The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (Natca) gave “Sentinel of Safety” awards to Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.) and Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.) to honor them for advancing aviation safety.

According to the controllers’ union, LoBiondo has been an outspoken leader on countless issues affecting the lives of working union members.

“LoBiondo has been a champion for Natca time and again whether fighting with the FAA on our behalf for a fair collective bargaining agreement or convincing his party colleagues to vote on legislation to get the FAA back to the collective bargaining table with Natca,” the union said.

Natca said that DeFazio has dedicated himself to promoting efficiency and fairness for all users of the National Airspace System.

“Throughout his congressional tenure, he has been a champion for aviation employees and the flying public by authoring, co-sponsoring and supporting bills and initiatives calling for vast overhauls in the aviation system.”