Washington, DC, June 21, 2005 – The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) praised today’s action by the House Appropriations Committee to restore needed funding for maintaining staffing levels in the FAA’s Aircraft Certification Service.

The FY 2006 House Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations 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.

"Today’s action by the committee is an important step to prevent the reduction of staffing levels in FAA’s Aircraft Certification Service," said GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce.

This Congressional action recognizes the important relationship between FAA and industry that brings new and safe aviation products to market while maintaining a healthy aerospace industry. This includes promoting FAA and industry teamwork to facilitate efficiencies in the certification process.

"GAMA thanks the Members of the House of Representatives, both authorizers and appropriators from both sides of the aisle, that recognized the critical importance of the certification issue. Specifically, GAMA thanks Congressman Todd Tiahrt for championing this issue and appropriations subcommittee Chairman Joe Knollenberg for his strong support. Additionally, powerful support from House Transportation Subcommittee on Aviation Chairman John Mica, Ranking Member Jerry Costello, and Congressman Robin Hayes played a significant role," said GAMA’s Bunce.

GAMA is also advocating the inclusion of similar language in the Senate version of the appropriations bill.