Airlines for America (A4A) officials are commending the federal Department of Transportation (DOT) for funding airport infrastructure grants to 37 airports without additional traveler taxes.
Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao recently announced $205 million had been earmarked under the guise of supplemental funding
“We applaud Secretary Chao’s commitment to improving our nation’s airport infrastructure without adding to the tax burden currently shouldered by every American who flies,” Sharon Pinkerton, A4A senior vice president of Legislative & Regulatory Policy, said. “Today’s travelers are highly price-sensitive, and funding projects that enhance the passenger experience without asking customers to pay even more in taxes is a win for airports, local economies and everyone who takes to the skies.”
Officials said the funding stream from the $1 billion airports received in the omnibus spending bill and the $3.35 billion Congress authorized in the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) underscores the fact the nation’s airports are a significant part of the country’s infrastructure.
“Airlines are committed to providing our passengers with the best possible travel experience, and that begins and ends at airports,” Pinkerton said. “The airline industry and our airport partners have a long history of working together to complete necessary improvement projects without the government having to impose unwarranted tax hikes on passengers.”