HR 2997 — 21st Century AIRR Act

Critical airfield markings.

Sec.

511.

Consumer information on actual flight times.

Sec.

512.

Advisory committee for transparency in air ambulance industry.

Sec.

513.

Air ambulance complaints.

Sec.

514.

Passenger rights.

Sec.

544.

Access advisory committee recommendations.

Sec.

623.

Application of veterans' preference to Federal Aviation Administration personnel management system.

Sec.

624.

Public aircraft eligible for logging flight times.

Sec.

625.

Federal Aviation Administration workforce review.

Sec.

626.

State taxation.

Sec.

627.

Aviation and aerospace workforce of the future.

Sec.

628.

Future aviation and aerospace workforce study.

Sec.

629.

FAA leadership on civil supersonic aircraft.

Sec.

630.

Oklahoma registry office.

Sec.

631.

Foreign air transportation under United States-European Union Air Transport Agreement.

Sec.

632.

Training on human trafficking for certain staff.

Sec.

633.

Part 107 implementation improvements.

Sec.

634.

Part 107 transparency and technology improvements.

Sec.

635.

Prohibitions against smoking on passenger flights.

Sec.

636.

Consumer protection requirements relating to large ticket agents.

Sec.

637.

Agency procurement reporting requirements.

Sec.

638.

Zero-emission vehicles and technology.

Sec.

639.

Employee Assault Prevention and Response Plans.

Sec.

640.

Study on training of customer-facing air carrier employees.

Sec.

641.

Minimum dimensions for passenger seats.

Sec.

642.

Study of ground transportation options.

``section 47504(c)-- ``(1) $3,424,000,000$3,597,000,000 for fiscal year 2018;

``(2) $3,499,000,000$3,666,000,000 for fiscal year 2019;

``(3) $3,576,000,000$3,746,000,000 for fiscal year 2020;

``(4) $3,655,000,000$3,829,000,000 for fiscal year 2021;

``(5) $3,735,000,000$3,912,000,000 for fiscal year 2022;

and ``(6) $3,817,000,000$3,998,000,000 for fiscal year 2023.''.

(a) Lactation Area Defined.--Section 47102 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--amended (1) by redesignatingadding paragraphsat (10)the throughend (28)the asfollowing: paragraphs (11) through (29), respectively;

and``(29) (2)`lactation byarea' insertingmeans aftera paragraphroom (9)or other location in a commercial service airport that-- ``(A) provides a location for members of the following:public to express breast milk that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from the public;

``(10) `lactation area' means a room or other location in a commercial service airport that-- ``(A) provides a location for members of the public to express breast milk that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from the public;

or ``(ii) if an appeal of such determination is requested, for the 1-year period described in subsection (d)(4)(D).''.(d)(4)(D)''.

SEC.

136.

BUY AMERICA REQUIREMENTS.

(a) Notice of Waivers.--If the Secretary of Transportation determines that it is necessary to waive the application of section 50101(a) of title 49, United States Code, based on a finding under section 50101(b) of that title, the Secretary, at least 10 days before the date on which the waiver takes effect, shall-- (1) make publicly available, in an easily identifiable location on the website of the Department of Transportation, a detailed written justification of the waiver determination;

and (2) provide an informal public notice and comment opportunity on the waiver determination.

(b) Annual Report.--For each fiscal year, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on waivers issued under section of title 49, United States Code, during the fiscal year.

(C) Newthe York;District of Columbia;

(D) theNew NorthernYork; California Metroplex;

(E) Phoenix;the Northern California Metroplex;

or (F) suchPhoenix; other area as may be identified by the Administrator;

(G) the Southern California Metroplex;

or (H) such other area as may be identified by the Administrator;

SEC.

162.

CLARIFICATION OF REIMBURSABLE ALLOWED COSTS OF FAA MEMORANDA OF AGREEMENT.

Section 47504(c)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended-- (1) in subparagraph (D) by striking ``and'' at the end;

(2) in subparagraph (E) by striking the period at the end and inserting ``;

and'';

and (3) by adding at the end the following:

``(F) to an airport operator of a congested airport (as defined in section 47175) and a unit of local government referred to in paragraph (1)(B) to carry out a project to mitigate noise, if the project-- ``(i) consists of-- ``(I) replacement windows, doors, and the installation of through-the-wall air- conditioning units;

or ``(II) a contribution of the equivalent costs to be used for reconstruction, if reconstruction is the preferred local solution;

``(ii) is located at a school near the airport;

and ``(iii) is included in a memorandum of agreement entered into before September 30, 2002, even if the airport has not met the requirements of part 150 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and only if the financial limitations of the memorandum are applied.''.

``(2) Subsequent terms.--The term of each Director appointed, or nominated and selected, on or after the date of transfer (other than the CEO) shall be 54 years, except as provided by paragraph (3).

``(4) Term limit.--Except as provided by subsection (f)(3), a Director may not serve on the Board for more than 8 years.

