An Essential Figure in Aviation

While the world of aviation is always evolving, different figures, especially political, are always submitting new proposals, ideas, and bills. One such figure in which has gained wide respect within congress and the aviation community is subcommittee ranking official congressman Jerry Costello. Congressman Costello is the current United States Congressman from the 12^th District of Illinois. He is the current ranking member under the aviation subcommittee chairman. In addition to other duties as congressman, he serves on the committee ensuring the best direction, rules, and regulations are imposed and carried out for the aviation world and its constituents.  

            Born in East St. Louis, IL, Costello was elected to Congress in August of 1988. He graduation from Assumption High school in 1968, and took college courses in law, government, & political sciences. He has earned an Associates, Bachelor’s degrees, as well as honorary Doctorates from two Universities. While building his resume for congress, Costello has served as a police officer, and eventually elected chairman of the St. Clair County, IL board of commissioners, until his ultimate race to Congress.

            While now in his 24^th year serving in Congress, Costello has always had his “thumb” in transportation. One of his earlier projects included the National highway bills, in which $150 million dollars were allocated for construction of a new auto crossing bridge over the Mississippi River. While serving on the aviation subcommittee, Congressman Costello comprised the Airline Safety & Pilot Training Improvement Act of 2009. While it does has a downside for young aspiring aviators attempting to enter the industry, it does enforce stronger & through regulations to ensure safety & experience when operation mass public transportation aircraft (airliners). Costello also played a pivotal role in the Scott Air Force Base Realignment & Closure operation from 1995-2005. Not only did he prevent the closing of the base, but also lobbied for +800 jobs to be added, as the base is the largest employer in Southern Illinois.

http://transportation.house.gov/Subcommittees/aviation-members.shtml