Summary
Funding Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding nearly $1 billion to airports across the country for projects focused on enhancing the passenger experience, increasing accessibility, and other crucial improvements.
Top Airports Receiving Grants
This funding, sourced from the Biden administration’s Infrastructure Law, will be allocated in varying grant amounts to approximately 100 different airports throughout the United States. Notably, Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport is set to receive the highest amount at $50 million. This grant will primarily focus on upgrading and expanding the 60-year-old Terminal 3 building, including reconfiguring the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint, installing Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant restrooms, and modernizing the baggage system.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized, “Americans deserve the best airports in the world, and with the demand for air travel surging back, this funding to enhance the passenger experience couldn’t come at a more critical time. These grants will streamline the process for checking bags, passing through security, and locating gates, while simultaneously creating jobs and supporting local economies.”
Support for Smaller Airports
Furthermore, Orlando International Airport will receive a $49 million grant, which is earmarked for the construction of four additional multiple aircraft ramp system (MARS) gates. In addition, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport will be awarded $38 million to expand Concourses A and B, enhancing baggage systems and adding new concession spaces and modern restrooms.
Smaller airports also received significant funding; for example, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport in Florida was awarded $10 million to implement new passenger security screening checkpoint lanes, add five gates, and develop an energy-efficient central energy plant.
Impact of the Infrastructure Law
Deputy FAA Administrator A. Bradley Mims mentioned, “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.”
The Infrastructure Law, initially passed in 2021, has since facilitated various projects, including initiatives to expand electric vehicle charging stations across the nation.
