Washington, DC – Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today called for the passage of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization bill to protect Colorado consumers, reduce delays and boost local economies around the state by improving service at smaller airports.

“This bill will help make air travel more reliable and ensure that Colorado’s airports, big and small, continue to be economic engines for our state and communities,” Bennet said. “Whether you are traveling to visit loved ones or for a business meeting, few things are more frustrating than sitting at your gate or on the tarmac while your flight is delayed. The new FAA bill will help ease stress for travelers by bringing our badly outdated air traffic control system up to date. While security and safety remains a top priority, this bill will allow for more flights, fewer delays and greater opportunity for economic growth.”

The FAA Reauthorization measure, which has not been substantively examined or rewritten since 2007, will modernize our nation’s air transportation system and reduce frustrating, costly delays by more than 20 percent—saving consumers time and potentially billions of dollars. In 2007, the total cost of all U.S. air transportation delays was $32.9 billion, including a $16.7 billion cost to passengers, according to the National Center of Excellence for Aviation Operations Research (NEXTOR).

When flights are delayed, the bill will protect passengers from having to sit on runways for hours and require airlines to provide passengers with timely, accurate information regarding their flights. The bill also will require airlines to have plans in place for providing passengers with adequate food, water and access to restrooms during delays.

The bill will create and protect 280,000 jobs across the country by investing in airports and improving infrastructure. The Essential Air Service program, which helps ensure flight service from Cortez and other rural communities in Colorado to major hub airports, will also be improved through the legislation.

“We are pleased to see the Federal Aviation Re-Authorization bill moving forward and appreciate Senator Bennet’s support for this crucial bill,” Jay Harrington, Cortez City Manager said.  “This bill approves programs that are vital for our airport, including the Airport Improvement Program, which funds most of our infrastructure improvements such as our runways. The bill also keeps the Essential Air Service program, a program which is vital to keep our community connected via air service in order to support our local economy.”