Austin News

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, representing Texas and serving as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, spoke at a press conference held at San Antonio International Airport. The occasion marked the inaugural direct flight from San Antonio to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington, D.C., a development made possible through a provision in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024.

Senator Cruz shared insights into the legislative process behind this achievement. "Last year, we passed the FAA Reauthorization Act," he stated. At that time, he served as the Ranking Member on the Senate Committee alongside Maria Cantwell from Washington state. Together they crafted what Cruz described as landmark legislation with $110 billion allocated to aviation safety and technology enhancements.

Cruz highlighted that while the bill received bipartisan support, it faced significant opposition regarding the new San Antonio to DCA flight route. "The new flight for San Antonio to DCA," he said, was met with millions of dollars in lobbying efforts aimed at preventing its realization. The contention delayed Senate proceedings by two days.

Despite these challenges, Cruz praised various stakeholders for their collaborative efforts. He mentioned Chip Roy's exemplary work in the House and acknowledged bipartisan support from Joaquin Castro, Greg Casar, Tony Gonzales, and Henry Cuellar. In San Antonio, city leaders and business communities stood united behind this initiative.

In concluding his remarks about overcoming legislative hurdles to secure this flight route, Senator Cruz affirmed: "At the end of the day, Texas prevailed."