

    National Research Council shall carry out a study examining airborne
    ultrafine particles and the effect of such particles on airport-adjacent
    communities.

        (b) Scope of Study.--In carrying out the study under subsection (a),
    the National Research Council shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Summaries.>>  summarize the relevant literature
            and studies done on airborne UFPs worldwide;
                (2) focus on large hub airports;
                (3) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  examine airborne UFPs and the
            potential effect of such UFPs on airport-adjacent communities,
            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) consider the concentration of UFPs resulting from
            various aviation fuel sources including aviation gasoline,
            sustainable aviation fuel, and hydrogen, to the extent
            practicable;
                (5) identify measures intended to reduce the release of
            UFPs; and
                (6) 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) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  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 appropriate
    committees of Congress 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. 792. AIRCRAFT NOISE ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Establishment.--Not later than 180 days
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
    establish an Aircraft Noise Advisory Committee (in this section referred
    to as the ``Advisory Committee'') to advise the Administrator on issues
    facing the aviation community that are related to aircraft noise
    exposure and existing FAA noise policies and regulations.

        (b) <<NOTE: Appointments.>>  Membership.--The Administrator shall
    appoint the members of the Advisory Committee, which shall be comprised
    of--
                (1) at least 1 representative of each of--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1317]]

                        (A) engine manufacturers;
                        (B) air carriers;
                        (C) airport owners or operators;
                        (D) aircraft manufacturers;
                        (E) advanced air mobility manufacturers or
                    operators; and
                        (F) institutions of higher education; and
                (2) representatives of airport-adjacent communities from
            geographically diverse regions.

        (c) Duties.--The duties of the Advisory Committee shall include--
                (1) the evaluation of existing research on aircraft noise
            impacts and annoyance;
                (2) the assessment of alternative noise metrics that could
            be used to supplement or replace the existing Day Night Level
            standard, in consultation with the National Academies;
                (3) the evaluation of the current 65-decibel exposure
            threshold, including the impact to land use compatibility around
            airports if such threshold was lowered;
                (4) the evaluation of current noise mitigation strategies
            and the community engagement efforts by the FAA with respect to
            changes in airspace utilization, such as the integration of new
            entrants and usage of performance-based navigation; and
                (5) other duties determined appropriate by the
            Administrator.

        (d) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Reports.--
                (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
            establishment of the Advisory Committee, the Advisory Committee
            shall submit to the Administrator a report on any recommended
            changes to current aviation noise policies.
                (2) Report to congress.--Not later than 180 days after the
            date the Administrator receives the report under paragraph (1),
            the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of
            Congress a report containing the recommendations made by the
            Advisory Committee.

        (e) <<NOTE: Deadline. Plan.>>  Congressional Briefing.--Not later
    than 30 days after submission of the report under paragraph (2), the
    Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on how
    the Administrator plans to implement recommendations contained in the
    report and, for each recommendation that the Administrator does not plan
    to implement, the reason of the Administrator for not implementing the
    recommendation.

        (f) Consultation.--The Advisory Committee shall consult with other
    relevant Federal agencies, including the National Aeronautics and Space
    Administration, in carrying out the duties described in section (c).
    SEC. 793. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  COMMUNITY COLLABORATION
                            PROGRAM.

        (a) Establishment.--The Administrator shall continue existing
    community engagement activities under the designation of a Community
    Collaboration Program (in this section referred to as the ``Program'').
        (b) Responsibilities.--
                (1) In general.--In carrying out the Program, the
            Administrator shall facilitate and harmonize, as appropriate,
            policies and procedures carried out by various offices of the
            FAA pertaining to community engagement relating to--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1318]]

                        (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.--In carrying out the
            Program, the Administrator shall be responsible for--
                        (A) updating the internal guidance of the FAA for
                    community engagement based on--
                              (i) best practices of other Federal agencies
                          and external organizations with expertise in
                          community engagement;
                              (ii) interviews with impacted residents; and
                              (iii) recommendations solicited from
                          individuals and local government officials in
                          communities adversely impacted by aircraft noise;
                        (B) 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;
                        (C) coordination with Regional Ombudsmen of the FAA;
                        (D) oversight, streamlining, and increasing the
                    responsiveness of the noise complaint process of the FAA
                    by--
                              (i) centralizing noise complaint data and
                          improving data collection methodologies;
                              (ii) ensuring such Regional Ombudsmen are
                          consulted in local air traffic procedure
                          development decisions; and
                              (iii) collecting feedback from such Regional
                          Ombudsmen to inform national policymaking efforts;
                        (E) timely implementation of the recommendations, as
                    appropriate, made by the Comptroller General to the
                    Secretary 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
                                    FAA 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 FAA; and
                              (ii) any other recommendations included in the
                          report that would assist the FAA in improving
                          outreach to communities affected by aircraft
                          noise;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1319]]

                        (F) ensuring engagement with local community groups
                    as appropriate in conducting the other responsibilities
                    described in this section; and
                        (G) other responsibilities as considered appropriate
                    by the Administrator.

        (c) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 2 years after the
    Administrator implements the recommendations described in subsection
    (b)(2)(E), the Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of
    Congress 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.

        (d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed to require the Administrator to alter the organizational
    structure of the FAA nor change the reporting structure of any employee.
    SEC. 794. <<NOTE: District of Columbia. 49 USC 47501 note.>>
                            INFORMATION SHARING REQUIREMENT.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Public information. Web posting.>>  In
    General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this
    Act, the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, shall establish a
    mechanism to make helicopter noise complaint data accessible to the FAA,
    to helicopter operators operating in the Washington, DC area, and to the
    public on a website of the FAA, based on the recommendation of the
    Government Accountability Office in the report titled ``Aircraft Noise:
    Better Information Sharing Could Improve Responses to Washington, D.C.
    Area Helicopter Noise Concerns'', published on January 7, 2021 (GAO-21-
    200).

        (b) Cooperation.--Any helicopter operator operating in the
    Washington, DC area shall, to the extent practicable, provide helicopter
    noise complaint data to the FAA 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, DC 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, dc area.--The term ``Washington, DC area''
            means the area inside of a 30-mile radius surrounding Ronald
            Reagan Washington National Airport.
    SEC. 795. MECHANISMS TO REDUCE HELICOPTER NOISE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Study. Examination.>>  In General.--Not later
    than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller
    General shall initiate a

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1320]]

    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 appropriate
    committees of Congress a report on the findings of the study conducted
    under subsection (a).

                          TITLE VIII--GENERAL AVIATION

    SEC. 801. REEXAMINATION OF PILOTS OR CERTIFICATE HOLDERS.

        The Pilot's Bill of Rights (Public Law 112-153) <<NOTE: 126 Stat.
    1164.>>  is amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``SEC. 5. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44703 note.>>  REEXAMINATION OF AN AIRMAN
                        CERTIFICATE.

        ``(a) <<NOTE: Notification.>>  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) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  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, however,
            if the reexamination is not conducted within 30 days, the
            Administrator may restrict passenger carrying operations;
                ``(3) that if such reexamination is not conducted after 1
            year from date of notice, the airman certificate of the
            individual may be suspended or revoked; and
                ``(4) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  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 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1321]]

    after reexamination of the airman is subject to the standard of review
    provided for under section 2 of this Act.''.
    SEC. 802. GAO REVIEW OF PILOT'S BILL OF RIGHTS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Study.>>  In General.--Not later than 2 years
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall
    submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a study of the
    implementation of the Pilot's Bill of Rights.

        (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;
                (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;
                (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.

        (c) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Covered proceeding.--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.
                (2) Pilot's bill of rights.--The term ``Pilot's Bill of
            Rights'' means the Pilot's Bill of Rights (Public Law 112-153).
    SEC. 803. DATA PRIVACY.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 441 of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``Sec. 44114. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44114.>>  Privacy

        ``(a) <<NOTE: Update. Process.>>  In General.--Notwithstanding any
    other provision of law, including section 552(b)(3) of title 5, the
    Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall establish and
    update as necessary a process by which, upon request of a private
    aircraft owner or operator, the Administrator withholds 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 broad 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, including
    for traffic management purposes) for the noncommercial flights of the
    owner or operator.

        ``(b) Withholding Personally Identifiable Information on the
    Aircraft Registry.-- <<NOTE: Deadline. Procedure.>> Not later than 2
    years after the enactment of this Act and notwithstanding any other
    provision of law, including section 552(b)(3) of title 5, the
    Administrator shall establish a procedure by which, upon request of a
    private aircraft owner or operator, the Administrator shall withhold
    from broad dissemination or display by the FAA (except in furnished data
    or information made available to or from a Government agency pursuant to
    a government contract, subcontract, or agreement, including for traffic
    management purposes) the personally identifiable information of such
    individual, including on a publicly available website of the FAA.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1322]]

        ``(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) <<NOTE: Requirement.>>  Limitations.--In carrying out
            the program described in paragraph (1), the Administrator shall
            require--
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Attestation.>>  each applicant to
                    attest to a safety or security need in applying for a
                    new ICAO aircraft identification code; and
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Compliance. Updates.>>  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) 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 email
                    address) of an individual; or
                        ``(C) the telephone number of an individual.
                        ``(D) the names of the aircraft owner or operator,
                    if the owner or operator is an individual.''.

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 441 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44101.>>  is amended by adding
    at the end the following:

    ``44114. Privacy.''.

        (c) <<NOTE: Repeals.>>  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
    such Act are repealed.
    SEC. 804. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  ACCOUNTABILITY FOR AIRCRAFT
                            REGISTRATION NUMBERS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Review. Process.>>  In General.--Not later than 180 days
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 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.

        (c) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 18
    months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
    brief the appropriate committees of Congress on the review conducted
    under subsection (a), including any recommendations of the Administrator
    to improve

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1323]]

    equal participation in the process for reserving aircraft registration
    numbers by the general public.
    SEC. 805. <<NOTE: Determinations. 49 USC 44703 note.>>  TIMELY
                            RESOLUTION OF INVESTIGATIONS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 2 years after
    the date of issuance of a letter of investigation to any person, as
    required by section 2(b) of the Pilot's Bill of Rights (49 U.S.C. 44703
    note), the Administrator shall--
                (1) make a determination regarding such investigation and
            pursue subsequent action; or
                (2) close such investigation.

        (b) <<NOTE: Approvals.>>  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
            shall 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. 806. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44703 note.>>  ALL MAKES AND MODELS
                            AUTHORIZATION.

        (a) In General.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Unlimited letter of
            authorization.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
            enactment of this Act, the Administrator 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 ground and
                    flight 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.--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1324]]

                (1) <<NOTE: Briefing. Time period.>>  In general.--If the
            Administrator fails to implement subsection (a) within the time
            period prescribed in such subsection, the Administrator shall
            brief the appropriate committees of Congress 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. 807. 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.--
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--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.
                        ``(B) Construction.--Nothing in this paragraph shall
                    be construed to diminish the authority of the
                    Administrator (as of the day before the date of
                    enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024) to
                    take emergency action relating to an airman
                    certificate.''.
    SEC. 808. <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  ADS-B OUT EQUIPAGE STUDY; VEHICLE-
                            TO-VEHICLE LINK PROGRAM.

        (a) Study and Briefing on ADS-B Out Equipage.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Study.--Not later than 90 days
            after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
            initiate a study to determine--
                        (A) the number of aircraft registered in the United
                    States, and any other aerial vehicles operating in the
                    airspace of the United States, that are not equipped
                    with Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast out
                    equipment (in this section referred to as ``ADS-B
                    out'');
                        (B) <<NOTE: Requirements.>>  the requirements for,
                    and impact of, expanding the dual-link architecture that
                    is used below an altitude of flight level 180;
                        (C) <<NOTE: Costs.>>  the costs and benefits of
                    equipage of ADS-B out;
                        (D) <<NOTE: Costs.>>  the costs and benefits of any
                    accommodation made for aircraft with inoperable ADS-B
                    out;
                        (E) reasons why aircraft owners choose not to equip
                    or use an aircraft with ADS-B out; and
                        (F) ways to further incentivize aircraft owners to
                    equip and use aircraft with ADS-B out.
                (2) Briefing.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
            enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the
            appropriate committees of Congress on the results of the study
            conducted under paragraph (1).

        (b) <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  Vehicle-to-vehicle Link Program.--
    Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator, in coordination with the Administrator of the National
    Aeronautics and Space Administration and the Chair of the Federal
    Communications Commission, shall establish an interagency coordination
    program to advance vehicle-to-vehicle link initiatives that--
                (1) enable the real-time digital exchange of key information
            between nearby aircraft; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1325]]

                (2) are not reliant on ground infrastructure or air-to-
            ground communication links.
    SEC. 809. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>>  ENSURING SAFE LANDINGS
                            DURING OFF-AIRPORT OPERATIONS.

        The Administrator 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. 810. DEVELOPMENT OF LOW-COST VOLUNTARY ADS-B.

        (a) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  In General.--Not later than 2 years after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall prepare a
    report on the development of a suitable position reporting system for
    voluntary use in covered airspace to facilitate traffic awareness.

        (b) Technical Advice.--In preparing the report under subsection (a),
    the Administrator shall solicit technical advice from representatives
    from--
                (1) industry groups, including pilots, aircraft owners,
            avionics manufacturers; and
                (2) any others determined necessary by the Administrator.

        (c) Requirements.--In preparing the report under subsection (a), the
    Administrator shall--
                (1) research and catalog domestic and international
            equipment, standards, and systems analogous to ADS-B available
            as of the date on which the report is completed;
                (2) address strengths and weaknesses of such equipment,
            standards, and systems, including with respect to cost;
                (3) to enable the development and voluntary use of portable,
            installed, low-cost position reporting systems for use in
            covered airspace--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  provide
                    recommendations on any regulatory and procedural changes
                    to be taken by the Administrator or other Federal
                    entities; and
                        (B) describe any equipment, standards, and systems
                    that may need to be developed with respect to such
                    reporting systems;
                (4) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine market size,
            development costs, and barriers that may need to be overcome for
            the development of technology that enables such position
            reporting systems in covered airspace; and
                (5) <<NOTE: Strategy.>>  include a communication strategy
            that--
                        (A) targets potential users of such position
                    reporting systems as soon as such technology is
                    available for commercial use; and
                        (B) promotes the benefits of the voluntary use in
                    covered airspace of position reporting systems to
                    enhance traffic awareness.

        (d) Report to Congress.--Not later than 30 days after the date on
    which the report prepared under subsection (a) is finalized, the
    Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress the
    report prepared under subsection (a).
        (e) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Covered airspace.--The term ``covered airspace'' means
            airspace for which the use of ADS-B out equipment on an aircraft
            is not required under section 91.225 of title 14, Code of
            Federal Regulations,
                (2) ADS-B.--The term ``ADS-B'' means Automatic Dependent
            Surveillance-Broadcast.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1326]]

    SEC. 811. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40103 note.>>  AIRSHOW SAFETY TEAM.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Establishment.>>  In General.--Not later than
    180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator may,
    as determined necessary by the Administration, 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) <<NOTE: Strategies.>>  Activities.--In carrying out the
    objectives pursuant to subsection (b), the Airshow Safety Team shall, at
    a minimum--
                (1) <<NOTE: Analysis.>>  perform an analysis of airshow and
            aerial event accidents and incidents in conjunction with the
            Safety Analysis Team;
                (2) <<NOTE: Publication. Updates. Time period. Plan.>>
            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) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  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.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to
    require an amendment to the charter of the General Aviation Joint Safety
    Committee.
    SEC. 812. <<NOTE: Records.>>  AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION VALIDITY
                            DURING RENEWAL.

        (a) In General.--Section 44103 of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended by adding at the end the following:
        ``(e) 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) <<NOTE: Compliance.>>  such aircraft is
                          compliant with maintenance, inspections, and any
                          other requirements for the aircraft's
                          airworthiness certificate issued under section
                          44704(d); and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1327]]

                        ``(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) <<NOTE: Notification.>>  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) <<NOTE: Deadline. Update. 49 USC 44103 note.>>  Rulemaking;
    Guidance.--Not later than 36 months after the date of enactment of this
    Act, the Administrator shall issue a final rule, if necessary, and
    update all applicable guidance and policies to reflect the amendment
    made by this section.
    SEC. 813. 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. 814. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>>  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 to allow, conduct, or receive
    flight training, checking, and testing in such aircraft if--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1328]]

                (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. 815. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44703 note.>>  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) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Rulemaking.--Not later than 3 years after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator 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. 816. <<NOTE: Deadline. Public information. Website. 49 USC
                            44703 note.>>  DESIGNEE LOCATOR TOOL
                            IMPROVEMENTS.

        Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator 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. 817. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44103 note.>>  DEADLINE TO ELIMINATE
                            AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION BACKLOG.

        Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator 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. 818. <<NOTE: Time periods. 49 USC 41108 note.>>  PART 135 AIR
                            CARRIER CERTIFICATE BACKLOG.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>>  In General.--The Administrator shall take
    such actions as may be necessary to achieve the goal of reducing the
    backlog

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1329]]

    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 application acceptance or
            rejection time of less than 60 days; and
                (2) not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of
            this Act, maintain an average application acceptance or
            rejection 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) <<NOTE: Effective date. Compliance.>>  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 appropriate committees of Congress 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).
    SEC. 819. <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  ENHANCING PROCESSES FOR
                            AUTHORIZING AIRCRAFT FOR SERVICE IN
                            COMMUTER AND ON-DEMAND OPERATIONS.

        (a) Establishment of Working Group.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In general.--Not later than 180
            days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
            shall establish a part 135 aircraft conformity working group (in
            this section referred to as the ``Working Group'').
                (2) <<NOTE: Study.>>  Requirements.--The Working Group shall
            study methods and make recommendations to clarify requirements
            and standardize the process for conducting and completing
            aircraft conformity processes in a timely manner for existing
            operators and air carriers operating aircraft under part 135 and
            entering such aircraft into service.

        (b) Membership.--The Working Group shall be comprised of
    representatives of the FAA, existing operators and air carriers
    operating aircraft under part 135, associations or trade groups
    representing such operators or air carriers, and, as appropriate, labor
    groups representing employees of air carriers operating under part 135.
        (c) Duties.--The Working Group shall consider all aspects of the FAA
    processes as of the date of enactment of this Act for ensuring aircraft
    conformity and make recommendations to enhance such processes, including
    with respect to--
                (1) methodologies for air carriers and operators to document
            and attest to aircraft conformity in accordance with the
            requirements of part 135;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1330]]

                (2) streamlined protocols for operators and air carriers
            operating aircraft under part 135 to add an aircraft that was
            listed on another part 135 certificate immediately prior to
            moving to a new air carrier or operator; and
                (3) changes to FAA policy and documentation necessary to
            implement the recommendations of the Working Group.

        (d) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Congressional Briefing.--Not later than 1
    year after the date on which the Administrator establishes the Working
    Group, the Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of
    Congress on the progress made by the Working Group in carrying out the
    duties specified in subsection (c), recommendations of the Working
    Group, and the efforts of the Administrator to implement such
    recommendations.

        (e) Definition of Part 135.--In this section, the term ``part 135''
    means part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    SEC. 820. <<NOTE: Deadline. Regulations. Update. 49 USC 44939
                            note.>>  FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATES.

        Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act,
    the Administrator 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.
    SEC. 821. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>>  CONSISTENCY OF POLICY
                            APPLICATION IN FLIGHT STANDARDS AND
                            AIRCRAFT CERTIFICATION.

        (a) <<NOTE: Audits.>>  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 FAA, 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) <<NOTE: Interviews.>>  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 before
            different FAA Flight Standards Service and Aircraft
            Certification Service offices;
                (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) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Reports.--The inspector general of
    the Department of Transportation shall submit to the appropriate
    committees of Congress, the Secretary, and the Administrator a report
    for each audit

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1331]]

    required in this section, containing the results of the audit, including
    findings and necessary 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 may--
                (1) <<NOTE: Plan.>>  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) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 6 months after
    receiving a report required under subsection (c), the Administrator
    shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress 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. 822. APPLICATION OF POLICIES, ORDERS, AND GUIDANCE.

        Section 44701 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding
    at the end the following:
        ``(h) 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) <<NOTE: Audits.>>  audits of the application
                    and interpretation of such material by Administration
                    personnel from person to person and office to office;
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Updates.>>  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) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  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.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1332]]

    SEC. 823. 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) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Submit recommendations,
            as needed, to the Assistant Administrator for Rulemaking and
            Regulatory Improvement for consideration.''.
    SEC. 824. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44740 note.>>  MODERNIZATION OF SPECIAL
                            AIRWORTHINESS CERTIFICATION RULEMAKING
                            DEADLINE.

        Not later than 24 months after the date of enactment of this Act,
    the Administrator 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. 825. 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;
                (2) in the heading for paragraph (2) of subsection (a) by
            striking ``rotorcraft'' and inserting ``helicopter''; and
                (3) by adding at the end the following:

        ``(d) Exception.--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 excepted from the requirements of this
    section.''.
    SEC. 826. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44703 note.>>  PUBLIC AIRCRAFT FLIGHT
                            TIME LOGGING ELIGIBILITY.

        (a) Forestry and Fire Protection Flight Time Logging.--
                (1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law,
            aircraft under the direct operational control of forestry and
            fire protection agencies are eligible to log pilot flight times,
            if the flight time was acquired by the pilot while engaged

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1333]]

            on an official forestry or fire protection flight, in the same
            manner as aircraft under the direct operational control of a
            Federal, State, county, or municipal law enforcement agency.
                (2) Retroactive application.--Paragraph (1) shall be applied
            as if enacted on October 5, 2018.

        (b) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Regulations.--Not later than 180 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall make such
    regulatory changes as are necessary to conform to the requirements of
    this section.
    SEC. 827. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44714 note.>>  EAGLE INITIATIVE.

        (a) EAGLE Initiative.--
                (1) In general.--The Administrator 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'') through the end of 2030.
                (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 authority of the Administrator 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 safe and
                    efficient operation of the piston-engine aircraft fleet;
                        (B) the approval of the use of unleaded alternatives
                    to leaded aviation gasoline for use in all piston-engine
                    aircraft types and piston-engine models;
                        (C) the implementation of the requirements of
                    section 47107(a)(22) of title 49, United States Code, as
                    added by this Act, as such requirements relate to the
                    continued availability of aviation gasoline;
                        (D) efforts to make unleaded aviation gasoline that
                    is approved for use in piston-engine aircraft and
                    engines widely available for purchase and use at
                    airports in the National Plan of Integrated Airport
                    Systems; and
                        (E) the development of a transition plan to safely
                    enable the transition of the piston-engine general
                    aviation aircraft fleet to unleaded aviation gasoline by
                    2030, to the extent practicable.
                (3) Activities.--In carrying out the responsibilities of the
            Administrator pursuant to paragraph (2), the Administrator
            shall, at a minimum--
                        (A) maintain a fleet authorization process for the
                    efficient approval or authorization of eligible piston-
                    engine aircraft and engine models to operate safely
                    using qualified unleaded aviation gasolines;
                        (B) review, update, and prioritize, as soon as
                    practicable, certification processes and projects, as
                    necessary, for aircraft engines and modifications to
                    such engines to operate with unleaded aviation gasoline;
                        (C) seek to facilitate programs that accelerate the
                    creation, evaluation, qualification, deployment, and use
                    of unleaded aviation gasolines;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1334]]

                        (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 safely
                    operate with unleaded aviation gasoline candidates
                    during cold weather conditions; and
                        (F) facilitate the development of agency policies
                    and processes, as appropriate, to support the deployment
                    of necessary infrastructure at airports to enable the
                    distribution and storage of unleaded aviation gasolines.
                (4) Consultation and collaboration with relevant
            stakeholders.--In carrying out the EAGLE Initiative, the
            Administrator shall continue to consult and collaborate, 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 and fixed-base operators;
                        (D) State, local, and Tribal aviation officials;
                        (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) Report to congress.--
                        (A) Initial report.--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 that--
                              (i) <<NOTE: Strategic plan.>>  contains an
                          updated strategic plan for maintaining a fleet
                          authorization process for the efficient approval
                          and authorization of eligible piston-engine
                          aircraft and engine models to operate using
                          unleaded aviation gasolines in a manner that
                          ensures safety;
                              (ii) describes the structure and involvement
                          of all FAA offices that have responsibilities
                          described in paragraph (2); and
                              (iii) identifies policy initiatives,
                          regulatory initiatives, or legislative initiatives
                          needed to improve and enhance the timely and safe
                          transition to unleaded aviation gasoline for the
                          piston-engine aircraft fleet.
                        (B) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  Annual briefing.--Not
                    later than 1 year after the date on which the
                    Administrator submits the initial report under
                    subparagraph (A), and annually thereafter through 2030,
                    the Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees
                    of Congress 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 Aviation Gasoline.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  In general.--In developing the
            transition plan under subsection (a)(2)(E), the Administrator
            may, at a minimum, assess the following:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1335]]

                        (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 safe
                          and efficient operation of the piston-engine
                          aircraft fleet;
                              (ii) approving the use of unleaded
                          alternatives to leaded aviation gasoline for use
                          in all piston-engine aircraft types and piston-
                          engine models; and
                              (iii) facilitating efforts to make approved
                          unleaded aviation gasoline that is approved for
                          use in piston-engine aircraft and engines widely
                          available at airports for purchase and use in the
                          National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems.
                        (B) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  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 operators
                    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
                              (iv) 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) Publication; guidance.--Upon completion of developing
            such transition plan, the Administrator shall--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Public information. Web posting.>>  make
                    the plan available to the public on an appropriate
                    website of the FAA; and
                        (B) provide guidance supporting the implementation
                    of the transition plan.
                (3) Collaboration with eagle initiative.--In supporting the
            development of such transition plan and issuing associated
            guidance pertaining to the implementation of such transition
            plan, the Administrator shall consult and collaborate with
            individuals carrying out the EAGLE Initiative.
                (4) Unleaded aviation gasoline communication materials.--The
            Administrator may collaborate with individuals carrying out the
            EAGLE Initiative to jointly 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.
                (5) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Briefing to congress.--Not later
            than 60 days after the publication of such transition plan, the
            Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress
            on such transition plan and any agency efforts or actions
            pertaining to the implementation of such transition plan.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1336]]

                (6) Savings clause.--Nothing in this section shall be
            construed to delay or alter the ongoing work of the EAGLE
            Initiative established by the Administrator in 2022.
    SEC. 828. 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) <<NOTE: Statistics.>>  Report Required.--Not later than 4
    years after the date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of
    2024, 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) by striking subsection (j) and inserting the following:

        ``(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
            7 occupants;
                ``(2) has a maximum certificated takeoff weight of not more
            than 12,500 pounds; and
                ``(3) is not a transport category rotorcraft certified to
            airworthiness standards under part 29 of title 14, Code of
            Federal Regulations.''.

