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Air Cambodia Orders COMAC C909 Jets Expanding Southeast Asia Aviation Market

Air Cambodia signs deal for up to 20 COMAC C909 jets, enhancing regional connectivity and reflecting China’s growing aviation presence in Southeast Asia.

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Air Cambodia Becomes Latest Customer for China-Made COMAC Aircraft: A Strategic Expansion in Southeast Asia’s Aviation Market

Air Cambodia’s recent agreement to purchase up to 20 COMAC C909 regional jets marks a significant milestone in the ongoing expansion of China’s aviation industry. This development, formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed on September 9, 2025, covers 10 firm orders and options for 10 additional aircraft. As the fourth Southeast Asian nation to embrace Chinese-manufactured commercial aircraft, Air Cambodia’s move signals both operational ambitions and a broader strategic partnership with China. The deal extends beyond mere aircraft acquisition, involving comprehensive operational support and industrial development cooperation, reflecting China’s larger geopolitical and economic objectives in the region.

This agreement comes at a time of heightened competition between Chinese and Western aerospace manufacturers. Boeing and Airbus have faced supply chain disruptions, while China’s Commercial Aircraft Corporation (COMAC) continues to push into international markets. The Air Cambodia-COMAC deal not only highlights shifting trade relationships but also underscores the evolving dynamics of the global aviation industry. The implications reach far beyond Cambodia, potentially influencing regional connectivity, economic development, and the competitive landscape of Commercial-Aircraft.

Understanding the significance of this partnership requires a closer examination of COMAC’s rise, the specific details of the Air Cambodia deal, and the broader context of Southeast Asia’s aviation market. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of these elements, offering insights into the challenges, opportunities, and future implications of this landmark development.

Background on COMAC and China’s Aviation Ambitions

The Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) was established in May 2008 as a cornerstone of China’s ambition to challenge the global duopoly of Boeing and Airbus. Backed by state-owned enterprises and significant government capital, COMAC’s creation signaled a strategic move to develop indigenous aerospace capabilities and reduce reliance on Western technology. The company’s roots can be traced to earlier Chinese attempts at commercial aircraft manufacturing, such as the Shanghai Y-10 project in the 1970s, which laid the groundwork for future endeavors despite its commercial failure.

COMAC’s first notable achievement was the ARJ21 regional jet, which later became the C909 under a branding realignment. The ARJ21’s maiden flight in 2008 and subsequent certification by the Civil Aviation Administration of China in 2014 marked a turning point for Chinese aviation. These milestones demonstrated China’s ability to produce aircraft that meet international airworthiness standards, setting the stage for more ambitious projects like the C919 narrowbody and the C929 widebody programs.

Beyond aircraft development, China has invested heavily in building a comprehensive aerospace ecosystem. This includes infrastructure, pilot training, maintenance, and supporting industries. The government’s industrial policy identifies aerospace as a strategic sector, ensuring continued financial and regulatory support. These efforts reflect a long-term vision to position China as a major player in global commercial aviation, leveraging both technological development and international partnerships.

The Air Cambodia Deal: Details and Significance

The memorandum of understanding between Air Cambodia and COMAC, announced on September 8, 2025, is one of the largest overseas Orders for the C909 program. The structure of the deal, 10 firm orders and 10 options, provides Air Cambodia with flexibility for future expansion. Should all options be exercised, Air Cambodia could become the largest international operator of the C909 outside China, underscoring the strategic importance of this partnership for both parties.

Air Cambodia, formerly known as Cambodia Angkor Air until its rebranding in January 2025, has been on a growth trajectory. The airline reported 20 percent income growth in 2024 and set new performance records by the end of the year. Its fleet currently consists of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, as well as ATR 72 turboprops, with additional ATRs on order. The introduction of the C909 aligns with the airline’s plans to expand regional and domestic connectivity, including new routes to Bangkok, Japan, and South Korea.

