Bill Summary
The FAIR AIR Act is legislation aimed at extending the deadline for commercial air tour operators in Grand Canyon National Park to transition to quieter aircraft technology. Specifically, it amends the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) by changing the original requirement for conversion, which was set for 15 years after the enactment of MAP-21, to a new deadline of December 31, 2032. This extension is intended to improve the air quality and overall visitor experience in the Grand Canyon National Park by reducing noise pollution from aircraft tours.
Possible Impacts
The proposed legislation, the FAIR AIR Act, could affect people in various ways. Here are three examples:
1. **Improved Quality of Life for Residents and Visitors**: By extending the deadline for converting commercial air tour aircraft to quieter technology, the legislation aims to reduce noise pollution in and around the Grand Canyon National Park. This could lead to a more peaceful environment for residents and enhance the experience for visitors, allowing them to enjoy the natural sounds and serenity of the park without the disturbance of loud aircraft.
2. **Economic Impacts on Air Tour Operators**: The extension of the deadline may provide commercial air tour operators with additional time to comply with the new technology requirements. This could alleviate immediate financial pressures on these businesses, allowing them to plan and budget for the necessary upgrades. However, it could also delay the potential for increased operational costs related to upgrading to quieter aircraft, which could impact pricing for consumers in the long run.
3. **Environmental Considerations**: Quieter aircraft technology is often linked to reduced emissions and less environmental impact. By extending the deadline for compliance, the legislation may result in a slower transition to cleaner technologies. This could affect conservation efforts in the Grand Canyon area, where noise and air pollution are concerns. Delaying the adoption of quieter technology may hinder progress toward protecting the natural environment and wildlife habitats in the park.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 7430 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. R. 7430
To amend MAP-21 to extend the deadline for the conversion of commercial
air tour aircraft operating in Grand Canyon National Park to quiet
aircraft technology, and for other purposes.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
February 9, 2026
Mr. Gosar (for himself and Mr. Crane) introduced the following bill;
which was referred to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To amend MAP-21 to extend the deadline for the conversion of commercial
air tour aircraft operating in Grand Canyon National Park to quiet
aircraft technology, and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Federal Air Improvements for Rural
Access and Industry Resilience Act'' or the ``FAIR AIR Act''.
SEC. 2. DEADLINE FOR CONVERSION TO QUIET TECHNOLOGY AIRCRAFT.
Section 35001(b)(1) of the MAP-21 (49 U.S.C. 40128 note(b)(1)) is
amended by striking ``Not later than 15 years after the date of
enactment of this Act,'' and inserting ``Not later than December 31,
2032,''.
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