No Doing So Could Result In "Significant Delays In Vital Safety Projects"

Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) President Greg Principato (pictured) has sent a letter to Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, urging him to fully fund the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) in the DOT’s FY 2013 proposed budget.
 
In his letter, sent Monday, Principato noted that AIP “ is funded by the passengers who use the system for the purpose of ensuring safe and secure airport facilities.” He also stressed that AIP clearly meets the criteria of “investing in those areas critical to job creation and economic growth" which were discussed in Office of Management and Budget Director Lew’s August 17 memo, and urged Secretary LaHood to “identify AIP as a 'priority investment' given the program’s excellent track record over the last two years in spurring economic growth and creating jobs in large and small communities.”

"One of ACI-NA’s priorities is to increase and strengthen AIP," Principato wrote. "AIP is especially important for smaller airports that have less ready access to private capital markets. It helps ensure airports are able to fund critical projects that support aircraft operations including safety and security projects, runway and taxiway projects and other airfield maintenance."

The Airports Council leader reminded Secretary LaHood that, according to both FAA and industry studies, the need for AIP far exceeds existing grants. "Therefore any proposed reductions to AIP funding will mean significant delays for vital safety, security and modernization projects, negatively impacting the traveling public and ultimately our national economy," he said."

FMI: www.aci-na.org