The 2026 US midterm election will bring a change in party control and a large turnover in Congress, with potential consequences for business aviation as lawmakers begin a new FAA reauthorisation cycle in 2027. In an analysis published on 6 November, AIN identified the loss of experienced aviation lawmakers as a challenge for industry advocates, while pointing to established Democratic leaders who could preserve some continuity on transport policy.
Among those leaving Congress are House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee chair Troy Nehls and Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton. Senate Appropriations Committee chair Susan Collins also lost her re-election bid. Rick Larsen, who has served on the House committee for 25 years, is expected to lead it, while Senator Maria Cantwell is in line to chair the Senate Commerce Committee. Both have extensive experience with aviation issues.
The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 runs through 30 September 2028, but Congress may take up other aviation legislation before then. Issues include air traffic control modernisation funding, FAA safety oversight, the Part 121 pilot 1,500-hour rule and aviation mental-health support. AIN’s analysis anticipates closer scrutiny of FAA and Department of Transportation decisions under Democratic congressional control, and warns that concerns over agency oversight could complicate additional ATC funding if it is not secured before the end of 2026.
Lawmakers also face a federal funding deadline on 11 December, after approving a temporary measure, and a pending compromise bill addressing NTSB recommendations following the January 2025 midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.