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Bipartisan Senators Push for Expansion of NOAA's Hurricane Hunter Fleet

KVIA•Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 1:27 AM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

A bipartisan group of senators is advocating for a significant increase in the fleet of NOAA's Hurricane Hunters, aging aircraft essential for storm research and forecasting. A proposed bill, set to be introduced, would allocate $2.5 billion for new aircraft and an additional $45 million annually for hiring specialized pilots. This initiative aims to enhance the agency's capabilities as extreme weather events become more frequent. Currently, NOAA operates outdated planes that are nearing the end of their operational life, raising concerns about the accuracy of storm predictions. If passed, the legislation would ensure NOAA operates at least six aircraft, potentially increasing to nine, and mandates that the new fleet consists of manned planes, addressing fears of replacing them with drones.

Key Details: • Proposed bill to be introduced on Wednesday. • Allocates $2.5 billion for new aircraft and $45 million annually for pilots. • Current NOAA planes are over 50 years old and face mechanical issues. • Legislation mandates a minimum of six and a maximum of nine operational aircraft. • Ensures that new aircraft are manned, preventing a shift to drone-only operations.

weather bipartisan noaa hurricane storm-research

People & Organizations

Ted CruzNOAAU.S. Air ForceMaria Cantwell

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