FAA Announces Second Round of Airport Grants

DALLAS — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced a new round of Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG).

This funding will cover various projects, from terminal expansions to safety enhancements. A total of US$289 million is allocated to improve airports in 40 states, providing a significant boost to contractors nationwide.

With rising travel volumes and flight costs, the FAA announcement looks to enhance the nation's airport experience. In June 2024, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened 2.99 million passengers in a single day across various airports.

The TSA estimates a 5.4% increase in travel volume this year compared to 2023.

Airport Projects Starting in 2024

As reported by CONEXPO-CON/AGG, the largest construction show in North America, the FAA has released a comprehensive list of funded projects, highlighting some of the major initiatives scheduled for 2024:

• Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (SIT): This project will begin with two primary phases, aiming for completion by summer 2026. It will receive about US$36 million from federal grants, with an additional US$4 million from the city.
  
• George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): Budgeted at US$1.4 billion, this project focuses on increasing roadway capacity and improving baggage handling, among other upgrades, with completion expected in 2025.
• Charlotte Douglas International (CLT): With a total of US$405 million from grants and other sources, this project will expand the south ramp to reduce congestion and enhance operations, aiming for completion by March 2030.
• Orlando International Airport (MCO): Allocated US$61.9 million, this project will add more gates, renovate terminals, improve parking, and expand bathrooms.
• Harry Reid International Airport (LAS): This project will use US$27.8 million to expand airport infrastructure, upgrade terminals, and enhance traveler experiences, with operations expected to start in 2027.

The AIG Program

Last June, the FAA announced it was providing funding for 91 airport-related infrastructure grants across 34 states. These grants are part of POTUS' Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) AIG program, which aims to improve airport facilities across the country.

The total funding for airport improvements, including terminal expansions, baggage system upgrades, and runway safety enhancements, is US$25 billion. The grants announced today, totaling US$186.7 million, will support critical upgrades at 91 airports across the country.

Some of the airports mentioned in June receiving funding include Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) in Michigan (US$61.8m), San Diego International Airport (SAN) in California (US$23.5m), Kodiak Airport (ADQ) in Alaska (US$19.7m), Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) in Pennsylvania (US$20.5m), and Portland International Jetport (PWM) in Maine (US$8.1m).