On Monday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced it would be awarding nearly $1 billion to airports across the country to keep up with air travel demand.
The funding, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, would go to 99 airports in 47 states and two territories to help with larger security checkpoints; faster, more reliable baggage systems; and better roadways and multimodal connections; as well as increase terminal sustainability and improve accessibility, the FAA said.
“Americans deserve the best airports in the world, and with demand for air travel surging back, this funding to improve the passenger experience comes at the right time,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “These grants will make it faster and easier to check your bags, get through security and find your gate, all while creating jobs and supporting local economies.”
Included in the funding were $10.8 million for the Des Moines International Airport in Des Moines, Iowa, to replace a terminal operating; $10 million for the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport in Sarasota, Fla., to expand a terminal with new passenger security screening checkpoint lanes, five gates and a new energy-efficiency central energy plant; and $4.4 million for the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport in Anchorage, Alaska to install upgraded baggage handling systems.
“Today’s funding doesn’t just improve airport terminals. It creates opportunities in communities large and small for good-paying jobs and a chance to be part of our country’s thriving aviation sector,” said Deputy FAA Administrator A. Bradley Mims.
The FAA said the awards were in addition to the $1 billion for airport terminal projects announced last year.