NATA Statement on Final Passage of Reconciliation Bill

NATA (the National Air Transportation Association) issued the following statement applauding pro-aviation policies in the final budget reconciliation legislation approved by the U.S. House of Representatives and advanced to the White House on July 3, 2025.

“NATA thanks the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives for advancing several aviation business priorities, most notably funding to begin urgent modernization of our nation’s air traffic control infrastructure, technology, and staffing. Every day, NATA members experience firsthand the negative impacts of aging ATC infrastructure, insufficient technology at general aviation airports, and inadequate controller staffing in busy airspaces. By approving this $12.5 billion down payment on ATC modernization, Congress has signaled its support for U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy’s comprehensive plan to build a new, state-of-the-art ATC system. In doing so, we will ensure U.S. aviation remains the global gold standard for aviation safety and innovation,” stated NATA President and CEO Curt Castagna.

H.R. 1, the “One Big, Beautiful Bill Act,” also includes NATA priorities to stimulate economic growth, job creation, and workforce development within the aviation industry. By permanently extending 100 percent bonus depreciation for business aviation aircraft, the legislation incentivizes immediate, job-creating capital investments in the U.S. economy. The legislation also creates a pathway for pilot and aircraft mechanic training expenses to qualify for 529 college savings plans, if they are used to pursue an occupational or professional license issued or recognized by the federal government. In late May, more than 50 NATA members advocated for these policies during the Association's Day on the Hill. 

“This permanent extension of bonus depreciation recognizes the vital role aircraft play in supporting local economies and national mobility,” said Castagna. “By removing uncertainty around tax planning, Congress has empowered aviation businesses to reinvest, grow jobs, and expand access to on-demand transportation and critical services across the country. In addition, the extension of 529 education plan eligibility to federal certifications will remove another barrier of entry for future professional pilots and aircraft mechanics and is yet another signal that our industry is a source of highly skilled, well-paying American jobs.”

“NATA applauds Congress for embracing targeted and practical solutions that advance U.S. aviation infrastructure, create a stable environment for aviation investment, and enhance pathways to aviation careers. We thank our members for their dedicated advocacy in support of these impactful policies and are pleased to see them cross the finish line,” Castagna concluded.