On Monday, March 14, several Michigan Business Aviation Association (MBAA) companies attended a meeting with Ed Bolen (President/CEO of NBAA), along with legislative affair partners. The goal was to lay the groundwork for improved legislative coordination among Michigan companies on issues that are beneficial to all. By using the collective size and employment numbers represented by companies, MBAA hopes to positively impact future aviation related legislation, both at the state and federal levels. Mr. Bolen lended support for the effort and asked for continued assistance in opposing the U.S. House of Representatives bill that would shift FAA operations to privatized operations overseen by a board largely comprised of representatives of the airlines. The concern for the general/private aviation community is a privatized federal airspace system that provides preference to the airlines with limited access and additional costs. (Photo – From left are, Mike Trout, State Aeronautics Director, State Senator Jim Marleau, and Aeronautics Commissioner, Dave VanderVeen.)
On Tuesday, March 15, MBAA hosted its annual Legislative Day at the Michigan State Capitol. The day started with MBAA’s annual meeting highlighted by the House and Senate resolutions declaring the week of March 13, as Aviation Week in Michigan. The guest speaker for the meeting was Christa Fornarotto, NBAA Vice President of Government Affairs, who spoke about pending FAA reauthorization legislation and NBAA’s opposition to a privatized ATC system funded by user fees. Following the annual meeting, MBAA hosted its traditional corned beef and cabbage luncheon for Michigan’s legislators. The event was attended by more than 60 State representatives and senators. The luncheon provides a great opportunity for members to meet with their legislators and strengthen relationships that are key to future legislative efforts.
Michigan Business Aviation Association Has Busy Week in Lansing
