U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investing $481 million to upgrade infrastructure and enhance safety at airports across the United States. The funding release comes ahead of the busy Labor Day travel period, targeting infrastructure improvements across American airports.
The total allocation delivers 191 individual grants to airports located across 36 states and two territories through the Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) program. Under program parameters, AIG funding can be utilized for airport planning, development, terminal improvements, baggage system upgrades, runway and taxiway rehabilitation, roadway and access improvements, and other safety-related infrastructure needs.
Key individual awards include $100 million designated for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in Georgia to support runway, taxiway, and terminal reconstruction as well as runway safety area improvements. Additionally, Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) in Kentucky receives $32.5 million to reconstruct its terminal, while San Diego International Airport (SAN) in California is awarded $30.3 million for terminal construction.
Specific grants also include $14.2 million for Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport in Wisconsin for taxiway construction and rehabilitation, alongside $8.7 million for El Paso International Airport (ELP) in Texas to rehabilitate its apron. Furthermore, general aviation airports in Wisconsin receive a combined $2.5 million for terminal reconstruction, runway and taxiway rehabilitation, and snow-removal-equipment building reconstruction.
Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy noted that investing in critical infrastructure aims to deliver a more seamless and efficient travel experience for American families, describing runway upgrades as an essential component of transportation development. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford highlighted that these infrastructure investments maintain passenger safety and operational efficiency, helping airports fulfill present travel demands while preparing for future operational requirements.
