WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement after the Senate successfully passed bipartisan legislation to provide a five-year reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). 

"With this bipartisan legislation, we are lowering travel costs for New Mexicans, making it safer to fly, supporting our nation's air traffic controllers, and cracking down on corporate greed and price-gouging by airlines. For the first time, New Mexicans will have a legal right to a refund if their flights have been cancelled or delayed for more than three hours. 

"I'm pleased that this bill will strengthen the Essential Air Service program, which is crucial to ensuring New Mexicans living in rural communities can quickly, safely, and conveniently connect with the rest of the country. And I am proud that we've secured new investments to electrify aircraft and airports across the country.  

"Passing this bill is a win for working families' pocketbooks, and a win for better, safer, and more reliable air travel. It is urgent that the House take this bill up and send it to President Biden's desk." Â