``(3) authorizationadoption of anyan formannual oraction instrumentplan; of indebtedness, including loans and bond issues;

``(4) assessment,authorization modification, and collection of chargesany andform feesor forinstrument airof trafficindebtedness, servicesincluding inloans accordanceand withbond theissues; standards described in section 90313;

``(5) hiringassessment, modification, and supervisioncollection of charges and fees for air traffic services in accordance with the CEO;standards described in section 90313;

``(6) establishmenthiring and maintenancesupervision of anthe appropriatelyCEO; funded reserve fund;

``(7) adoptionestablishment of a code of conduct and codemaintenance of ethicsan forappropriately Directors,funded officers,reserve agents,fund; and employees of the Corporation;

``(8) establishmentadoption of a processcode forof ensuringconduct thatand thecode fiduciary duties of aethics Directorfor areDirectors, solelyofficers, agents, and exclusivelyemployees toof the Corporation;

``(9) establishment of a process for theensuring removalthat of a Director, including the removalfiduciary duties of a Director forare breachsolely ofand aexclusively fiduciary duty to the Corporation;

and ``(10) adoptionestablishment of a process for fillingthe vacanciesremoval onof a Director, including the Board.removal of a Director for breach of a fiduciary duty to the Corporation;

and ``(11) adoption of a process for filling vacancies on the Board.

``(H) Small communities.communities, including at least 1 community primarily served by a nonhub airport.

``91505.

Submission of annual action plan.

State of air traffic services ``(a) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of transfer, and on or before March 31 of every 2second yearsyear beginning thereafter-- ``(1) the Corporation shall submit to the Secretary a report on the state of air traffic services;

``(16) progress made by the Corporation in implementing system modernization efforts and ``(16)ongoing suchcapital otherinvestments, mattersplans asof the Secretary,Corporation for next steps in consultationimplementing withsuch theefforts Administrator,and determinesinvestments, appropriate.current efficiencies and benefits of previously implemented systems improvements, and current needs for improvement;

and ``(17) such other matters as the Secretary, in consultation with the Administrator, determines appropriate.

and ``(2) the Secretary shall submit the updated strategic plan to Congress.''.Congress.

``Sec.

91505.

Submission of annual action plan ``(a) In General.--The Corporation shall develop an annual report on the goals of the Corporation for the following year.

``(b) Contents.--The report shall contain goals for the Corporation to meet that are specific, tangible, and actionable, in order to expedite improvements to, and maintain the integrity of, air traffic services provided by the Corporation.

``(c) Submission.--Not later than 1 year after the date of transfer, and annually thereafter-- ``(1) the Corporation shall submit the report to the Secretary;

and ``(2) the Secretary shall submit the report to Congress.

``(d) Public Availability.--The Corporation shall publish, and make available to the public, each report submitted to the Secretary under subsection (c).

``(e) Proprietary Information.--In carrying out this section, the Corporation may take necessary actions to prevent the public disclosure of proprietary information.''.

SEC.

244.

PROHIBITION ON RECEIPT OF FEDERAL FUNDS.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Corporation established under section 90301 of title 49, United States Code, as added by this Act, may not accept or receive any funds from the uncommitted balance of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund established under section 9502 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.

9502).

(iv) aviation,aviation aerospace,maintenance; and avionics manufacturing;

(v) unmannedaviation, aircraftaerospace, systems operators and manufacturers;avionics manufacturing;

and (vi) theunmanned commercialaircraft spacesystems transportationoperators industry;and manufacturers;

and (vii) the commercial space transportation industry;

(ix) Aviation maintenance.

Section 2110(d)(1)(A)(ii)2110 of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 (49 U.S.C.

44718 note) is amended-- (1) inby subclausestriking (IV)subsections by(a) strikingthrough ``or''(c) atand inserting the end;following:

(2)``(a) inApplication.-- subclause``(1) (V)In general.--Except as provided by strikingparagraph (2), not later than 1 year after the perioddate atof enactment of the end21st andCentury insertingAIRR ``;Act or the availability of the database developed by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration pursuant to subsection (c), whichever is later, all covered towers shall be either-- ``(A) clearly marked consistent with applicable guidance in the advisory circular of the Federal Aviation Administration issued December 4, 2015 (AC 70/ 7460-IL);

or'';or ``(B) included in the database described in subsection (c).

and``(2) (3)Meteorological byevaluation addingtower.--A atcovered thetower endthat is a meteorological evaluation tower shall be subject to the following:requirements of paragraphs (1)(A) and (1)(B).'';

``(VI)(2) isby locatedredesignating withinsubsections the(d) right-and of-way(e) ofas asubsections rail(b) carrier, including within the boundaries of a rail yard, and is(c), usedrespectively; for a railroad purpose.''.

(3) in subsection (b)(1)(A) (as so redesignated)-- (A) in clause (i)(I) by striking ``self-standing or'' and inserting ``a meteorological evaluation tower or tower'';

and (B) in clause (ii)-- (i) in subclause (IV) by striking ``or'' at the end;

(ii) in subclause (V) by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon;

and (iii) by adding at the end the following:

``(VI) is located within the right- of-way of a rail carrier, including within the boundaries of a rail yard, and is used for a railroad purpose;

``(VII) is determined by the Administrator to pose no hazard to air navigation;

or ``(VIII) has already mitigated any hazard to aviation safety in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration guidance or as otherwise approved by the Administrator.'';

and (4) in subsection (c) (as so redesignated)-- (A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:

``(1) develop a database that contains the location and height of each covered tower that, pursuant to subsection (a), the owner or operator of such tower elects not to mark, except that meteorological evaluation towers shall be marked and contained in the database;'';

(B) in paragraph (3) by striking ``and'' at the end;

(C) in paragraph (4) by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon;

and (D) by adding at the end the following:

``(5) ensure that the tower information in the database is de-identified and that the information only includes the location and height of covered towers;

and ``(6) make the database available for use not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the 21st Century AIRR Act.''.

