[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.