        (b) <<NOTE: Updates. 49 USC 44703 note.>>  Rulemaking.--The
    Administrator 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) <<NOTE: Effective date. 49 USC 44703 note.>>  Applicability.--
    Beginning on the date that is 180 days after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator shall apply parts 61 and 68, Code of Federal
    Regulations, in a manner reflecting the amendments made by this section.
    SEC. 829. PROHIBITION ON USING ADS-B OUT 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 Out Data to Initiate an
    Investigation.--
                ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1337]]

                ``(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. 830. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  CHARITABLE FLIGHT FUEL
                            REIMBURSEMENT EXEMPTIONS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Rescissions.>>  In General.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  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 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); and
                (2) is otherwise substantially similar to the previously
            issued exemption.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1338]]

        (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. 831. GAO REPORT ON CHARITABLE FLIGHTS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Reviews.>>  Report.--Not later than 4 years after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General 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) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  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), including assessment of--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Compliance.>>  the conditions and
                    limitations a petitioner shall 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1339]]

                (3) <<NOTE: Analysis.>>  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
    FAA.
        (c) Recommendations.--As part of the review initiated under
    subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall make recommendations, as
    determined appropriate, to the Administrator 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 appropriate
    committees of Congress a report describing the findings of such review
    and recommendations developed under subsection (c).
    SEC. 832. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44740 note.>>  FLIGHT INSTRUCTION OR
                            TESTING.

        (a) 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 FAA regulations and policy in effect as of the
    date of enactment of this Act, shall not be deemed to be operating an
    aircraft carrying persons or property for compensation or hire.
        (b) Use of Aircraft.--An individual who uses, causes to use, or
    authorizes to use aircraft for flights conducted under subsection (a)
    shall not be deemed to be operating an aircraft carrying persons or
    property for compensation or hire.
        (c) Revision of Rules.--The Administrator shall, as necessary,
    issue, revise, or repeal the rules, regulations, guidance, or procedures
    of the FAA to conform to the requirements of this section.
    SEC. 833. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44703 note.>>  NATIONAL COORDINATION AND
                            OVERSIGHT OF DESIGNATED PILOT EXAMINERS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Establishment.>>  In General.--The Administrator shall
    establish an office to provide oversight and facilitate national
    coordination of designated pilot examiners appointed under section
    183.23 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

        (b) Responsibilities.--The office described in 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.
                (2) Coordinating with other offices, as appropriate, to
            support the standardization of policy, guidance, and regulations
            across the FAA 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) Evaluating the consistency by which such examiners apply
            FAA policies, orders, and guidance.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1340]]

                (4) Coordinating placement and deployment of such examiners
            across regions based on demand for examinations from the pilot
            community.
                (5) Developing a code of conduct for such examiners.
                (6) Deploying a survey system to track the performance and
            merit of such examiners.
                (7) 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 office--
                (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 whether to implement 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) Report.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Time period. Evaluation.>>  In general.--Not
            later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, and
            biennially thereafter through fiscal year 2028, the
            Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of
            Congress a report that evaluates the use of designated pilot
            examiners appointed under section 183.23 of title 14, Code of
            Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation), for testing,
            including both written and practical tests.
                (2) <<NOTE: Analyses.>>  Contents.--The report under
            paragraph (1) shall include an analysis of--
                        (A) the methodology and rationale by which
                    designated pilot examiners are deployed;
                        (B) with respect to the previous fiscal year, the
                    average time an individual in each region must wait to
                    schedule an appointment with a designated pilot
                    examiner;
                        (C) with respect to the previous fiscal year, the
                    estimated total time individuals in each region were
                    forced to wait to schedule an appointment with a
                    designated pilot examiner;
                        (D) the primary reasons and best ways to reduce wait
                    times described in subparagraph (C);
                        (E) the number of tests conducted by designated
                    pilot examiners;
                        (F) the number and percentage of available
                    designated pilot examiners that perform such tests; and
                        (G) the average rate of retests, including of both
                    written and practical tests.
    SEC. 834. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>>  PART 135 PILOT
                            SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN REQUIREMENT.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Notice. Regulations. Applicability.>>  In
    General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act,
    the Administrator shall issue a notice of proposed rulemaking concerning
    whether to revise the requirements under paragraphs (3) and (4) of
    section 135.89(b) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to apply
    only to aircraft operating at altitudes above flight level 410.

        (b) <<NOTE: Data. Investigations. Recommenda- tions.>>
    Considerations.--In issuing the notice of proposed rulemaking, the
    Administrator shall consider applicable safety data and risks, including
    in relation to applicable incidents and accidents,

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1341]]

    as well as the investigations and recommendations of the National
    Transportation Safety Board.

                 TITLE IX--NEW ENTRANTS AND AEROSPACE INNOVATION

                      Subtitle A--Unmanned Aircraft Systems

    SEC. 901. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44502 note.>>  DEFINITIONS.

        Except as otherwise provided, the definitions contained in section
    44801 of title 49, United States Code, apply to this subtitle.
    SEC. 902. UNMANNED AIRCRAFT IN THE ARCTIC.

        (a) In General.--Section 44804 of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended--
                (1) in the section heading by striking ``small unmanned''
            and inserting ``unmanned''; and
                (2) by striking ``small'' each place it appears.

        (b) Conforming Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 448 of such
    title is <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44801.>>  amended by striking the item
    relating to section 44804 and inserting the following:

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

    SEC. 903. SMALL UAS SAFETY STANDARDS TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.

        Section 44805 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in the section heading by striking ``small unmanned''
            and inserting ``small unmanned'';
                (2) in subsection (a)(2) by striking ``operation of small''
            and inserting ``operation of a small'';
                (3) in subsection (f) by striking ``subsection (h)'' and
            inserting ``subsection (f)'';
                (4) in subsection (g)(3) by striking ``subsection (h)'' and
            inserting ``subsection (f)'';
                (5) in subsection (i)(1) by striking ``subsection (h)'' and
            inserting ``subsection (f)''; and
                (6) by redesignating subsection (e) through (j) as
            subsections (c) through (h), respectively.
    SEC. 904. AIRPORT SAFETY AND AIRSPACE HAZARD MITIGATION AND
                            ENFORCEMENT.

        Section 44810 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in subsection (c) by inserting ``, and any other
            location the Administrator determines appropriate'' after
            ``Data''; and
                (2) in subsection (h) by striking ``May 10, 2024'' and
            inserting ``September 30, 2028''.
    SEC. 905. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44505 note.>>  RADAR DATA PILOT PROGRAM.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Determination.>>  Sensitive Radar Data Feed
    Pilot Program.--Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator, 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 controlled
    unclassified information available to qualified users (as determined by
    the Administrator), consistent with subsection (b).

        (b) <<NOTE: Process.>>  Authorization.--In carrying out subsection
    (a), the Administrator, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense
    and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1342]]

    other heads of relevant Federal agencies, shall establish a process to
    authorize qualified users to receive airspace data feeds containing
    controlled unclassified information related to air traffic within the
    national airspace system and use such information in an agreed upon
    manner to--
                (1) provide and enable--
                        (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) Consultation.--In establishing the process described in
    subsection (b), the Administrator shall consult with representatives of
    the unmanned aircraft systems industry and related technical groups to
    identify an efficient, secure, and effective format and method for
    providing data described in this section.
        (d) <<NOTE: Deadline. Time period.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 90
    days after establishing the pilot program under subsection (a), and
    annually thereafter through 2028, the Administrator shall brief the
    appropriate committees of Congress on the findings of the pilot program
    established under this section.

        (e) Sunset.--This section shall cease to be effective on October 1,
    2028.
    SEC. 906. ELECTRONIC CONSPICUITY STUDY.

        (a) In General.--The Comptroller General 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 of--
                        (A) unmanned aircraft systems manufacturers and
                    operators;
                        (B) general aviation operators;
                        (C) agricultural aircraft operators;
                        (D) helicopter operators; and
                        (E) State and local governments; and
                (2) any other stakeholder the Comptroller General determines
            appropriate.

        (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the appropriate
    committees of Congress a report describing the results of such study.
    SEC. 907. REMOTE IDENTIFICATION ALTERNATIVE MEANS OF COMPLIANCE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Review. Determination.>>  Evaluation.--The Administrator
    shall review and evaluate the final rule of the FAA titled ``Remote
    Identification of Unmanned Aircraft'', issued on January 15, 2021 (86
    Fed. Reg. 4390), to determine 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1343]]

        (b) Report.--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 on the results of the evaluation under subsection
    (a).
    SEC. 908. <<NOTE: Certificates. 49 USC 44802 note.>>  PART 107
                            WAIVER IMPROVEMENTS.

        (a) In General.--The Administrator 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 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 FAA 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 Access.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  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 influence the extent to which the Administrator
            considers a lack of control over access to all real property on
            the ground within an area of operation as affecting the safety
            of an operation intended to be conducted under such certificate
            of waiver.

        (d) Public Availability of Waivers.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Web posting.>>  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 FAA, 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) <<NOTE: Confidentiality.>>  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) <<NOTE: Determination. Criteria.>>  Waiver approval
            precedent.--If the Administrator determines, using criteria for
            a particular waiver, that an

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1344]]

            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 for such a particular waiver.
                (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) <<NOTE: Review process.>>  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 modify or renew
            certificates of waiver that cover operations that are
            substantially similar in all material facts to operations
            covered under a previously issued certificate of waiver.
    SEC. 909. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44801 note.>>  ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW AND
                            NOISE CERTIFICATION.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Publication. Procedures.>>  National
    Environmental Policy Act Guidance.--Not later than 180 days after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall publish unmanned
    aircraft system-specific environmental review guidance and
    implementation procedures and, thereafter, revise such guidance and
    procedures as appropriate to carry out the requirements of this section.

        (b) <<NOTE: Processes.>>  Prioritization.--The guidance and
    procedures established by the Administrator under subsection (a) shall
    include processes that allow for the prioritization of project
    applications and activities that--
                (1) offset or limit the impacts of non-zero emission
            activities;
                (2) offset or limit the release of environmental pollutants
            to soil or water; or
                (3) demonstrate other factors that benefit human safety or
            the environment, as determined by the Administrator.

        (c) <<NOTE: Deadline. Examination.>>  Programmatic Level Approach to
    NEPA Review.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator shall examine and integrate programmatic-
    level approaches to the requirements of the National Environmental
    Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) by which the Administrator
    can--
                (1) leverage an environmental review for unmanned aircraft
            operations within a defined geographic region, including within
            and over commercial sites, industrial sites, or other sites
            closed or restricted to the public; and
                (2) leverage an environmental assessment or environmental
            impact statement for nationwide programmatic approaches for
            large scale distributed unmanned aircraft operations.

        (d) Developing 1 or More Categorical Exclusions.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Consultations.>>  In general.--The Administrator
            shall engage in periodic consultations with the Council on
            Environmental Quality to identify actions that are appropriate
            for a new categorical exclusion and shall incorporate such
            actions in FAA Order

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1345]]

            1050.1F (or successor order) as considered appropriate by the
            Administrator to more easily allow for safe commercial
            operations of unmanned aircraft.
                (2) Prior operations.--The Administrator shall review
            existing categorical exclusions for applicability to unmanned
            aircraft operations in accordance with the National
            Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and
            subchapter A of chapter V of title 40, Code of Federal
            Regulations.

        (e) <<NOTE: Deadline. Plan.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 90 days
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief
    the appropriate committees of Congress on the plan of the Administrator
    to implement subsection (a).

        (f) Nonapplication of Noise Certification Requirements Pending
    Standards Development.--
                (1) In general.--Notwithstanding the requirements of section
            44715 of title 49, United States Code, the Administrator shall--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Waiver.>>  waive the determination of
                    compliance with part 36 of title 14, Code of Federal
                    Regulations, for an applicant seeking unmanned aircraft
                    type and airworthiness certifications; and
                        (B) not deny, withhold, or delay such certifications
                    due to the absence of a noise certification basis under
                    such part, if the Administrator has developed
                    appropriate noise measurement procedures for unmanned
                    aircraft and the Administrator has received from the
                    applicant the noise measurement results based on such
                    procedures.
                (2) Duration.--The nonapplication of the noise certification
            requirements under paragraph (1) shall continue until the
            Administrator finalizes the noise certification requirements for
            unmanned aircraft in part 36 of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations, or another part of title 14 of such Code, as
            required under paragraph (3).
                (3) Associated uas certification standards.--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Deadline. Determination.>>  Development
                    of criteria.--Not later than 18 months after the date of
                    enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall develop
                    and establish substantive criteria and standard metrics
                    to determine whether to approve an unmanned aircraft
                    pursuant to part 36 of title 14, Code of Federal
                    Regulations.
                        (B) Substantive criteria and standard metrics.--In
                    establishing the substantive criteria and standard
                    metrics under subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall
                    include criteria and metrics related to the noise
                    impacts of an unmanned aircraft.
                        (C) <<NOTE: Federal Register, publication. Public
                    information. Web posting.>>  Publication.--The
                    Administrator shall publish in the Federal Register and
                    post on the website of the FAA the criteria and metrics
                    established under subparagraph (A).

        (g) <<NOTE: Determination. Analyses.>>  Concurrent Reviews.--If the
    Administrator determines that the design, construction, maintenance and
    operational sustainability, airworthiness approval, or operational
    approval of an unmanned aircraft require environmental assessments,
    including under the requirements of 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
    concurrently.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1346]]

        (h) Third-party Support.--In implementing subsection (a), the
    Administrator shall allow for the engagement of approved specialized
    third parties, as appropriate, to support an applicant's preparation of,
    or 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.
        (i) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed as prohibiting, restricting, or otherwise limiting the
    authority of 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.
    SEC. 910. UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM USE IN WILDFIRE RESPONSE.

        (a) Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Wildfire Response.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Plan.>>  In general.--Not later than
            18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the
            Administrator, in coordination with the Chief of the Forest
            Service, the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space
            Administration, and any other Federal entity (or a contracted
            unmanned aircraft system operator of a Federal entity) the
            Administrator considers appropriate, shall develop a plan for
            the use of unmanned aircraft systems by public entities in
            wildfire response efforts, including wildfire detection,
            mitigation, and suppression.
                (2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Plan contents.--The plan
            developed under paragraph (1) shall include recommendations to--
                        (A) identify and designate areas of public land with
                    high potential for wildfires in which public entities
                    may conduct unmanned aircraft system operations beyond
                    visual line of sight as part of wildfire response
                    efforts, including wildfire detection, mitigation, and
                    suppression;
                        (B) <<NOTE: Process.>>  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
                    subparagraph (A), including a 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) <<NOTE: Briefing.>>  Plan submission.--Upon completion
            of the plan under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall submit
            such plan to, and provide a briefing for, the appropriate
            committees of Congress and the Committee on Science, Space, and
            Technology of the House of Representatives.
                (4) <<NOTE: Public information. Web posting.>>
            Publication.--Upon submission of the plan under paragraph (1),
            the Administrator shall publish such plan on a publicly
            available website of the FAA.

        (b) Applicability.--The plan developed under this section shall
    cover only 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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1347]]

                (3) under the operational control of, or otherwise are being
            operationally coordinated by, an authorized aviation coordinator
            responsible for coordinating disaster response aircraft within
            the airspace covered by such temporary flight restriction.

        (c) <<NOTE: Deadline. Contracts.>>  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 implementation of the plan developed under this
    section and the use of manned and unmanned aircraft in wildfire response
    efforts, including wildfire detection, mitigation, and suppression.

        (d) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to
    confer upon the Administrator the authorities of the Administrator of
    the Federal Emergency Management Agency 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) 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. 911. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44502 note.>>  PILOT PROGRAM FOR UAS
                            INSPECTIONS OF FAA INFRASTRUCTURE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 180 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall initiate a pilot
    program to supplement inspection and oversight activities of the
    Department of Transportation with unmanned aircraft systems to increase
    employee safety, enhance data collection, increase the accuracy of
    inspections, reduce costs, and for other purposes the Secretary
    considers to be appropriate.

        (b) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  Ground-based Aviation Infrastructure.--In
    participating in the program under subsection (a), the Administrator
    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) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  Coordination.--In carrying out
    subsection (b), the Administrator 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.

        (d) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1348]]

    to the appropriate committees of Congress a briefing on the status and
    results of the pilot program established under subsection (a),
    including--
                (1) cost savings;
                (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 for the program, or an overview of the services used
            as part of the pilot program; and
                (5) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommendations for
            improving the use or efficacy of unmanned aircraft systems to
            supplement the Department's inspection, data collection, or
            oversight activities.

        (e) Sunset and Incorporation Into Standard Practice.--
                (1) Sunset.--The pilot program established under subsection
            (a) and the briefing requirement under subsection (d) shall
            terminate on the date that is 4 years after the date of
            enactment of this Act.
                (2) <<NOTE: Assessment. Determination.>>  Incorporation into
            standard practice.--Upon termination of the pilot program under
            this section, the Secretary shall assess the results 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 9 months after the
            termination of the pilot program under paragraph (1), the
            Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress
            a report on the final results of the pilot program and the
            actions taken by the Administrator under paragraph (2).
    SEC. 912. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44802 note.>>  DRONE INFRASTRUCTURE
                            INSPECTION GRANT PROGRAM.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Authority.--Not later than 270 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish an
    unmanned aircraft system infrastructure inspection grant program to
    provide grants to governmental entities to facilitate the use of small
    unmanned aircraft systems to support more efficient inspection,
    operation, construction, maintenance, and repair of an element of
    critical infrastructure to improve worker safety related to projects.

        (b) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  Use of Grant Amounts.--A governmental
    entity may use a grant provided under this section to--
                (1) purchase or lease small unmanned aircraft systems;
                (2) support the operational capabilities of small unmanned
            aircraft systems used by the governmental entity;
                (3) contract for services performed using a 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 or contract the use of a small
            unmanned aircraft system, as described in paragraph (3).

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1349]]

        (c) <<NOTE: Requirement. Contracts. Compliance.>>  Application.--To
    be eligible to receive a grant under this section, a governmental entity
    shall submit to the Secretary an application 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 selecting an application for a
    grant under this section, the Secretary shall prioritize applications
    that propose to--
                (1) carry out a 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) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed to interfere with an agreement between a governmental entity
    and a labor union, including the requirements of section 5333(b) of
    title 49, United States Code.
        (f) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  Report to Congress.--Not later than 2
    years after the first grant is provided under this section, the
    Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a
    report that evaluates the program carried out under this section that
    includes--
                (1) a description of the number of grants provided under
            this section;
                (2) the amount of each grant provided under this section;
                (3) the activities carried out with a grant provided under
            this section; and
                (4) the effectiveness of such 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 provided under this section shall not
                    exceed 50 percent of the total project cost.
                        (B) Waiver.--The Secretary may increase the Federal
                    share under subparagraph (A) to up to 75 percent for a
                    project carried out using a grant provided 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 any 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 following amounts are authorized to
            carry out this section:
                        (A) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2025.
                        (B) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2026.
                        (C) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2027.
                        (D) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.

        (h) Definitions.--In this section:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1350]]

                (1) 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)).
                (2) 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.
                (3) 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).
                (4) Project.--The term ``project'' means a project for the
            inspection, operation, construction, maintenance, or repair of
            an element of critical infrastructure, including mitigating
            environmental hazards to such infrastructure.
    SEC. 913. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  DRONE EDUCATION AND
                            WORKFORCE TRAINING GRANT PROGRAM.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  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 small unmanned
    aircraft systems.

        (b) Use of Grant Amounts.--Amounts from a grant under this section
    shall be used in furtherance of activities authorized under section 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 $5,000,000
    for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2028.
        (e) Educational Institution Defined.--In this section, the term
    ``educational institution'' means an institution of higher education (as
    such term is defined in section 101 of the Higher 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).
    SEC. 914. DRONE WORKFORCE TRAINING PROGRAM STUDY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 3 years after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall
    initiate a study of the effectiveness of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems
    Collegiate Training Initiative established under section 632 of the FAA
    Reauthorization Act 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note).

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1351]]

        (b) Report.--Upon completion of the study under subsection (a), the
    Comptroller General shall submit to the appropriate committees of
    Congress a report describing--
                (1) the findings of such study; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  any recommendations to
            improve the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Collegiate Training
            Initiative.
    SEC. 915. TERMINATION OF ADVANCED AVIATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

        The Secretary may not renew the charter of the Advanced Aviation
    Advisory Committee (chartered by the Secretary on June 10, 2022).
    SEC. 916. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44801 note.>>  UNMANNED AND AUTONOMOUS
                            FLIGHT ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Establishment.>>  In General.--Not later than
    1 year after the termination of the Advanced Aviation Advisory Committee
    pursuant to section 915, the Administrator 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 and uncontrolled 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) Commercial operators of unmanned aircraft
                    systems.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1352]]

                        (B) Unmanned aircraft system manufacturers.
                        (C) Counter-UAS manufacturers.
                        (D) FAA-approved unmanned aircraft system service
                    suppliers.
                        (E) Unmanned aircraft system test ranges under
                    section 44803 of title 49, United States Code.
                        (F) An unmanned aircraft system physical
                    infrastructure network provider.
                        (G) Community advocates.
                        (H) Certified labor organizations representing
                    commercial airline pilots, air traffic control
                    specialists employed by the Administration, certified
                    aircraft maintenance technicians, certified aircraft
                    dispatchers, or aviation safety inspectors.
                        (I) Academia or a relevant research organization.
                (3) Observers.--The Administrator may invite appropriate
            representatives of other Federal agencies to observe or provide
            input on the work of the Advisory Committee, but shall not allow
            such representatives to participate in any decision-making of
            the Advisory Committee.

        (d) Reporting.--
                (1) In general.--The Advisory Committee shall submit to the
            Administrator an annual report of the activities, findings, and
            recommendations of the Committee.
                (2) Congressional reporting.--The Administrator shall submit
            to the appropriate committees of Congress the reports required
            under paragraph (1).

        (e) Prohibition.--The Administrator may not task the Advisory
    Committee established under this section with a review or the
    development of recommendations relating to operations conducted under
    part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    SEC. 917. NEXTGEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP EXPANSION.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 90 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary 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) to include 1
    representative from the unmanned aircraft system industry and 1
    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, manufacturing, or
            operation of unmanned aircraft systems and powered-lift
            aircraft.
                (2) Demonstrated experience in the development or
            implementation of unmanned aircraft system and powered-lift
            aircraft policies and procedures.
                (3) Demonstrated commitment to advancing the safe
            integration of unmanned aircraft systems and powered-lift
            aircraft into the national airspace system.
    SEC. 918. 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 (in this section
            referred to as the ``Executive Committee'') on conflict and
            dispute resolution as described in section 1036(b) of the Duncan
            Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1353]]

            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) Charter.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Charter revision.--Not later than
            45 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
            Administrator shall seek to revise the charter of the Executive
            Committee to reflect the scope, objectives, membership, and
            activities described in section 1036(b) of the Duncan Hunter
            National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 (Public
            Law 110-417) in order to achieve the increasing, and ultimately
            routine, access of unmanned aircraft systems of the Department
            of Defense 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
            the activities of the Executive Committee by joint agreement of
            the Administrator and the Secretary of Defense.
    SEC. 919. REVIEW OF REGULATIONS TO ENABLE UNESCORTED UAS
                            OPERATIONS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 2 years after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall, in
    coordination with the Secretary of Defense, conduct a review of the
    requirements necessary to permit unmanned aircraft systems (excluding
    small unmanned aircraft systems) operated by a Federal agency or armed
    forces (as such term is defined in section 101 of title 10, United
    States Code) to be operated in the national airspace system, including
    outside of restricted airspace, without being escorted by a manned
    aircraft.

        (b) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 2 years
    after the completion of the review under subsection (a), the
    Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a
    report on the results of the review, including any recommended
    regulatory and statutory changes to enable the operations described
    under subsection (a).
    SEC. 920. EXTENSION OF BEYOND PROGRAM.

        (a) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  FAA BEYOND Program Extension.--The
    Administrator shall extend the BEYOND program of the FAA as in effect on
    the day before the date of enactment of this Act (in this section
    referred to as the ``Program'') and the existing agreements with State,
    local, and Tribal governments entered into under the Program until the
    date on which the Administrator determines the Program is no longer
    necessary or useful.

        (b) FAA BEYOND Program Expansion.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Testing. Evaluation.>>  In general.--The
            Administrator shall consider expanding the Program to include
            additional State, local, and Tribal governments to test and
            evaluate the use of new and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1354]]

            emerging aviation concepts and technologies to evaluate and
            inform FAA policies, rulemaking, and guidance related to the
            safe integration of such concepts and technologies into the
            national airspace system.
                (2) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Scope.--If the Administrator
            determines the Program should be expanded, the Administrator
            shall address additional factors in the Program, 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 societal and economic impacts of such
                    operations.
                (3) Additional waiver authority.--In carrying out an
            expansion of the Program, the Administrator may waive the
            requirements of section 44711 of title 49, United States Code,
            including related regulations, under any BEYOND program
            agreement to the extent consistent with aviation safety.
    SEC. 921. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44802 note.>>  UAS INTEGRATION STRATEGY.

