Essential Air Service Reliability Act of 2025
Summary
The Essential Air Service Reliability Act of 2025 amends Section 41733 of Title 49, United States Code, to mandate that applications for compensated essential air service include contingency plans for service disruptions not related to weather. This aims to ensure continued air service to eligible locations. The Act also makes conforming amendments to Section 41736(c)(2)(A) of Title 49.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be to require air service providers receiving federal compensation to develop and submit contingency plans. This should lead to more reliable air service in areas dependent on the Essential Air Service program. The amendment ensures that disruptions, excluding weather-related events, are proactively addressed.
Potential Benefits
- Ensured continuation of essential air service during disruptions.
- Proactive planning by air service providers.
- Increased reliability of air travel for communities relying on the program.
- Potential for reduced economic impact from service interruptions.
- Improved coordination between air service providers and the Department of Transportation.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased administrative burden for air service providers.
- Potential for higher costs associated with developing and implementing contingency plans.
- Possible delays in application approvals due to the added requirement.
- Risk that contingency plans may not fully address all possible disruption scenarios.
- Limited scope, as it only addresses disruptions unrelated to weather.
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 commerce. Essential air service directly impacts interstate transportation and economic activity. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
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).