The agreement with COMAC extends beyond aircraft delivery. It includes operational support and industrial development cooperation, suggesting possible investments in local maintenance, training programs, or even component manufacturing in Cambodia. Such collaboration could enhance Cambodia’s aviation sector while deepening economic ties with China. For COMAC, securing a reference customer in a growing Southeast Asian market strengthens its credibility and supports its broader internationalization strategy.

“This deal potentially positions Air Cambodia as the largest international operator of C909 aircraft outside of China, should all options be exercised.”

COMAC’s Southeast Asian Expansion Strategy

COMAC’s entry into Southeast Asia is part of a deliberate strategy to establish a foothold in a region with robust aviation growth. With Air Cambodia joining Indonesia, Laos, and Vietnam as operators of the C909, COMAC is building a network of reference customers that can provide operational data, maintenance synergies, and market credibility. As of 2025, these Airlines collectively operate seven C909 jets across 15 routes, connecting 18 cities in the region.

The company has also set up representative offices in Hong Kong and Singapore, signaling its commitment to providing local support and customer service. These offices facilitate sales, technical assistance, and spare parts distribution, addressing concerns about operational reliability and after-sales support. The Singapore office, in particular, places COMAC at the heart of Southeast Asia’s aviation hub, enhancing its visibility and accessibility to regional airlines.

COMAC’s expansion is further supported by ongoing discussions with airlines in other countries, including potential deals with Garuda Indonesia and Kazakhstan’s SCAT Airlines. The company’s ability to offer shorter delivery times, thanks to supply chain constraints faced by Boeing and Airbus, makes it an attractive option for airlines looking to expand quickly. The region’s projected need for 2,800 new aircraft by 2035, driven by annual passenger growth rates of nearly 8 percent, presents a significant opportunity for COMAC to increase its market share.

“The region’s projected aviation growth, with passenger traffic expected to increase at 7.9 percent annually and requiring 2,800 new aircraft by 2035, provides substantial market opportunity for COMAC.”

Technical and Commercial Aspects of the C909 Aircraft

The C909, formerly known as the ARJ21, is China’s first independently developed regional jet. Designed for 78 to 97 passengers, the aircraft features a 2-3 seating configuration and a range of 2,225 to 3,700 kilometers, making it suitable for both short domestic hops and medium-haul regional routes. Its dimensions and weight allow it to operate from airports with moderate runway lengths, a key advantage in Southeast Asian markets.

The aircraft is powered by two General Electric CF34-10A engines, a proven design but one that highlights China’s ongoing reliance on Western technology. While the C909’s list price of approximately $38 million is significantly lower than Western competitors like Embraer’s E190-E2 and E195-E2, the aircraft’s fuel efficiency and maintenance costs may not match those of newer models using more advanced engines. Airlines must weigh these factors against the attractive acquisition cost and potential financing terms offered by Chinese state-backed banks.

The commercial success of the C909 depends not only on its technical merits but also on the strength of COMAC’s support network. Establishing robust maintenance, training, and spare parts infrastructure is critical for winning and retaining international customers. For Air Cambodia, integrating the C909 will require investments in technical training and maintenance capabilities, but it also offers the opportunity to develop local expertise and create new jobs within the country’s aviation sector.

Geopolitical Implications and US-China Trade Tensions

The Air Cambodia-COMAC deal unfolds against a backdrop of escalating US-China trade tensions, which have direct implications for the aviation industry. The United States has imposed export restrictions on key components used in COMAC aircraft, including temporary suspensions of engine exports. These measures underscore the sector’s vulnerability to geopolitical pressures and the challenges China faces in developing a fully independent aerospace supply chain.

In 2021, the US government designated COMAC as a company “owned or controlled” by the Chinese military, barring American investment and complicating international transactions. Further restrictions in 2025 targeted specific aircraft components, though some were later lifted. These policy shifts highlight the uncertainty facing airlines considering COMAC products, particularly those with significant US market exposure or financing relationships.

