H.R. 3085: Expanding Regional Airports Act

This bill, known as the Expanding Regional Airports Act, aims to support and enhance regional airports in the United States, particularly those that serve smaller communities. Here are the key components of the bill:

Purpose of the Bill

The primary purpose of the bill is to establish a program that provides financial assistance to specific airports to help them improve their capacity for handling passengers and flights.

Grants for Regional Airports

The bill mandates the Secretary of Transportation to set up a grant program to offer financial assistance to eligible airports. The grants can be utilized for various activities, which include:

• Expanding facilities for screening passengers and cargo.
• Lengthening runways to accommodate larger or more flights.
• Constructing hangars and other essential infrastructure.
• Enhancing passenger facilities at the airport.
• Covering costs to meet operational and security regulations.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the grants, an airport must meet the following criteria:

• It must be categorized as a general aviation airport or a nonprimary commercial service airport, as defined by the Federal Aviation Administration.
• It should serve a community with a population of at least 75,000 residents.

Grant Distribution

The bill specifies that each fiscal year, the Secretary must provide between 3 and 10 grants to eligible airports, ensuring that a range of airports can receive support to grow and enhance their services.

Funding Authorization

The bill authorizes the appropriation of $50 million each fiscal year to fund the program aimed at supporting regional airports.

Technical Amendments

The bill also includes technical amendments to the relevant sections of the U.S. Code to reflect the establishment of the new Regional Airport Expansion Program.

Relevant Companies

• ALGT (Allegiant Travel Company) - Allegiant operates several regional airports and could benefit from increased capacity and services.
• SAVE (Spirit Airlines) - As a low-cost carrier serving various markets, Spirit may see increased traffic from improved regional airport facilities.
• UAL (United Airlines) - United serves many regional airports and could expand operations as these airports enhance their capacity.