SEC.

415.

SECONDARY COCKPIT BARRIERS.

Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue an order requiring the installation of a secondary cockpit barrier on each aircraft that is manufactured for delivery to a passenger air carrier in the United States operating under the provisions of part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC.

416.

AVIATION MAINTENANCE INDUSTRY TECHNICAL WORKFORCE.

(a) Study.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a study on technical workers in the aviation maintenance industry.

(b) Contents.--In conducting the study, the Comptroller General shall-- (1) analyze the current Standard Occupational Classification system with regard to the aviation profession, particularly technical workers in the aviation maintenance industry;

(2) analyze how changes to the Federal employment classification of aviation maintenance industry workers might affect government data on unemployment rates and wages;

(3) analyze how changes to the Federal employment classification of aviation maintenance industry workers might affect projections for future aviation maintenance industry workforce needs and project technical worker shortfalls;

(4) analyze the impact of Federal regulation, including Federal Aviation Administration oversight of certification, testing, and education programs, on employment of technical workers in the aviation maintenance industry;

(5) develop recommendations on how Federal Aviation Administration regulations and policies could be improved to address aviation maintenance industry needs for technical workers;

and (6) develop recommendations for better coordinating actions by government, educational institutions, and businesses to support workforce growth in the aviation maintenance industry.

(c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the study.

(d) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) Aviation maintenance industry.--The term ``aviation maintenance industry'' means repair stations certificated under part 145 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

(2) Technical worker.--The term ``technical worker'' means an individual authorized under part 43 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to maintain, rebuild, alter, or perform preventive maintenance on an aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, or component part or employed by an entity so authorized to perform such a function.

SEC.

417.

CRITICAL AIRFIELD MARKINGS.

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue a request for proposal for a study that includes-- (1) an independent, third party study to assess the durability of Type III and Type I glass beads applied to critical markings over a 2-year period at not fewer than 2 primary airports in varying weather conditions to measure the retroflectivity levels of such markings on a quarterly basis;

and (2) a study at 2 other airports carried out by applying Type III beads on half of the centerline and Type I beads to the other half and providing for assessments from pilots through surveys administered by a third party as to the visibility and performance of the Type III glass beads as compared to the Type I glass beads over a 1-year period.

``45511.

Micro UAS operations.

and ``(B) a valid small UAS air carrier certificate as described in paragraph (1).''.(1).

``Sec.

45511.

Micro UAS operations ``(a) In General.--Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall charter an aviation rulemaking advisory committee to develop recommendations for regulations under which any person may operate a micro unmanned aircraft system, the aircraft component of which weighs 4.4 pounds or less, including payload, without the person operating the system being required to pass any airman certification requirement, including any requirements under section 44703, part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, or any other rule or regulation relating to airman certification.

``(b) Considerations.--In developing recommendations for the operation of micro unmanned aircraft systems under subsection (a), the members of the aviation rulemaking advisory committee shall consider rules for operation of such systems-- ``(1) at an altitude of less than 400 feet above ground level;

``(2) with an airspeed of not greater than 40 knots;

``(3) within the visual line of sight of the operator;

``(4) during the hours between sunrise and sunset;

``(5) by an operator who has passed an aeronautical knowledge and safety test administered by the Federal Aviation Administration online specifically for the operation of micro unmanned aircraft systems, with such test being of a length and difficulty that acknowledges the reduced operational complexity and low risk of micro unmanned aircraft systems;

``(6) not over unprotected persons uninvolved in its operation;

and ``(7) at least 5 statute miles from the geographic center of a tower-controlled airport or airport denoted on a current Federal Aviation Administration-published aeronautical chart, except that a micro unmanned aircraft system may be operated closer than 5 statute miles to the airport if the operator-- ``(A) provides prior notice to the airport operator;

and ``(B) receives, for a tower-controlled airport, prior approval from the air traffic control facility located at the airport.

``(c) Consultation.-- ``(1) In general.--In developing recommendations for recommended regulations under subsection (a), the aviation rulemaking advisory committee shall consult with-- ``(A) unmanned aircraft systems stakeholders, including manufacturers of micro unmanned aircraft systems;

``(B) community-based aviation organizations;

``(C) the Center of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems;

and ``(D) appropriate Federal agencies.

``(2) FACA.--The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C.

App.) shall not apply to an aviation rulemaking advisory committee chartered under this section.

``(d) Rulemaking.--Not later than 180 days after the date of receipt of the recommendations under subsection (a), the Administrator shall issue regulations incorporating recommendations of the aviation rulemaking advisory committee that provide for the operation of micro unmanned aircraft systems in the United States-- ``(1) without an airman certificate;

and ``(2) without an airworthiness certificate for the associated unmanned aircraft.