For Southeast Asian countries, decisions to purchase Chinese aircraft are not purely commercial. They reflect broader considerations about economic alignment, risk diversification, and regional diplomacy. The ability to access favorable financing and infrastructure development packages from China can be attractive, but airlines and governments must also navigate the complexities of international trade and technology dependencies.

“Commercial aviation has become entangled in broader strategic competition between the United States and China.”

Conclusion

Air Cambodia’s agreement to acquire up to 20 COMAC C909 aircraft represents a landmark in China’s ongoing efforts to expand its presence in the global aviation market. The deal underscores the growing competitiveness of Chinese aerospace manufacturers and highlights the shifting dynamics of Southeast Asia’s aviation sector. By partnering with COMAC, Air Cambodia gains access to cost-effective regional aircraft and comprehensive support, while China strengthens its position as a key player in the region’s economic and transportation infrastructure.

The broader implications of this development extend to issues of geopolitical alignment, supply chain resilience, and the future structure of the global aircraft market. As COMAC continues to build its international presence, the evolution from a Boeing-Airbus duopoly to a more diversified competitive landscape appears increasingly plausible. The success of such efforts will depend on sustained investment, technological innovation, and the ability to navigate complex international relationships in an era of heightened geopolitical uncertainty.

FAQ

Q: What is the significance of Air Cambodia’s order for COMAC aircraft?
A: It marks one of the largest overseas orders for the C909 program and positions Air Cambodia as a key reference customer for COMAC in Southeast Asia, supporting both operational expansion and strategic economic ties with China.

Q: What challenges does COMAC face in expanding internationally?
A: COMAC must overcome certification hurdles, build robust maintenance and support infrastructure, and address vulnerabilities related to reliance on Western technology amid ongoing trade tensions.

Q: How does the C909 compare to Western regional jets?
A: The C909 offers a lower acquisition cost but may lag behind in fuel efficiency and advanced engine technology compared to aircraft like the Embraer E190-E2. Airlines must consider total lifecycle costs and operational support.

Q: Why is Southeast Asia a strategic market for COMAC?
A: The region’s rapid aviation growth, geographic characteristics, and increasing demand for regional connectivity make it an ideal market for 78-97 seat aircraft like the C909.

Sources

Photo Credit: Reuters

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Aircraft Orders & Deliveries

Saudia Expands Fleet with Airbus A321XLR and 12 New Aircraft in 2026

Saudia plans to add 12 aircraft in 2026, reaching 161 total. The fleet includes the Airbus A321XLR, enhancing long-haul efficiency and premium service.

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This article is based on an official press release from Saudia.

Saudia, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is accelerating its fleet modernization strategy. According to an official company press release, the airline plans to take delivery of 12 new aircraft throughout 2026. This ongoing expansion is projected to bring Saudia’s total active fleet to 161 aircraft by the end of the year.

The 2026 delivery schedule is designed to reinforce the airline’s long-term transformation strategy. By integrating next-generation aircraft, Saudia aims to increase operational capacity, improve network flexibility, and support the development of new international destinations while elevating the overall passenger experience.

Modernizing the Fleet with Next-Generation Aircraft

The Airbus A321XLR Game-Changer

A major highlight of this expansion phase is the introduction of the Airbus A321XLR. Supplementary industry data indicates that Saudia is the first operator of this extra-long-range narrow-body jet in the Middle East and Africa, having received its first unit in late May 2026. The airline has 15 A321XLRs on order, with all expected to be delivered by the end of 2027.

The A321XLR boasts a range of up to 8,700 kilometers, allowing Saudia to operate long-haul routes with the economic efficiency of a single-aisle aircraft. It features a premium, low-density 144-seat configuration, which includes 24 full-flat Business Class suites and 120 Economy Class seats.

Enhancing the A321neo Experience

Alongside the XLR, the standard Airbus A321neo further enhances Saudia’s narrow-body capabilities for short-to-medium-haul routes. The press release notes that these aircraft feature 188 seats, 20 in Business Class and 168 in Guest Class. Both aircraft types are equipped with high-speed inflight connectivity, 13-inch personal entertainment screens, and upgraded cabin designs aimed at improving onboard comfort.

