This legislation, known as the WINGS Act, aims to authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to transfer full title of aircraft and serviceable aircraft parts to eligible authorized users. These assets are initially provided through the Federal Excess Personal Property program (FEPP) for wildland and rural firefighting efforts by State, political subdivisions, and other qualified entities. The purpose is to address ownership uncertainties and administrative burdens that arise after authorized users have made substantial investments in maintaining and operating these assets for extended periods. To qualify for title transfer, an authorized user must demonstrate continuous possession of an aircraft for at least 10 years, or 5 years for serviceable aircraft parts (or parts supporting an aircraft held for 10+ years). The user must also be in good standing , meaning compliance with program requirements, timely reporting, no misuse, and accurate inventory records. Upon transfer, the United States relinquishes ownership, and the authorized user assumes full ownership, though the Secretary may impose conditions for continued public use for up to five years for aircraft and three years for parts, and restrictions on sale or disposal for up to five years. The bill outlines an application process for authorized users, requiring documentation of use and good standing, with the Secretary mandated to approve or deny applications within 180 days. Furthermore, the Secretary is directed to promulgate regulations and guidance within 18 months to establish objective criteria for good standing, inventory management standards, application evaluation procedures, and safeguards to ensure compliance with national security and export control requirements.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry.
Agriculture and Food
WINGS Act
USA119th CongressS-4274| Senate
| Updated: 3/26/2026
This legislation, known as the WINGS Act, aims to authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to transfer full title of aircraft and serviceable aircraft parts to eligible authorized users. These assets are initially provided through the Federal Excess Personal Property program (FEPP) for wildland and rural firefighting efforts by State, political subdivisions, and other qualified entities. The purpose is to address ownership uncertainties and administrative burdens that arise after authorized users have made substantial investments in maintaining and operating these assets for extended periods. To qualify for title transfer, an authorized user must demonstrate continuous possession of an aircraft for at least 10 years, or 5 years for serviceable aircraft parts (or parts supporting an aircraft held for 10+ years). The user must also be in good standing , meaning compliance with program requirements, timely reporting, no misuse, and accurate inventory records. Upon transfer, the United States relinquishes ownership, and the authorized user assumes full ownership, though the Secretary may impose conditions for continued public use for up to five years for aircraft and three years for parts, and restrictions on sale or disposal for up to five years. The bill outlines an application process for authorized users, requiring documentation of use and good standing, with the Secretary mandated to approve or deny applications within 180 days. Furthermore, the Secretary is directed to promulgate regulations and guidance within 18 months to establish objective criteria for good standing, inventory management standards, application evaluation procedures, and safeguards to ensure compliance with national security and export control requirements.