WASHINGTON, DC, December 2, 2005 – The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) praised both the President and Congress for enactment of the FY 2006 Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill which guarantees funding for maintaining staffing levels in the FAA’s Aircraft Certification Service.

The final bill provides $4 million above the FAA budget request for the Aircraft Certification Service. It also brings back staffing to FY 2004 levels of 1,189 full-time equivalent positions.

"With enactment of this year’s FAA appropriations bill, the Congress has provided the resources to prevent continued reduction of staffing levels in FAA’s Aircraft Certification Service," said GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce. “We will now work with the FAA to ensure these funds are used in the manner directed by Congress.”

This Congressional action recognizes the important relationship between FAA and industry, which is critical in bringing new and enhanced aviation products to market, as well as in facilitating efficiencies in the certification process. This relationship has ensured that the U.S. aerospace industry will remain the safest and healthiest in the world.

"GAMA thanks the Members of Congress, both authorizers and appropriators from both sides of the aisle who recognized the critical importance of the certification issue. Specifically, GAMA thanks Congressman Todd Tiahrt for championing this issue and appropriations subcommittee Chairmen Joe Knollenberg and Christopher “Kit” Bond for their strong support. Additionally, powerful support from House Transportation & Infrastructure subcommittee on Aviation Chairman John Mica, Ranking Member Jerry Costello, and Congressman Robin Hayes played a significant role," said GAMA’s Bunce.