Operational Readiness and Workforce Development

Expanding a global fleet requires significant logistical and human resource planning. Saudia has emphasized that workforce preparation is occurring concurrently with its aircraft deliveries. To prevent operational bottlenecks, the airline has already graduated new cohorts of pilots, cabin crew, and maintenance specialists through training programs aligned with international aviation standards.

“Preparing the workforce for fleet expansion is just as important as preparing the aircraft themselves,” stated His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, in the official release.

With the fleet expected to reach 161 aircraft by year-end, additional cohorts are currently undergoing training to support future deliveries, reflecting the airline’s commitment to developing national talent.

Strategic Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030

The fleet expansion is heavily intertwined with Saudi Vision 2030. According to broader industry reports, the Kingdom’s National Aviation Strategy aims to attract 150 million visitors annually and accommodate 330 million airport users by the end of the decade. Saudia’s growth is positioned as a critical enabler of these tourism and connectivity ambitions.

AirPro News analysis

We observe that Saudia’s deployment of the A321XLR represents a strategic “right-sizing” of its network. By utilizing a 144-seat narrow-body aircraft on routes to Europe or the Maldives, the airline can maintain premium service frequencies without the financial risk of operating half-empty wide-body jets, such as the Boeing 787 or 777.

Furthermore, this expansion comes amid heightened domestic competition. With the launch of the Kingdom’s second flag carrier, Riyadh Air, in late 2025, and the aggressive growth of low-cost carriers like flynas, Saudia’s focus on premium cabins and operational efficiency is a calculated move. The inclusion of 24 full-flat suites on a single-aisle aircraft signals a clear intent to defend its market share and compete directly with top-tier global carriers for high-paying business and leisure travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • How many aircraft is Saudia receiving in 2026? Saudia is taking delivery of 12 new aircraft progressively throughout 2026.
  • What is Saudia’s target fleet size? The airline expects its active fleet to reach 161 aircraft by the end of 2026.
  • What makes the Airbus A321XLR significant? The A321XLR allows Saudia to fly long-haul routes (up to 8,700 kilometers) using a highly efficient, single-aisle narrow-body aircraft equipped with premium full-flat Business Class suites.

Sources: Saudia Press Release, Industry Research Data

Photo Credit: Saudia

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Route Development

Annecy Airport Opens €2.5M Eco-Friendly Terminal Upgrade

VINCI Airports and Haute-Savoie Council inaugurate a €2.5 million eco-friendly terminal at Annecy Airport, boosting passenger comfort and sustainability.

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This article is based on an official press release from VINCI Airports.

Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Airport Inaugurates €2.5 Million Eco-Friendly Terminal

On May 26, 2026, VINCI Airports and the Haute-Savoie Council officially inaugurated the newly renovated terminal at the Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Airport (NCY). According to the official press release, the €2.5 million redevelopment project is designed to enhance the experience for both passengers and employees while aligning the facility with stringent environmental standards.

The airport, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, serves as a critical gateway for business and general aviation. It offers direct access to Lake Annecy, Lake Geneva, and the prestigious winter sports resorts of the Mont Blanc region.

This terminal inauguration marks a significant milestone in a broader €10 million, 15-year investment plan that began when VINCI Airports assumed management of the airport’s concession in 2022. The public service delegation agreement, awarded by the Haute-Savoie Council, runs until 2037.

Modernizing the Passenger and Crew Experience

Construction on the terminal lasted 18 months, commencing in July 2024 and concluding in January 2026. The press release notes that the facility now boasts three modern passenger lounges, a significant upgrade from the single lounge previously available to travelers.

In addition to passenger amenities, the renovation prioritized operational staff and flight crews. The terminal now includes a dedicated rest area for crews and more ergonomic workspaces for airport employees. Furthermore, a newly integrated forecourt has been designed to facilitate easier access for people with reduced mobility (PRM).

