WASHINGTON, DC, December 1, 2003 – "The Final Report of the Commission on the Future of the U.S. Aerospace Industry, issued one year ago, is fundamentally changing the way the federal government develops solutions for aerospace," said Commissioner Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA).

The Commission noted that superior air mobility afforded by air transportation is a huge national asset and competitive advantage for the United States. It found that without a significant transformation of the air transportation system, the American public would become increasing frustrated by travel delays and inefficiencies. The Commission was especially concerned about the lack of coordination and communication between Executive Branch Departments with jurisdiction over these issues. A primary recommendation was to "immediately create a multi-agency task force with the leadership to develop an integrated plan to transform our air transportation system."

"Congress recently enacted legislation creating a multi-agency Joint Planning and Development Office (JPDO). This is a significant first step toward the transformation of the air transportation system envisioned by the Commission. We are especially gratified that Congress created this Office and authorized funding for this important endeavor. Secretary Mineta has already made significant progress in forming the high-level, multi-agency policy board needed to oversee JPDO activities," said Ed Bolen.

Other Commission recommendations recently enacted by the Congress include streamlining the process for completing environmental reviews needed for new runway construction, and tasking the FAA to streamline its certification process by issuing Design Organization Certificates.