Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus formed to reduce environmental impact, boost financial security

U.S. Reps. Dusty Johnson, a Republican from South Dakota, and Sharice Davids, a Democrat from Kansas, announced June 10 the creation of the Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus.

Co-chaired by Davids and Johnson, the caucus will work to reduce the aviation industry’s environmental impact and maximize its financial sustainability.

By accessing federal policy, holding forums and bringing together public and private partners, the caucus will play a key role in the integration of new technologies into the nation’s aviation network.

“The aviation industry is flying towards a more sustainable future,” Johnson said. “From sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to Advanced Air Mobility to hydrogen aviation, there are a lot of shifts we can expect to see in the coming years. Congress should advance legislative priorities that support innovation through biofuels, national security and passenger safety. I look forward to working with Rep. Davids on this caucus.”

Davids added, “I am proud to announce the formation of the Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus, which will bring together a wide variety of aviation leaders and policymakers to help reduce the aviation industry’s impact on the environment and ensure its long-term economic viability. Adopting these sustainable practices is critical for our national security and economic resilience. I’m glad to join forces with Rep. Johnson to ensure America’s aviation industry continues to be resilient and reliable for years to come.”

Paul Feldman, vice president of government affairs with the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, said, “GAMA applauds the bipartisan leadership of Reps. Sharice Davids and Dusty Johnson for founding the Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus and we look forward to working with the caucus to highlight policies, initiatives and industry developments that will advance a more sustainable future for the entire aviation industry. General aviation is steadfast in our commitment to mitigate the industry’s impact on the environment through technological and operational improvements as well as the use of SAF. These sustainability commitments will be furthered through strong support and partnerships with government and other stakeholders like the Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus.”

Numerous initiatives are underway to advance sustainability goals through the adoption of SAF and the integration of technologies that improve aircraft fuel efficiency, reduce emissions and save money in the long run.

The CSAC will provide a forum to stay informed about these initiatives and to assess the policies, processes and resources needed to further environmental gains, enhance fuel-supply resiliency and strengthen national security.

In addition to sending periodic informational updates, the CSAC will hold frequent briefings for member offices that will cover:

• Insights from local, state and federal government stakeholders, as well as industry and nonprofit stakeholders, about current efforts to form an environmentally and economically sustainable aviation future.

• New developments in the sustainable aviation space, such as advancements in energy, aerospace, technology and modal shifts.

• Implementation of existing technologies into domestic and international aviation.

• Future challenges and opportunities that await sustainable aviation, such as fuel production, workforce and regulatory structures.