IAPA joins coalition to put an end to congestion delays in the United States; eyes global efforts
The International Airline Passengers Association (IAPA) has joined a coalition urging the U.S. Congress to fully fund the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and its efforts to upgrade the nation’s outdated air traffic control technology. The National Alliance to Advance NextGen, a coalition led by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, whose airports suffer from the most notorious air and ground traffic congestion delays in the country, is comprised of nearly 100 organizations. The new coalition, announced on the 25th of February, is calling for the swift passage of the FAA Reauthorization Bill that is to include the necessary billions of dollars for NextGen technology implementation.
NextGen uses advanced satellite technology to digitally broadcast aircraft position, altitude, direction and horizontal and vertical speed. When combined with overlays of maps and weather conditions, a detailed picture of the surrounding airspace is produced, allowing pilots and controllers to space and move aircraft more efficiently and safely. Total funding is expected to require US$10 to $22 billion over the next 15 years.
“IAPA is pleased to add the collective voice of its 400,000 frequent flyer members around the world to The National Alliance to Advance NextGen,” said Michael Cintron, Director of Consumer and Travel Industry Affairs for IAPA. Congestion delays are among our highest concerns and this coalition, though initially focused on the New York area airspace, the coalition’s efforts have national and even global implications. We are prepared to support similar efforts in Europe and around the world in order to realize the operational, safety and environmental benefits that flyers everywhere deserve,” added Cintron.
IAPA recently completed its role in a U.S. Department of Transportation Task Force on Tarmac Delays which outlined standards and processes for easing passenger inconvenience and discomfort during lengthy ground delays. The association continues to advocate for its members on aviation issues such as safety and security; service; comfort and health; economy; and the environmental impact of aviation.
About IAPA:
IAPA (The International Airline Passenger Association) has been at the forefront of travel issues for 47 years. IAPA was set up to represent the interests of frequent air travelers by protecting and promoting their rights as airline passengers, as well as providing them with special group discounts on items such as hotel accommodation, car rental and insurance.
Since its inception IAPA has been campaigning on behalf of frequent travelers - on safety and security, improving passenger comfort and getting better value for money. We pride ourselves in informing our members about the wider travel community issues that affect them, and represent airline passenger interests to industry and government bodies.
We strive to meet the needs of the frequent flyer and continue to stand up for the rights of the individual passenger at all opportunities.