In response to the introduction of legislation by Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) – Access to Air Travel Act – which would block DOT’s controversial congestion pricing proposals for New York area airports, Regional Airline Association President Roger Cohen commended Senator Schumer for his leadership, noting that the proposed legislation is absolutely essential in preserving access to air travel at scores of small and medium-sized communities. DOT says the pricing proposals are necessary to eliminate slot hoarding by using regional jets to meet the current slot rule.
“By supporting this legislation, we take an important stand on fair access to air transportation,” said Cohen. “A full 70 percent of airports across America rely on regional airlines, exclusively, for scheduled air service. This bill is an important step towards protecting and preserving air service to hundreds of small and medium sized communities across the nation.”