``(e) Scope of Regulations.-- ``(1) In general.--In determining whether a person may operate an unmanned aircraft system under 1 or more of the circumstances described under paragraphs (1) through (3) of subsection (b), the Administrator shall use a risk-based approach and consider, at a minimum, the physical and functional characteristics of the unmanned aircraft system.

``(2) Limitation.--The Administrator may only issue regulations under this section for unmanned aircraft systems that the Administrator determines may be operated safely in the national airspace system pursuant to those regulations.

``(f) Rules of Construction.--Nothing in this section may be construed-- ``(1) to prohibit a person from operating an unmanned aircraft system under a circumstance described under paragraphs (1) through (3) of subsection (b) if-- ``(A) the circumstance is allowed by regulations issued under this section;

and ``(B) the person operates the unmanned aircraft system in a manner prescribed by the regulations;

or ``(2) to limit or affect in any way the Administrator's authority to conduct a rulemaking, make a determination, or carry out any activity related to unmanned aircraft or unmanned aircraft systems under any other provision of law.''.

SEC.

511.

CONSUMER INFORMATION ON ACTUAL FLIGHT TIMES.

(a) Study.--The Secretary of Transportation shall conduct a study on the feasibility and advisability of modifying regulations contained in section 234.11 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to ensure that-- (1) a reporting carrier (including its contractors), during the course of a reservation or ticketing discussion or other inquiry, discloses to a consumer upon reasonable request the projected period between the actual wheels-off and wheels-on times for a reportable flight;

and (2) a reporting carrier displays, on the public internet website of the carrier, information on the actual wheels-off and wheels-on times during the most recent calendar month for a reportable flight.

(b) Definitions.--In this section, the terms ``reporting carrier'' and ``reportable flight'' have the meanings given those terms in section 234.2 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this Act).

(c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the study.

SEC.

512.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR TRANSPARENCY IN AIR AMBULANCE INDUSTRY.

(a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish an advisory committee to make recommendations for a rulemaking-- (1) to require air ambulance operators to clearly disclose charges for air transportation services separately from charges for non-air transportation services within any invoice or bill;

and (2) to provide other consumer protections for customers of air ambulance operators.

(b) Composition of the Advisory Committee.--The advisory committee shall be composed of the following members:

(1) The Secretary of Transportation.

(2) 1 representative, to be appointed by the Secretary, of each of the following:

(A) Each relevant Federal agency, as determined by the Secretary.

(B) Air ambulance operators.

(C) State insurance regulators.

(D) Health insurance providers.

(E) Consumer groups.

(c) Recommendations.--The advisory committee shall make recommendations with respect to each of the following:

(1) Cost-allocation methodologies needed to ensure that charges for air transportation services are separated from charges for non-air transportation services.

(2) Cost- or price-allocation methodologies to prevent commingling of charges for air transportation services and charges for non-air transportation services in bills and invoices.

(3) Formats for bills and invoices to ensure that customers and State insurance regulators can clearly distinguish between charges for air transportation services and charges for non-air transportation services.

(4) Data or industry references related to aircraft operating costs to be used in determining the proper allocation of charges for air transportation services and charges for non- air transportation services.

(5) Guidance materials to instruct States, political subdivisions of States, and political authorities of 2 or more States on referring to the Secretary allegations of unfair or deceptive practices or unfair methods of competition by air ambulance operators.

(6) Protections for customers of air ambulance operators, after consideration of the circumstances in which the services of air ambulance operators are used.

(7) Protections of proprietary cost data from inappropriate public disclosure.

(8) Such other matters as the Secretary determines necessary or appropriate.

(d) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the first meeting of the advisory committee, the advisory committee shall submit to the Secretary, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report containing the recommendations made under subsection (c).

(e) Rulemaking.--Not later than 180 days after the date of receipt of the report under subsection (d), the Secretary shall consider the recommendations of the advisory committee and issue a final rule-- (1) to require air ambulance operators to clearly disclose charges for air transportation services separately from charges for non-air transportation services within any invoice or bill;

and (2) to provide other consumer protections for customers of air ambulance operators.

(f) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) Air ambulance operator.--The term ``air ambulance operator'' means an air carrier operating pursuant to part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, that provides medical, ambulance, or related services.

(2) Non-air transportation services.--The term ``non-air transportation services'' means those services provided by air ambulance operators but not other air carriers operating pursuant to part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

(g) Termination.--The advisory committee shall terminate on the date of submission of the report under subsection (d).

(h) Nature of Air Ambulance Services.--The non-air transportation services of air ambulance operators and prices thereof are neither services nor prices of an air carrier for purposes of section 41713 of title 49, United States Code.

SEC.

513.

AIR AMBULANCE COMPLAINTS.

(a) Consumer Complaints.--Section 42302 of title 49, United States Code, is amended-- (1) in subsection (a) by inserting ``(including transportation by air ambulance)'' after ``air transportation'';

(2) in subsection (b)-- (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1)-- (i) by inserting ``, and an air ambulance operator,'' after ``passenger seats'';

and (ii) by inserting ``or operator'' after ``Internet Web site of the carrier'';

and (B) in paragraph (2) by inserting ``or operator'' after ``mailing address of the air carrier'';

and (3) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:

``(c) Notice to Passengers on Boarding or Billing Documentation.-- ``(1) Air carriers and foreign air carriers.--An air carrier or foreign air carrier providing scheduled air transportation using any aircraft that as originally designed has a passenger capacity of 30 or more passenger seats shall include the hotline telephone number established under subsection (a) on-- ``(A) prominently displayed signs of the carrier at the airport ticket counters in the United States where the air carrier operates;

and ``(B) any electronic confirmation of the purchase of a passenger ticket for air transportation issued by the air carrier.

