Fitzpatrick cosponsors bipartisan, environmentally friendly aviation bill

U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) on Aug. 16 signed on as an original cosponsor of bipartisan legislation that would establish an alternative fuel and low-emission aviation technology program in the United States.

The Aviation Emissions Reduction Opportunity (AERO) Act, H.R. 8727, which is sponsored by U.S. Rep. Nikema Williams (D-GA) and cosponsored by six other Democrats in addition to Rep. Fitzpatrick, aims to reduce air pollution, spur clean energy job growth, and spark innovation across the country, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Fitzpatrick’s office.

“This legislation will expand the incorporation of sustainable aviation fuels into the industry and will promote effective emissions-reduction practices for years to come,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. 

If enacted, H.R. 8727 would provide $1.5 billion in grant funding over a five-year period to support sustainable aviation fuel and technology to reduce aviation noise and move the aviation sector toward a net zero-emission, more environmentally friendly future, the summary says.

“As a member of the Aviation Subcommittee, I am committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to improve the competitiveness of our country’s aviation industry while finding solutions that protect our environment for future generations,” Rep. Fitzpatrick said. 

Rep. Williams said with the newly signed law, the Inflation Reduction Act, Congress and President Joe Biden have made “historic investments” to create a cleaner aviation future.

“But we are only just getting started,” said Rep. Williams. “The AERO Act will provide long-term funding for programs that create cleaner skies, quieter neighborhoods, and good-paying union jobs.”

The Association of Flight Attendants and the World Wildlife Fund endorsed the measure.