#United States #Dallas #SWAPA #Aviation Funding #National Airspace

SWAPA Endorses Bipartisan Aviation Funding Solvency Act

On December 17, 2025, the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA) announced its strong support for the Aviation Funding Solvency Act (H.R. 6086). This bipartisan initiative, introduced by House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves and Ranking Member Rick Larsen, aims to provide a vital safety net for the National Airspace System (NAS) amid potential government shutdowns.

The Need for Sustainable Aviation Funding

The Aviation Funding Solvency Act is designed to create a permanent solution, allowing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to access the Aviation Insurance Revolving Fund during funding lapses. This mechanism will ensure that aviation professionals working on the frontlines continue receiving their salaries and that safety-critical operations remain uninterrupted, a necessity in maintaining high safety standards for the public.

SWAPA President Captain Jody Reven emphasized this point, stating, "Maintaining the highest safety standards demands a system that can operate without interruption. SWAPA firmly believes that Congress has a responsibility to safeguard the stability of our airspace by ensuring that the FAA's mission is never compromised by political volatility."

Lessons from Recent Government Shutdowns

The recent 43-day government shutdown served as a stark reminder of the considerable risks that funding lapses pose to the aviation industry. It resulted in increased operational strain, which weighed heavily on air traffic controllers, TSA officers, and FAA specialists who were already dealing with nationwide personnel shortages.

Key issues arising from the shutdown included:

• - Operational Strain: The shortage of professionals meant increased pressure on existing staff, impacting overall safety.
• - Delayed Infrastructure Modernization: Important programs aimed at enhancing safety and infrastructure improvements were postponed, resulting in backlogs and inefficiencies.
• - Public Impact: Travelers experienced widespread delays and cancellations, leading to frustrations and disruptions in air travel plans.

As we approach another holiday season, where travel volumes typically surge, SWAPA is urging members of Congress to prioritize air safety by swiftly enacting H.R. 6086 into law. With the potential for future government shutdowns, securing aviation funding is paramount for maintaining public confidence in air travel.

A Call for Legislative Action

The association commends the leadership of Chairman Graves and Ranking Member Larsen for their efforts in championing this necessary legislation. SWAPA stresses the importance of ensuring aviation safety remains a prioritized issue rather than a political bargaining chip. By enacting the Aviation Funding Solvency Act, Congress can take decisive action to protect the integrity of the National Airspace System, ultimately benefiting both aviation workers and the traveling public.

About SWAPA

Based in Dallas, Texas, the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA) is a non-profit organization representing over 11,000 pilots at Southwest Airlines. The association's mission is to secure rewarding careers for pilots through contract negotiations, defending pilots' rights, and enhancing professionalism and safety standards within the aviation industry. For more details on SWAPA, visit www.swapa.org.