The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said on Oct. 24 more than $970 million was awarded to 125 U.S airports in 46 states, Guam and Palau to help modernize airport terminals.
While the FAA has traditionally only invested in runways, air traffic-control towers, and back-of-house infrastructure, the new program, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will focus on improving the passenger experience and improving disabled passengers’ accessibility. The funding will support new baggage systems, larger security checkpoints, increased gate capacity, ground transportation and modernized infrastructure throughout terminals.
“Investing in America’s airport infrastructure isn’t just about upgrading runways and terminals—it’s about growing local economies, creating jobs, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of travel,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. The grants will help airports across the country make their operations safer, more accessible, and more convenient for travelers, he added.
Among the awards were $40 million for the Tampa International Airport in Florida to connect its Terminal D to the main terminal with an automated people mover, as well as add nine passenger boarding bridges; $10 million for the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport in Montana to support terminal reconstruction and expansion; and $9.7 million for the Nashville International Airport in Tennessee to fund terminal access road improvements including road widening, as well as bridge and ramp construction.
“We’re working to ensure passengers’ safety, comfort, and convenience throughout their airport journey,” FAA Associate Administrator for Airports Shannetta R. Griffin said. “Today’s investment also builds communities by providing good-paying jobs and infusing dollars in local economies.”
Many of the projects contain multiple improvement elements, including expanded terminal facilities, increased access from airports to other modes of transportation, refurbished air traffic control towers, and terminal sustainability.