While Congress continues to debate the pressing need for the US to raise its debt ceiling to avoid a default, the FAA funding extension program passed by the house, is unlikely to be passed by the Senate anytime soon. House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman John Mica (R-Fla.) said yesterday that he had no idea when the FAA will reopen, and placed the emphasis on the Senate to accept the cuts to the Essential Air Service program that will result in the closure of three airports, to get the deal passed. However, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee Chairman Jay Rockefeller (D-W. Va.), has repeatedly said the Senate will only pass the bill without the EAS provision.