``(2) Air ambulance operators.--An air ambulance operator shall include the hotline telephone number established under subsection (a) on any invoice, bill, or other communication provided to a passenger or customer of the operator.''.

(b) Unfair and Deceptive Practices and Unfair Methods of Competition.--Section 41712(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by inserting ``air ambulance customer,'' after ``foreign air carrier,'' the first place it appears;

and (2) by adding at the end the following:

``In this subsection, the term `air carrier' includes an air ambulance operator and the term `air transportation' includes any transportation provided by an air ambulance.''.

SEC.

514.

PASSENGER RIGHTS.

(a) Guidelines.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall require each air carrier to submit for approval a 1-page document that accurately describes the rights of passengers in air transportation, including guidelines for the following:

(1) Compensation (regarding rebooking options, refunds, meals, and lodging) for flight delays of various lengths.

(2) Compensation (regarding rebooking options, refunds, meals, and lodging) for flight cancellations.

(3) Compensation for mishandled baggage, including delayed, damaged, pilfered, or lost baggage.

(4) Voluntary relinquishment of a ticketed seat due to overbooking or priority of other passengers.

(5) Involuntary denial of boarding and forced removal for whatever reason, including for safety and security reasons.

(b) Approval of Guidelines.--Not later than 90 days after each air carrier submits its guidelines for approval to the Secretary under subsection (a), the air carrier shall make available such 1-page document on its website.

SEC.

544.

ACCESS ADVISORY COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS.

(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue a notice of proposed rulemaking addressing-- (1) accommodations for air travelers with disabilities with respect to in-flight entertainment;

(2) accessible lavatories on single-aisle aircraft;

and (3) service animals.

(b) Rulemaking.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which the notice of proposed rulemaking is issued, the Secretary shall publish a final rule based on such notice.

and (2) in paragraph (5)--(4)-- (A) by redesignatingstriking subparagraphs``once,'' (E) and (F)inserting as``once subparagraphsin (F)a and10-year (G),period,''; respectively;

and (B) by inserting ``at any time'' after ``different project'';

and (3) in paragraph (5)-- (A) by redesignating subparagraphs (E) and (F) as subparagraphs (F) and (G), respectively;

``(2) Authorization of appropriations.--There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $6,000,000$10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2018 through 2023 to carry out this section, of which $4,800,000 per fiscal year shall be used to carry out the pilot program established under subsection (i).

(c) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the Piston Aviation Fuels Initiative of the Administration and the American Society for Testing and Materials should work to find an appropriate unleaded aviation gasoline by January 1, 2023.

(f) Definitions.--Airport (1)Improvement InProgram.--The general.--Inpilot thisprogram section,shall thebe followingeligible definitionsfor apply:airport improvement funding under chapter 471 of title 49, United States Code.

(g) Possible Expansion of Program.--Not later than 30 days after the date that the first remote air traffic control tower is commissioned, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall establish a repeatable process by which future certified remote air traffic control tower systems may be commissioned at additional airports.

(h) Definitions.-- (1) In general.--In this section, the following definitions apply:

(g)(i) Sunset.--The pilot program shall terminate on the day before the date of transfer, as defined in section 90101(a) of title 49, United States Code, as added by this Act.

(a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall permit a covered air carrier to operate to or from a destinationlocation in a noncontiguous State determined to be under visual flight rules without a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast or Meteorological Aerodrome Report if-- (1) asuch currentlocation Areais Forecast,determined supplementedto bybe otherunder localvisual weathermeteorological observationsconditions; or reports, is available;

and (2) ana alternatecurrent airportArea thatForecast, hassupplemented anby availableother Terminallocal Aerodromeweather Forecastobservations andor weatherreports, report is specified.available;

(b)and Procedures.--A(3) coveredan airalternate carrierairport shall--that (1)has havean approvedavailable proceduresTerminal forAerodrome dispatchForecast and enroute weather evaluation;report is specified.

(b) Procedures.--A covered air carrier shall-- (1) have approved procedures for dispatch or release and enroute weather evaluation;

<all>SEC.

623.

APPLICATION OF VETERANS' PREFERENCE TO FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.

Section 40122(g)(2)(B) of title 49, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by inserting ``3304(f),'' before ``3308-3320'';

and (2) by inserting ``3330a, 3330b, 3330c, and 3330d,'' before ``relating''.

SEC.

624.

PUBLIC AIRCRAFT ELIGIBLE FOR LOGGING FLIGHT TIMES.

The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue regulations modifying section 61.51(j)(4) of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, so as to include aircraft under the direct operational control of forestry and fire protection agencies as public aircraft eligible for logging flight times.

SEC.

625.

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION WORKFORCE REVIEW.

(a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a review to assess the workforce and training needs of the Federal Aviation Administration (in this section referred to as the ``FAA'') in the anticipated budgetary environment.

