Airport Groups Call For More AIP Funding
By Adrian Schofield
Industry groups are faulting the Obama administration for not increasing airport grant money in the Fiscal 2010 budget, and are also concerned about the elimination of funding for a small community air service program.
While the Fiscal 2010 budget increases FAA funding overall, the administration is requesting that the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) receives the same amount as last year. The 2010 budget recommends $3.5 billion for AIP, which is equal to the Fiscal 2009 amount if $1.1 billion in 2009 stimulus funding is deducted.
Airports Council International said it is disappointed that funding for AIP was not increased. “NextGen begins and ends at the airport and increased airport funding is essential for modernizing our air transportation system,” said ACI President Greg Principato. ACI also believes it is important that an increase in passenger facility charges is approved by Congress.
The American Association of Airport Executives notes that AIP has not been subjected to the cuts that were attempted in recent years by the Bush administration but overturned by Congress. “While the Obama budget is certainly an improvement over previous budget requests, AAAE will continue to work with Congress to fund the critical AIP program at the $4 billion level authorized by Congress as part of pending FAA reauthorization legislation,” the group said.
The two airport associations also expressed their concern that funding for the small community air service development program has been zeroed out. “Given that many airports are facing reduced air service, this program is even more important than ever,” said Principato. “We will continue working with the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to obtain $10 million in funding [for this program].”
However, at the same time, the essential air service program saw an increase from $133 million to $175 million. There also was a significant increase in the amount allocated for installing explosive detection systems at airports.
Photo: Chicago Aviation Dept.