        (a) In General.--The Administrator shall implement the
    recommendations made by--
                (1) the Comptroller General to the Secretary contained in
            the report of the Government Accountability Office 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 of the inspector general 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) <<NOTE: Deadline. Time period.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 12
    months after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter
    through 2028, the Administrator shall provide a briefing to the
    appropriate committees of Congress that--
                (1) <<NOTE: Update.>>  provides a status update on the--
                        (A) implementation of the recommendations described
                    in subsection (a);
                        (B) implementation of statutory provisions related
                    to unmanned aircraft system integration under subtitle B
                    of title III of division B of the FAA Reauthorization
                    Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254); and
                        (C) actions taken by the Administrator to implement
                    recommendations related to safe integration of unmanned
                    aircraft systems into the national airspace system
                    included in aviation rulemaking committee reports
                    published after the date of enactment of the FAA
                    Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254);
                (2) provides a description of steps taken to achieve the
            safe integration of such systems into the national airspace
            system, including milestones and performance metrics to track
            results;
                (3) <<NOTE: Costs. Estimates.>>  provides the costs of
            executing the integration described in paragraph (2), including
            any estimates of future Federal

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1355]]

            resources or investments required to complete such integration;
            and
                (4) identifies any regulatory or policy changes required to
            execute the integration described in paragraph (2).
    SEC. 922. EXTENSION OF KNOW BEFORE YOU FLY CAMPAIGN.

        Section 356 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-
    254) <<NOTE: 132 Stat. 3305.>>  is amended by striking ``2019 through
    2023'' and inserting ``2024 through 2028''.
    SEC. 923. PUBLIC AIRCRAFT DEFINITION.

        Section 40125(a)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) by striking ``research, or'' and inserting
            ``research,''; 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''.
    SEC. 924. FAA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ON UAS AUTOMATION.

        (a) Comprehensive Plan.--The Administrator shall establish a
    comprehensive plan for the integration of autonomous unmanned aircraft
    systems into the national airspace system.
        (b) Comprehensive Plan Contents.--In establishing the comprehensive
    plan under subsection (a), the Administrator shall--
                (1) identify FAA processes and regulations that need to
            change to accommodate the increasingly automated role of a
            remote operator of an unmanned aircraft system; and
                (2) identify how the Administrator intends to authorize
            operations ranging from low risk automated operations to
            increasingly complex automated operations of such systems.

        (c) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  Coordination.--In establishing the
    comprehensive plan under subsection (a), the Administrator shall consult
    with--
                (1) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration;
                (2) the Department of Defense;
                (3) manufacturers of autonomous unmanned aircraft systems;
                (4) operators of autonomous unmanned aircraft systems; and
                (5) other stakeholders with knowledge of automation in
            aviation, the human-computer interface, and aviation safety, as
            determined appropriate by the Administrator.

        (d) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Submission.--Not later than 1 year after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the
    appropriate committees of Congress, the subcommittee on Transportation,
    Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies of the Committee on
    Appropriations of the Senate and the subcommittee on Transportation,
    Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies of the Committee on
    Appropriations of the House of Representatives the plan established
    under subsection (a).
    SEC. 925. UAS TEST RANGES.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 448 of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended by striking section 44803 and inserting the following:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1356]]

    ``Sec. 44803. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44803.>>  Unmanned aircraft system
                        test ranges

        ``(a) Test Ranges.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Update.>>  In general.--The Administrator of
            the Federal Aviation Administration shall carry out and update,
            as appropriate, a program for the use of unmanned aircraft
            system (in this section referred to as UAS) test ranges to--
                        ``(A) enable a broad variety of development,
                    testing, and evaluation activities related to UAS and
                    associated technologies; and
                        ``(B) the extent consistent with aviation safety and
                    efficiency, support the safe integration of unmanned
                    aircraft systems into the national airspace system.
                ``(2) Designations.--
                        ``(A) Existing test ranges.--Test ranges designated
                    under this section shall include the 7 test ranges
                    established under the following:
                              ``(i) 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 (Public Law
                          115-254).
                              ``(ii) Any other test ranges designated
                          pursuant to the amendment made by section 2201(b)
                          of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of
                          2016 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) after the date of
                          enactment of such Act.
                        ``(B) New test ranges.--If the Administrator finds
                    that it is in the best interest of enabling safe UAS
                    integration into the national airspace system, the
                    Administrator may select and designate as a test range
                    under this section up to 2 additional test ranges in
                    accordance with the requirements of this section through
                    a competitive selection process.
                        ``(C) Limitation.--Not more than 9 test ranges
                    designated under this section shall be part of the
                    program established under this section at any given
                    time.
                ``(3) Eligibility.--Test ranges selected by the
            Administrator pursuant to (2)(B) shall--
                        ``(A) be an instrumentality of a State, local,
                    Tribal, or territorial government or other public
                    entity;
                        ``(B) <<NOTE: Approval.>>  be approved by the chief
                    executive officer of the State, local, territorial, or
                    Tribal government for the principal place of business of
                    the applicant, prior to seeking designation by the
                    Administrator;
                        ``(C) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  undertake and ensure
                    testing and evaluation of innovative concepts,
                    technologies, and operations that will offer new safety
                    benefits, including developing and retaining an advanced
                    aviation industrial base within the United States; and
                        ``(D) meet any other requirements established by the
                    Administrator.

        ``(b) Airspace Requirements.--
                ``(1) In general.--In carrying out the program under
            subsection (a), the Administrator may establish, upon the
            request of a test range sponsor designated by the Administrator
            under subsection (a), a restricted area, special use airspace,
            or other similar type of airspace pursuant to part 73 of title
            14, Code of Federal Regulations, for purposes of--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1357]]

                        ``(A) accommodating hazardous development, testing,
                    and evaluation activities to inform the safe integration
                    of unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace
                    system; or
                        ``(B) other activities authorized by the
                    Administrator pursuant to subsection (f).
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Requirement.>>  NEPA review.--The
            Administrator may require that each test range sponsor
            designated by the Administrator under subsection (a) 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 of and adoption by the Administrator,
            with respect to any request for the establishment of a
            restricted area, special use airspace, or other similar type of
            airspace under this subsection.
                ``(3) Inactive restricted area or special use airspace.--
                        ``(A) In general.--In the event a restricted area,
                    special use airspace, or other similar type of airspace
                    established under paragraph (1) is not needed to meet
                    the needs of the using agency (as described in
                    subparagraph (B)), any related airspace restrictions,
                    limitations, or designations shall be inactive.
                        ``(B) Using agency.--For purposes of this
                    subsection, a test range sponsor designated by the
                    Administrator under subsection (a) shall be considered
                    the using agency with respect to a restricted area
                    established by the Administrator under this subsection.
                ``(4) Approval authority.--The Administrator shall have the
            authority to approve access by a participating or
            nonparticipating operator to a test range or restricted area,
            special use airspace, or other similar type of airspace
            established by the Administrator under this subsection.

        ``(c) Program Requirements.--In carrying out the program under
    subsection (a), the Administrator--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Standards.>>  may develop operational
            standards and air traffic requirements for flight operations at
            test ranges;
                ``(2) shall coordinate with, and leverage the resources of,
            the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space
            Administration and other relevant Federal agencies, as
            determined appropriate by the Administrator;
                ``(3) shall address both civil and public aircraft
            operations;
                ``(4) <<NOTE: Verification. Procedures.>>  shall provide for
            verification of the safety of flight systems and related
            navigation procedures as such systems and procedures relate to
            the continued development of regulations and standards for
            integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the national
            airspace system;
                ``(5) <<NOTE: Evaluation. Regulations. Standards.>>  shall
            engage test range sponsors, as necessary and with available
            resources, in projects for development, testing, and evaluation
            of flight systems, including activities conducted pursuant to
            section 1042 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, to
            facilitate the development of regulations and the validation of
            standards by the Administrator for the safe integration of
            unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace system,
            which may include activities related to--
                        ``(A) developing and enforcing geographic and
                    altitude limitations;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1358]]

                        ``(B) providing for alerts regarding any hazards or
                    limitations on flight, including prohibition on flight,
                    as necessary;
                        ``(C) developing or validating sense and avoid
                    capabilities;
                        ``(D) developing or validating technology to support
                    communications, navigation, and surveillance;
                        ``(E) testing or validating operational concepts and
                    technologies related to beyond visual line of sight
                    operations, autonomous operations, nighttime operations,
                    operations over people, operations involving multiple
                    unmanned aircraft systems by a single pilot or operator,
                    and unmanned aircraft systems traffic management
                    capabilities or services;
                        ``(F) improving privacy protections through the use
                    of advances in unmanned aircraft systems;
                        ``(G) conducting counter-UAS testing capabilities,
                    with the approval of the Administrator; and
                        ``(H) other relevant topics for which development,
                    testing or evaluation are needed;
                ``(6) <<NOTE: Data.>>  shall develop data sharing and
            collection requirements for test ranges to support the unmanned
            aircraft systems integration efforts of the Administration and
            coordinate periodically with all test range sponsors to ensure
            the test range sponsors know--
                        ``(A) what data should be collected;
                        ``(B) how data can be de-identified to flow more
                    readily to the Administration;
                        ``(C) what procedures should be followed; and
                        ``(D) what development, testing, and evaluation
                    would advance efforts to safely integrate unmanned
                    aircraft systems into the national airspace system;
                ``(7) shall allow test range sponsors to receive Federal
            funding, including in-kind contributions, other than from the
            Federal Aviation Administration, in furtherance of research,
            development, testing, and evaluation objectives; and
                ``(8) shall use modeling and simulation tools to assist in
            the testing, evaluation, verification, and validation of
            unmanned aircraft systems.

        ``(d) Exemption.--Except as provided in subsection (f), the
    requirements of section 44711, including any related implementing
    regulations, shall not apply to persons approved by the test range
    sponsor for operation at a test range designated by the Administrator
    under this section.
        ``(e) Responsibilities of Test Range Sponsors.--The sponsor of each
    test range designated by the Administrator under subsection (a) shall--
                ``(1) provide access to all interested private and public
            entities seeking to carry out research, development, 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
            such term is defined in section 3 of the Small Business Act (15
            U.S.C. 632));
                ``(2) ensure all activities remain within the geographical
            boundaries and altitude limitations established for any

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1359]]

            restricted area, special use airspace, or other similar type of
            airspace 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 of the airspace is required to contain such
            activities 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
            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, on a quarterly basis until
            the program terminates, to the Administrator to further enable
            public and private development, testing, and evaluation
            activities at the test ranges to contribute to the safe
            integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the national
            airspace system.

        ``(f) Testing.--
                ``(1) In general.--The Administrator may authorize a sponsor
            of a test range designated under subsection (a) to host
            research, development, testing, and evaluation activities,
            including activities conducted pursuant to section 1042 of the
            FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, as appropriate, other than
            activities directly related to the integration of unmanned
            aircraft systems into the national airspace system, so long as
            the activity is necessary to inform the development of
            regulations, standards, or policy for integrating new types of
            flight systems into the national airspace system.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  Waiver.-- In carrying out
            this section, the Administrator may waive the requirements of
            section 44711 (including any related implementing regulations)
            to the extent the Administrator determines such waiver is
            consistent with aviation safety.

        ``(g) Collaborative Research and Development Agreements.--The
    Administrator may use the transaction authority under section 106(l)(6),
    including in coordination with the Center of Excellence for Unmanned
    Aircraft Systems, to enter into collaborative research and development
    agreements or to direct research, development, testing, and evaluation
    related to unmanned aircraft systems, including activities conducted
    pursuant to section 1042 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, as
    appropriate, at any test range designated under subsection (a).
        ``(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1360]]

                ``(1) Establishment.--Out of amounts authorized to be
            appropriated under section 106(k), $6,000,000 for each of fiscal
            years 2025 through 2028, shall be available to the Administrator
            for the purposes of--
                        ``(A) providing matching funds to commercial
                    entities that contract with a UAS test range to
                    demonstrate or validate technologies that the FAA
                    considers essential to the safe integration of UAS into
                    the national airspace system; and
                        ``(B) supporting or performing such demonstration
                    and validation activities described in subparagraph (A)
                    at a test range designated under the section.
                ``(2) Disbursement.--Funding provided under this subsection
            shall be divided evenly among all UAS test ranges designated
            under this section, for the purpose of providing matching funds
            to commercial entities described in paragraph (1) and available
            until expended.

        ``(i) Termination.--The program under this section shall terminate
    on September 30, 2028.''.
        (b) Conforming Amendments.--
                (1) Conforming amendment.--Section 44801(10) of title 49,
            United States Code, is amended by striking ``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'' and
            inserting ``the test ranges designated by the Administrator
            under section 44803''.
                (2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 448 of
            title 49, United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44801.>>  is
            amended by striking the item relating to section 44803 and
            inserting the following:

    ``44803. Unmanned aircraft system test ranges.''.

        (c) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the test
    ranges designated under section 44803 of title 49, United States Code,
    shall--
                (1) provide fair and accessible services to a broad variety
            of unmanned aircraft technology developers, to the extent
            practicable;
                (2) operate in the best interest of domestic technology
            developers in terms of intellectual property and proprietary
            data protections; and
                (3) comply with data sharing and collection requirements
            prescribed by the FAA.
    SEC. 926. 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 tethered 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)--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1361]]

                                        (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, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44801.>>  is amended by
    striking the item relating to section 44806 and inserting the following:

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

        (c) Definition.--Section 44801(1) of title 49, United States Code,
    is amended--
                (1) by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting:
                        ``(A) weighs 55 pounds or less, including payload
                    but not including the tether;'';
                (2) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``and'' at the end;
                (3) in subparagraph (C) by striking the period at the end
            and inserting a semicolon; and
                (4) 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.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1362]]

    SEC. 927. EXTENDING SPECIAL AUTHORITY FOR CERTAIN UNMANNED
                            AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS.

        (a) Extension.--Section 44807(d) of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended by striking ``May 10, 2024'' and inserting ``September 30,
    2033''.
        (b) Clarification.--Section 44807 of title 49, United States Code,
    is amended--
                (1) in subsection (a)--
                        (A) by inserting ``or chapter 447'' after
                    ``Notwithstanding any other requirement of 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 ``Secretary'' and inserting
                    ``Administrator''; and
                        (B) by striking ``which types of'' and inserting
                    ``how such''.
                (3) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:

        ``(c) Requirements for Safe Operation.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Process. Testing. Evaluation.>>  In general.--
            In carrying out this section, the Administrator shall establish
            requirements, or a process to accept proposed requirements, for
            the safe and efficient operation of unmanned aircraft systems in
            the national airspace system, including operations related to
            testing and evaluation of proprietary systems.
                ``(2) Expedited exemptions and approvals.--The Administrator
            shall, taking into account the statutory mandate to ensure safe
            and efficient use of the national airspace system, issue
            approvals--
                        ``(A) to enable low-risk beyond visual line of sight
                    operations, including, at a minimum, package delivery
                    operations, extended visual line of sight operations, or
                    shielded operations within 100 feet of the ground or a
                    structure; or
                        ``(B) that are aligned with Administration
                    exemptions or approvals that enable beyond visual line
                    of sight operations with the use of acoustics, ground
                    based radar, automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast,
                    and other technological solutions.
                ``(3) Treatment of mitigation measures.--To the extent that
            an operation under this section will be conducted exclusively
            within the airspace of a Mode C Veil, such operation shall be
            treated as satisfying the requirements of section 91.113(b) of
            title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, if the operation
            employs--
                        ``(A) automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast in-
                    based detect and avoid capabilities;
                        ``(B) air traffic control communication and
                    coordination;
                        ``(C) aeronautical information management systems
                    acceptable to the Administrator, such as notices to air
                    missions, to notify other airspace users of such
                    operations; or
                        ``(D) any other risk mitigations as set by the
                    Administrator.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1363]]

                ``(4) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection
            shall be construed to--
                        ``(A) provide an unmanned aircraft operating
                    pursuant to this section the right of way over a manned
                    aircraft; or
                        ``(B) limit the authority of the Administrator to
                    impose requirements, conditions, or limitations on
                    operations conducted under this section in order to
                    address safety concerns.''; and
                (4) by adding at the end the following:

        ``(e) <<NOTE: Waiver authority.>>  Authority.--The Administrator may
    exercise the authorities described in this section, including waiving
    applicable parts of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, without
    initiating a rulemaking or imposing the requirements of part 11 of title
    14, Code of Federal Regulations, to the extent consistent with aviation
    safety.''.

        (c) <<NOTE: Extensions. 49 USC 44807 note.>>  Clarification of
    Status of Previously Issued Rulemakings and Exemptions.--
                (1) Rulemakings.--Any rule issued pursuant to section 44807
            of title 49, United States Code, shall continue to be in effect
            following the expiration of such authority.
                (2) Exemptions.--Any exemption granted under the authority
            described in section 44807 of title 49, United States Code, and
            in effect as of the expiration of such authority, shall continue
            to be in effect until the date that is 3 years after the date of
            termination described in such exemption, provided the
            Administrator does not determine there is a safety risk.
                (3) Rules of construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
            construed to interfere with the Administrator's--
                        (A) authority to rescind or amend an exemption for
                    reasons such as unsafe conditions or operator oversight;
                    or
                        (B) ability to grant an exemption based on a
                    determination made pursuant to section 44807 of title
                    49, United States Code, prior to the date described in
                    subsection (d) of such section.
    SEC. 928. 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) <<NOTE: Compliance.>>  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) <<NOTE: Process. Public information.>>  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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1364]]

                ``(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) <<NOTE: Process.>>  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 published by the Federal Aviation
                    Administration.
                        ``(C) <<NOTE: Compliance.>>  Uncontrolled
                    airspace.--Subject to compliance with all airspace and
                    flight restrictions and prohibitions established under
                    this subtitle, including special use airspace
                    designations and temporary flight restrictions, persons
                    operating unmanned aircraft systems from a fixed site
                    designated under the process described in paragraph (1)
                    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, if--
                        ``(A) <<NOTE: Compliance. Standards. Approval.>>
                    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) <<NOTE: Review.>>  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)--
                        (A) in paragraph (3) by striking ``subsection (a)
                    of''; and
                        (B) by striking the subsection designation and
                    heading and all that follows through ``(3) Savings
                    clause.--'' and inserting ``(d) Savings clause.--'';
                (4) in subsection (f)(1) by striking ``updates to'';
                (5) by striking subsection (g)(1) and inserting the
            following:
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Update. Safety test.>>  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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1365]]

                (6) 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, a secondary school,
            or an institution of higher education 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) <<NOTE: Definitions.>>  by adding at the end 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. 929. APPLICATIONS FOR DESIGNATION.

        (a) In General.--Section 2209 of the FAA Extension, Safety, and
    Security Act of 2016 (49 U.S.C. 44802 note) is amended--
                (1) in subsection (a) by inserting ``, including
            temporarily,'' after ``restrict'';
                (2) in subsection (b)(1)(C)(iv) by striking ``Other
            locations that warrant such restrictions'' and inserting ``State
            prisons''; and
                (3) by adding at the end the following:

        ``(f) <<NOTE: Regulations.>>  Deadlines.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Publication. Notice.>>  Not later than 90 days
            after the date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of
            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 based on the notice of proposed
            rulemaking published under paragraph (1).

        ``(g) Definition of State Prison.--In this section, the term `State
    prison' means an institution under State jurisdiction, including a State
    Department of Corrections, the primary use of which is for the
    confinement of individuals convicted of a felony.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1366]]

    SEC. 930. BEYOND VISUAL LINE OF SIGHT OPERATIONS FOR UNMANNED
                            AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 448 of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``Sec. 44811. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 44811.>>  Beyond visual
                        line of sight operations for unmanned aircraft
                        systems

        ``(a) <<NOTE: Notice.>>  Proposed Rule.--Not later than 4 months
    after the date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, the
    Administrator shall issue a notice of proposed rulemaking establishing a
    performance-based regulatory pathway for unmanned aircraft systems (in
    this section referred to as `UAS') to operate beyond visual line of
    sight (in this section referred to as `BVLOS').

        ``(b) Requirements.--The proposed rule required under subsection (a)
    shall, at a minimum, establish the following:
                ``(1) Acceptable levels of risk for BVLOS UAS operations,
            including the levels developed pursuant to section 931 of the
            FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Standards.>>  Standards for remote pilots or
            UAS operators for BVLOS operations, taking into account varying
            levels of automated control and management of UAS flights.
                ``(3) <<NOTE: Process. Determinations.>>  An approval or
            acceptance process for UAS and associated elements (as defined
            by the Administrator), which may leverage the creation of a
            special airworthiness certificate or a manufacturer's
            declaration of compliance to a Federal Aviation Administration
            accepted means of compliance. Such process--
                        ``(A) shall not require, but may allow for, the use
                    of type or production certification;
                        ``(B) shall consider the airworthiness of any UAS
                    that--
                              ``(i) is within a maximum gross weight or
                          kinetic energy, as determined by the
                          Administrator; and
                              ``(ii) operates within a maximum speed limit
                          as determined by the Administrator;
                        ``(C) may require such systems to operate in the
                    national airspace system at altitude limits determined
                    by the Administrator; and
                        ``(D) may require such systems to operate at
                    standoff distances from the radius of a structure or the
                    structure's immediate uppermost limit, as determined by
                    the Administrator.
                ``(4) Operating rules for UAS that have been approved or
            accepted as described in paragraph (3).
                ``(5) Protocols, if appropriate, for networked information
            exchange, such as network-based remote identification, in
            support of BVLOS operations.
                ``(6) The safety of manned aircraft operating in the
            national airspace system and consider the maneuverability and
            technology limitations of certain aircraft, including hot air
            balloons.

        ``(c) Final Rule.--Not later than 16 months after publishing the
    proposed rule under subsection (a), the Administrator shall issue a
    final rule based on such proposed rule.
        ``(d) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to
    require the agency to rescope any rulemaking efforts related to UAS
    BVLOS operations that are ongoing as of the date of enactment of the FAA
    Reauthorization Act of 2024.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1367]]

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 448 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44801.>>  is amended by adding
    at the end the following:

    ``44811. Beyond visual line of sight operations for unmanned aircraft
               systems.''.

    SEC. 931. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44801 note.>>  ACCEPTABLE LEVELS OF RISK
                            AND RISK ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Determination.>>  In General.--Not later than
    180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
    shall develop a risk assessment methodology that allows for the
    determination of acceptable levels of risk for unmanned aircraft system
    operations, including operations beyond visual line of sight,
    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 other applicable regulations, as
            appropriate.

        (b) Risk Assessment Methodology Considerations.--In establishing the
    risk assessment methodology under this section, the Administrator shall
    ensure alignment with the considerations included in the order issued by
    the FAA titled ``UAS Safety Risk Management Policy'' (FAA Order
    8040.6A), and any subsequent amendments to such order, as the
    Administrator considers appropriate.
        (c) <<NOTE: Public information. Web posting. Updates.>>
    Publication.--The Administrator shall make the risk assessment
    methodology established under this section available to the public on an
    appropriate website of the Administration and update such methodology as
    necessary.
    SEC. 932. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44802 note.>>  THIRD-PARTY SERVICE
                            APPROVALS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Procedures.>>  Approval Process.--Not later
    than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
    shall establish procedures, which may include a rulemaking, to approve
    third-party service suppliers, including third-party service suppliers
    of unmanned aircraft system traffic management, to support the safe
    integration and commercial operation of unmanned aircraft systems.

        (b) <<NOTE: Compliance.>>  Acceptance of Standards.--In establishing
    the approval process required under subsection (a), the Administrator
    shall ensure that, to the maximum extent practicable, industry consensus
    standards, such as ASTM International Standard F3548-21, titled ``UAS
    Traffic Management (UTM) UAS Service Supplier (USS) Interoperability'',
    are included as an acceptable means of compliance for third-party
    services.

        (c) Approvals.--In establishing the approval process required under
    subsection (a), the Administrator shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Definition. Criteria.>>  define and implement
            criteria and conditions for the approval and oversight of third-
            party service suppliers that--
                        (A) could have a direct or indirect impact on air
                    traffic services in the national airspace system; and
                        (B) require FAA oversight; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Procedures.>>  establish procedures by which
            unmanned aircraft systems can use the capabilities and services
            of third-party service suppliers to support operations.

        (d) Harmonization.--In carrying out this section, the Administrator
    shall seek to harmonize, to the extent practicable and advisable, any
    requirements and guidance for the development, use, and operation of
    third-party capabilities and services, including

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1368]]

    UTM, with similar requirements and guidance of other civil aviation
    authorities.
        (e) Coordination.--In carrying out this section, the Administrator
    shall consider any relevant information provided by the Administrator of
    the National Aeronautics and Space Administration regarding research and
    development efforts the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    may have conducted related to the use of UTM providers.
        (f) Third-party Service Supplier Defined.--In this section, the term
    ``third-party service supplier'' means an entity other than the FAA that
    provides a distributed service that affects the safety or efficiency of
    the national airspace system, including UAS service suppliers,
    supplemental data service providers, and infrastructure providers, such
    as providers of ground-based surveillance, command-and-control, and
    information exchange to another party.
        (g) 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 of unmanned aircraft systems, or other
            types of operations, through the use of technologies other than
            third-party capabilities and services.
                (2) Airspace.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to
            alter the authorities provided under section 40103 of title 49,
            United States Code.
    SEC. 933. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44801 note.>>  SPECIAL AUTHORITY FOR
                            TRANSPORT OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS BY
                            COMMERCIAL PACKAGE DELIVERY UNMANNED
                            AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Requirements. Standards. Permits.>>  In
    General.--Notwithstanding any other Federal requirement or restriction
    related to the transportation of hazardous materials on aircraft, the
    Secretary shall, beginning not later than 180 days after enactment of
    this section, use a risk-based approach to establish the operational
    requirements, standards, or special permits necessary to approve or
    authorize an air carrier to transport hazardous materials by unmanned
    aircraft systems providing common carriage under part 135 of title 14,
    Code of Federal Regulations, or under successor authorities, as
    applicable, based on the weight, amount, and type of hazardous material
    being transported and the characteristics of the operations subject to
    such requirements, standards, or special purposes.

