Senate Passes Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Bill

The funds are expected to improve aviation safety, enhance protections for passengers and workers as well as invest in airport and air travel infrastructure nationwide.

The Senate passed a Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill Thursday.

The $105 billion measure would renew authority for the FAA for the next five years.

The funds are expected to improve aviation safety, enhance protections for passengers and workers as well as invest in airport and air travel infrastructure nationwide.

The bill raises maximum civil penalties for airline consumer violations from $25,000 to $75,000. It also aims to address a shortage of air traffic controllers by directing the FAA to implement improved staffing standards and expand hiring.

In addition, the legislation aims to strengthen consumer protections for refunds on flight cancellations and delays.

The bill is now heading to the House for vote.