The Administrator should ensure that NASA maintains a strong aeronautics research portfolio ranging from fundamental research through systems research with specific research goals, including the following:

((1)) ** Airspace capacity** NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate shall address research needs of the Next Generation Air Transportation System, including the ability of the National Airspace System to handle up to 3 times the current travel demand by 2025.

((2)) ** Environmental sustainability** The Directorate shall consider and pursue concepts to reduce noise, emissions, and fuel consumption while maintaining high safety standards and shall pursue research related to alternative fuels.

((3)) ** Aviation safety** The Directorate shall proactively address safety challenges with new and current air vehicles and with operations in the Nation’s current and future air transportation system.