A House panel today approved a measure to bolster aviation research and development and to help lawmakers keep closer tabs on the transition to a new air traffic control system.

The measure (HR 2698), approved by voice vote by the House Science and Technology Committee, is expected to be folded into a larger Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill being drafted. The measure was approved June 14 by the Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics.

“This will help ensure that the FAA has the tools to keep the nation’s air traffic control system safe, efficient and environmentally friendly,” said Mark Udall, D-Colo.

The FAA’s aviation research and development programs would be allocated $335 million in fiscal 2008, rising to $515 million in fiscal 2011.

The bill also contains provisions intended to help keep lawmakers apprised of the FAA’s transition to a new air traffic control system, including one requiring the FAA to create an implementation plan and timetables for the new system.

The measure also would create new reporting responsibilities and add related personnel at the FAA, NASA and other agencies with a stake in the air traffic control system.