Summary: A 1976 report on Federal Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) Transport Programs was summarized. The major thrust of the report was to recommend reassessment of the needs and priorities for short-haul transportation systems. GAO noted that the Department of Transportation sees improved rail systems and better use of existing air transportation facilities as the preferred solutions to congestion in high density corridors. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, however, is proceeding with research on STOL transports to solve airport congestion despite the fact that little or nothing is being done to resolve questions concerning the need and timeliness for a new short-haul system. Air Force contractors involved in the development of STOL cargo aircraft see no commercial or cargo market for this type of aircraft. There is no real agreement on the specific requirements for a commercially viable STOL system. Long-term actions are being taken to improve existing air traffic capacity and to develop competing rail service. If successfully completed, they will alleviate the need for a STOL short-haul passenger system. Development of jet STOL transport technology appears to be ahead of other system components such as terminal facilities, airports, routes, and air traffic control.
