Washington – Air travelers across the country won a major victory as the House of Representatives today voted to dramatically increase investment in the nation’s aviation system by more than $10 billion over the next three years.

        By a vote of 319 to 101, the House passed the conference report to H.R. 1000, the Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century (AIR 21), a bill designed to make our skies safer, modernize air traffic control, reduce flight delays and boost airline competition.

        “With AIR 21, the money the traveling public pays in ticket taxes will finally be dedicated solely to improving the safety and efficiency of our aviation system,” said Committee Chairman Bud Shuster.  “Our air traffic control systems must be modernized, single airlines have gained monopolistic supremacy at many of our large airports, and flight delays and customer complaints are increasing.  This legislation will go a long way in relieving our overburdened aviation system without raising taxes.”

        AIR 21 is a three-year bill that will increase aviation investment by $10 billion over current levels, with the lion’s share of the funding going to radar modernization and much-needed airport construction projects.  The total authorized funding for federal aviation programs will be $40 billion over the next three years, $33 billion of which will be guaranteed from the Aviation Trust Fund, while $6.7 billion will be available to be appropriated from the General Fund.

        AIR 21 was previously approved by the Senate and will now be sent to the President for his expected signature.