Aerospace

The House Aerospace Caucus served as an honorary co-host for the Aerospace Industries Association's (AIA) April 27 kick-off event celebrating the re-launch of the House Aerospace Caucus. More than 100 guests were in attendance, including AIA President and CEO Eric Fanning, President and CEO of Spirit AeroSystems and AIA Board Chairman Tom Gentile, Aerospace Caucus Chairman Ron Estes (R-Kansas), Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-Washington) and several other members of Congress and the Aerospace Caucus. The event allowed attendees to build and deepen relationships with industry leaders and congressional staff with a mutual interest in aerospace before hearing remarks from Mr. Fanning, Mr. Gentile, and Chairman Estes. 
 
"It's really important that we have the Aerospace Caucus back up and running," said Chairman Estes at the event. "It's been a big success so far, and the caucus has bipartisan support – 30 members, 15 Republicans and 15 Democrats. Aerospace is a big issue in terms of affecting so much of the country and across both parties." 

Chairman Estes also remarked how great it was to be back in person with members and aerospace stakeholders after a nearly three-year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic. 
 
"Now, as much as ever, it's vital for the aerospace and defense industry to have strong representation in Congress, championing our contributions to the U.S. economy, national defense, and everyday life," said Fanning, AIA President and CEO. "With so much critical work on Congress's plate this year, we welcome this opportunity to connect with Chairman Estes and the Members who will shape the future of our industry and to celebrate all that lies ahead."
 
Now fully launched and running, the House Aerospace Caucus will serve as a valuable resource for aerospace industry companies and employees and congressional members and staff as it seeks to highlight the crucial role of the U.S. aerospace industry and address legislative challenges the sector faces.