        (b) Requirements.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary
    shall consider, at a minimum--
                (1) the safety of the public and users of the national
            airspace system;
                (2) efficiencies of allowing the safe transportation of
            hazardous materials by unmanned aircraft systems and whether
            such transportation complies with the hazardous materials
            regulations under subchapter C of chapter I of title 49, Code of
            Federal Regulations, including any changes to such regulations
            issued pursuant to this section;
                (3) the risk profile of the transportation of hazardous
            materials by unmanned aircraft systems, taking into
            consideration the risk associated with differing weights,
            quantities, and packing group classifications of hazardous
            materials;
                (4) mitigations to the risk of the hazardous materials being
            transported, based on the weight, amount, and type of materials

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1369]]

            being transported and the characteristics of the operation,
            including operational and aircraft-based mitigations; and
                (5) the altitude at which unmanned aircraft operations are
            conducted.

        (c) <<NOTE: Requirement.>>  Safety Risk Assessments.--The Secretary
    may require unmanned aircraft systems operators to submit a safety risk
    assessment acceptable to the Administrator, as part of the operator
    certification process, in order for such operators to perform the
    carriage of hazardous materials as authorized under this section.

        (d) Conformity of Hazardous Materials Regulations.--The Secretary
    shall make such changes as are necessary to conform the hazardous
    materials regulations under parts 173 and 175 of title 49, Code of
    Federal Regulations, to this section. Such changes shall be made
    concurrently with the activities described in subsection (a).
        (e) Stakeholder Input on Changes to the Hazardous Materials
    Regulations.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Public information.>>
            Implementation.--Not later than 180 days of the date of
            enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall hold a public meeting
            to obtain input on changes necessary to implement this section.
                (2) Periodic updates.--The Secretary shall--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Review.>>  periodically review, as
                    necessary, amounts of hazardous materials allowed to be
                    carried by unmanned aircraft systems pursuant to this
                    section; and
                        (B) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine whether such
                    amounts should be revised, based on operational and
                    safety data, without negatively impacting overall
                    aviation safety.

        (f) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to--
                (1) limit the authority of the Secretary, the Administrator,
            or the Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials
            Safety Administration from implementing requirements to ensure
            the safe carriage of hazardous materials by aircraft; and
                (2) confer upon the Administrator the authorities of the
            Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety
            Administration under part 175 of title 49, Code of Federal
            Regulations, and chapter 51 of title 49, United States Code.

        (g) Definition of Hazardous Materials.--In this section, the term
    ``hazardous materials'' has the meaning given such term in section 5102
    of title 49, United States Code.
    SEC. 934. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 44801 note.>>  OPERATIONS OVER
                            HIGH SEAS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Processes.>>  In General.--To the extent permitted by
    treaty obligations of the United States, including the Convention on
    International Civil Aviation (in this section referred to as ``ICAO''),
    the Administrator shall work with other civil aviation authorities to
    establish and implement operational approval processes to permit
    unmanned aircraft systems to operate over the high seas within flight
    information regions for which the United States is responsible for
    operational control.

        (b) Consultation.--In establishing and implementing the operational
    approval process under subsection (a), the Administrator shall consult
    with appropriate stakeholders, including industry stakeholders.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1370]]

        (c) ICAO Activities.--Not later than 6 months after the date of
    enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall engage ICAO through the
    submission of a working paper, panel proposal, or other appropriate
    mechanism to clarify the permissibility of unmanned aircraft systems to
    operate over the high seas.
        (d) <<NOTE: Briefing.>>  Review.--Not later than 6 months after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall review whether,
    and to what extent, ICAO member states are approving the operation of
    unmanned aircraft systems over the high seas and brief the appropriate
    committees of Congress regarding the findings of such review.
    SEC. 935. PROTECTION OF PUBLIC GATHERINGS.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 448 of title 49, United States Code, is
    further amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``Sec. 44812. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44812.>>  Temporary flight
                        restrictions for unmanned aircraft

        ``(a) In General.--
                ``(1) Temporary flight restrictions.--The Administrator of
            the Federal Aviation Administration shall, upon the request by
            an eligible entity, temporarily restrict unmanned aircraft
            operations over eligible large public gatherings.
                ``(2) Denial.--Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the
            Administrator may deny a request for a temporary flight
            restriction sought under paragraph (1) if--
                        ``(A) the temporary flight restriction would be
                    inconsistent with aviation safety or security, would
                    create a hazard to people or property on the ground, or
                    would unnecessarily interfere with the efficient use of
                    the airspace;
                        ``(B) the entity seeking the temporary flight
                    restriction does not comply with the requirements in
                    subsection (b);
                        ``(C) the eligibility requirements in subsections
                    (c) and (d) have not been met;
                        ``(D) a flight restriction exists to the airspace
                    overlying the same location as the temporary flight
                    restriction sought under this section; or
                        ``(E) the Administrator determines appropriate for
                    any other reason.

        ``(b) Requirements.--
                ``(1) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  Advance notice.--Eligible
            entities may only request a temporary flight restriction under
            subsection (a) not less than 30 calendar days prior to the
            eligible large public gathering.
                ``(2) Required information.--Eligible entities seeking a
            temporary flight restriction under this section shall provide
            the Administrator with all relevant information, including the
            following:
                        ``(A) Geographic boundaries of the stadium or other
                    venue hosting the eligible large public gathering, as
                    applicable.
                        ``(B) The dates and anticipated starting and ending
                    times for the large public gathering.
                        ``(C) Points of contact for the requesting eligible
                    entity and the on-scene incident command responsible for
                    securing the large public gathering.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1371]]

                        ``(D) Any other information the Administrator
                    considers necessary to establish the restriction.

        ``(c) Eligible Large Public Gatherings.--
                ``(1) In general.--To be eligible for a temporary flight
            restriction under this section, large public gatherings hosted
            in a stadium or other venue shall--
                        ``(A) be hosted in a stadium or other venue that--
                              ``(i) has previously hosted events qualifying
                          for the application of special security
                          instructions in accordance with section 521 of the
                          Transportation, Treasury, and Independent Agencies
                          Appropriations Act, 2004 (Public Law 108-199); and
                              ``(ii) is not enclosed;
                        ``(B) have an estimated attendance of at least
                    30,000 people; and
                        ``(C) be advertised in the public domain.
                ``(2) Additional gatherings.--To be eligible for a temporary
            flight restriction under this section, large public gatherings
            hosted in a venue other than a stadium or other venue described
            in paragraph (1)(A) shall--
                        ``(A) have an estimated attendance of at least
                    100,000 people;
                        ``(B) be primarily outdoors;
                        ``(C) have a defined and static geographical
                    boundary; and
                        ``(D) be advertised in the public domain.

        ``(d) Eligible Entities.--An entity eligible to request a temporary
    flight restriction under subsection (a) shall be a credentialed law
    enforcement organization of the Federal Government or a State, local,
    Tribal, or territorial government.
        ``(e) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  Timeliness.--The Administrator shall
    make every practicable effort to assess eligibility and establish
    temporary flight restrictions under subsection (a) in a timely fashion.

        ``(f) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  Public Information.--Any temporary
    flight restriction designated under this section shall be published by
    the Administrator in a publicly accessible manner at least 2 days prior
    to the start of the eligible large public gathering.

        ``(g) Prohibition on Operations.--No person may operate an unmanned
    aircraft within a temporary flight restriction established under this
    section unless--
                ``(1) the Administrator authorizes the operation for
            operational or safety purposes;
                ``(2) the operation is being conducted for safety, security,
            or compliance oversight purposes and is authorized by the
            Administrator; or
                ``(3) the aircraft operation is conducted with the approval
            of the eligible entity.

        ``(h) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section may be construed as
    prohibiting the Administrator from authorizing the operation of an
    aircraft, including an unmanned aircraft system, over, under, or within
    a specified distance from an eligible large public gathering for which a
    temporary flight restriction has been established under this section or
    cancelling a temporary flight restriction established under this
    section.
        ``(i) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed to prevent the Administrator from using existing processes or
    procedures to meet the intent of this section.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1372]]

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 448 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44801.>>  is further amended by
    adding at the end the following:

    ``44812. Temporary flight restrictions for unmanned aircraft.''.

    SEC. 936. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44801 note.>>  COVERED DRONE PROHIBITION.

        (a) <<NOTE: Grants.>>  Prohibitions.--The Secretary is prohibited
    from--
                (1) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  entering into, extending, or
            renewing a contract or awarding a grant--
                        (A) for the operation, procurement, or contracting
                    action with respect to a covered unmanned aircraft
                    system; or
                        (B) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  to an entity that
                    operates (as determined by the Administrator) a covered
                    unmanned aircraft system in the performance of such
                    contract;
                (2) issuing a grant to a covered foreign entity for any
            project related to covered unmanned aircraft systems; and
                (3) operating a covered unmanned aircraft system.

        (b) <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts.>>  Exemptions.--The Secretary is
    exempt from any prohibitions under subsection (a) if the grant,
    operation, procurement, or contracting action is for the purposes of
    testing, researching, evaluating, analyzing, or training related to--
                (1) unmanned aircraft detection systems and counter-UAS
            systems, including activities conducted--
                        (A) under the Alliance for System Safety of UAS
                    through Research Excellence Center of Excellence of the
                    FAA; or
                        (B) by the unmanned aircraft system test ranges
                    designated under section 44803 of title 49, United
                    States Code;
                (2) the safe, secure, or efficient operation of the national
            airspace system or maintenance of public safety;
                (3) the safe integration of advanced aviation technologies
            into the national airspace system, including activities carried
            out under the Alliance for System Safety of UAS through Research
            Excellence Center of Excellence of the FAA;
                (4) in coordination with other relevant Federal agencies,
            determining security threats of covered unmanned aircraft
            systems; and
                (5) intelligence, electronic warfare, and information
            warfare operations.

        (c) <<NOTE: Notification. Deadline.>>  Waivers.--The Secretary may
    waive any restrictions under subsection (a) on a case-by-case basis by
    notifying the appropriate committees of Congress in writing, not later
    than 15 days after waiving such restrictions, that the procurement or
    other activity is in the public interest.

        (d) Replacement of Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems.--
                (1) In general.--The Secretary shall take such actions as
            are necessary to replace any covered unmanned aircraft system
            that is owned or operated by the Department of Transportation as
            of the date of enactment of this Act with an unmanned aircraft
            system manufactured in the United States or an allied country
            (as such term is defined in section 2350f(d)(1) of title 10,
            United States Code) if the capabilities of such covered unmanned
            aircraft system are consequential to the work of the Department
            or the mission of the Department.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1373]]

                (2) <<NOTE: Appropriation authorization.>>  Funding.--There
            is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $5,000,000 to
            carry out this subsection.

        (e) Effective Dates.--
                (1) Operations.--The prohibitions under paragraphs (1) and
            (3) of subsection (a) shall be in effect on the date of
            enactment of this Act.
                (2) Grants.--The prohibitions under paragraphs (1) and (2)
            of subsection (a) shall--
                        (A) not apply to grants awarded before the date of
                    enactment of this Act; and
                        (B) <<NOTE: Applicability.>>  apply to grants
                    awarded after the date of enactment of this Act.

        (f) Application of Prohibitions.--The prohibitions under subsection
    (a) are applicable to all offices and programs of the Department of
    Transportation, including--
                (1) aviation research grant programs;
                (2) aviation workforce development programs established
            under section 625 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49
            U.S.C. 40101 note);
                (3) FAA Air Transportation Centers of Excellence;
                (4) programs established under sections 631 and 632 of the
            FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note); and
                (5) the airport improvement program under subchapter I of
            chapter 471 of title 49, United States Code.

        (g) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall prevent a
    State, local, Tribal, or territorial governmental agency from procuring
    or operating a covered unmanned aircraft system purchased with non-
    Federal funding.
        (h) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Covered foreign country.--The term ``covered foreign
            country'' means any of the following:
                        (A) The People's Republic of China.
                        (B) The Russian Federation.
                        (C) The Islamic Republic of Iran.
                        (D) The Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
                        (E) The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.
                        (F) The Republic of Cuba.
                        (G) Any other country the Secretary determines
                    necessary.
                (2) Covered foreign entity.--The term ``covered foreign
            entity'' means--
                        (A) an entity included on the list developed and
                    maintained by the Federal Acquisition Security Council
                    and published in the System for Award Management;
                        (B) an entity included on the Consolidated Screening
                    List or Entity List as designated by the Secretary of
                    Commerce;
                        (C) an entity that is domiciled in, or under the
                    influence or control of, a covered foreign country; or
                        (D) an entity that is a subsidiary or affiliate of
                    an entity described under subparagraphs (A) through (C).
                (3) Covered unmanned aircraft system.--The term ``covered
            unmanned aircraft system'' means--
                        (A) a small unmanned aircraft, an unmanned aircraft,
                    and unmanned aircraft system, or the associated elements

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1374]]

                    of such aircraft and aircraft systems related to the
                    collection and transmission of sensitive information
                    (consisting of communication links and the components
                    that control the unmanned aircraft) that enable the
                    operator to operate the aircraft in the National
                    Airspace System which is manufactured or assembled by a
                    covered foreign entity; and
                        (B) an unmanned aircraft detection system or
                    counter-UAS system that is manufactured or assembled by
                    a covered foreign entity.
    SEC. 937. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44803 note.>>  EXPANDING USE OF
                            INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN THE GULF OF
                            MEXICO.

        (a) In General.--The Administrator shall prioritize the
    authorization of an eligible UAS test range sponsor partnering with an
    eligible airport authority to achieve the goals specified in subsection
    (b).
        (b) Goals.--The goals of a partnership authorized pursuant to
    subsection (a) shall be to test the operations of innovative
    technologies in both commercial and non-commercial applications,
    consistent with existing law, to--
                (1) identify challenges associated with aviation operations
            over large bodies of water;
                (2) provide transportation of cargo and passengers to
            offshore energy infrastructure;
                (3) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assess the impacts of operations
            in saltwater environments;
                (4) identify the challenges of integrating such technologies
            in complex airspace, including with commercial rotorcraft; and
                (5) identify the differences between coordinating with
            Federal air traffic control towers and towers operated under the
            FAA Contract Tower Program.

        (c) Briefing to Congress.--The Administrator shall provide an annual
    briefing to the appropriate committees of Congress on the status of the
    partnership authorized under this section, including detailing any
    barriers to the commercialization of innovative technologies in the Gulf
    of Mexico.
        (d) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Eligible airport authority.--The term ``eligible airport
            authority'' means an AIP-eligible airport authority that is--
                        (A) located in a state bordering the Gulf of Mexico
                    which does not already contain a UAS Test Range;
                        (B) has an air traffic control tower operated under
                    the FAA Contract Tower Program;
                        (C) is located within 60 miles of a port; and
                        (D) does not have any scheduled passenger airline
                    service as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
                (2) Innovative technologies.--The term ``innovative
            technologies'' means unmanned aircraft systems and powered-lift
            aircraft.
                (3) UAS.--The term ``UAS'' means an unmanned aircraft
            system.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1375]]

                        Subtitle B--Advanced Air Mobility

    SEC. 951. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  DEFINITIONS.

        In this subtitle:
                (1) Advanced air mobility.--The terms ``advanced air
            mobility'' and ``AAM'' mean a transportation system that is
            comprised of urban air mobility and regional air mobility using
            manned or unmanned aircraft.
                (2) 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.
                (3) Regional air mobility.--The term ``regional air
            mobility'' means the movement of passengers or property by air
            between 2 points using an airworthy aircraft that--
                        (A) has advanced technologies, such as distributed
                    propulsion, vertical takeoff and landing, powered lift,
                    nontraditional power systems, or autonomous
                    technologies;
                        (B) has a maximum takeoff weight of greater than
                    1,320 pounds; and
                        (C) is not urban air mobility.
                (4) Urban air mobility.--The term ``urban air mobility''
            means the movement of passengers or property by air between 2
            points in different cities or 2 points within the same city
            using an airworthy aircraft that--
                        (A) has advanced technologies, such as distributed
                    propulsion, vertical takeoff and landing, powered lift,
                    nontraditional power systems, or autonomous
                    technologies; and
                        (B) has a maximum takeoff weight of greater than
                    1,320 pounds.
                (5) Vertiport.--The term ``vertiport'' means an area of
            land, water, or a structure used or intended to be used to
            support the landing, takeoff, taxiing, parking, and storage of
            powered-lift aircraft or other aircraft that vertiport design
            and performance standards established by the Administrator can
            accommodate.
    SEC. 952. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  SENSE OF CONGRESS ON FAA
                            LEADERSHIP IN ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY.

        It is the sense of Congress that--
                (1) the United States should take actions to become a global
            leader in advanced air mobility;
                (2) as such a global leader, the FAA should--
                        (A) prioritize work on the type certification of
                    powered-lift aircraft;
                        (B) publish, in line with stated deadlines,
                    rulemakings and policy necessary to enable commercial
                    operations, such as the Special Federal Aviation
                    Regulation of the FAA titled ``Integration of Powered-
                    Lift: Pilot Certification and Operations; Miscellaneous
                    Amendments Related to Rotorcraft and Airplanes'', issued
                    on June 14, 2023 (2120-AL72);
                        (C) work with global partners to promote acceptance
                    of advanced air mobility products; and
                        (D) leverage the existing aviation system to the
                    greatest extent possible to support advanced air
                    mobility operations; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1376]]

                (3) the FAA should work with manufacturers, prospective
            operators of powered-lift aircraft, and other relevant
            stakeholders to enable the safe entry of such aircraft into the
            national airspace system.
    SEC. 953. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  APPLICATION OF NATIONAL
                            ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT CATEGORICAL
                            EXCLUSIONS FOR VERTIPORT PROJECTS.

        In considering the environmental impacts of a proposed vertiport
    project on an airport for purposes of compliance with the National
    Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), the
    Administrator shall--
                (1) apply any applicable categorical exclusions in
            accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
            (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and subchapter A of chapter V of title
            40, Code of Federal Regulations; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  after consultation with the
            Council on Environmental Quality, take steps to establish
            additional categorical exclusions, as appropriate, for
            vertiports on an airport, in accordance with the National
            Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and
            subchapter A of chapter V of title 40, Code of Federal
            Regulations.
    SEC. 954. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY
                            WORKING GROUP AMENDMENTS.

        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 such 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)--
                        (A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``and'' at the end;
                        (B) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (3);
                        (C) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following
                    new paragraph:
                ``(2) recommendations for sharing expertise and data on
            critical items, including long-term electrification requirements
            and the needs of cities (from a macro-electrification
            standpoint) to enable the deployment of AAM; and''; and
                        (D) in paragraph (3), as redesignated by paragraph
                    (2) of this section, by striking ``paragraph (1)'' and
                    inserting ``paragraphs (1) and (2)''.
                (5) in subsection (g)--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1377]]

                        (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 (h)--
                        (A) by striking ``Not later than 30 days'' and
                    inserting the following:
                ``(1) In general.--Not later than 30 days''; and
                        (B) by adding at the end the following:
                ``(2) Considerations for termination of working group.--In
            deciding whether to terminate the working group under this
            subsection, the Secretary, in consultation with 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.''; and
                (7) in subsection (i)--
                        (A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``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 ``is 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) <<NOTE: Definitions.>>  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 passengers 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 passengers or property by air between 2
            points in different cities or 2 points within the same city
            using an airworthy aircraft that--
                        ``(A) has advanced technologies, such as distributed
                    propulsion, vertical takeoff and landing, powered lift,
                    nontraditional power systems, or autonomous
                    technologies; and
                        ``(B) has a maximum takeoff weight of greater than
                    1,320 pounds.''; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1378]]

                        (F) by adding at the end the following:
                ``(10) Vertiport.--The term `vertiport' means an area of
            land, water, or a structure, used or intended to be used to
            support the landing, take-off, taxiing, parking, and storage of
            powered lift or other aircraft that vertiport design and
            performance standards established by the Administrator can
            accommodate.''.
    SEC. 955. <<NOTE: Certification. 49 USC 40101 note.>>  RULES FOR
                            OPERATION OF POWERED-LIFT AIRCRAFT.

        (a) SFAR Rulemaking.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Publication. Procedures.>>  In
            general.--Not later than 7 months after the date of enactment of
            this Act, the Administrator shall publish a final rule for the
            Special Federal Aviation Regulation of the FAA titled
            ``Integration of Powered-Lift: Pilot Certification and
            Operations; Miscellaneous Amendments Related to Rotorcraft and
            Airplanes'', issued on June 14, 2023 (2120-AL72), establishing
            procedures for certifying pilots of powered-lift aircraft and
            providing operational rules for powered-lift aircraft capable of
            transporting passengers and cargo.
                (2) Requirements.--With respect to any powered-lift aircraft
            type certificated by the Administrator, the regulations
            established under paragraph (1) shall--
                        (A) provide a practical pathway for pilot
                    qualification and operations;
                        (B) establish performance-based requirements for
                    energy reserves and other range- and endurance-related
                    requirements that reflect the capabilities and intended
                    operations of the aircraft;
                        (C) provide for a combination of pilot training
                    requirements, including simulators, to ensure the safe
                    operation of powered-lift aircraft; and
                        (D) to the maximum extent practicable, align
                    powered-lift pilot qualifications with section 2.1.1.4
                    of Annex 1 to the Convention on International Civil
                    Aviation published by the International Civil Aviation
                    Organization.
                (3) Considerations.--In developing the regulations required
            under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall--
                        (A) consider whether to 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 an FAA-
                    approved pilot type rating for such type of aircraft;
                        (B) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  consult with the
                    Secretary of Defense with regard to--
                              (i) the Agility Prime program of the United
                          States Air Force;
                              (ii) powered-lift aircraft evaluated and
                          deployed for military purposes, including the F-
                          35B program; and
                              (iii) the commonalities and differences
                          between powered-lift aircraft types and the
                          handling qualities of such aircraft; and
                        (C) consider the adoption of the recommendations for
                    powered-lift operations, as appropriate, contained in
                    document 10103 of the International Civil Aviation
                    Organization titled ``Guidance on the Implementation of
                    ICAO

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1379]]

                    Standards and Recommended Practices for Tilt-rotors'',
                    published in 2019.

        (b) Interim Application of Rules and Privileges in Lieu of
    Rulemaking.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Effective date.>>  In general.--Beginning 16
            months after the date of enactment of this Act, if a final rule
            has not been published pursuant to subsection (a)--
                        (A) the rules in effect on the date that is 16
                    months after the date of enactment of this Act 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--
                              (i) 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
                              (ii) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  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
                        (B) 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 such specific powered-lift
                    aircraft.
                (2) Termination of interim rules and privileges.--This
            subsection shall cease to have effect 1 month after the
            effective date of a final rule issued pursuant to subsection
            (a).

        (c) Powered-lift Aircraft Aviation Rulemaking Committee.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Establishment. Recommenda- tions.>>
            In general.--Not later than 3 years after the date on which the
            Administrator issues the first certificate to commercially
            operate a powered-lift aircraft, the Administrator shall
            establish an aviation rulemaking committee (in this section
            referred to as the ``Committee'') to provide the Administrator
            with specific findings and recommendations for, at a minimum,
            the creation of a standard pathway for the--
                        (A) performance-based certification of powered-lift
                    aircraft;
                        (B) certification of airmen capable of serving as
                    pilot-in-command of a powered-lift aircraft; and
                        (C) operation of powered-lift aircraft in commercial
                    service and air transportation.
                (2) Considerations.--In providing findings and
            recommendations under paragraph (1), the Committee shall
            consider the following:
                        (A) Outcome-driven safety objectives to spur
                    innovation and technology adoption and promote the
                    development of performance-based regulations.
                        (B) Lessons and insights learned from previously
                    published special conditions and other Federal Register
                    notices of airworthiness criteria for powered-lift
                    aircraft.
                        (C) To the maximum extent practicable, aligning
                    powered-lift pilot qualifications with section 2.1.1.4
                    of Annex

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1380]]

                    1 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation
                    published by the International Civil Aviation
                    Organization.
                        (D) The adoption of the recommendations contained in
                    document 10103 of the International Civil Aviation
                    Organization titled ``Guidance on the Implementation of
                    ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices for Tilt-
                    rotors'', published in 2019, as appropriate.
                        (E) Practical pathways for pilot qualification and
                    operations.
                        (F) Performance-based requirements for energy
                    reserves and other range- and endurance-related designs
                    and technologies that reflect the capabilities and
                    intended operations of the aircraft.
                        (G) A combination of pilot training requirements,
                    including simulators, to ensure the safe operation of
                    powered-lift aircraft.
                (3) Report.--The Committee shall submit to the Administrator
            a report detailing the findings and recommendations of the
            Committee.

        (d) Powered-lift Aircraft Rulemaking.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Recommenda- tions.>>  In general.--Not
            later than 270 days after the date on which the Committee
            submits the report under subsection (c)(3), the Administrator
            shall initiate a rulemaking to implement the findings and
            recommendations of the Committee, as determined appropriate by
            the Administrator.
                (2) Requirements.--In developing the rulemaking under
            paragraph (1), the Administrator shall--
                        (A) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  consult with the
                    Secretary of Defense with regard to methods for pilots
                    to gain proficiency and earn the necessary ratings
                    required to act as a pilot-in-command of powered-lift
                    aircraft;
                        (B) <<NOTE: Plan.>>  consider and plan for unmanned
                    and remotely piloted powered-lift aircraft, and the
                    associated elements of such aircraft, through the
                    promulgation of performance-based regulations;
                        (C) consider any information and experience gained
                    from operations and efforts that occur as a result of
                    the Special Federal Aviation Regulation of the FAA
                    titled ``Integration of Powered-Lift: Pilot
                    Certification and Operations; Miscellaneous Amendments
                    Related to Rotorcraft and Airplanes'', issued on June
                    14, 2023 (2120-AL72);
                        (D) consider whether to 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 an FAA-
                    approved pilot type rating for such type of aircraft;
                        (E) work to harmonize the certification and
                    operational requirements of the FAA with those of civil
                    aviation authorities with bilateral safety agreements in
                    place with the United States, to the extent such
                    harmonization does not negatively impact domestic
                    manufacturers and operators; and
                        (F) <<NOTE: Plan. Review.>>  consider and plan for
                    the use of alternative fuel types and propulsion
                    methods, including reviewing the performance-based
                    nature of parts 33 and 35 of title 14,

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1381]]

                    Code of Federal Regulations, and any related
                    recommendations provided to the Administrator by the
                    aviation rulemaking advisory committee described in
                    section 956.
    SEC. 956. <<NOTE: Deadlines. Recommenda- tions. Certifications. 49
                            USC 40101 note.>>  ADVANCED PROPULSION
                            SYSTEMS REGULATIONS.