Part of a Broader Master Plan

The terminal upgrade is a central component of the long-term modernization strategy co-financed by VINCI Airports and the Haute-Savoie Council. Prior to the terminal’s completion, VINCI Airports successfully restored the airport’s runways, taxiways, and aircraft stands as part of its initial infrastructure improvements.

Driving the Green Transition in Regional Aviation

A major focus of the €2.5 million renovation was reducing the airport’s carbon footprint, a move that aligns with VINCI Airports’ global environmental strategy to achieve net-zero emissions (Scopes 1 and 2) across its network by 2050.

According to the company’s statements, the new terminal will reduce emissions by 30 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year. This reduction is achieved through the complete elimination of gas use, the installation of reinforced thermal insulation, and the implementation of precise monitoring equipment for water and electricity consumption.

Beyond the terminal building, the airport has also upgraded its airside infrastructure to support next-generation aircraft. A newly installed fuel station is now capable of distributing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and features a charging point for electric aircraft.

“The inauguration of this new terminal marks a key milestone in the development of Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc airport. It reflects our commitment to providing optimal service quality to all passengers while integrating the airport into a sustainable and energy-efficient approach. Alongside the Haute-Savoie Council, we have leveraged our expertise to enhance the region’s influence and meet the shared ambitions for the airport’s future,” stated Rémi Maumon de Longevialle, CEO of VINCI Airports, in the press release.

AirPro News analysis

We observe that regional airports like Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc are increasingly serving as vital proving grounds for aviation’s green transition. By integrating SAF distribution and electric aircraft charging points into a relatively small-scale €2.5 million terminal project, operators can test and refine sustainable infrastructure before scaling it to major international hubs. Furthermore, the collaboration between a private operator and a local governmental body highlights how public-private partnerships are essential for funding the modernization of aging regional aviation assets without placing the entire financial burden on local municipalities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much did the new terminal at Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Airport cost?
The terminal redevelopment project cost €2.5 million and was co-financed by VINCI Airports and the Haute-Savoie Council.

What are the environmental benefits of the new terminal?
The new facility is projected to reduce emissions by 30 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year by eliminating gas use, improving thermal insulation, and monitoring utility consumption. The airport also added SAF distribution and electric aircraft charging capabilities.

Who manages the Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Airport?
VINCI Airports manages the facility under a 15-year public service delegation agreement awarded by the Haute-Savoie Council, which began on January 1, 2022, and runs until 2037.


Sources: VINCI Airports Official Press Release

Photo Credit: VINCI Airports

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FAA Allocates $523 Million for Airport Infrastructure Upgrades in 2026

FAA announces $523 million in grants to modernize airports across 43 states, supporting runway, terminal, and safety improvements in 2026.

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This article is based on an official press release from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

On May 28, 2026, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced a substantial injection of capital into the American aviation system. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy revealed that over $523 million in infrastructure grants will be distributed to airports across the United States. According to the official press release, this funding aims to modernize aging facilities, enhance operational safety, and improve overall efficiency for travelers.

This allocation marks the fifth and final installment of the $2.89 billion designated for fiscal year 2026 under the Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) program. The FAA noted that the funds will be spread across 332 individual grants, reaching airports in 43 states.

As we look toward a record-breaking summer travel season, these investments target critical upgrades. Eligible projects under this funding round include runway and taxiway rehabilitation, apron improvements, terminal upgrades, baggage system replacements, de-icing pad expansions, roadway access improvements, and sustainability initiatives.

Breaking Down the $523 Million Investment

Major Airport Allocations

The FAA highlighted several major airports receiving significant portions of the funding to address critical infrastructure needs. According to the agency’s data, the largest single grant in this round is directed to Texas, with substantial investments also flowing into Florida, North Carolina, and New York.

