AAAE statement on Obama Administration's FY 2011 budget request

"Given the difficult budget environment, airport executives are gratified to see that the request released today reflects a continued recognition of the need to invest in aviation security and critical airport infrastructure. We look forward to working with Congress in the months ahead to ensure that airports have the tools they need to address aging infrastructure and meet increased safety and security demands.

The federal Airport Improvement Program is certainly an important part of that effort, and the President's request of some $3.5 billion for the program represents an important starting point as the debate begins on the FY 2011 budget. Additionally, airport executives remain committed to seeing the enactment of an increase in the federal cap on local Passenger Facility Charges to $7.50 with indexing for construction cost inflation along with a permanent extension of relief from the AMT penalty for airport bonds. Taken together, these measures would improve our infrastructure, stimulate the economy and create good-paying jobs."