        (a) In General.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator shall task the Aviation Rulemaking
    Advisory Committee (in this section referred to as the ``Committee'') to
    provide the Administrator with specific findings and recommendations for
    regulations related to the certification and installation of--
                (1) electric engines and propellers;
                (2) hybrid electric engines and propulsion systems;
                (3) hydrogen fuel cells;
                (4) hydrogen combustion engines or propulsion systems; and
                (5) other new or novel propulsion mechanisms and methods as
            determined appropriate by the Administrator.

        (b) Considerations.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Committee
    shall consider, at a minimum, the following:
                (1) Outcome-driven safety objectives to spur innovation and
            technology adoption, and promote the development of performance-
            based regulations.
                (2) Lessons and insights learned from previously published
            special conditions and other published airworthiness criteria
            for novel engines, propellers, and aircraft.
                (3) The requirements of part 33 and part 35 of title 14,
            Code of Federal Regulations, any boundaries of applicability for
            standalone engine type certificates (including highly integrated
            systems), and the use of technical standards order
            authorizations.

        (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after providing findings and
    recommendations under subsection (a), the Committee shall submit to the
    Administrator and the appropriate committees of Congress a report
    containing such findings and recommendations.
        (d) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the date on which the
    Committee submits the report under subsection (c), the Administrator
    shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress regarding plans of
    the FAA in response to the findings and recommendations contained in the
    report.
    SEC. 957. <<NOTE: Updates. Policies. 49 USC 40101 note.>>
                            POWERED-LIFT AIRCRAFT ENTRY INTO SERVICE.

        (a) In General.--The Administrator shall, in consultation with
    exclusive bargaining representatives of air traffic controllers
    certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code, and any
    relevant stakeholder as determined appropriate by the Administrator,
    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) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Air Traffic Policies for Entry Into
    Service.--Not later than 40 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
            determined to be safe by the Administrator, by powered-lift
            aircraft; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1382]]

                (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, as appropriate.

        (c) <<NOTE: Effective date.>>  Long-term Air Traffic Policies.--
    Beginning 40 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    Administrator shall--
                (1) continue to update air traffic orders and policies to
            support the operation of powered-lift aircraft;
                (2) <<NOTE: Procedures.>>  to the extent necessary, develop
            powered-lift specific procedures for airports, heliports, and
            vertiports;
                (3) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  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,
            supplement, and enhance the work of air traffic controllers.
    SEC. 958. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 40101 note.>>  INFRASTRUCTURE
                            SUPPORTING VERTICAL FLIGHT.

        (a) <<NOTE: Publications.>>  Update to Design Standards.--The
    Administrator shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Memorandums.>>  not later than December 31,
            2024, publish an update to the memorandum of the FAA titled
            ``Engineering Brief No. 105, Vertiport Design'', issued on
            September 21, 2022 (EB No. 105);
                (2) not later than December 31, 2025, publish a performance-
            based vertiport design advisory circular; and
                (3) begin the work necessary to update the advisory circular
            of the FAA titled ``Heliport Design'' (Advisory Circular 150/
            5390) in order to provide performance-based guidance for
            heliport design, including consideration of alternative fuel and
            propulsion mechanisms.

        (b) Engineering Brief Sunset.--Upon the publication of an advisory
    circular pursuant to subsection (a)(2), the Administrator shall cancel
    the memorandum described in subsection (a)(1).
        (c) <<NOTE: Notice.>>  Dual Use Facilities.--The Administrator shall
    establish a mechanism by which owners and operators of aviation
    infrastructure can safely accommodate, or file a notice to accommodate,
    powered-lift aircraft if such infrastructure meets the safety
    requirements or guidance of the FAA for such aircraft.

        (d) Guidance, Forms, and Planning.--The Administrator shall--
                (1) not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of
            this Act, ensure airport district offices of the FAA have
            sufficient guidance and policy direction regarding the use and
            applicability of heliport and vertiport design standards of the
            FAA, and update such guidance routinely;
                (2) <<NOTE: Determination. Updates.>>  determine if updates
            to FAA Form 7460 and Form 7480 are necessary and update such
            forms, as appropriate; and
                (3) ensure that the methodology and underlying data sources
            of the Terminal Area Forecast of the FAA include commercial
            operations conducted by aircraft regardless of propulsion type
            or fuel type.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1383]]

    SEC. 959. <<NOTE: Updates. Records. Process. 49 USC 40101 note.>>
                            CHARTING OF AVIATION INFRASTRUCTURE.

        The Administrator shall increase efforts to update and keep current
    the Airport Master Record of the FAA, 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.
    SEC. 960. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  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 aviation
                                    infrastructure'' after ``operation of a
                                    vertiport'';
                        (B) in paragraph (4)(B) by inserting ``the
                    Department of Defense, the National Guard,'' before
                    ``or''; and
                        (C) in paragraph (6)--
                              (i) in subparagraph (A) by striking
                          ``September 30, 2025'' and inserting ``September
                          30, 2027''; and
                              (ii) in subparagraph (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 or any other head of a Federal
                                    agency in order to support such early
                                    adoption.'';
                (2) by striking subsection (c)(1) and inserting the
            following:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1384]]

                ``(1) <<NOTE: Time periods.>>  Authorization.--Out of
            amounts made available under section 106(k) of title 49, United
            States Code, there are authorized to carry out this section
            $12,500,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2026, to
            remain available until expended.'';
                (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.-- <<NOTE: Definitions.>> The
            terms `advanced air mobility', `AAM', `regional air mobility',
            `urban air mobility', and `vertiport' 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).''; and
                        (B) by striking paragraphs (9) and (10).
    SEC. 961. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  CENTER FOR ADVANCED
                            AVIATION TECHNOLOGIES.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Plan.--Not later than 90 days after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall develop a plan to
    establish a Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies to support the
    testing and advancement of new and emerging aviation technologies.

        (b) Consultation.--In developing the plan under subsection (a), the
    Administrator may consult with the Advanced Air Mobility Working Group
    established in the Advanced Air Mobility Coordination and Leadership Act
    (Public Law 117-203), as amended by this Act, and the interagency
    working group established in section 1042 of this Act.
        (c) Considerations.--In developing the plan under subsection (a),
    the Administrator shall consider as roles and responsibilities for the
    Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies--
                (1) developing an airspace laboratory and flight
            demonstration zones to facilitate the safe integration of
            advanced air mobility aircraft into the national airspace
            system, with at least 1 such zone to be established within the
            same geographic region as the Center for Advanced Aviation
            Technologies and that also has aviation manufacturers with
            relevant expertise, such as powered-lift;
                (2) establishing testing corridors for the purposes of
            validating air traffic requirements for advanced air mobility
            operations, operational procedures, and performance
            requirements, with at least 1 such corridor to be established
            within the same geographic region as the Center for Advanced
            Aviation Technologies;
                (3) developing and facilitating technology partnerships
            with, and between, industry, academia, and other government
            agencies, and supporting such partnerships;
                (4) identifying new and emerging aviation technologies,
            innovative aviation concepts, and relevant aviation services,
            including advanced air mobility, powered-lift aircraft, and
            other advanced aviation technologies, as determined appropriate
            by the Administrator; and
                (5) any other duties, as determined appropriate by the
            Administrator.

        (d) <<NOTE: Deadline. Plan.>>  Submission to Congress.--Not later
    than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator
    shall submit

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1385]]

    to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee
    on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and
    the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate the
    plan developed under subsection (a).

        (e) <<NOTE: Deadline. Establishment.>>  Center.--Not later than
    September 30, 2026, the Administrator shall establish the Center for
    Advanced Aviation Technologies in accordance with the plan developed
    under subsection (a). In choosing the location for the Center for
    Advanced Aviation Technologies, the Administrator shall give preference
    to a community or region with a strong aeronautical presence,
    specifically the presence of--
                (1) a large commercial airport or large air logistics
            center;
                (2) aviation manufacturing with expertise in advanced
            aviation technologies, such as powered-lift;
                (3) existing FAA facilities or offices, such as a Center,
            Institute, certificate management office, or a regional
            headquarters;
                (4) airspace utilized for advanced aviation technology
            testing activity, and capable of supporting a wide range of use
            cases;
                (5) proximity to both rural and urban communities;
                (6) State, local, or Tribal governments;
                (7) programs to support public-private partnerships for
            advanced aviation technologies; and
                (8) academic institutions that offer programs relating to
            advanced aviation technologies engineering.

        (f) <<NOTE: Time periods.>>  Authorization.--Out of amounts made
    available under section 106(k) of title 49, United States Code,
    $35,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2028 is authorized to
    carry out this section.

        (g) Interaction With Other Entities.--The Administrator, in carrying
    out this section, shall, to the maximum extent practicable, leverage the
    research and testing capacity and capabilities of the Center of
    Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems and, as appropriate, the
    unmanned aircraft test ranges established in section 44803 of title 49,
    United States Code.
        (h) Savings Clauses.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to
    interfere with any of the following activities:
                (1) The ongoing activities of the unmanned aircraft test
            ranges established in section 44803 of title 49, United States
            Code, to the maximum extent practicable.
                (2) The ongoing activities of the William J. Hughes
            Technical Center for Advanced Aerospace, to the maximum extent
            practicable.
                (3) The ongoing activities of the Center of Excellence for
            Unmanned Aircraft Systems, to the maximum extent practicable.
                (4) The ongoing activities of the Mike Monroney Aeronautical
            Center, to the maximum extent practicable.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1386]]

                        TITLE X--RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

                         Subtitle A--General Provisions

    SEC. 1001. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  DEFINITIONS.

        In this title:
                (1) Covered committees of congress.--The term ``covered
            committees of Congress'' means the Committee on Science, Space,
            and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee
            on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
                (2) NASA.--The term ``NASA'' means the National Aeronautics
            and Space Administration.
    SEC. 1002. RESEARCH, ENGINEERING, AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORIZATION OF
                              APPROPRIATIONS.

        Section 48102(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in paragraph (15) by striking ``; and'' and inserting a
            semicolon; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Time periods.>>  by striking paragraph (16) and
            inserting the following:
                ``(16) $280,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
                ``(17) $311,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
                ``(18) $323,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
                ``(19) $334,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
                ``(20) $345,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.
    SEC. 1003. <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  REPORT ON IMPLEMENTATION;
                              FUNDING FOR SAFETY RESEARCH AND
                              DEVELOPMENT.

        Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act,
    the Comptroller General shall submit to the covered committees of
    Congress a report on the allocation of funding pursuant to section 48102
    of title 49, United States Code, to the Secretary to conduct civil
    aviation research and development and to assess the implementation of
    section 48102(b)(2) of such title.
    SEC. 1004. NATIONAL AVIATION RESEARCH PLAN MODIFICATION.

        (a) Modification of Submission Deadline.--Section 44501(c)(1) of
    title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) by striking ``the date of submission'' and inserting
            ``the date that is 30 days after the date of submission''; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Reports. Delay letter.>>  by adding at the end
            the following ``If such report cannot be prepared and submitted
            by the date that is 30 days after the date of submission of the
            President's budget to Congress, the Administrator shall submit,
            before such date, a letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of
            the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the
            Senate and the Committee of Science, Space, and Technology of
            the House of Representatives stating the reason for delayed
            submission, impacts of the delay, and actions taken to address
            circumstances that led to the delay.''.

        (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 48102(g) of title 49, United
    States Code, is amended by striking ``the date of submission'' and
    inserting ``the date that is 30 days after the date of submission''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1387]]

    SEC. 1005. ADVANCED MATERIALS CENTER OF EXCELLENCE ENHANCEMENTS.

        Section 44518 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following:

        ``(a) In General.--
                ``(1) Continued operations.--The Administrator shall--
                        ``(A) continue operation of the Advanced Materials
                    Center of Excellence (referred to in this section as the
                    `Center'); and

                    ``(B) <<NOTE: Determination. Grant. Deadline. Recommenda-
                     tions. Proposal.>>  make a determination on whether to
                    award a grant to the Center not later than 90 days after
                    the date on which the grants officer of the Federal
                    Aviation Administration recommends a proposal for award
                    of such grant to the Administrator.
                ``(2) Purposes.--The Center shall--
                        ``(A) focus on applied research and training on the
                    safe use of composites and advanced materials, and
                    related manufacturing practices, in airframe structures;
                    and
                        ``(B) conduct research and development into aircraft
                    structure crash worthiness and passenger safety, as well
                    as address safe and accessible air travel of individuals
                    with a disability (as defined in section 382.3 of title
                    14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor
                    regulation)), including materials required to facilitate
                    safe wheelchair restraint systems on commercial
                    aircraft.''; and
                (2) by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following:

        ``(b) Responsibilities.--The Center shall--
                ``(1) promote and facilitate collaboration among member
            universities, academia, the Administration, the commercial
            aircraft industry, including manufacturers, commercial air
            carriers, and suppliers, and other appropriate stakeholders for
            the purposes under subsection (a) and the activities described
            in paragraphs (2) through (4);
                ``(2) carry out research and development activities to
            advance technology, improve engineering practices, and
            facilitate continuing education in relevant areas of study,
            which shall include--
                        ``(A) all structural materials, including--
                              ``(i) metallic and non-metallic based additive
                          materials, ceramic materials, carbon fiber
                          polymers, and thermoplastic composites;
                              ``(ii) the long-term material and structural
                          behavior of such materials; and
                              ``(iii) evaluating the resiliency and long-
                          term durability of advanced materials in high
                          temperature conditions and in engines for
                          applications in advanced aircraft; and
                        ``(B) structural technologies, such as additive
                    manufacturing, to be used in applications within the
                    commercial aircraft industry, including traditional
                    fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, and emerging aircraft
                    types such as advanced air mobility aircraft; and
                ``(3) conduct research activities for the purpose of
            improving the safety and certification of aviation structures,
            materials, and additively manufactured aviation products and
            components; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1388]]

                ``(4) conducting research activities to advance the safe
            movement of all passengers, including individuals with a
            disability (as defined in section 382.3 of title 14, Code of
            Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation)), and
            individuals using personal wheelchairs in flight, that takes
            into account the modeling, engineering, testing, operating, and
            training issues significant to all passengers and relevant
            stakeholders.''.
    SEC. 1006. CENTER OF EXCELLENCE FOR UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 448 of title 49, United States Code, is
    further amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``Sec. 44813. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44813.>>  Center of Excellence for
                        Unmanned Aircraft Systems

        ``(a) <<NOTE: Continuation.>>  In General.--The Administrator of the
    Federal Aviation Administration shall continue operation of the Center
    of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (referred to in this section
    as the `Center').

        ``(b) Responsibilities.--The Center shall carry out the following
    responsibilities:
                ``(1) Conduct applied research and training on the safe and
            efficient integration of unmanned aircraft systems and advanced
            air mobility into the national airspace system.
                ``(2) Promote and facilitate collaboration among academia,
            the Federal Aviation Administration, Federal agency partners,
            and industry stakeholders (including manufacturers, operators,
            service providers, standards development organizations,
            carriers, and suppliers), with respect to the safe and efficient
            integration of unmanned aircraft systems and advanced air
            mobility into the national airspace system.
                ``(3) Establish goals set to advance technology, improve
            engineering practices, and facilitate continuing education with
            respect to the safe and efficient integration of unmanned
            aircraft systems and advanced air mobility into the national
            airspace system.

        ``(c) Program Participation.--The Administrator shall ensure the
    participation in the Center of institutions of higher education (as
    defined in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
    1001)) and research institutions that provide accredited bachelor's
    degree programs in aeronautical sciences that provide pathways to
    commercial pilot certifications and that include a focus on pilot
    training for women aviators.
        ``(d) Leveraging of Certain Capacity and Capabilities.--The
    Administrator shall, in carrying out research necessary to validate
    consensus safety standards accepted pursuant to section 44805, to the
    maximum extent practicable, leverage the research and testing capacity
    and capabilities of--
                ``(1) the Center;
                ``(2) the test ranges designated under section 44803;
                ``(3) existing Federal and non-Federal test ranges and
            testbeds;
                ``(4) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; and
                ``(5) the William J. Hughes Technical Center for Advanced
            Aerospace.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1389]]

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 448 of title
    49, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44801.>> United States Code, is further amended
    by adding at the end the following:

    ``44813. Center of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems.''.

    SEC. 1007. ASSURED SAFE CREDENTIALING AUTHORITY.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 448 of title 49, United States Code, is
    further amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``Sec. 44814. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44814.>>  ASSUREd Safe credentialing
                        authority

        ``(a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 6 months
    after the date of enactment of this section, the Administrator of the
    Federal Aviation Administration shall establish a credentialing
    authority for the program of record of the Federal Aviation
    Administration (referred to in this section as `ASSUREd Safe') under the
    Center of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

        ``(b) <<NOTE: Standards.>>  Purposes.--ASSUREd Safe shall offer
    services throughout the United States, and to allies and partners of the
    United States, including--
                ``(1) online and in-person standards, education, and testing
            for the use of unmanned aircraft systems by first responders for
            emergency and disaster management operations;
                ``(2) uniform communications standards, operational
            standards, and reporting standards for civilian, military, and
            international allies and partners; and
                ``(3) any other relevant standards development related to
            operation of unmanned aircraft systems, as determined
            appropriate by the Administrator.

        ``(c) Coordination.--The Administrator shall ensure that the Center
    of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems coordinates with the
    National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Federal Emergency
    Management Agency on establishment of ASSUREd Safe, and on any services
    offered by ASSUREd Safe.''.
        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 448 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44801.>>  is further amended by
    adding at the end the following:

    ``44814. ASSUREd Safe credentialing authority.''.

    SEC. 1008. CLEEN ENGINE AND AIRFRAME TECHNOLOGY PARTNERSHIP.

        Section 47511 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in subsection (a), by striking ``subsonic'' after
            ``fuels for civil''; and
                (2) by adding at the end the following:

        ``(d) <<NOTE: Contracts. Determination.>>  Selection.--In carrying
    out the program, the Administrator may provide that not less than 2 of
    the cooperative agreements entered into under this section involve the
    participation of an entity that is a small business concern (as defined
    in section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632)), provided that
    the submitted technology proposal of the entity meets, at a minimum, FAA
    Acquisition Management System requirements and requisite technology
    readiness levels for entry into the agreement, as determined by the
    Administrator.''.
    SEC. 1009. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44701 note.>>  HIGH-SPEED FLIGHT
                              TESTING.

        (a) <<NOTE: Procedures. Deadlines.>>  In General.--The
    Administrator, in consultation with the Administrator of NASA, shall
    establish procedures for the exclusive

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1390]]

    purposes of developmental and airworthiness testing and demonstration
    flights, which may include the establishment of high-speed testing
    corridors in the national airspace system--
                (1) with respect to manufacturers and operators of high-
            speed aircraft that conduct flights operating with supersonic
            speed, not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this
            Act; and
                (2) with respect to manufacturers and operators of high-
            speed aircraft that conduct flights operating with hypersonic
            speed, not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of
            this Act.

        (b) Areas of Testing and Demonstration.--The Administrator shall
    take action, as appropriate, to ensure flight testing and demonstration
    flights occur in areas where such flights will not interfere with the
    safety of other aircraft or the efficient use of airspace in the
    national airspace system.
        (c) Considerations.--In carrying out subsection (a), the
    Administrator shall consider--
                (1) sections 91.817 and 91.818 of title 14, Code of Federal
            Regulations;
                (2) applications for special flight authorizations for
            flights operating at supersonic or hypersonic speed, as
            described in section 91.818 of such title;
                (3) the environmental impacts of developmental and
            airworthiness testing operations;
                (4) requiring applicants to include specification of
            proposed flight areas;
                (5) the authorization of flights to and from airports in
            Class D airspace within 10 nautical miles of oceanic coastline;
                (6) developing the vertical limits at or above the altitude
            necessary for safe supersonic and hypersonic operations;
                (7) proponent-provided data regarding the design and
            operational analysis of the aircraft, as well as data regarding
            sonic boom overpressures;
                (8) the safety of the uninvolved public; and
                (9) community outreach, education, and engagement.

        (d) <<NOTE: Assessment. Reports.>>  Consultation.--Not later than 1
    year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in
    consultation with the Environmental Protection Agency and other
    stakeholders, shall assess and report to the covered committees of
    Congress on a means for supporting continued compliance with the
    National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et
    seq.). <<NOTE: Contracts. Recommenda- tions. Compliance.>>  The
    Administrator shall seek to enter into an agreement with an appropriate
    federally funded research and development center, or other independent
    nonprofit organization that recommends long term solutions for
    maintaining compliance with such Act for 1 or more over-land or near-
    land hypersonic and supersonic test areas as established by the
    Administrator.

        (e) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) High-speed aircraft.--The term ``high-speed aircraft''
            means an aircraft operating at speeds in excess of Mach 1,
            including supersonic and hypersonic aircraft.
                (2) Hypersonic.--The term ``hypersonic'' means flights
            operating at speeds that exceed Mach 5.
                (3) Supersonic.--The term ``supersonic'' means flights
            operating at speeds in excess of Mach 1 but less than Mach 5.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1391]]

    SEC. 1010. HIGH-SPEED AIRCRAFT PATHWAY TO INTEGRATION STUDY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  Study.--
                (1) In general.--The Administrator, in consultation with
            aircraft manufacturers and operators, institutions of higher
            education (as defined in section 101 of the Higher Education Act
            of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)), the Administrator of NASA, the
            Secretary of Defense, and any other agencies the Administrator
            determines appropriate, shall conduct a study assessing actions
            necessary to facilitate the safe operation and integration of
            high-speed aircraft into the national airspace system.
                (2) Contents.--The study conducted under paragraph (1) shall
            include, at a minimum--
                        (A) an initial assessment of cross-agency equities
                    related to high-speed aircraft technologies and flight;

                    (B) <<NOTE: Data. Certification. Standards. Requirements.
                    >>  the identification and collection of data required
                    to develop certification, flight standards, and air
                    traffic requirements for the deployment and integration
                    of high-speed aircraft;
                        (C) <<NOTE: Timeline. Requirements.>>  the
                    development of a framework and potential timeline to
                    establish the appropriate regulatory requirements for
                    conducting high-speed aircraft flights;
                        (D) <<NOTE: Strategic plans.>>  strategic plans to
                    improve the FAA's state of preparedness and response
                    capability in advance of receiving applications to
                    conduct high-speed aircraft flights; and
                        (E) <<NOTE: Survey.>>  a survey of global high-speed
                    aircraft-related regulatory and testing developments or
                    activities.
                (3) Considerations.--In conducting the study under paragraph
            (1), the Administrator may consider--
                        (A) feedback and input reflecting the technical
                    expertise of the aerospace industry and other
                    stakeholders, as the Administrator determines
                    appropriate, to inform future development of policies,
                    regulations, and standards that enable the safe
                    operation and integration of high-speed aircraft into
                    the national airspace system;
                        (B) opportunities for--
                              (i) demonstrating United States global
                          leadership in high-speed aircraft and related
                          technologies; and
                              (ii) strengthening global harmonization in
                          aeronautics including in the development of
                          international policies relating to the safe
                          operation of high-speed aircraft; and
                        (C) methods and opportunities for community
                    outreach, education, and engagement.

        (b) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 3 years
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit
    to the covered committees of Congress and the Committee on
    Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a
    report on the results of the study conducted under subsection (a) and
    recommendations, if appropriate, to facilitate the safe operation and
    integration of high-speed aircraft into the national airspace system.

        (c) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) High-speed aircraft.--The term ``high-speed aircraft''
            means an aircraft operating at speeds in excess of Mach 1,
            including supersonic and hypersonic aircraft.
                (2) Hypersonic.--The term ``hypersonic'' means flights
            operating at speeds that exceed Mach 5.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1392]]

                (3) Supersonic.--The term ``supersonic'' means flights
            operating at speeds in excess of Mach 1 but less than Mach 5.
    SEC. 1011. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40103 note.>>  OPERATING HIGH-SPEED
                              FLIGHTS IN HIGH ALTITUDE CLASS E
                              AIRSPACE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Research.--Not later than 1 year after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with
    the Administrator of NASA and any other relevant stakeholders the
    Administrator determines appropriate, including industry and academia,
    shall undertake research to identify, to the maximum extent practicable,
    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 do not produce appreciable sonic boom overpressures that
    reach the surface under prevailing atmospheric conditions.

        (b) Hypersonic Defined.--In this section, the term ``hypersonic''
    means a flight operating at speeds that exceed Mach 5.
    SEC. 1012. ELECTRIC PROPULSION AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS STUDY.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Assessment.>>  In General.--Not later than 120
    days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General
    shall initiate a study assessing the safe and scalable operation and
    integration of electric aircraft into the national airspace system.