Key allocations detailed in the announcement include:

  • Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (TX): $70 million designated for runway rehabilitation.
  • Charlotte Douglas International Airport (NC): $46.9 million for apron expansion.
  • Miami International Airport (FL): $41.9 million for terminal reconstruction and fuel farm expansion.
  • Syracuse Hancock International Airport (NY): $18.7 million for de-icing pad expansion and reconstruction.
  • Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FL): $18.6 million for new taxi lane construction.
  • Philadelphia International Airport (PA): $18 million for taxiway pavement reconstruction.
  • Orlando Sanford International Airport (FL): $16.2 million for a taxiway extension.
  • Baton Rouge Metro Airport/Ryan Field (LA): $10.9 million for terminal and baggage system replacement.
  • Eppley Airfield (Omaha, NE): $10.5 million for terminal and boarding bridge reconstruction.

The Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) Program

The funding vehicle for these grants, the AIG program, was established under the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act signed into law in 2021. The FAA states that the program was designed to provide $14.5 billion over five years, beginning in fiscal year 2022, to support both primary and non-primary airports across the country.

Leadership Perspectives and Growing Demand

Preparing for the Summer Surge

The aviation sector is currently experiencing surging demand. To provide context, the Department of Transportation recently forecasted 5.4 million flights between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend in 2026. This underscores the urgent need for infrastructure reliability and modernization across the national airspace.

In the official announcement, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy emphasized the administration’s focus on improving the passenger experience:

“Upgrading our runway infrastructure is part of our work to usher in the Golden Age of Transportation. American families deserve state-of-the-art runways and infrastructure that will make their travel experience safer, smoother, and more efficient.”, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford echoed this sentiment, highlighting the speed at which the agency is deploying these funds to meet industry pressures:

“The FAA is moving at record speed to deliver these investments to airports nationwide. These projects will improve reliability across the aviation system while helping airports meet growing demand.”, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford

Broader Aviation Modernization Efforts

Modern Skies and Workforce Development

The $523 million infrastructure announcement does not exist in a vacuum; it is part of a broader push by the current administration to overhaul the U.S. aviation system. Just days prior, on May 22, 2026, Secretary Duffy announced the launch of the “Modern Skies” website. This transparency tool tracks a separate $12.5 billion effort to modernize the nation’s air traffic control system, which includes replacing aging radar systems, radios, and copper wire connections by 2028.

Furthermore, on May 18, 2026, the FAA announced a $970 million investment through the Airport Terminal Program (ATP). This specific funding is aimed at making airports more family-friendly, supporting projects like sensory rooms, mother’s rooms, and upgraded restrooms.

Addressing the human element of aviation infrastructure, Secretary Duffy also announced on May 28 that Angelo State University became the first Texas college to join the FAA’s Enhanced Air Traffic Controller Training Program, a move designed to address the ongoing need for qualified aviation personnel.

AirPro News analysis

We view this latest round of FAA funding as a necessary, albeit overdue, step toward stabilizing an aviation network that has been stretched thin by post-pandemic travel surges. By simultaneously addressing physical infrastructure (the $523 million AIG grants), technological backbones (the $12.5 billion Modern Skies initiative), and human capital (the Enhanced Air Traffic Controller Training Program), the Department of Transportation is attempting a holistic fix rather than piecemeal patching.

However, the true test of these investments will be in their execution. While $70 million for Dallas-Fort Worth or $41.9 million for Miami are substantial figures, the timeline for completing runway rehabilitations and terminal reconstructions often stretches over years. Passengers navigating the forecasted 5.4 million flights this summer will likely not feel the immediate benefits of these specific grants, but the long-term capacity and safety improvements are vital for the industry’s sustained growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) program?
The AIG program is a funding initiative established by the 2021 bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. It provides $14.5 billion over five years to modernize primary and non-primary airports across the United States.

How many airports are receiving funding in this latest round?
The FAA is distributing over $523 million through 332 individual grants to airports across 43 states.

What types of projects are eligible for this funding?
Funds are designated for runway and taxiway rehabilitation, apron improvements, terminal upgrades, baggage system replacements, de-icing pad expansions, roadway access improvements, and sustainability projects.

Sources: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Press Release

Photo Credit: Miami International Airport

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