WASHINGTON – In June 2011, the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) launched an investigation into the global competitiveness of the U.S. business jet industry requested by Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Dave Camp (R-MI) on behalf of Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (R-KS) and Congressman Mike Pompeo (R-KS).  

The investigation, entitled Business Jet Aircraft Industry: Structure and Factors Affecting Competitiveness, examines the business jet industry in the United States, Brazil, Canada, Europe and China.  The report from the investigation was released this week.

The following statements were released in response to USITC’s report on its investigation:

Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02): “The USITC has compiled a thorough assessment of the challenges facing the U.S. business jet industry and I thank them for their work.  As this report makes clear, the global economic slowdown, domestic political posturing regarding user fees and punitive taxes, the complexity of FAA certification, and the entry of new foreign competitors into the aviation market all pose serious challenges to American business jet manufacturers.  General Aviation manufacturers are vital contributors to both the Kansas and national economy, employing nearly 17,000 Kansans and 120,000 nationwide.  It is my hope that my colleagues in Congress, as well as policymakers in both this and the next administration, will use the information from this USITC investigation to help promote the American aviation industry, rather than hindering the industry’s growth and success.”

Congressman Mike Pompeo (KS-04):  “I applaud the International Trade Commission’s decision to complete this important investigation.  After spending 11 years in the aerospace industry in Wichita, I know firsthand that when our American companies and workers are given a fair shot and level playing field, they can compete and win against any foreign competitor.  Given the huge hit our general aviation community has experienced over the past four years,  this effort to identify ways to level that playing field is all the more relevant and timely.  I trust that this information will assist me and my colleagues in advancing general aviation in America.” 

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