March 11, 2009

Bailey-sponsored bill would promote local tourism and economic development by helping commuter air carriers   
House Bill 1287 passes off House floor 

A measure co-sponsored by Rep. Barbara Bailey would promote local tourism and economic development by allowing a small airline that services the region to purchase aircrafts at reduced prices. House Bill 1287, passed off the House floor on a 92-4 vote Tuesday, would exempt the purchase of a small airplane by a commuter air carrier from the sales and use tax.

“This is a break that our commuter air carriers really need. The end result would be more intrastate routes for commuter flights in Washington, which would promote tourism and economic development in smaller, rural communities,” said Bailey, R-Oak Harbor. “It would create a competitive advantage for our state by allowing for more intrastate air service.”

Repair and related services for commuter airlines' small aircraft would be exempted from sales and use taxes under House Bill 1287. The measure would also expand the number of planes an in-state commuter air carrier could overnight in Washington state. This would keep them from having to overnight planes in other states, which would save them on costs and convenience.

Bailey pointed out that Kenmore Air, a commuter air carrier that operates in the Pacific Northwest and her district, testified in favor of the bill. 
 
House Bill 1287 is now in the state Senate for further consideration.

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