H.R.4012 - National Airport Supersonic Readiness Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.4012, the National Airport Supersonic Readiness Act of 2025, directs the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator to conduct a study on the readiness of certain airports to accommodate high-speed air travel. The study will assess runway length, ground equipment, air traffic control systems, environmental regulations, and potential economic impacts.
The FAA Administrator must consult with the NASA Administrator and other relevant stakeholders. A report including the study's results, policy recommendations, infrastructure improvements, estimated costs, and a projected timeline must be submitted to Congress within one year of the Act's enactment.
The bill defines key terms such as 'high-speed aircraft,' 'hypersonic,' 'supersonic,' and 'large hub airport' to provide clarity for the study and subsequent actions.
Expected Effects
This bill, if enacted, will lead to a comprehensive assessment of the nation's airport infrastructure in relation to high-speed air travel. The study's findings could influence future policy decisions and investments in airport infrastructure.
It may also spur innovation in aviation technology and potentially reduce long-haul flight times. The report to Congress will provide a roadmap for adapting airports to accommodate supersonic and hypersonic aircraft.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for reduced travel times: Supersonic and hypersonic travel could significantly decrease long-haul flight durations.
- Economic growth: The development and accommodation of high-speed aircraft could stimulate economic activity and create jobs in the aviation industry.
- Infrastructure improvements: The study may lead to upgrades and modernization of airport infrastructure.
- Technological advancement: The bill encourages innovation in aviation technology and related fields.
- Enhanced global connectivity: Facilitating high-speed air travel could improve international connectivity and trade.
Potential Disadvantages
- Environmental concerns: Supersonic and hypersonic aircraft may have significant environmental impacts, including noise and emissions.
- High costs: Infrastructure improvements and the development of high-speed aircraft could be very expensive.
- Regulatory hurdles: Existing environmental regulations may restrict the use of high-speed aircraft at some airports.
- Safety concerns: Ensuring the safety of high-speed air travel will require careful consideration and rigorous testing.
- Potential for unequal access: High-speed air travel may be initially accessible only to a limited segment of the population due to high costs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate and foreign commerce. By studying and potentially facilitating high-speed air travel, the bill aims to improve transportation and trade.
Furthermore, the bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights. However, future regulations stemming from this bill would need to be carefully considered to ensure compliance with environmental protections and other constitutional limitations.
The bill's focus on infrastructure and technological advancement also aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution's preamble.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).