The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), under the U.S. Department of Transportation, has announced the allocation of over $123 million for projects focused on enhancing airfield safety and other crucial improvements at 235 airports across 35 states and the District of Columbia. This funding represents the second phase of the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants, demonstrating the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to creating a safer, more accessible, and resilient aviation system.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the significance of these grants, stating, “The grants we’re announcing today will help modernize hundreds of airports across the country and better meet the current and future demands of the flying public.”
The AIP grants encompass a diverse range of projects, including the construction of new and upgraded airport facilities, essential repairs to runways and taxiways, maintenance of crucial airfield elements such as lighting and signage, and acquisition of vital equipment for seamless airport operations and upkeep.
FAA Associate Administrator for Airports Shannetta R. Griffin, P.E., highlighted the impact of this investment, saying, “This $123 million investment helps airports across the Nation sustain and improve critical infrastructure to advance the safest, most efficient airport system in the world.”
The Airport Improvement Program plays a crucial role in securing approximately $3.3 billion in funding annually, facilitating the continuous modernization and enhancement of airport infrastructure nationwide. This funding ensures the efficient and safe operation of airports across the country, meeting the evolving needs of the flying public and contributing to the overall advancement of the aviation sector.
