Massachusetts State Senate Bill 2305 proposes imposing a fine of at least $1,000 per landing at a MA airport by any general aviation, charter, or corporate aircraft to "mitigate the climate impact of private and corporate air travel". This fine will result in a great financial hardship to not only the current pilots in the skies today, but also to the student pilots, flight schools, commercial airline operations, and small aviation related businesses in MA and the surrounding regions. Not only will this bill deter the growth of the aviation industry in the state of Massachusetts, it will also drive businesses and economic opportunities out. 

Flying is already an expensive endeavor. Whether it is a corporate plane transporting cargo and goods or a student pilot just starting to get their wings, finances are already one of the most prominent factors on one's mind when taking to the skies. To add an unnecessary fine such as this for simply touching down on MA runways puts stress on the industry and will only serve to deter pilots and corporations from landing in MA and consequently, jobs and the economy will suffer. The bill has the potential to deter aircraft of all types and backgrounds from landing anywhere in the commonwealth. 

To impose this fine on non-profit flights is beyond insanity. Nonprofits such as Angel Flight provide an essential service that only serves to better the community and help those in need. By fining them, you create a situation where they will not be able to provide medical service for those in dire need of care. 

The bill fails to describe exactly how these funds will prevent an impact to the climate. Vague descriptions are given in the bill, however specifics are neglected. For a minimum fine of $1,000 you would think specific uses and the benefits of the bill would be apparent, however these elements are severely lacking.

Aviation should not be restricted to only the very wealthy. The skies belong to us all and this proposed bill only serves to hurt the industry as a whole and the people who call the skies their home. Thank you.