HAI Member Alert: Talk to Congress, Stop User Fees

Saturday, 28 January 2012 00:00

Source: HAI

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Helicopter Association International advises the helicopter industry that discussion over "user fees" has surfaced again in Washington as budget deficits, taxes, and other means of raising revenue are debated. Many of these issues directly affect helicopter operators, and it is important to convey your opinions on these issues to your elected officials in Washington.

2012 is an important election year and many candidates are vying for your vote. This is the time to make your voice heard in Washington. Congress is closing in on finally passing a four-year FAA Reauthorization Bill after a record 23 temporary extensions of FAA funding. President Obama will submit his FY 2013 budget blueprint to Congress in the coming weeks, and HAI has received every indication that a $100 per flight "user" fee will be included in that budget request. General aviation is once again in the cross hairs as an easy target for raising revenue. It is imperative that the helicopter industry makes sure its voice is heard in Washington.

Contact your representatives in Washington in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate and tell them you oppose any additional fees on general aviation. Helicopters provide vital and critical services each and every day and have minimal use of the air traffic control service system. The fair and appropriate method of paying our fair share of taxes is at the pump, in the way of aviation fuel taxes.

Visit www.house.gov and www.senate.gov to locate your elected officials (two senators each state and one representative for each congressional district for a total of three elected officials). If you need assistance in identifying your elected officials or obtaining contact information, contact Sterling Wiggins at sterling.wiggins@rotor.com.