In this tremendously difficult economic environment, the Air Transport Association (ATA) is calling on the government to take a "do no harm" approach to aviation. Eliminating the Department of Transportation's (DOT) misguided "slot auction" proposal would be an excellent start. Beyond that, the industry is looking at four complex, transformational challenges for 2009.

First, airlines are seeking environmental policies that are practical, responsible and recognize their record of significant voluntary fuel efficiency improvements. In addressing climate concerns, what is needed is a new vision: future aviation investments must meet these concerns while also addressing growing transportation needs.

Second, the FAA needs to reinvent core air traffic infrastructure and decide how to fairly fund system investment. As the FAA introduces desperately needed 21st-century air traffic management technologies, all users must contribute proportionally to a sustainable funding system. Successfully addressing these issues is central not only to meeting the country's future transportation needs but also to addressing environmental concerns.

Third, the government must effectively address excessive speculation in energy prices while continuing work to assure reliable supplies. ATA is committed to a national energy policy that includes broad conservation measures as well as the development of alternative energy sources, including biofuels for aircraft, while bringing transparency and reasonable oversight to the energy markets.

Finally, in doing our part to revitalize our faltering economy, airlines are committed to seeking policies that enable the investments necessary to develop more high-quality industry jobs and allow the industry to spread the economic well-being that airline service provides.

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