    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1993, Book II)]
    [August 19, 1993]
    [Page 1392]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Report of the National Commission to Ensure a Strong
    Competitive Airline Industry
    August 19, 1993

        Today I received with great interest and enthusiasm the report of
    the National Commission to Ensure a Strong Competitive Airline Industry.
    For the past 3 months, Governor Baliles and his colleagues have worked
    tirelessly to identify ways to revive this critical industry. The
    Commission has done its work well.
        Now my administration and the Congress must take the next steps to
    ensure that Government policy encourages a prosperous airline industry.
    Aviation provides high-wage jobs and is a leading exporter of American
    products and services. In the past, this industry has provided good jobs
    for millions of Americans, while meeting and beating our competition
    abroad. In recent years, however, both airlines and aerospace
    manufacturers have suffered financial losses and have laid off some of
    our most skilled and productive workers.
        We have already taken the first and most important steps toward
    strengthening the aviation industry. This sector's problems are
    intertwined with our Nation's broader economic challenges. By reducing
    the deficit and providing incentives for economic expansion, the
    recently enacted budget creates the climate for economic growth that is
    a precondition for the revival of aviation.
        The Commission's report recommends several additional steps to
    achieve an air transport system that is efficient, technologically
    superior, and financially strong. Under the leadership of Transportation
    Secretary Federico Pena and Council of Economic Advisers Chair Laura
    Tyson, my administration will consider these proposals and develop an
    administration plan. We will work with Congress to respond to the
    industry's problems in a manner consistent with our deficit reduction
    and economic goals.
        I look forward to meeting with Governor Baliles and the Commission
    members upon my return to Washington.