Congress of the United States
House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515-1705
The Honorable Jane Garvey
Administrator
Federal Aviation Administration
800 Independence Ave., SW
Washington, DC 20591
Dear Administrator Garvey:
I understand you have received a petition from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), which requests that FAA issue a direct final rule to require that pilots carry government-issued photo identification (such as a driver's license, passport, or military ID) with them when piloting an aircraft. I support AOPA's petition, and urge prompt action by the FAA.
One of the central issues in addressing general aviation (GA) security is the ability to immediately identify general aviation pilots. Although the FAA is reviewing how to revise pilots' licenses to incorporate a photograph, it is my understanding that implementation of this measure is uncertain. In the interim, I believe that AOPA's petition would provide an important step in achieving this goal. This petition is an inexpensive and simple security enhancement that can be implemented immediately by requiring pilots to carry picture identification, in addition to their pilot and medical certificates, when flying.
Like the rest of the nation, aviation is an integral part of Kentucky's transportation system. With more than 200 public-use airports and more than 5,000 pilots in Kentucky who fly and/or own GA aircraft in my state, I understand the importance of making GA pilot identification a secure procedure. I urge you to approve AOPA's requested change—it is a commonsense approach to addressing the security needs at our GA airports.
Sincerely,
HAROLD ROGERS
Member of Congress
July 15, 2002
Related Articles
