About this episode
The Founder and President of the Affordable Skies Coalition gives travelers a voice in the future of air travel. In the news, the Indian Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau released its preliminary report on the Air India Flight AI171 crash, DARPA ended the cargo seaplane program, the boom on a KC-46 Tanker broke off while refueling an F-22, and releases of toxic firefighting foam remain a problem.
Guest
Jennifer C. Rykaczewski
Jennifer C. Rykaczewski is the Founder and President of the Affordable Skies Coalition, a nonprofit founded in December 2024 to give travelers a voice in the future of air travel. It’s an advocacy group dedicated to promoting policies that encourage competition, reduce costs, and protect the right to safe, affordable air travel.
The Coalition is a growing community that shares insights, strategies, and resources to empower the traveler. Their work centers on ensuring air travel remains safe and affordable, while giving Americans, especially those often overlooked in policy and industry conversations, a chance to weigh in on the decisions shaping the future of flying.
Jennifer explains how the Affordable Skies Coalition is advocating on the Hill and getting agreement that there is a need for a consumer advocacy group. We look at legislation such as the Airport Gate Competition Act and the Fast Lane for Youths (FLY) Act.
The Affordable Skies Coalition offers a free membership option that includes a newsletter featuring industry updates, air traveler information, and opportunities to participate in petitions, surveys, and focus groups. A paid premium membership option adds live webinars and exclusive data reports.
Jennifer developed a passion for aviation after meeting her now-husband, who owned a Cessna 182. They flew across the country