Washington, DC—The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) today welcomed Secretary Elaine Chao’s statement at her confirmation hearing for U.S. Secretary of Transportation that she wants to address “unnecessary bottlenecks” in regulations governing manufacturing processes. Appearing before the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, Secretary Chao also said she looks forward to working with the Committee on the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration’s transition to NextGen and facilitating the innovation and creativity necessary for emerging technologies.
“We were very impressed with Secretary Chao’s remarks today, which speak to her extensive and notable public-service record—including serving as Deputy Transportation Secretary—that will give her an immediate jumpstart on the critical issues facing the U.S. transportation sector,” GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce said. “In responding to a wide variety of questions during the hearing, it is evident that she clearly understands the importance and complexity of the issues our industry is dealing with as manufacturers seek to bring new, safety-enhancing products and technologies to market, including the development of autonomous vehicles.”
Bunce continued, “We encourage the U.S. Senate to move expeditiously in confirming Secretary Chao as Transportation Secretary, and we look forward to partnering with her and her team to improve safety and grow the general aviation sector.”