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Wednesday, 10 March, 2021

COVID Stimulus Bill Provides Crucial, NATA-supported Aviation Business Relief

Washington, DC, March 10, 2021 – Following Senate passage over the weekend, today the House approved a $1.9 trillion COVID stimulus bill which is expected to be signed into law by President Biden. The bill contains many provisions NATA actively supported during consideration, including another round of Payroll Support Program funding for air carriers and their contractors. It will also make an additional $100 million available for general aviation airports impacted by the pandemic, and creates a new $3 billion program to support the aviation manufacturing workforce.
 
“Like every other American industry, general aviation has struggled. We are optimistic that we are beginning a slow recovery, and today’s vote to approve additional support for our industry will put us firmly on a positive path,” said Timothy Obitts, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association.
 
“Our members, who serve the vast majority of our nation not accessible by the airlines, have continued to play a vital role during the pandemic. We are facilitating the transport of vaccines to rural and remote populations, moving time-sensitive test specimens, and positioning much-needed PPE for medical personnel. The support in this bill is what is needed to ensure we can continue these critical missions,” continued Obitts.
 
The bill contains $14 billion to extend the air carrier payroll support program and $1 billion for contractors, $8 billion for airports including $100 million for general aviation airports, and $3 billion for aviation manufacturers’ payrolls.
 
“As we have before, NATA will continue to work closely with the federal agencies and Capitol Hill to ensure that once the bill becomes law, the government promptly and properly meets its mandates, and we will continue to be a resource for NATA members who are applying for federal assistance,” concluded Obitts.

For general press inquiries, contact Shannon Chambers at 703-298-1347 or schambers@nata.aero

The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) has been the voice of aviation business for more than 80 years. Representing nearly 3,700 aviation businesses, NATA’s member companies provide a broad range of services to general aviation, the airlines and the military and NATA serves as the public policy group representing the interests of aviation businesses before Congress and the federal agencies.