US aviation industry seeks a cut of massive infrastructure bill

The US aerospace and airline industries are seeking a slice of the $2t infrastructure-investment proposal working through the US Congress, requesting tax credits, grants and other funds for the purpose of advancing clean-energy technology. Some two dozen trade groups and unions made their request in an 18 May letter to eight influential US senators and representatives. “To effectively address the climate change challenge, we must drive technology, infrastructure and operational advances faster and farther,” the letter says. “We urge you to include these provisions in upcoming infrastructure legislation.” The letter came from groups including Airlines for America, Aerospace Industries Association, National Air Carrier Association (NACA), National Business Aviation Association and Regional Airline Association, according to a copy received from NACA. Unions such as Allied Pilots Association, Association of Flight Attendants – CWA and Southwest Airlines Pilots Association also signed on. The White House disclosed broad stokes of its infrastructure plan in a document released on 31 March. The plan heavily focuses on development of clean-energy technologies but makes little specific mention of aviation.<br/>