        (b) Contents.--In conducting the study required under subsection
    (a), the Comptroller General shall address--
                (1) <<NOTE: Certification.>>  identification of the
            workforce technical capacity and competencies needed for the
            Administrator to certify aircraft systems specific to electric
            aircraft;
                (2) <<NOTE: Data. Standards.>>  the data development and
            collection required to develop standards specific to electric
            aircraft;
                (3) <<NOTE: Standards. Guidance.>>  the regulatory standards
            and guidance material needed to facilitate the safe operation
            and maintenance of electric aircraft, including--
                        (A) fire protection;
                        (B) high voltage electromagnetic environments;
                        (C) engine and human machine interfaces;
                        (D) reliability of high voltage components and
                    insulation;
                        (E) lithium batteries for propulsion use;
                        (F) operating and pilot qualifications; and
                        (G) airspace integration;
                (4) <<NOTE: Requirements. Assessment.>>  the airport
            infrastructure requirements to support electric aircraft
            operations, including an assessment of--
                        (A) the capabilities of airport infrastructure,
                    including, to the extent practicable, the capabilities
                    and capacity of the electrical power grid of the United
                    States to support such operations, including cost,
                    challenges, and opportunities for clean generation of
                    electricity relating to such support, existing as of the
                    date of enactment of this Act;
                        (B) aircraft operations specifications;
                        (C) projected operations demand by carriers and
                    other operators;
                        (D) potential modifications to existing airport
                    infrastructure;
                        (E) additional investments in new infrastructure and
                    systems required to meet operations demand;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1393]]

                        (F) management of infrastructure relating to
                    hazardous materials used in hybrid and electric
                    propulsion; and
                        (G) ability of such current and future airport
                    infrastructure capabilities to adapt to meet the
                    evolving needs of electric aircraft operations; and
                (5) varying types of electric aircraft, including advanced
            air mobility aircraft and small or regional passenger or cargo
            aircraft.

        (c) Considerations.--In conducting the study under subsection (a),
    the Comptroller General may consider the following:
                (1) The potential for improvements to air service
            connectivity for communities through the deployment of electric
            aircraft operations, including by--
                        (A) establishing routes to small and rural
                    communities; and
                        (B) introducing alternative modes of transportation
                    for multimodal operations within communities.
                (2) Impacts to airport-adjacent communities, including
            implications due to changes in airspace utilization and land use
            compatibility.

        (d) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions. Determination.>>  Report to
    Congress.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this
    Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the covered committees of
    Congress and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the
    House of Representatives a report on the results of the study conducted
    under subsection (a) and recommendations for such legislation and
    administrative action as the Comptroller General determines appropriate.

        (e) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Electric aircraft.--The term ``electric aircraft'' means
            an aircraft with a fully electric or hybrid electric driven
            propulsion system used for flight.
                (2) Advanced air mobility.--The term ``advanced air
            mobility'' means a transportation system that transports
            passengers and cargo by air between two points in the United
            States using aircraft with advanced technologies, including
            aircraft with hybrid or electric vertical take-off and landing
            capabilities, in both controlled and uncontrolled airspace.
    SEC. 1013. CONTRACT WEATHER OBSERVERS PROGRAM.

        Section 2306 of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016
    (Public Law 114-190; 130 Stat. 641) is amended by striking subsection
    (b) and inserting the following:
        ``(b) Continued Use of Contract Weather Observers.--
    The <<NOTE: Expiration date.>>  Administrator may not discontinue or
    diminish the contract weather observer program at any airport until
    September 30, 2028.''.
    SEC. 1014. AIRFIELD PAVEMENT TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM.

        Section 744 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-
    254; 49 U.S.C. 44505 note) is amended to read as follows:
    ``SEC. 744. RESEARCH AND DEPLOYMENT OF CERTAIN AIRFIELD PAVEMENT
                            TECHNOLOGIES.

        ``Using <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts.>>  amounts made available under
    section 48102(a) of title 49, United States Code, the Secretary may
    carry out a program for the research and development of airfield
    pavement technologies under which the Secretary makes grants to, and
    enters into cooperative agreements with, institutions of higher
    education (as defined

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1394]]

    in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)) and
    nonprofit organizations that--
                ``(1) research concrete and asphalt pavement technologies
            that extend the life of airfield pavements;
                ``(2) develop sustainability and resiliency guidelines to
            improve long-term pavement performance;
                ``(3) develop and conduct training with respect to such
            airfield pavement technologies;
                ``(4) provide for demonstration projects of such airfield
            pavement technologies; and
                ``(5) promote the latest airfield pavement technologies to
            aid the development of safer, more cost effective, and more
            resilient and sustainable airfield pavements.''.
    SEC. 1015. REVIEW OF FAA MANAGEMENT OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 1 year after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall conduct
    a review of the management of research and development activities of the
    FAA, and the insight of the Administrator into, and coordination with,
    other Federal government research and development activities relating to
    civil aviation.

        (b) <<NOTE: Assessments.>>  Review of FAA Management.--The review of
    the Comptroller General under subsection (a) shall include an assessment
    of how the Administrator--
                (1) plans, manages, and tracks progress of research and
            development projects and activities and how FAA processes and
            procedures compare with leading practices related to research
            and development management and collaboration, as determined by
            the Comptroller General;
                (2) prioritizes research and development objectives;
                (3) applies leading practices related to management of
            research and development, enhancement of collaboration and
            cooperation, and minimization of duplication, waste, and
            inefficiencies, in conducting activities--
                        (A) among FAA research and development programs;
                        (B) with NASA, including--
                              (i) the extent to which NASA and the FAA
                          leverage each other's laboratory and testing
                          capabilities, facilities, resources, and subject
                          matter expert personnel in support of aeronautics
                          research and development programs and projects;
                              (ii) an assessment of--
                                        (I) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  the
                                    fiscal year in which the review is
                                    conducted, and the 3 fiscal years prior
                                    to such year, of Federal expenditures
                                    and any applicable fluctuation in the
                                    appropriated funds, for FAA and NASA
                                    research and development programs and
                                    projects and the impact of any funding
                                    changes on agency programs and projects;
                                    and
                                        (II) the extent to which other
                                    Federal agencies, industry partners, and
                                    research organizations are involved in
                                    such programs and projects; and
                              (iii) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>
                          recommendations, as appropriate, for the
                          improvement of such coordination and collaboration
                          with NASA;
                        (C) with other relevant Federal agencies;

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1395]]

                        (D) with international partners; and
                        (E) with academia, research organizations, standards
                    groups, and industry;
                (4) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  interacts with the private
            sector, including by examining the extent to which FAA--
                        (A) takes into account private sector research and
                    development efforts in the management and investment of
                    the research and development activities and investments
                    of the FAA; and
                        (B) assesses the impact of FAA research and
                    development on U.S. private sector aeronautics research
                    and development investments;
                (5) transitions the results of research and development
            projects into operational use;
                (6) has implemented the recommendations in the report issued
            by the Comptroller General titled ``Aviation Research and
            Development'' issued April 2017 (GAO report 17-372) and the
            results of the efforts to implement such recommendations; and
                (7) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  can improve management of
            research and development activities and any recommendations as
            the Comptroller General determines appropriate based on the
            results of the review.

        (c) Report.--Not later than 180 days after completing the review
    under required under subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall
    submit to the covered committees of Congress--
                (1) a report on such review and relevant findings; and
                (2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  recommendations, including
            the recommendations developed under paragraphs (3)(B)(iii) and
            (7) of subsection (b).
    SEC. 1016. <<NOTE: Deadline. 49 USC 44505 note.>>  RESEARCH AND
                              DEVELOPMENT OF FAA'S AERONAUTICAL
                              INFORMATION SYSTEMS MODERNIZATION
                              ACTIVITIES.

        (a) In General.--Using amounts made available under section 48102(a)
    of title 49, United States Code, and subject to the availability of
    appropriations, the Administrator, in coordination with the John A.
    Volpe National Transportation Systems Center, shall establish a research
    and development program, not later than 60 days after the date of
    enactment of this Act, to inform the continuous modernization of the
    aeronautical information systems of the FAA, including--
                (1) the Aeronautical Information Management Modernization,
            including the Notice to Air Missions system of the FAA;
                (2) the Aviation Safety Information Analysis and Sharing
            system; and
                (3) the Service Difficulty Reporting System.

        (b) Review and Report.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  Review.--Not later than 180 days
            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 and complete a review of
            planned and ongoing modernization efforts of the aeronautical
            information systems of the FAA. Such review shall identify
            opportunities for additional coordination between the
            Administrator and the John A. Volpe National Transportation
            Systems Center to further modernize such systems.
                (2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Report.--Not later than 1
            year after the Administrator enters into the agreement with the
            center under paragraph

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1396]]

            (1), the Center shall submit to the Administrator, the covered
            committees of Congress, and the Committee on Transportation and
            Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report on the
            review conducted under paragraph (1) and such recommendations as
            the Center determines appropriate.
    SEC. 1017. CENTER OF EXCELLENCE FOR ALTERNATIVE JET FUELS AND
                              ENVIRONMENT.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 445 of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``Sec. 44520. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44520.>>  Center of Excellence for
                        Alternative Jet Fuels and Environment

        ``(a) <<NOTE: Continuation.>>  In General.--The Administrator shall
    continue operation of the Center of Excellence for Alternative Jet Fuels
    and Environment (in this section referred to as the `Center').

        ``(b) Responsibilities.--The Center shall--
                ``(1) focus on research to--
                        ``(A) assist in the development, qualification, and
                    certification of the use of aviation fuel from
                    alternative and renewable sources (such as biomass,
                    next-generation feedstocks, alcohols, organic acids,
                    hydrogen, bioderived chemicals and gaseous carbon) for
                    commercial aircraft;
                        ``(B) assist in informing the safe use of
                    alternative aviation fuels in commercial aircraft that
                    also apply electrified aircraft propulsion systems;
                        ``(C) reduce community exposure to civilian aircraft
                    noise and pollutant emissions;
                        ``(D) inform decision making to support United
                    States leadership on international aviation
                    environmental issues, including the development of
                    domestic and international standards; and
                        ``(E) improve and expand the scientific
                    understanding of civil aviation noise and pollutant
                    emissions and their impacts, as well as support the
                    development of improved modeling approaches and tools;
                ``(2) examine the use of novel technologies and other forms
            of innovation to reduce noise, emissions, and fuel burn in
            commercial aircraft; and
                ``(3) support collaboration with other Federal agencies,
            industry stakeholders, research institutions, and other relevant
            entities to accelerate the research, development, testing,
            evaluation, and demonstration programs and facilitate United
            States sustainability and competitiveness in aviation.

        ``(c) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  Grant Authority.--The Administrator
    shall carry out the work of the Center through the use of grants or
    other measures, as determined appropriate by the Administrator pursuant
    to section 44513, including through interagency agreements and
    coordination with other Federal agencies.

        ``(d) Participation.--
                ``(1) Participation of educational and research
            institutions.--In carrying out the responsibilities described in
            subsection (b), the Center shall include, as appropriate,
            participation by--
                        ``(A) institutions of higher education and research
                    institutions that--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1397]]

                              ``(i) have existing facilities for research,
                          development, and testing; and
                              ``(ii) leverage private sector partnerships;
                        ``(B) other Federal agencies;
                        ``(C) consortia with experience across the
                    alternative fuels supply chain, including with research,
                    feedstock development and production, small-scale
                    development, testing, and technology evaluation related
                    to the creation, processing, production, and
                    transportation of alternative aviation fuel; and
                        ``(D) consortia with experience in innovative
                    technologies to reduce noise, emissions, and fuel burn
                    in commercial aircraft.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Reimbursement.>>  Use of nasa facilities.--The
            Center shall, in consultation with the Administrator of NASA,
            consider using, on a reimbursable basis, the existing and
            available capacity in aeronautics research facilities at the
            Langley Research Center, the NASA John H. Glenn Center at the
            Neil A. Armstrong Test Facility, and other appropriate
            facilities of the National Aeronautics and Space
            Administration.''.

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 445 of such
    title, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 44501.>> as amended by section 817, is
    amended by inserting after the item relating to section 44519 the
    following:

    ``44520. Center of Excellence for Alternative Jet Fuels and
               Environment.''.

    SEC. 1018. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 44504 note.>>  NEXT
                              GENERATION RADIO ALTIMETERS.

        (a) In General.--Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator, in coordination with the aviation and
    commercial wireless industries, the National Telecommunications and
    Information Administration, the Federal Communications Commission, and
    other relevant government stakeholders, shall carry out an accelerated
    research and development program to inform the development and testing
    of the standards and technology necessary to ensure appropriate FAA
    certification actions and industry production that meets the
    installation requirements for next generation radio altimeters across
    all necessary aircraft by January 1, 2028.
        (b) Grant Program.--Subject to the availability of appropriations,
    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) <<NOTE: Plans.>>  Review and Report.--Not later than 180 days
    after the enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the
    covered committees of Congress and the Committee on Transportation and
    Infrastructure of the House of Representatives 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1398]]

        (d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed to apply to efforts to retrofit the existing supply of
    altimeters in place as of the date of enactment of this Act.
    SEC. 1019. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44504 note.>>  HYDROGEN AVIATION
                              STRATEGY.

        (a) FAA and Department of Energy Leadership on Using Hydrogen to
    Propel Commercial Aircraft.--The Secretary, acting through the
    Administrator and jointly with the Secretary of Energy, shall exercise
    leadership in and shall conduct research and development activities
    relating to enabling the safe use of hydrogen in civil aviation,
    including the safe and efficient use and sourcing of hydrogen to propel
    commercial aircraft.
        (b) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Research Strategy.--Not later than 1 year
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in
    consultation with the Administrator of NASA and other relevant Federal
    agencies, shall complete the development of a research and development
    strategy on the safe use of hydrogen in civil aviation.

        (c) Considerations.--The strategy developed under subsection (b)
    shall consider the following:
                (1) The feasibility, opportunities, challenges, and pathways
            toward the potential and safe uses of hydrogen in civil
            aviation.
                (2) The use of hydrogen in addition to electric propulsion
            to propel commercial aircraft and any related operational
            efficiencies.

        (d) Exercise of Leadership.--The Secretary, the Administrator, and
    the Secretary of Energy shall carry out the research activities
    consistent with the strategy in subsection (b), and that may include the
    following:
                (1) Establishing positions and goals for the safe use of
            hydrogen in civil aviation, including to propel commercial
            aircraft.
                (2) Understanding of the qualification of hydrogen aviation
            fuel, the safe transition to such fuel for aircraft, the
            advancement of certification efforts for such fuel, and risk
            mitigation measures for the use of such fuel in aircraft
            systems, including propulsion and storage systems.
                (3) <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts.>>  Through grant, contract,
            or interagency agreements, carrying out research and development
            to understand the contribution that the use of hydrogen would
            have on civil aviation, including hydrogen as an input for
            conventional jet fuel, hydrogen fuel cells as a source of
            electric propulsion, sustainable aviation fuel, and power to
            liquids or synthetic fuel, and researching ways of accelerating
            the introduction of hydrogen-propelled aircraft.
                (4) <<NOTE: Reviews.>>  Reviewing grant eligibility
            requirements, loans, loan guarantees, and other policies and
            requirements of the FAA and the Department of Energy to identify
            ways to increase the safe and efficient use of hydrogen in civil
            aviation.
                (5) Considering the needs of the aerospace industry,
            aviation suppliers, hydrogen producers, airlines, airport
            sponsors, fixed base operators, and other stakeholders in
            creating policies that enable the safe use of hydrogen in civil
            aviation.
                (6) Coordinating with NASA, and obtaining input from the
            aerospace industry, aviation suppliers, hydrogen producers,
            airlines, airport sponsors, fixed base operators, academia and
            other stakeholders regarding--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1399]]

                        (A) the safe and efficient use of hydrogen in civil
                    aviation, including--
                              (i) updating or modifying existing policies on
                          such use;
                              (ii) assessing barriers to, and benefits of,
                          the introduction of hydrogen in civil aviation,
                          including aircraft propelled by hydrogen;
                              (iii) the operational differences between
                          aircraft propelled by hydrogen and aircraft
                          propelled with other types of fuels; and
                              (iv) public, economic, and noise benefits of
                          the operation of commercial aircraft propelled by
                          hydrogen and associated aerospace industry
                          activity; and
                        (B) other issues identified by the Secretary, the
                    Administrator, the Secretary of Energy, or the advisory
                    committee established under paragraph (7) that must be
                    addressed in order to enable the safe and efficient use
                    of hydrogen in civil aviation.
                (7) <<NOTE: Establishment.>>  Establish an advisory
            committee composed of representatives of NASA, the aerospace
            industry, aviation suppliers, hydrogen producers, airlines,
            airport sponsors, fixed base operators, and other stakeholders
            to advise the Secretary, the Administrator, and the Secretary of
            Energy on the activities carried out under this subsection.

        (e) International Leadership.--The Secretary, the Administrator, and
    the Secretary of Energy, in the appropriate international forums, shall
    take actions that--
                (1) demonstrate global leadership in carrying out the
            activities required by subsections (a) and (b);
                (2) consider the needs of the aerospace industry, aviation
            suppliers, hydrogen producers, airlines, airport sponsors, fixed
            base operators, and other stakeholders identified under
            subsection (b);
                (3) consider the needs of fuel cell manufacturers; and
                (4) seek to advance the competitiveness of the United States
            in the safe use of hydrogen in civil aviation.

        (f) Report to Congress.--Not later than 3 years after the date of
    enactment of this Act, the Secretary, acting through the Administrator
    and jointly with the Secretary of Energy, shall submit to the covered
    committees of Congress and the Committee on Transportation and
    Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report detailing--
                (1) the actions of the Secretary, the Administrator, and the
            Secretary of Energy to exercise leadership in conducting
            research relating to the safe and efficient use of hydrogen in
            civil aviation;
                (2) <<NOTE: Updates.>>  the planned, proposed, and
            anticipated actions to update or modify existing policies
            related to the safe and efficient use of hydrogen in civil
            aviation, based on the results of the research and development
            carried out under this section, including such actions
            identified as a result of consultation with, and feedback from,
            the aerospace industry, aviation suppliers, hydrogen producers,
            airlines, airport sponsors, fixed base operators, academia and
            other stakeholders identified under subsection (b); and
                (3) <<NOTE: Timeline.>>  a proposed timeline for any such
            actions pursuant to paragraph (2).

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1400]]

    SEC. 1020. AVIATION FUEL SYSTEMS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Review. Plan. Recommenda- tions. Certifications.>>
    Coordination.--The Secretary, in coordination with the stakeholders
    identified in subsection (b), shall review, plan, and make
    recommendations with respect to coordination and implementation issues
    relating to aircraft powered by new aviation fuels or fuel systems,
    including at a minimum, the following:
                (1) Research and technical assistance related to the
            development, certification, operation, and maintenance of
            aircraft powered by new aviation fuels and fuel systems, along
            with refueling and charging infrastructure and associated
            technologies critical to their deployment.
                (2) <<NOTE: Data.>>  Data sharing with respect to the
            installation, maintenance, and utilization of charging and
            refueling infrastructure at airports.
                (3) Development and deployment of training and certification
            programs for the development, construction, and maintenance of
            aircraft, related fuel systems, and charging and refueling
            infrastructure.
                (4) Any other issues that the Secretary, in consultation
            with the Secretary of Energy, shall deem of interest related to
            the validation and certification of new fuels for use or fuel
            systems in aircraft.

        (b) Consultation.--The Secretary shall consult with--
                (1) the Department of Energy;
                (2) NASA;
                (3) the Department of the Air Force; and
                (4) other Federal agencies, as determined by the Secretary.

        (c) Prohibition on Duplication.--The Secretary shall ensure that
    activities conducted under this section do not duplicate other Federal
    programs or efforts.
        (d) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section shall be construed as
    granting the Environmental Protection Agency additional authority to
    establish alternative fuel emissions standards.
        (e) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Briefing.--Not later than 1 year after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall provide to the
    covered committees of Congress a briefing on the results of the review
    of coordination efforts conducted under this section.
    SEC. 1021. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44505 note.>>  AIR TRAFFIC SURVEILLANCE
                              OVER UNITED STATES CONTROLLED OCEANIC
                              AIRSPACE AND OTHER REMOTE LOCATIONS.

        (a) Persistent Aviation Surveillance Over Oceans and Remote
    Locations.--Subject to the availability of appropriations, the
    Administrator, in consultation with the Administrator of NASA and other
    relevant Federal agencies, shall carry out research, development,
    demonstration, and testing to enable civil aviation surveillance over
    oceans and other remote locations to improve safety.
        (b) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the covered committees of
    Congress a report on the activities carried out under this section.
        (c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed to duplicate existing efforts conducted by the Administrator,
    in coordination with other Federal agencies.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1401]]

    SEC. 1022. AVIATION WEATHER TECHNOLOGY REVIEW.

        (a) Review.--The Administrator, in consultation with the
    Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration,
    shall conduct a review of current and planned research, modeling, and
    technology capabilities that have the potential to--
                (1) more accurately detect and predict weather impacts to
            aviation;
                (2) inform how advanced predictive models can enhance
            aviation operations; and
                (3) increase national airspace system safety and efficiency.

        (b) Consideration.--The review required under subsection (a) shall
    include consideration of the unique impacts of weather on unmanned
    aircraft systems (as defined in section 44801 of title 49, United States
    Code) and advanced air mobility operations.
        (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the covered committees of
    Congress a report containing the results of the review conducted under
    subsection (a).
        (d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed to duplicate existing efforts conducted by the Administrator,
    in consultation with the Administrator of the National Oceanic and
    Atmospheric Administration.
    SEC. 1023. <<NOTE: 49 USC 47101 note.>>  AIR TRAFFIC SURFACE
                              OPERATIONS SAFETY.

        (a) Research.--Subject to the availability of appropriations, the
    Administrator, in consultation with the Administrator of NASA and other
    appropriate Federal agencies, shall continue to carry out research and
    development activities relating to technologies and operations to
    enhance air traffic surface operations safety.
        (b) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  Requirements.--In carrying out the
    research and development under subsection (a) shall examine the
    following:
                (1) Methods and technologies to enhance the safety and
            efficiency of air traffic control operations related to air
            traffic surface operations.
                (2) Emerging technologies installed in aircraft cockpits to
            enhance ground situational awareness, including enhancements to
            the operational performance of runway traffic alerting and
            runway landing safety technologies.
                (3) Safety enhancements and adjustments to air traffic
            surface operations to account for and enable safe operations of
            advanced aviation technology.

        (c) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the covered committees of
    Congress a report on the research and development activities carried out
    under this section, including regarding the transition into operational
    use of such activities.
    SEC. 1024. TECHNOLOGY REVIEW OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND
                              MACHINE LEARNING TECHNOLOGIES.

        (a) Review.--The Administrator shall conduct a review of current and
    planned artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to
    improve airport efficiency and safety.
        (b) Considerations.--In conducting the review required under
    subsection (a), the Administrator may consider--
                (1) identifying best practices and lessons learned from both
            domestic and international artificial intelligence and machine

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1402]]

            learning technology applications to improve airport operations;
            and
                (2) coordinating with other relevant Federal agencies to
            identify China's domestic application of artificial intelligence
            and machine learning technologies relating to airport
            operations.

        (c) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  Summaries.--The review conducted under
    subsection (a) shall include examination of the application of
    artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to the
    following:
                (1) Jet bridges.
                (2) Airport service vehicles on airport movement areas.
                (3) Aircraft taxi.
                (4) Air traffic control operations.
                (5) Any other areas the Administrator determines necessary
            to help improve airport efficiency and safety.

        (d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the covered committees of
    Congress a report containing the results of the review conducted under
    subsection (a).
    SEC. 1025. RESEARCH PLAN FOR COMMERCIAL SUPERSONIC RESEARCH.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Briefing.>>  In General.--Not later than 1
    year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in
    consultation with the Administrator of NASA and industry, shall provide
    to the covered committees of Congress a briefing on any plans to build
    on existing research and development activities and identify any further
    research and development needed to inform the development of Federal and
    international policies, regulations, standards, and recommended
    practices relating to the certification and safe and efficient operation
    of civil supersonic aircraft and supersonic overland flight.

        (b) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed to duplicate existing research and development efforts
    conducted by the Administrator, in consultation with the Administrator
    of NASA.
        (c) Supersonic Defined.--In this section, the term ``supersonic''
    means flights operating at speeds in excess of Mach 1 but less than Mach
    5.
    SEC. 1026. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44505 note.>>  ELECTROMAGNETIC SPECTRUM
                              RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.

        (a) In General.--The Administrator, in consultation with the
    National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the
    Federal Communications Commission, shall conduct research, engineering,
    and development related to the effective and efficient use and
    management of radio frequency spectrum in the civil aviation domain,
    including for aircraft, unmanned aircraft systems, and advanced air
    mobility.
        (b) Contents.--The research, engineering, and development conducted
    under subsection (a) shall, at a minimum, address the following:
                (1) How reallocation or repurposing of radio frequency
            spectrum adjacent to spectrum allocated for communication,
            navigation, and surveillance may impact the safety of civil
            aviation.
                (2) The effectiveness of measures to identify risks,
            protect, and mitigate against spectrum interference in frequency
            bands used in civil aviation operations to ensure public safety.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1403]]

                (3) The identification of any emerging civil aviation
            systems and their anticipated spectrum requirements.
                (4) The implications of paragraphs (1) through (3) on
            existing civil aviation systems that use radio frequency
            spectrum, including on the operational specifications of such
            systems, as it relates to existing and to future radio frequency
            spectrum requirements for civil aviation.

        (c) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the covered committees of
    Congress a report containing the results of the research, engineering,
    and development conducted under subsection (a).
    SEC. 1027. RESEARCH PLAN ON THE REMOTE TOWER PROGRAM.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 180 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the
    covered committees of Congress a comprehensive plan for research,
    development, testing, and evaluation needed to further mature remote
    tower technologies and systems and related requirements and provide a
    strategic roadmap to support deployment of such technologies.

        (b) Considerations.--In developing the plan under subsection (a),
    the Administrator shall consider--
                (1) how remote tower systems could enhance certain air
            traffic services, including providing additional air traffic
            support to existing air traffic control tower operations and
            providing air traffic support at airports without a manned air
            traffic control tower;
                (2) the validation and certification timeline and structure
            of the FAA;
                (3) existing remote tower technologies to the extent
            possible to inform technology maturation and improvements;
                (4) new and developing remote tower technologies and the
            extent to which remote tower systems enable the introduction of
            advanced technological capabilities; and
                (5) collaborating with the exclusive bargaining
            representative of air traffic controllers of the FAA certified
            under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code.

