Sold – President Gerald R. Ford Acts “To ensure our continued leadership in technology, efficiency and safety of air transportation”

The Airport and Airway Development Act of 1970 was passed during the 91st Congress and signed into law by President Nixon. It was meant to fill funding gaps in the airport and airway system, which had become inadequate due to the rapid growth of aviation. When that growth became explosive in the 1970s, it was augmented by the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1976 amendments. The 1976 legislation was signed into law on July 12 by President Ford in order to "make possible the continuing modernization of our airways, airports, and related facilities in communities throughout the 50 States."

Typed Letter Signed, on White House letterhead, Washington, July 14, 1976 (just two days after the act was signed), to Senator Howard Cannon of Nevada, who had supported it. “I was pleased to schedule a signing ceremony on July 12, when I signed into law the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1976, which provides sufficient funds in the next four years to ensure our continued leadership in technology, efficiency and safety of air transportation. As an active participant in the formulation of this important legislation, you are to be congratulated for your role in achieving passage of the bill. As a memento of its becoming public law, I am pleased to send you the enclosed ceremonial pen [not present].” Ford’s authentically signed letters as President are increasingly uncommon. This one was obtained directly from the Cannon heirs and has never before been offered for sale.