(b) Contents.--In conducting the review, the Comptroller General shall-- (1) identify the long-term workforce and training needs of the FAA workforce;

(2) assess the impact of automation, digitalization, and artificial intelligence on the FAA workforce;

(3) analyze the skills and qualifications required of the FAA workforce for successful performance in the current and future projected aviation environment;

(4) review current performance incentive policies of the FAA, including awards for performance;

(5) analyze ways in which the FAA can work with industry and labor, including labor groups representing the FAA workforce, to establish knowledge-sharing opportunities between the FAA and the aviation industry regarding new equipment and systems, best practices, and other areas of interest;

and (6) develop recommendations on the most effective qualifications, training programs (including e-learning training), and performance incentive approaches to address the needs of the future projected aviation regulatory system in the anticipated budgetary environment.

(c) Report.--Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the review.

SEC.

626.

STATE TAXATION.

Section 40116(d)(2)(A) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``(v) except as otherwise provided under section 47133, levy or collect a tax, fee, or charge, first taking effect after the date of enactment of this clause, upon any business located at a commercial service airport or operating as a permittee of such an airport that is not generally imposed on sales or services by that State, political subdivision, or authority unless wholly utilized for airport or aeronautical purposes.''.

SEC.

627.

AVIATION AND AEROSPACE WORKFORCE OF THE FUTURE.

(a) Findings.--Congress finds that-- (1) in 2016, United States air carriers carried a record high number of passengers on domestic flights, 719 million passengers;

(2) the United States aerospace and defense industry employed 1.7 million workers in 2015, or roughly 2 percent of the Nation's total employment base;

(3) the average salary of an employee in the aerospace and defense industry is 44 percent above the national average;

(4) in 2015, the aerospace and defense industry contributed nearly $202.4 billion in value added to the United States economy;

(5) an effective aviation industry relies on individuals with unique skill sets, many of which can be directly obtained through career and technical education opportunities;

and (6) industry and the Federal Government have taken some actions to attract qualified individuals to careers in aviation and aerospace and to retain qualified individuals in such careers.

(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that-- (1) public and private education institutions should make available to students and parents information on approved programs of study and career pathways, including career exploration, work-based learning opportunities, dual and concurrent enrollment opportunities, and guidance and advisement resources;

(2) public and private education institutions should partner with aviation and aerospace companies to promote career paths available within the industry and share information on the unique benefits and opportunities the career paths offer;

(3) aviation companies, including air carriers, manufacturers, commercial space companies, unmanned aircraft system companies, and repair stations, should create opportunities, through apprenticeships or other mechanisms, to attract young people to aviation and aerospace careers and to enable individuals to gain the critical skills needed to thrive in such professions;

and (4) the Federal Government should consider the needs of men and women interested in pursuing careers in the aviation and aerospace industry, the long-term personnel needs of the aviation and aerospace industry, and the role of aviation in the United States economy in the creation and administration of educational and financial aid programs.

SEC.

628.

FUTURE AVIATION AND AEROSPACE WORKFORCE STUDY.

(a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a study-- (1) to identify the factors influencing the supply of individuals pursuing a career in the aviation or aerospace industry;

and (2) to identify best practices or programs to incentivize, recruit, and retain young people in aviation and aerospace professions.

(b) Consultation.--The Comptroller General shall conduct the study in consultation with-- (1) appropriate Federal agencies;

and (2) the aviation and aerospace industry, institutions of higher education, and labor stakeholders.

(c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the study and related recommendations.

SEC.

629.

FAA LEADERSHIP ON CIVIL SUPERSONIC AIRCRAFT.

(a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall exercise leadership in the creation of Federal and international policies, regulations, and standards relating to the certification and safe and efficient operation of civil supersonic aircraft.

(b) Exercise of Leadership.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator shall-- (1) consider the needs of the aerospace industry and other stakeholders when creating policies, regulations, and standards that enable the safe commercial deployment of civil supersonic aircraft technology and the safe and efficient operation of civil supersonic aircraft;

and (2) obtain the input of aerospace industry stakeholders regarding-- (A) the appropriate regulatory framework and timeline for permitting the safe and efficient operation of civil supersonic aircraft within United States airspace, including updating or modifying existing regulations on such operation;

(B) issues related to standards and regulations for the type certification and safe operation of civil supersonic aircraft, including noise certification, including-- (i) the operational differences between subsonic aircraft and supersonic aircraft;

(ii) costs and benefits associated with landing and takeoff noise requirements for civil supersonic aircraft, including impacts on aircraft emissions;

(iii) public and economic benefits of the operation of civil supersonic aircraft and associated aerospace industry activity;

and (iv) challenges relating to ensuring that standards and regulations aimed at relieving and protecting the public health and welfare from aircraft noise and sonic booms are economically reasonable, technologically practicable, and appropriate for civil supersonic aircraft;

and (C) other issues identified by the Administrator or the aerospace industry that must be addressed to enable the safe commercial deployment and safe and efficient operation of civil supersonic aircraft.

(c) International Leadership.--The Administrator, in the appropriate international forums, shall take actions that-- (1) demonstrate global leadership under subsection (a);

(2) address the needs of the aerospace industry identified under subsection (b);

and (3) protect the public health and welfare.

