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Air Transport Association Opposes Proposed Fee on International Travelers
President and CEO James May Testifies Before Senate Commerce Committee
(WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2007) -- James C. May, president and CEO of the Air Transport Association of America (ATA), the industry trade organization of the leading U.S. airlines, today testified before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation on the proposed "Blueprint to Discover America" initiative.
May's testimony highlighted concerns about the proposed program, intended to boost travel to the United States, which would impose additional taxes and fees on airline passengers. While he acknowledged the importance of promoting the United States as a travel destination, he opposed any additional funding schemes, insisting that the goals of the proposed program can be achieved without added fees.
"Our airlines are eager to bring more international visitors to America so they can experience first hand what we already know - that America is a great country to do business with, and to visit," May said. "While I appreciate a warm welcome, it is really hard for me to support charging passengers a $5 fee to purchase a smile and a greeting."
May pointed out that $50-per-passenger fees paid by visitors to the United States in 2006 generated $3.3 billion to $3.7 billion - more than adequate to fund the proposed initiatives, many of which are already under development by various government agencies.
ATA strongly supports the current efforts of the State Department, Department of Homeland Security and Commerce Department to improve services for international travelers. May urged the administration to redouble its efforts and to pursue those undertakings with vigor. In addition, May stressed the importance of streamlining processes, such as visa application and customs screening, through the use of new technologies.
"ATA strongly favors securing America's borders," said May. "And we are sensitive to the need to balance the sometimes competing interests of security and ease of travel."
ATA airline members transport more than 90 percent of all U.S. airline passenger and cargo traffic.
Source : Air Transport Association
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