ACI-NA statement on Obama Administration's FY 2011 budget

"We are pleased that in these difficult economic times the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) has escaped reductions from currently appropriated amounts. However, the President's budget speaks directly to the need to have an FAA Reauthorization bill signed into law that increases authorization amounts for AIP and increases the limit on the passenger facility charge (PFC). The AIP and the PFC play important roles in improving safety, security and customer service at airports. Critically, they also create tens of thousands of jobs in communities around the country."

Federal AIP grants are one of four primary sources of infrastructure funding. The other three sources include PFC user fees, airport bonds and locally generated revenues.

Principato applauded the Administration's inclusion of increased funding for the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen), stating:

"Since NextGen begins and ends at the airport, we are glad to see that the President has included $1.1 billion to help speed the development and implementation of a modernized air traffic control system. Airports look forward to working with the Administration and FAA on providing the ground infrastructure necessary to make NextGen a reality."

Principato was pleased that the Essential Air Service (EAS) program received a slight funding increase in the budget and expressed his determination to continue working with the House and Senate to ensure funding for the Small Community Air Service Development (SCASD) program which was zeroed out again this year in the President's budget proposal.

"With many of our nation's small airports facing reduced service, the elimination of this important program comes at a time when local communities could benefit most from the benefits of service expansion and competition. ACI-NA will continue to work with the House and Senate to restore funding for SCASD."

Principato was also pleased to see the President's budget include an increase in aviation security funding, especially additional funding to deploy 1,000 new Advanced Imaging Technology screening machines at airport checkpoints across the country.

"This increased funding will help the nation in addressing the security needs of our transportation systems. Airports operators look forward to continuing their work with the Administration and the Department of Homeland Security to maintain a multi-layered security system that protects the nation's airports and aviation system from terrorist and criminal activities."