“This is a problem for all of us in aviation, and all of us should be part of the solution,” Pelton told the group of aviation industry leaders. “Fewer pilots equate to less business for all of us, and it threatens the strong, sustainable aviation system our nation counts on.” “Gone are the days when the military was producing all the pilots the airlines could absorb, or when a broader GI Bill funded expansive flight training for veterans returning to civilian life,” he said. “We need legislation that fosters and stimulates our industry,” he added.

On the environment, Pelton said aviation has established an outstanding track record in reducing its environmental impact. “The market demands efficiency. And with greater fuel efficiency comes reduced emissions. Still, we recognize there is much more we must do,” he said. “The philosophy of the Lindbergh Foundation has it right – we must pursue policies and practices that balance progress and technology with environmental sensitivity,” he said.

Pelton said the same considerations need to be made as the government revamps the national airspace and develops the next generation air traffic management system, commonly called NextGen, although he is encouraged by the level of cooperation between industry and government in early stages.

“It’s encouraging to see this type of cooperation and I hope it will continue as we look to deploy components of the NextGen program,” said Pelton. “That is the only way to truly ensure the safety, efficiency, and economic and environmental benefits we are all counting on from NextGen.”