        (c) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to
    limit or otherwise delay testing, validating, certifying, or deploying
    remote tower technologies conducted under section 47124 title 49, United
    States Code.
    SEC. 1028. AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL TRAINING.

        (a) <<NOTE: Evaluation.>>  Research.--Subject to the availability of
    appropriations, the Administrator shall carry out a research program to
    evaluate opportunities to modernize, enhance, and streamline on-the-job
    training and training time for individuals seeking to become certified
    professional controllers of the FAA, as required by the Administrator.

        (b) Requirements.--In carrying out the research program under
    subsection (a), the Administrator shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assess the benefits of deploying
            and using advanced technologies, such as artificial
            intelligence, machine learning, adaptive computer-based
            simulation, virtual reality, or augmented reality, or any other
            technology determined appropriate by the Administrator, to
            enhance air traffic controller knowledge retention and
            controller performance, strengthen safety, and improve the
            effectiveness of training time; and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1404]]

                (2) include collaboration with labor organizations,
            including the exclusive bargaining representative of air traffic
            controllers of the FAA certified under section 7111 of title 5,
            United States Code, and other stakeholders.

        (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
    this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the covered committees of
    Congress a report on the findings of the research under subsection (a).
        (d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed to delay the installation of tower simulation systems by the
    Administrator at FAA air traffic facilities across the national airspace
    system.
    SEC. 1029. REPORT ON AVIATION CYBERSECURITY DIRECTIVES.

        (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment
    of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the covered committees of
    Congress a report on the status of the implementation by the
    Administrator of the framework developed under section 2111 of the FAA
    Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 (Public Law 114-190; 49
    U.S.C. 44903 note).
        (b) Contents.--The report, at a minimum, shall include the
    following:
                (1) A description of the progress of the Administrator in
            developing, implementing, and updating such framework.
                (2) <<NOTE: Overview.>>  An overview of completed research
            and development projects to date and a description of remaining
            research and development activities prioritized for the most
            needed improvements, with target dates, to safeguard the
            national airspace system.
                (3) An explanation for any delays or challenges in so
            implementing such section.
    SEC. 1030. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44505 note.>>  TURBULENCE RESEARCH AND
                              DEVELOPMENT.

        (a) In General.--Subject to the availability of appropriations, the
    Administrator, in collaboration with the Administrator of the National
    Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and in consultation with the
    Administrator of NASA, shall carry out applied research and development
    to--
                (1) enhance the monitoring and understanding of severe
            turbulence, including clear-air turbulence; and
                (2) inform the development of measures to mitigate safety
            impacts on crew and the flying public that may result from
            severe turbulence.

        (b) Research and Development Activities.--In carrying out the
    research and development under subsection (a), the Administrator shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Processes. Procedures. Data.>>  establish
            processes and procedures for comprehensive and systematic data
            collection, through both instrumentation and pilot reporting, of
            severe turbulence, including clear-air turbulence;
                (2) establish measures for storing and managing such data
            collection;
                (3) support measures for monitoring and characterizing
            incidents of severe turbulence;
                (4) consider relevant existing research and development from
            other entities, including Federal departments and agencies,
            academia, and the private sector; and
                (5) carry out research and development--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1405]]

                        (A) to understand the impacts of relevant factors on
                    the nature of turbulence, including severe turbulence
                    and clear-air turbulence;
                        (B) to enhance turbulence forecasts for flight
                    planning and execution, seasonal predictions for
                    schedule and route-planning, and long-term projections
                    of severe turbulence, including clear-air turbulence;
                    and
                        (C) on other subject matters areas related to severe
                    turbulence, as determined by the Administrator; and
                (6) support the effective transition of the results of
            research and development to operations, in cases in which such
            transition is appropriate.

        (c) Duplicative Research and Development Activities.--The
    Administrator shall ensure that research and development activities
    under this section do not duplicate other Federal programs relating to
    turbulence.
        (d) Turbulence Data.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Contracts.>>  Commercial providers.--In carrying
            out the research and development under subsection (a) and the
            activities described in subsection (b), the Administrator may
            enter into agreements with commercial providers for the
            following:
                        (A) The purchase of turbulence data.
                        (B) The placement on aircraft of instruments
                    relevant to understanding and monitoring turbulence.
                (2) Data access.--The Administrator shall make the data
            collected under subsection (b) widely available and accessible
            to the scientific research, user, and stakeholder communities,
            including the Administrator of the National Oceanic and
            Atmospheric Administration, to the greatest extent practicable
            and in accordance with FAA data management policies.

        (e) Report on Turbulence Research.--Not later than 15 months after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in collaboration
    with the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
    Administration, shall submit to the covered committees of Congress a
    report that--
                (1) details the activities conducted under this section,
            including how the requirements of subsection (b) have
            contributed to the goals described in paragraphs (1) and (2) of
            subsection (a);
                (2) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assesses the current state of
            scientific understanding of the causes, occurrence rates, and
            past and projected future trends in occurrence rates of severe
            turbulence, including clear-air turbulence;
                (3) describes the processes and procedures for collecting,
            storing, and managing, data in pursuant to subsection (b);
                (4) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  assesses--
                        (A) the use of commercial providers pursuant to
                    subsection (d)(1); and
                        (B) the need for any future Federal Government
                    collection or procurement of data and instruments
                    related to turbulence, including an assessment of costs;
                (5) describes how such data will be made available to the
            scientific research, user, and stakeholder communities; and
                (6) identifies future research and development needed to
            inform the development of measures to predict and mitigate the
            safety impacts that may result from severe turbulence, including
            clear-air turbulence.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1406]]

    SEC. 1031. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44501 note.>>  RULE OF CONSTRUCTION
                              REGARDING COLLABORATIONS.

        Nothing in this title may be construed as modifying or limiting
    existing collaborations, or limiting potential engagement on future
    collaborations, between the Administrator, stakeholders, and labor
    organizations, including the exclusive bargaining representative of air
    traffic controllers certified under section 7111 of title 5, United
    States Code, pertaining to FAA research, engineering, development,
    demonstration, and testing activities.
    SEC. 1032. <<NOTE: China.>>  LIMITATION.

        (a) Prohibited Activities.--None of the funds authorized in this
    title may be used to conduct research, develop, design, plan,
    promulgate, implement, or execute a policy, program, order, or contract
    of any kind with the Chinese Communist Party or any entity that is
    domiciled in China or under the influence of China unless such
    activities are specifically authorized by a law enacted after the date
    of enactment of this Act.
        (b) Exemption.--The Administrator is exempt from the prohibitions
    under subsection (a) if the prohibited activities are executed for the
    purposes of testing, research, evaluating, analyzing, or training
    related to--
                (1) counter-unmanned aircraft detection and mitigation
            systems, including activities conducted--
                        (A) under the Center of Excellence for Unmanned
                    Aircraft Systems of the FAA; or
                        (B) by the test ranges designated under section
                    44803 of title 49, United States Code;
                (2) the safe, secure, or efficient operation of the national
            airspace system or maintenance of public safety;
                (3) the safe integration of advanced aviation technologies
            into the national airspace system, including activities carried
            out by the Center of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems of
            the FAA;
                (4) in coordination with other relevant Federal agencies,
            determining security threats of unmanned aircraft systems; and
                (5) intelligence, electronic warfare, and information
            warfare operations.

        (c) Waivers.--
                (1) Public interest determination.--The Administrator may
            waive any prohibitions under subsection (a) on a case-by-case
            basis if the Administrator determines that activities described
            in subsection (a) are in the public interest.
                (2) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Notification.--If the Administrator
            provides a waiver under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall
            notify the covered committees of Congress in writing not later
            than 15 days after exercising such waiver.

         Subtitle B--Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Advanced Air Mobility

    SEC. 1041. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  DEFINITIONS.

        In this subtitle:
                (1) Advanced air mobility.--The term ``advanced air
            mobility'' means a transportation system that is comprised

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1407]]

            of urban air mobility and regional air mobility using manned or
            unmanned aircraft.
                (2) Interagency working group.--The term ``interagency
            working group'' means the advanced air mobility and unmanned
            aircraft systems interagency working group of the National
            Science and Technology Council established under section 1042.
                (3) Labor organization.--The term ``labor organization'' has
            the meaning given the term in section 2(5) of the National Labor
            Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 152(5)), except that such term shall
            also include--
                        (A) any organization composed of labor
                    organizations, such as a labor union federation or a
                    State or municipal labor body; and
                        (B) any organization which would be included in the
                    definition for such term under such section 2(5) but for
                    the fact that the organization represents--
                              (i) individuals employed by the United States,
                          any wholly owned Government corporation, any
                          Federal Reserve Bank, or any State or political
                          subdivision thereof;
                              (ii) individuals employed by persons subject
                          to the Railway Labor Act (45 U.S.C. 151 et seq.);
                          or
                              (iii) individuals employed as agricultural
                          laborers.
                (4) National laboratory.--The term ``National Laboratory''
            has the meaning given such term in section 2 of the Energy
            Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801).
                (5) Technical standard.--The term ``technical standard'' has
            the meaning given such term in section 12(d)(5) of the National
            Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 (15 U.S.C. 272
            note).
                (6) Unmanned aircraft system.--The term ``unmanned aircraft
            system'' has the meaning given such term in section 44801 of
            title 49, United States Code.
    SEC. 1042. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  INTERAGENCY WORKING
                              GROUP.

        (a) Designation.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Establishment.>>  In general.--The National
            Science and Technology Council shall establish or designate an
            interagency working group on advanced air mobility and unmanned
            aircraft systems to coordinate Federal research, development,
            deployment, testing, and education activities to enable advanced
            air mobility and unmanned aircraft systems.
                (2) Membership.--The interagency working group shall be
            comprised of senior representatives from NASA, the Department of
            Transportation, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
            Administration, the National Science Foundation, the National
            Institute of Standards and Technology, Department of Homeland
            Security, and such other Federal agencies as appropriate.

        (b) Duties.--The interagency working group shall--
                (1) develop a strategic research plan to guide Federal
            research to enable advanced air mobility and unmanned aircraft
            systems and oversee implementation of the plan;
                (2) oversee the development of--
                        (A) an assessment of the current state of United
                    States competitiveness and leadership in advanced air
                    mobility and unmanned aircraft systems, including the
                    scope and

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1408]]

                    scale of United States investments in relevant research
                    and development; and
                        (B) strategies to strengthen and secure the domestic
                    supply chain for advanced air mobility systems and
                    unmanned aircraft systems;
                (3) facilitate communication and outreach opportunities with
            academia, industry, professional societies, State, local,
            Tribal, and Federal governments, and other stakeholders;
                (4) facilitate partnerships to leverage knowledge and
            resources from industry, State, local, Tribal, and Federal
            governments, National Laboratories, unmanned aircraft systems
            test range (as defined in section 44801 of title 49, United
            States Code), academic institutions, and others;
                (5) coordinate with the advanced air mobility working group
            established under section 2 of the Advanced Air Mobility
            Coordination and Leadership Act (Public Law 117-203) and heads
            of other Federal departments and agencies to avoid duplication
            of research and other activities to ensure that the activities
            carried out by the interagency working group are complementary
            to those being undertaken by other interagency efforts; and
                (6) coordinate with the National Security Council and other
            authorized agency coordinating bodies on the assessment of risks
            affecting the existing Federal unmanned aircraft systems fleet
            and outlining potential steps to mitigate such risks.

        (c) <<NOTE: Time period. Termination date. Summary. Budget.>>
    Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
    of this Act, and every 2 years thereafter until December 31, 2028, the
    interagency working group shall transmit to the covered committees of
    Congress a report that includes a summary of federally funded advanced
    air mobility and unmanned aircraft systems research, development,
    deployment, and testing activities, including the budget for each of the
    activities described in this paragraph.

        (d) Rule of Construction.--The interagency working group shall not
    be construed to conflict with or duplicate the work of the interagency
    working group established under the advanced air mobility working group
    established by the Advanced Air Mobility Coordination and Leadership Act
    (Public Law 117-203).
    SEC. 1043. <<NOTE: Deadlines. Time periods. 49 USC 40101 note.>>
                              STRATEGIC RESEARCH PLAN.

        (a) <<NOTE: Update.>>  In General.--Not later than 2 years after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the interagency working group shall
    develop and periodically update, as appropriate, a strategic plan for
    Federal research, development, deployment, and testing of advanced air
    mobility systems and unmanned aircraft systems.

        (b) Considerations.--In developing the plan required under
    subsection (a), the interagency working group shall consider and use--
                (1) information, reports, and studies on advanced air
            mobility and unmanned aircraft systems that have identified
            research, development, deployment, and testing needed;
                (2) information set forth in the national aviation research
            plan developed under section 44501(c) of title 49, United States
            Code; and
                (3) recommendations made by the National Academies in the
            review of the plan under subsection (d).

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1409]]

        (c) Contents of the Plan.--In developing the plan required under
    subsection (a), the interagency working group shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Determination.>>  determine and prioritize areas
            of advanced air mobility and unmanned aircraft systems research,
            development, demonstration, and testing requiring Federal
            Government leadership and investment;
                (2) establish, for the 10-year period beginning in the
            calendar year the plan is submitted, the goals and priorities
            for Federal research, development, and testing which will--
                        (A) support the development of advanced air mobility
                    technologies and the development of an advanced air
                    mobility research, innovation, and manufacturing
                    ecosystem;
                        (B) take into account sustained, consistent, and
                    coordinated support for advanced air mobility and
                    unmanned aircraft systems research, development, and
                    demonstration, including through grants, cooperative
                    agreements, testbeds, and testing facilities;
                        (C) apply lessons learned from unmanned aircraft
                    systems research, development, demonstration, and
                    testing to advanced air mobility systems;
                        (D) inform the development of voluntary consensus
                    technical standards and best practices for the
                    development and use of advanced air mobility and
                    unmanned aircraft systems;
                        (E) support education and training activities at all
                    levels to prepare the United States workforce to use and
                    interact with advanced air mobility systems and unmanned
                    aircraft systems;
                        (F) support partnerships to leverage knowledge and
                    resources from industry, State, local, Tribal, and
                    Federal governments, the National Laboratories, Center
                    of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Research of
                    the FAA, unmanned aircraft systems test ranges (as
                    defined in section 44801 of title 49, United States
                    Code), academic institutions, labor organizations, and
                    others to advance research activities;
                        (G) leverage existing Federal investments; and
                        (H) promote hardware interoperability and open-
                    source systems;
                (3) support research and other activities on the impacts of
            advanced air mobility and unmanned aircraft systems on national
            security, safety, economic, legal, workforce, and other
            appropriate societal issues;
                (4) reduce barriers to transferring research findings,
            capabilities, and new technologies related to advanced air
            mobility and unmanned aircraft systems into operation for the
            benefit of society and United States competitiveness;
                (5) in consultation with the Council of Economic Advisers,
            measure and track the contributions of unmanned aircraft systems
            and advanced air mobility to United States economic growth and
            other societal indicators; and
                (6) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  identify relevant research
            and development programs and make recommendations for the
            coordination of relevant activities of the Federal agencies and
            set forth the role of each Federal agency in implementing the
            plan.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1410]]

        (d) National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
    Evaluation.-- <<NOTE: Contracts. Review.>> The Administrator shall seek
    to enter into an agreement with the National Academies to review the
    plan every 5 years.

        (e) <<NOTE: Consultation.>>  Public Participation.--In developing
    the plan under subsection (a), the interagency working group shall
    consult with representatives of stakeholder groups, which may include
    academia, research institutions, and State, industry, and labor
    organizations. Not <<NOTE: Deadline. Federal Register,
    publication. Public comment.>>  later than 90 days before the plan, or
    any revision thereof, is submitted to Congress, the plan shall be
    published in the Federal Register for a public comment period of not
    less than 60 days.

        (f) Reports to Congress on the Strategic Research Plan.--
                (1) Progress report.--Not later than 1 year after the date
            of enactment of this Act, the interagency working group
            described in section 1042 of this Act shall transmit to the
            covered committees of Congress a report that describes the
            progress in developing the plan required under this section.
                (2) Initial report.--Not later than 2 years after the date
            of enactment of this Act, the interagency working group shall
            transmit to the covered committees of Congress the strategic
            research plan developed under this section.
                (3) <<NOTE: Analysis.>>  Biennial report.--Not later than 1
            year after the transmission of the initial report under
            paragraph (2) and every 2 years thereafter until December 31,
            2033, the interagency working group shall transmit to the
            covered committees of Congress a report that includes an
            analysis of the progress made towards achieving the goals and
            priorities for the strategic research plan.
    SEC. 1044. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  FEDERAL AVIATION
                              ADMINISTRATION UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM
                              AND ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY RESEARCH AND
                              DEVELOPMENT.

        (a) In General.--Consistent with the research plan in section 1043,
    the Administrator, in coordination with the Administrator of NASA and
    other Federal agencies, shall carry out and support research,
    development, testing, and demonstration activities and technology
    transfer, and activities to facilitate the transition of such
    technologies into application to enable advanced air mobility and
    unmanned aircraft systems and to facilitate the safe integration of
    advanced air mobility and unmanned aircraft systems into the national
    airspace system, in areas including--
                (1) beyond visual-line-of-sight operations;
                (2) command and control link technologies;
                (3) development and integration of unmanned aircraft system
            traffic management into the national airspace system;
                (4) noise and other societal and environmental impacts;
                (5) informing the development of an industry consensus
            vehicle-to-vehicle standard;
                (6) safety, including collisions between advanced air
            mobility and unmanned aircraft systems of various sizes,
            traveling at various speeds, and various other crewed aircraft
            or various parts of other crewed aircraft of various sizes and
            traveling at various speeds; and
                (7) detect-and-avoid capabilities.

        (b) Duplicative Research and Development Activities.--The
    Administrator shall ensure that research and development and other
    activities conducted under this section do not duplicate

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1411]]

    other Federal activities related to the integration of unmanned aviation
    systems or advanced air mobility.
        (c) Lessons Learned.--The Administrator shall apply lessons learned
    from unmanned aircraft systems research, development, demonstration, and
    testing to advanced air mobility systems.
        (d) Research on Approaches to Evaluating Risk.--The Administrator
    shall conduct research on approaches to evaluating risk in emerging
    vehicles, technologies, and operations for unmanned aircraft systems and
    advanced air mobility systems. Such research shall include--
                (1) defining quantitative metrics, including metrics that
            may support the Administrator in making determinations, and
            research to inform the development of requirements, as
            practicable, for the operations of certain unmanned aircraft
            systems, as described under section 44807 of title 49, United
            States Code;
                (2) <<NOTE: Processes. Criteria.>>  developing risk-based
            processes and criteria to inform the development of regulations
            and certification of complex operations, to include autonomous
            beyond-visual-line-of-sight operations, of unmanned aircraft
            systems of various sizes and weights, and advanced air mobility
            systems; and
                (3) considering the utility of performance standards to make
            determinations under section 44807 of title 49, United States
            Code.

        (e) <<NOTE: Plans.>>  Report.--Not later than 9 months after the
    date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the
    covered committees of Congress a report on the actions taken by the
    Administrator to implement provisions under this section that includes--
                (1) <<NOTE: Summary. Costs.>>  a summary of the costs and
            results of research under subsection (a)(6);
                (2) a description of plans for and progress toward the
            implementation of research and development under subsection (d);
                (3) a description of the progress of the FAA in using
            research and development to inform FAA certification guidance
            and regulations of--
                        (A) large unmanned aircraft systems, including those
                    weighing more than 55 pounds; and
                        (B) extended autonomous and remotely piloted
                    operations beyond visual line of sight in controlled and
                    uncontrolled airspace; and
                (4) a current plan for full operational capability of
            unmanned aircraft systems traffic management, as described in
            section 376 the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 44802
            note).

        (f) Parallel Efforts.--
                (1) In general.--Research and development activities under
            this section may be conducted concurrently with the deployment
            of technologies outlined in (a) and in carrying out the this
            title and title IX.
                (2) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
            construed to delay appropriate actions to deploy the
            technologies outlined in subsection (a), including the
            deployment of beyond visual-line-of-sight operations of unmanned
            aircraft systems, or delay the Administrator in carrying out
            this title and title IX, or limit FAA use of existing risk
            methodologies

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1412]]

            to make determinations pursuant to section 44807 of title 49,
            United States Code, prior to completion of relevant research and
            development activities.
                (3) <<NOTE: Update.>>  Practices and regulations.--The
            Administrator shall, to the maximum extent practicable, use the
            results of research and development activities conducted under
            this section to inform decisions on whether and how to maintain
            or update existing regulations and practices, or whether to
            establish new practices or regulations.
    SEC. 1045. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  PARTNERSHIPS FOR
                              RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, DEMONSTRATION,
                              AND TESTING.

        (a) <<NOTE: Contracts. Examination.>>  Study.--The Administrator
    shall seek to enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of
    Public Administration to examine research, development, demonstration,
    and testing partnerships of the FAA to advance unmanned aircraft systems
    and advanced air mobility and to facilitate the safe integration of
    unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace system.

        (b) Considerations.--The Administrator shall ensure that the entity
    carrying out the study in subsection (a) shall--
                (1) identify existing FAA partnerships with external
            entities, including academia and Centers of Excellence,
            industry, and nonprofit organizations, and the types of such
            partnership arrangements;
                (2) <<NOTE: Examination.>>  examine the partnerships in
            paragraph (1), including the scope and areas of research,
            development, demonstration, and testing carried out, and
            associated arrangements for performing research and development
            activities;
                (3) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review the extent to which the FAA
            uses the results and outcomes of each partnership to advance the
            research and development in unmanned aircraft systems;
                (4) identify additional research and development areas, if
            any, that may benefit from partnership arrangements, and whether
            such research and development would require new partnerships;
                (5) identify any duplication of ongoing or planned research,
            development, demonstration, or testing activities;
                (6) identify effective and appropriate means for publication
            and dissemination of the results and sharing with the public,
            commercial, and research communities related data from such
            research, development, demonstration, and testing conducted
            under such partnerships;
                (7) identify effective mechanisms, either new or already
            existing, to facilitate coordination, evaluation, and
            information-sharing among and between such partnerships;
                (8) identify effective and appropriate means for
            facilitating technology transfer activities within such
            partnerships;
                (9) identify the extent to which such partnerships broaden
            participation from groups historically underrepresented in
            science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, including
            computer science and cybersecurity, and include participation by
            industry, workforce, and labor organizations; and
                (10) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review options for funding models
            best suited for such partnerships, which may include cost-
            sharing and public-private partnership models with industry.

        (c) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  Transmittal.--Not later than 12 months
    after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
    transmit to the

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1413]]

    covered committees of Congress the study described in subsection (a).

                             TITLE XI--MISCELLANEOUS

    SEC. 1101. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.

        (a) Title 49 Analysis.--The analysis for title 49, United States
    Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 101.>>  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, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 101.>>  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, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 40101.>>  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) Disposal of Property.--Section 40110(c)(4) of title 49, United
    States Code, is amended by striking ``subsection (a)(2)'' and inserting
    ``subsection (a)(3)''.
        (f) 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''.

        (g) 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)''.
        (h) 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)''.
        (i) 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''.
        (j) 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,''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1414]]

        (k) Civil Penalty.--Section 44704(f) of title 49, United States
    Code, is amended by striking ``subsection (a)(6)'' and inserting
    ``subsection (d)(3)''.
        (l) Use and Limitation of Amounts.--Section 44508 of title 49,
    United States Code, is amended by striking ``40119,'' each place it
    appears.
        (m) 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.''.
        (n) 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''.

        (o) Aeronautical Charts.--Section 44721(c)(1) of title 49, United
    States Code, is amended by striking ``1947,'' and inserting ``1947''.
        (p) Flight Attendant Certification.--Section 44728(c) of title 49,
    United States Code, is amended by striking ``Regulation,'' and inserting
    ``Regulations,''.
        (q) Manual Surcharge.--The analysis for chapter 453 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 45301.>>  is amended by adding
    at the end the following:

    ``45306. Manual surcharge.''.

        (r) 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''.
        (s) 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''.
        (t) 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''.

        (u) Payments Under Project Grant Agreements.--Section 47111(e) of
    title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``fee'' and
    inserting ``charge''.
        (v) 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.
        (w) 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.)''.
        (x) Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority.--Section 49106 of
    title 49, United States Code, is amended--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1415]]

                (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''.

        (y) 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. 1102. TRANSPORTATION OF ORGANS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 90 days after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with
    the Administrator, 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) <<NOTE: Reports.>>  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--
                        (A) organ-related tissue;
                        (B) bone marrow; and
                        (C) human cells, tissues, or cellular or tissue-
                    based products (as such term is defined in section
                    1271.3(d) of title 21, Code of Federal Regulations).
    SEC. 1103. <<NOTE: 49 USC 40101 note.>>  ACCEPTANCE OF DIGITAL
                              DRIVER'S LICENSE AND IDENTIFICATION
                              CARDS.

        The Administrator 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1416]]

    SEC. 1104. 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, the Administrator, 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. 1105. <<NOTE: Effective dates. 49 USC 44714 note.>>
                              LIMITATIONS FOR CERTAIN CARGO AIRCRAFT.

        (a) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  In General.--The standards adopted by
    the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency in part 1030 of
    title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, and the requirements in part 38
    of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, that were finalized by the
    Administrator of the FAA under the final rule titled ``Airplane Fuel
    Efficiency Certification'', and published on February 16, 2024 (89 Fed.
    Reg. 12634) in part 38 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, shall
    not apply to any covered airplane before the date that is 5 years after
    January 1, 2028.

        (b) Operational Limitation.--The Administrator shall limit to
    domestic use or international operations, consistent with relevant
    international agreements and standards, the operation of any covered
    airplane that--
                (1) does not meet the standards and requirements described
            in subsection (a); and
                (2) received an original certificate of airworthiness issued
            by the Administrator on or after January 1, 2028.