(d) Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report detailing-- (1) the Administrator's actions to exercise leadership in the creation of Federal and international policies, regulations, and standards relating to the certification and safe and efficient operation of civil supersonic aircraft;

(2) planned, proposed, and anticipated actions to update or modify existing policies and regulations related to civil supersonic aircraft, including those identified as a result of industry consultation and feedback;

and (3) a timeline for any actions to be taken to update or modify existing policies and regulations related to civil supersonic aircraft.

SEC.

630.

OKLAHOMA REGISTRY OFFICE.

The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall consider the aircraft registry office in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, as excepted during a Government shutdown or emergency (as it provides excepted services) to ensure that it remains open during any Government shutdown or emergency.

SEC.

631.

FOREIGN AIR TRANSPORTATION UNDER UNITED STATES-EUROPEAN UNION AIR TRANSPORT AGREEMENT.

(a) Certain Foreign Air Transportation Permits.--The Secretary of Transportation may not issue a permit under section 41302 of title 49, United States Code, or an exemption under section 40109 of such title, authorizing a person to provide foreign air transportation as a foreign air carrier under the United States-European Union Air Transport Agreement of April 2007 (as amended) in a proceeding in which the applicability of Article 17 bis of such Agreement has been raised by an interested person, unless the Secretary-- (1) finds that issuing the permit or exemption would be consistent with the intent set forth in Article 17 bis of the Agreement, that opportunities created by the Agreement do not undermine labor standards or the labor-related rights and principles contained in the laws of the respective parties to the Agreement;

and (2) imposes on the permit or exemption such conditions as may be necessary to ensure that the person complies with the intent of Article 17 bis.

(b) Public Interest Test.--Section 41302(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended-- (1) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``under an agreement with the United States Government;

or'' and inserting ``;

and'';

and (2) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``the foreign air transportation'' and inserting ``after considering the totality of the circumstances, including the factors set forth in section 40101(a), the foreign air transportation''.

(c) Public Interest Requirements.-- (1) Policy.--Section 40101(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``(17) preventing entry into United States markets by flag of convenience carriers.''.

(2) International air transportation.--Section 40101(e)(9) of title 49, United States Code, is amended-- (A) in subparagraph (D) by striking ``and'' at the end;

(B) in subparagraph (E) by striking the period at the end and inserting ``;

and'';

and (C) by adding at the end the following:

``(F) erosion of labor standards associated with flag of convenience carriers.''.

(3) Flag of convenience carrier defined.--Section 40102(a) of title 49, United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the following:

``(49) `flag of convenience carrier' means a foreign air carrier that is established in a country other than the home country of its majority owner or owners in order to avoid regulations of the home country.''.

SEC.

632.

TRAINING ON HUMAN TRAFFICKING FOR CERTAIN STAFF.

(a) In General.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the following:

``Sec.

44737.

Training on human trafficking for certain staff ``In addition to other training requirements, each air carrier shall provide training-- ``(1) to ticket counter agents, gate agents, and other air carrier workers whose jobs require regular interaction with passengers;

and ``(2) on recognizing and responding to potential human trafficking victims.''.

(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the following:

``44737.

Training on human trafficking for certain staff.''.

SEC.

633.

PART 107 IMPLEMENTATION IMPROVEMENTS.

(a) In General.--Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall publish a direct final rule-- (1) revising section 107.205 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, by striking the second sentence of subsections (a) and (c);

and (2) revising section 107.25 of such title by striking ``and is not transporting another person's property for compensation or hire''.

(b) Determination of Waiver.--In determining whether to grant a waiver under part 107 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to authorize transportation of another's property for compensation or hire beyond the visual line of sight of the remote pilot, from a moving vehicle, or over people, the Administrator shall consider the technological capabilities of the unmanned aircraft system, the qualifications of the remote pilot, and the operational environment.

SEC.

634.

PART 107 TRANSPARENCY AND TECHNOLOGY IMPROVEMENTS.

(a) Transparency.--Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall publish on the Federal Aviation Administration website a representative sample of the safety justifications, offered by applicants for small unmanned aircraft system waivers and airspace authorizations, that have been approved by the Administration for each regulation waived or class of airspace authorized, except that any published justification shall not reveal proprietary or commercially sensitive information.

(b) Technology Improvements.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall revise the online waiver and certificates of authorization processes-- (1) to provide real time confirmation that an application filed online has been received by the Administration;

and (2) to provide an applicant with an opportunity to review the status of the applicant's application.

SEC.

635.

PROHIBITIONS AGAINST SMOKING ON PASSENGER FLIGHTS.

Section 41706 of title 49, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (e);

and (2) by inserting after subsection (c) the following:

``(d) Electronic Cigarettes.-- ``(1) Inclusion.--The use of an electronic cigarette shall be treated as smoking for purposes of this section.

``(2) Electronic cigarette defined.--In this section, the term `electronic cigarette' means a device that delivers nicotine to a user of the device in the form of a vapor that is inhaled to simulate the experience of smoking.''.

SEC.

636.

CONSUMER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO LARGE TICKET AGENTS.

(a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue a final rule to require large ticket agents to adopt minimum customer service standards.

(b) Purpose.--The purpose of the final rule shall be to ensure that, to the maximum extent practicable, there is a consistent level of consumer protection regardless of where consumers purchase air fares and related air transportation services.

