May-House Transportation Subcommittee Seeks to Impose Massive Tax Increase on Air Travelers

Airplane Security Tax Would Increase Almost 150%

WASHINGTON —Americans for Tax Reform President Grover Norquist today called for Aviation Subcommittee Chairman John Mica (R-FL) to rescind his call for over $6 billion in new airline taxes over the next three years.

The “Transportation Security Agency (TSA) Hi Tech Proposal” would increase aviation security taxes from $4.5 billion per year to $6.5 billion annually by raising airline ticket fees by $2.50.

“Airlines have seen massive tax hikes since 9/11, to the detriment of all Americans who fly,” said ATR President Grover Norquist. “Congress cannot continually raise taxes on air travelers and expect the industry to serve taxpayers well.”

TSA was created in the wake of 9/11 as a radical centralization of airport security screeners. Since that time, critics from both sides of the aisle have condemned TSA’s wasteful administration of taxpayer dollars.

“Before looking to raise taxes on travelers by 150%, maybe Congress ought to exercise some oversight over TSA,” continued Norquist. “Air travelers have a right to expect that their security is provided for in an efficient manner before being asked to dig deeper into their wallets.”