        (c) Definitions.--In this section:
                (1) Covered airplane.--The term ``covered airplane'' means
            an airplane that--
                        (A) is a subsonic jet that is a purpose-built
                    freighter;
                        (B) has a maximum takeoff mass greater than 180,000
                    kilograms but not greater than 240,000 kilograms; and
                        (C) has a type design certificated prior to January
                    1, 2023.
                (2) Purpose-built freighter.--The term ``purpose-built
            freighter'' means any airplane that--
                        (A) was configured to carry cargo rather than
                    passengers prior to receiving an original certificate of
                    airworthiness; and
                        (B) is configured to carry cargo rather than
                    passengers.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1417]]

    SEC. 1106. <<NOTE: 49 USC 106 note.>>  PROHIBITION ON MANDATES.

        (a) Prohibition on Mandates.--The Administrator may not require any
    contractor to mandate that employees of such contractor obtain a COVID-
    19 vaccine or enforce any condition regarding the COVID-19 vaccination
    status of employees of a contractor.
        (b) Prohibition on Implementation.--The Administrator may not
    implement or enforce any requirement that--
                (1) employees of air carriers be vaccinated against COVID-
            19;
                (2) employees of the FAA be vaccinated against COVID-19; or
                (3) passengers of air carriers be vaccinated against COVID-
            19 or wear a mask as a result of a COVID-19 related public
            health measure.
    SEC. 1107. COVID-19 VACCINATION STATUS.

        (a) In General.--Chapter 417 of title 49, United States Code, is
    further amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``Sec. 41729. <<NOTE: 49 USC 41729.>>  COVID-19 vaccination status

        ``(a) In General.--An air carrier (as such term is defined in
    section 40102) may not deny service to any individual solely based on
    the vaccination status of the individual with respect to COVID-19.
        ``(b) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
    construed to apply to the regulation of intrastate travel,
    transportation, or movement, including the intrastate transportation of
    passengers.''.
        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 417 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 41701.>>  is further amended by
    inserting after the item relating to section 41728 the following:

    ``41729. COVID-19 vaccination status.''.

        (c) <<NOTE: 49 USC 41729 note.>>  Rule of Construction.--Nothing in
    this section, or the amendment made by this section, shall be construed
    to permit or otherwise authorize an executive agency to enact or
    otherwise impose a COVID-19 vaccine mandate.
    SEC. 1108. <<NOTE: Deadline. Federal Register,
                              publication. Notice. Compliance. 49 USC
                              40103 note.>>  RULEMAKING RELATED TO
                              OPERATING HIGH-SPEED FLIGHTS IN HIGH
                              ALTITUDE CLASS E AIRSPACE.

        Not later than 2 years after the date on which the Administrator
    identifies the minimum altitude pursuant to section 1011, 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 section 1011 without specific
    authorization, provided that such flight operations--
                (1) show compliance with airworthiness requirements;
                (2) do not produce appreciable sonic boom overpressures that
            reach the surface under prevailing atmospheric conditions;
                (3) have ordinary instrument flight rules clearances
            necessary to operate in controlled airspace; and
                (4) comply with applicable environmental requirements.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1418]]

    SEC. 1109. <<NOTE: 49 USC 44504 note.>>  FAA LEADERSHIP IN
                              HYDROGEN AVIATION.

        (a) In General.--The Administrator shall exercise leadership in the
    development of Federal regulations, standards, best practices, and
    guidance relating to the safe and efficient certification of the use of
    hydrogen in civil aviation, including the certification of hydrogen-
    powered commercial aircraft.
        (b) Exercise of Leadership.--In carrying out subsection (a), the
    Administrator shall--
                (1) <<NOTE: Certification.>>  develop a viable path for the
            certification of the safe use of hydrogen in civil aviation,
            including hydrogen-powered aircraft, that considers existing
            frameworks, modifying an existing framework, or developing new
            standards, best practices, or guidance to complement the
            existing frameworks, as appropriate;
                (2) <<NOTE: Review.>>  review certification regulations,
            guidance, and other requirements of the FAA to identify ways to
            safely and efficiently certify hydrogen-powered commercial
            aircraft;
                (3) consider the needs of the aerospace industry, aviation
            suppliers, hydrogen producers, airlines, airport sponsors, fixed
            base operators, and other stakeholders when developing
            regulations and standards that enable the safe certification and
            deployment of the use of hydrogen in civil aviation, including
            hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft, in the national airspace
            system; and
                (4) obtain the input of the aerospace industry, aviation
            suppliers, hydrogen producers, airlines, airport sponsors, fixed
            base operators, academia, research institutions, and other
            stakeholders regarding--
                        (A) an appropriate regulatory framework and timeline
                    for permitting the safe and efficient use of hydrogen in
                    civil aviation, including the deployment and operation
                    of hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft in the United
                    States, which may include updating or modifying existing
                    regulations;
                        (B) how to accelerate the resolution of issues
                    related to data, standards development, and related
                    regulations necessary to facilitate the safe and
                    efficient certification of the use of hydrogen in civil
                    aviation, including hydrogen-powered commercial
                    aircraft; and
                        (C) other issues identified and determined
                    appropriate by the Administrator or the advisory
                    committee established under section 1019(d)(7) to be
                    addressed to enable the safe and efficient use of
                    hydrogen in civil aviation, including the deployment and
                    operation of hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft.
    SEC. 1110. ADVANCING GLOBAL LEADERSHIP ON CIVIL SUPERSONIC
                              AIRCRAFT.

        Section 181 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 40101
    note) is amended--
                (1) in subsection (a) by striking ``regulations, and
            standards'' and inserting ``regulations, standards, and
            recommended practices''; and
                (2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:

        ``(g) Additional Reports.--
                ``(1) Initial progress report.--Not later than 1 year after
            the date of enactment of this subsection, the Administrator

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1419]]

            shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report
            describing--
                        ``(A) the progress of the actions described in
                    subsection (d)(1);
                        ``(B) any planned, proposed, or anticipated action
                    to update or modify existing policies and regulations
                    related to civil supersonic aircraft, including such
                    actions identified as a result of stakeholder
                    consultation and feedback (such as landing and takeoff
                    noise); and
                        ``(C) any other information determined appropriate
                    by the Administrator.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Update.>>  Subsequent report.--Not later than
            2 years after the date on which the Administrator submits the
            initial progress report under paragraph (1), the Administrator
            shall update the report described in paragraph (1) and submit to
            the appropriate committees of Congress such report.''.
    SEC. 1111. LEARNING PERIOD.

        Section 50905(c)(9) of title 51, United States Code, is amended by
    striking ``May 11, 2024'' and inserting ``January 1, 2025''.
    SEC. 1112. COUNTER-UAS AUTHORITIES.

        Section 210G(i) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C.
    124n(i)) is amended by striking ``May 11, 2024'' and inserting ``October
    1, 2024''.
    SEC. 1113. STUDY ON AIR CARGO OPERATIONS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  In General.--Not later than 1 year after
    the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall
    initiate a study on the economic sustainability of air cargo operations.

        (b) Contents.--In conducting the study required under subsection
    (a), the Comptroller General shall address the following:
                (1) <<NOTE: Strategies. Plans.>>  Airport and cargo
            development strategies, including the pursuit of new air
            carriers and plans for physical expansion.
                (2) <<NOTE: Statistics.>>  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) <<NOTE: Requirements.>>  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) <<NOTE: Cost estimates.>>  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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1420]]

                (9) <<NOTE: Cost projections.>>  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) <<NOTE: Assessment.>>  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 appropriate
    committees of Congress the results of the study carried out under this
    section.
    SEC. 1114. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 49 USC 40101 note.>>  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 and the Commandant of
            the Coast Guard shall execute a memorandum of understanding
            governing the specific roles, authorities, delineations of
            responsibilities, resources, and commitments of the FAA 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, at a minimum, the processes of the FAA
                    and the Coast Guard will follow to promote
                    communications, efficiency, and nonduplication of effort
                    in carrying out such memorandum of understanding; and
                        (B) <<NOTE: Procedures.>>  provide procedures for,
                    at a minimum--
                              (i) the approval of wing-in-ground-effect
                          craft designs;
                              (ii) the operation of wing-in-ground-effect
                          craft, including training and certification of
                          persons responsible for operating such craft;
                              (iii) pilotage of wing-in-ground-effect craft;
                              (iv) the inspection, including pre-delivery
                          and service, of wing-in-ground-effect craft; and
                              (v) the maintenance of wing-in-ground-effect
                          craft.

        (b) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>>  Status Briefing.--Not later than 1
    year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator and the
    Commandant shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress on the
    status of the memorandum of understanding described in subsection (a) as
    well as provide any recommendations for legislative action to improve
    efficacy or efficiency of wing-in-ground-effect craft governance.

        (c) 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.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1421]]

    SEC. 1115. CERTIFICATES OF AUTHORIZATION OR WAIVER.

        (a) <<NOTE: 49 USC 40103 note.>>  Required Coordination.--
                (1) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  In general.--On an annual basis,
            the Administrator shall convene a meeting with representatives
            of FAA-approved air shows, the general aviation community,
            stadiums and other large outdoor events and venues or
            organizations that run such events, the Department of Homeland
            Security, and the Department of Justice--
                        (A) to identify scheduling conflicts between FAA-
                    approved air shows and large outdoor events and venues
                    where--
                              (i) flight restrictions will be imposed
                          pursuant to section 521 of division F of the
                          Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2004 (49 U.S.C.
                          40103 note); or
                              (ii) any other restriction will be imposed
                          pursuant to FAA Flight Data Center Notice to
                          Airmen 4/3621 (or any successor notice to airmen);
                          and
                        (B) <<NOTE: Procedures.>>  in instances where a
                    scheduling conflict between events is identified or is
                    found to be likely to occur, develop appropriate
                    operational and communication procedures to ensure for
                    the safety and security of both events.
                (2) Scheduling conflict.--If the Administrator or any other
            stakeholder party to the required annual coordination required
            in paragraph (1) identifies a scheduling conflict outside of the
            annual meeting at any point prior to the scheduling conflict,
            the Administrator shall work with impacted stakeholders to
            develop appropriate operational and communication procedures to
            ensure for the safety and security of both events.

        (b) Operational Purposes.--Section 521(a)(2)(B) of division F of the
    Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2004 (49 U.S.C. 40103 note) is
    amended--
                (1) in clause (ii) by inserting ``(or attendees approved
            by)'' after ``guests of'';
                (2) in clause (iv) by striking ``and'' at the end; and
                (3) by adding at the end the following:
                              ``(vi) to permit the safe operation of an
                          aircraft that is operated by an airshow performer
                          in connection with an airshow, provided such
                          aircraft is not permitted to operate directly over
                          the stadium (or adjacent parking facilities)
                          during the sporting event; and''.
    SEC. 1116. DESIGNATION OF ADDITIONAL PORT OF ENTRY FOR THE
                              IMPORTATION AND EXPORTATION OF WILDLIFE
                              AND WILDLIFE PRODUCTS BY THE UNITED
                              STATES FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE.

        (a) In General.--Subject to the availability of funding and in
    accordance with subsection (b), the Director of the United States Fish
    and Wildlife Service shall designate 1 additional port as a ``port of
    entry designated for the importation and exportation of wildlife and
    wildlife products'' under section 14.12 of title 50, Code of Federal
    Regulations.
        (b) Criteria for Selecting Additional Designated Port.--The Director
    shall select the additional port to be designated pursuant to subsection
    (a) from among the United States airports that handled more than
    8,000,000,000 pounds of cargo during 2022, as reported by the Federal
    Aviation Administration Air Carrier Activity Information System, and
    based upon the analysis submitted

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1422]]

    to Congress by the Director pursuant to the Wildlife Trafficking
    reporting directive under title I of Senate Report 114-281.
        (c) Authority to Accept Donations.--The Director may accept
    donations from private entities and, notwithstanding section 3302 of
    title 31, United States Code, may use those donations to fund the
    designation of the additional port pursuant to subsection (a).

    TITLE XII-- <<NOTE: National Transportation Safety Board Amendments Act
    of 2024.>> NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD
    SEC. 1201. <<NOTE: 49 USC 1101 note.>>  SHORT TITLE.

        This title may be cited as the ``National Transportation Safety
    Board Amendments Act of 2024''.
    SEC. 1202. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

        Section 1118(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read
    as follows:
        ``(a) In General.--
                ``(1) Authorizations.--There is authorized to be
            appropriated for purposes of this chapter--
                        ``(A) $140,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
                        ``(B) $145,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
                        ``(C) $148,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
                        ``(D) $151,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
                        ``(E) $154,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.
                ``(2) Availability.--Amounts authorized under paragraph (1)
            shall remain available until expended.''.
    SEC. 1203. 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) of this title shall apply to this chapter.''.
    SEC. 1204. 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:

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1423]]

                ``(K) notwithstanding section 3301 of title 41, acquire
            training on emerging transportation technologies if such
            training--
                        ``(i) is required for an ongoing investigation; and
                        ``(ii) meets the criteria under section
                    3304(a)(7)(A) of title 41.''.

        (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. 1205. <<NOTE: Repeal.>>  OVERTIME ANNUAL REPORT TERMINATION.

         Section 1113(g)(5) of title 49, United States Code, is repealed.
    SEC. 1206. 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) with respect to employees involved in
                    transportation safety work, the needs, issues, and
                    challenges, including accident severity and risk, posed
                    by each mode of transportation, and how the Board's
                    staffing for each transportation mode reflects these
                    aspects;
                        ``(D) the workforce policies, strategies,
                    performance measures, and interventions to mitigate
                    succession risks that guide the workforce investment
                    decisions of the Board;
                        ``(E) a workforce planning strategy that identifies
                    workforce needs, including the knowledge, skills, and
                    abilities needed to recruit and retain skilled employees
                    at the Board;
                        ``(F) a workforce management strategy that is
                    aligned with the mission of the Board, including plans
                    for continuity of leadership and knowledge sharing;
                        ``(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 emerging technologies or safety trends in
            transportation.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1424]]

                ``(4) <<NOTE: Time period.>>  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) <<NOTE: Public information. Web posting.>>
                    made available to the public on a website of the
                    Board.''.
    SEC. 1207. TRAVEL BUDGETS.

        (a) In General.--Section 1113 of title 49, United States Code, is
    further amended by adding at the end the following:
        ``(i) Non-accident-related Travel Budget.--
                ``(1) In general.--The Board shall establish annual fiscal
            year budgets for non-accident-related travel expenditures for
            each Board member.
                ``(2) <<NOTE: Deadline.>>  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) <<NOTE: Repeal.>>  Conforming Amendment.--Section 9 of the
    National Transportation Safety Board Amendments Act of 2000 (49 U.S.C.
    1113 note) is repealed.
    SEC. 1208. NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENT.

        (a) In General.--Section 1114(b) of title 49, United States Code, is
    amended--
                (1) in the subsection heading by striking ``Trade Secrets''
            and inserting ``Certain Confidential Information''; and
                (2) in paragraph (1)--
                        (A) by striking ``The Board'' and inserting ``In
                    general.--The Board''; and
                        (B) 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,''.

        (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--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1425]]

                ``(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) <<NOTE: Reports. Briefing. Compliance.>>  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. 1209. BOARD JUSTIFICATION OF 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) <<NOTE: List. Time period.>>  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,
            including--
                        ``(A) any explanation the Board received from the
                    Secretary or Commandant; and
                        ``(B) any explanation from the Board as to why the
                    recommendation was closed in an unacceptable status,
                    including a discussion of why alternate means, if any,
                    taken by the Secretary or Commandant to address the
                    Board's recommendation were inadequate;''.
    SEC. 1210. 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, in which case the Board and the relevant State agencies
    shall coordinate to ensure both the Board and State agencies have timely
    access to the information needed to conduct each such investigation,
    including any criminal and enforcement activities conducted by the
    relevant State agency''.
        (b) Rail Investigations.--Section 1131(a)(1)(C) of title 49, United
    States Code, is amended to read as follows:
                ``(C) a railroad--
                        ``(i) accident in which there is a fatality or
                    substantial property damage, except--
                              ``(I) a grade crossing accident or incident,
                          unless selected by the Board; or
                              ``(II) an accident or incident involving a
                          trespasser, unless selected by the Board; or
                        ``(ii) accident or incident that involves a
                    passenger train, except in any case in which such
                    accident or incident resulted in no fatalities or
                    serious injuries to the passengers or crewmembers of
                    such train, and--
                              ``(I) was a grade crossing accident or
                          incident, unless selected by the Board; or

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1426]]

                              ``(II) such accident or incident involved a
                          trespasser, unless selected by the Board;''.
    SEC. 1211. 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) <<NOTE: Web posting.>>  in electronic form at no cost
            in a publicly accessible database on a website of the Board; and
                ``(2) if the electronic form required in paragraph (1) is
            not printable, in printed form upon a reasonable request at a
            reasonable cost.''.
    SEC. 1212. 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. <<NOTE: Time period.>>  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. 1213. ENSURING ACCESS TO DATA.

        Section 1134 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding
    at the end the following:
        ``(g) <<NOTE: Requirement. Determinations.>>  Recorders and Data.--
    In investigating an accident under this chapter, the Board may require
    from a transportation operator or equipment manufacturer or the vendors,
    suppliers, subsidiaries, or parent companies of such manufacturer, or
    operator of a product or service which is subject to an investigation by
    the Board--
                ``(1) any recorder or recorded information pertinent to the
            accident;
                ``(2) without undue 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) design specifications or data related to the operation
            and performance of the equipment the Board determines necessary
            to enable the Board to perform independent physics-based
            simulations and analyses of the accident situation.''.
    SEC. 1214. 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) <<NOTE: Web posting.>>  in electronic form at no cost
            in a publicly accessible database on a website of the Board; and
                ``(2) if the electronic form required in paragraph (1) is
            not printable, in printed form upon a reasonable request at a
            reasonable cost.''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1427]]

    SEC. 1215. 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 care, psychological
                          care, and family 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 care,
                    psychological care, and family 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'';
                              (ii) by inserting ``passengers and'' before
                          ``affected families''; and
                              (iii) by striking ``periodically'' and
                          inserting ``regularly''; 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--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1428]]

                              ``(i) the family of the passenger; or
                              ``(ii) a local, Tribal, State, or Federal
                          agency responsible for determining the whereabouts
                          or welfare of a passenger.
                        ``(C) Limitation.--A local, Tribal, State, or
                    Federal agency may not release to any person any
                    information obtained under subparagraph (B)(ii), except
                    if given express authority from the director of family
                    support services.
                        ``(D) Rule of construction.--Nothing in subparagraph
                    (C) shall be construed to preclude a local, Tribal,
                    State, or Federal agency from releasing information that
                    is lawfully obtained through other means independent of
                    releases made by the director of family support services
                    under subparagraph (B).
                ``(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 care, psychological care, and family support
                    services''; 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) <<NOTE: Definition.>>  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, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 1101.>>  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

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1429]]

            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 care, psychological care, and
                    family 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 care,
                    psychological care, and family 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, Tribal, State, or Federal
                          agency responsible for determining the whereabouts
                          or welfare of a passenger.
                        ``(C) Limitation.--A local, Tribal, State, or
                    Federal agency may not release to any person any
                    information obtained under subparagraph (B)(ii), except
                    if given express authority from the director of family
                    support services.
                        ``(D) Rule of construction.--Nothing in subparagraph
                    (C) shall be construed to preclude a local, Tribal,
                    State, or Federal agency from releasing information that

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1430]]

                    is lawfully obtained through other means independent of
                    releases made by the director of family support services
                    under subparagraph (B).
                ``(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)--
                        (A) in 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''; and
                        (B) in paragraph (3)--
                              (i) in the paragraph heading by striking
                          ``prevent mental health and counseling'' and
                          inserting ``prevent certain care and support'';
                              (ii) by striking ``providing mental health and
                          counseling services'' and inserting ``providing
                          emotional care, psychological care, and family
                          support services''; and
                              (iii) by inserting ``passengers and'' before
                          ``families''; and
                (7) in subsection (h)--
                        (A) by striking ``National Transportation Safety'';
                    and
                        (B) by adding at the end the following:
                ``(4) <<NOTE: Definition.>>  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) Information for Families of Individuals Involved in Accidents.--
    Section 1140 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                (1) in the heading by striking ``for families of individuals
            involved in accidents'' and inserting ``individuals involved in
            accidents and families of such individuals''; and
                (2) by striking ``the families of individuals involved in
            the accident'' and inserting ``individuals involved in accidents
            and the families of such individuals''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1431]]

        (f) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 11 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 1101.>>  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. 1216. UPDATING CIVIL PENALTY AUTHORITY.

        (a) In General.--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 section 1139(g)''.

        (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 11 of title 49,
    United States Code, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 1101.>>  is amended by striking
    the item relating to section 1155 and inserting the following:

    ``1155. Penalties.''.

    SEC. 1217. <<NOTE: 49 USC 1114 note.>>  ELECTRONIC AVAILABILITY OF
                              PUBLIC DOCKET RECORDS.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Web posting.>>  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 appropriate committees
    of Congress 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. 1218. <<NOTE: Deadline. Applicability. 49 USC 1111 note.>>
                              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 No.
    12564 (51 Fed. Reg. 32889).
    SEC. 1219. ACCESSIBILITY IN WORKPLACE.

        (a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Assessment. Determination.>>  In General.--Not
    later than 12 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the
    National Transportation Safety Board

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1432]]

    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 compliance with--
                (1) 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
                (2) the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C.
            12101 et seq.).
    SEC. 1220. MOST WANTED LIST.

        (a) Reporting Requirements.--Section 1135 of title 49, United States
    Code, is amended by striking subsection (e).
        (b) <<NOTE: Repeals.>>  Report on Most Wanted List Methodology.--
    Section 1106 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254)
    and the item relating to such section in the table of contents under
    section 1(b) <<NOTE: 132 Stat. 3431, 3192.>>  of such Act are repealed.
    SEC. 1221. 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, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 1101.>>  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, <<NOTE: 49 USC prec. 1101.>>  is amended
    by inserting after the item relating to chapter 11 the following:
    ``13. Surface Transportation Board...............................1301''.
    SEC. 1222. <<NOTE: Deadlines. Revisions. 49 USC 1131 note.>>  AIR
                              SAFETY INVESTIGATORS.

        (a) Removal of FAA Medical Certificate Requirement.--Not later than
    60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the
    Office of Personnel Management, in consultation with the Administrator
    and the Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, shall take
    such actions as may be necessary to revise the eligibility requirements
    for the Air Safety Investigating Series 1815 occupational series (and
    any similar occupational series relating to transportation accident
    investigating) to remove any requirement that an individual hold a
    current medical certificate issued by the Administrator.
        (b) Updates to Other Requirements.--
                (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of
            enactment of this Act, the Director, in coordination with the
            Administrator and Chairman, shall take such actions as may be
            necessary to update and revise experiential, educational, and
            other eligibility requirements for the Air Safety Investigating
            Series 1815 occupational series (and any similar occupational
            series relating to transportation accident investigating).
                (2) Considerations.--In updating the requirements under
            paragraph (1), the Director shall consider--

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1433]]

                        (A) the direct relationship between any requirement
                    and the duties expected to be performed by the position;
                        (B) changes in the skills and tools necessary to
                    perform transportation accident investigations; and
                        (C) such other considerations as the Director,
                    Administrator, or Chairman determines appropriate.
    SEC. 1223. <<NOTE: Reports.>>  REVIEW OF NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION
                              SAFETY BOARD PROCUREMENTS.

        Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act,
    the Comptroller General shall, pursuant to section 1138 of title 49,
    United States Code, submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a
    report regarding the procurement and contracting planning, practices,
    and policies of the National Transportation Safety Board, including such
    planning, practices, and policies regarding sole-source contracts.

                         TITLE XIII--REVENUE PROVISIONS

    SEC. 1301. EXPENDITURE AUTHORITY FROM AIRPORT AND AIRWAY TRUST
                              FUND.

        (a) In General.--Section 9502(d)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of
    1986 <<NOTE: 26 USC 9502.>>  is amended--
                (1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) by striking
            ``May 11, 2024'' and inserting ``October 1, 2028''; and
                (2) in subparagraph (A) by striking the semicolon at the end
            and inserting ``or the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024;''.

        (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 9502(e)(2) of such Code is
    amended by striking ``May 11, 2024'' and inserting ``October 1, 2028''.
    SEC. 1302. EXTENSION OF TAXES FUNDING AIRPORT AND AIRWAY TRUST
                              FUND.

        (a) Fuel Taxes.--Section 4081(d)(2)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code
    of 1986 is amended by striking ``May 10, 2024'' and inserting
    ``September 30, 2028''.
        (b) Ticket Taxes.--
                (1) Persons.--Section 4261(k)(1)(A)(ii) of the Internal
            Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``May 10, 2024'' and
            inserting ``September 30, 2028''.
                (2) Property.--Section 4271(d)(1)(A)(ii) of the Internal
            Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``May 10, 2024'' and
            inserting ``September 30, 2028''.

        (c) Fractional Ownership Programs.--
                (1) Fuel tax.--Section 4043(d) of the Internal Revenue Code
            of 1986 is amended by striking ``May 10, 2024'' and inserting
            ``September 30, 2028''.
                (2) Treatment as noncommercial aviation.--Section 4083(b) of
            the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``May
            11, 2024'' and inserting ``October 1, 2028''.

    [[Page 138 STAT. 1434]]

                (3) Exemption from ticket tax.--Section 4261(j) of the
            Internal Revenue Code of 1986 <<NOTE: 26 USC 4261.>>  is amended
            by striking ``May 10, 2024'' and inserting ``September 30,
            2028''.

        Approved May 16, 2024.

    LEGISLATIVE HISTORY--H.R. 3935:
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    HOUSE REPORTS: No. 118-138 (Comm. on Transportation and Infrastructure).
    CONGRESSIONAL RECORD:
                                                            Vol. 169 (2023):
                                        July 19, 20, considered and passed
                                            House.
                                        Sept. 28-30, considered in Senate.
                                                            Vol. 170 (2024):
                                        May 2, 7-9, considered and passed
                                            Senate, amended.
                                        May 14, 15, House considered and
                                            concurred in Senate amendment.

                                      <all>