(c) Standards.--In issuing the final rule, the Secretary shall consider, at a minimum, establishing standards for-- (1) providing prompt refunds when ticket refunds are due, including fees for optional services that consumers purchased but were not able to use due to a flight cancellation or oversale situation;

(2) providing an option to hold a reservation at the quoted fare without payment, or to cancel without penalty, for 24 hours;

(3) disclosing cancellation policies, seating configurations, and lavatory availability with respect to flights;

(4) notifying customers in a timely manner of itinerary changes;

and (5) responding promptly to customer complaints.

(d) Definitions.--In this section, the following shall apply:

(1) Ticket agent.-- (A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), the term ``ticket agent'' has the meaning given that term in section 40102(a) of title 49, United States Code.

(B) Inclusion.--The term ``ticket agent'' includes a person who acts as an intermediary involved in the sale of air transportation directly or indirectly to consumers, including by operating an electronic airline information system, if the person-- (i) holds the person out as a source of information about, or reservations for, the air transportation industry;

and (ii) receives compensation in any way related to the sale of air transportation.

(2) Large ticket agent.--The term ``large ticket agent'' means a ticket agent with annual revenues of $100,000,000 or more.

SEC.

637.

AGENCY PROCUREMENT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

Section 40110(d) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``(5) Annual report on the purchase of foreign manufactured articles.-- ``(A) Report.--Not later than 90 days after the end of the fiscal year, the Secretary of Transportation shall submit a report to Congress on the dollar amount of the acquisitions made by the agency from entities that manufacture the articles, materials, or supplies outside of the United States in such fiscal year.

``(B) Contents.--The report required by subparagraph (A) shall separately indicate-- ``(i) the dollar value of any articles, materials, or supplies purchased that were manufactured outside of the United States;

and ``(ii) a summary of the total procurement funds spent on goods manufactured in the United States versus funds spent on goods manufactured outside of the United States.

``(C) Availability of report.--The Secretary shall make the report under subparagraph (A) publicly available on the agency's website not later than 30 days after submission to Congress.''.

SEC.

638.

ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLES AND TECHNOLOGY.

(a) Passenger Facility Charge Eligibility.--Section 40117(a)(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``(H) A project for-- ``(i) converting or retrofitting vehicles and ground support equipment into eligible zero-emission vehicles and equipment (as defined in section 47102);

or ``(ii) acquiring, by purchase or lease, eligible zero-emission vehicles and equipment (as defined in section 47102).''.

(b) Airport Improvement Program Eligibility.-- (1) Airport development defined.--Section 47102(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``(P) converting or retrofitting vehicles and ground support equipment into eligible zero-emission vehicles and equipment or acquiring, by purchase or lease, eligible zero-emission vehicles and equipment.

``(Q) constructing or modifying airport facilities to install a microgrid in order to provide increased resilience to severe weather, terrorism, and other causes of grid failures.''.

(2) Additional definitions.--Section 47102 of title 49, United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the following:

``(30) `eligible zero-emission vehicle and equipment' means a zero-emission vehicle, equipment related to such a vehicle, and ground support equipment that includes zero-emission technology that is-- ``(A) used exclusively at a commercial service airport;

or ``(B) used exclusively to transport people or materials to and from a commercial service airport.

``(31) `microgrid' means a localized grouping of electricity sources and loads that normally operates connected to and synchronous with the traditional centralized electrical grid, but can disconnect and function autonomously as physical or economic conditions dictate.

``(32) `zero-emission vehicle' means a zero-emission vehicle as defined in section 88.102-94 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, or a vehicle that produces zero exhaust emissions of any criteria pollutant (or precursor pollutant) under any possible operational modes and conditions.''.

(3) Special apportionment categories.--Section 47117(e)(1)(A) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting ``for airport development described in section 47102(3)(P),'' after ``under section 47141,''.

(c) Zero-Emission Program.--Chapter 471 of title 49, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by striking section 47136;

(2) by redesignating section 47136a as section 47136;

and (3) in section 47136, as so redesignated, by striking subsections (a) and (b) and inserting the following:

``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation may establish a pilot program under which the sponsors of not less than 10 public-use airports may use funds made available under this chapter or section for use at such airports to carry out-- ``(1) activities associated with the acquisition, by purchase or lease, and operation of zero-emission vehicles, including removable power sources for such vehicles;

and ``(2) the construction or modification of infrastructure to facilitate the delivery of fuel and services necessary for the use of such vehicles.

``(b) Eligibility.--A public-use airport is eligible for participation in the program if the vehicles or ground support equipment are-- ``(1) used exclusively at the airport;

or ``(2) used exclusively to transport people or materials to and from the airport.'';

(4) in section 47136, as so redesignated, by striking subsections (d) and (e) and inserting the following:

``(d) Federal Share.--The Federal share of the cost of a project carried out under the program shall be the Federal share specified in section 47109.

``(e) Technical Assistance.-- ``(1) In general.--The sponsor of a public-use airport may use not more than 10 percent of the amounts made available to the sponsor under the program in any fiscal year for-- ``(A) technical assistance;

and ``(B) project management support to assist the airport with the solicitation, acquisition, and deployment of zero-emission vehicles, related equipment, and supporting infrastructure.