The Senate on Feb. 10 passed its version of an economic stimulus bill. The $838 billion package includes an additional $1.1 billion for airports. This contrasts with the House bill, which would add $3 billion more to Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding.

“Investing in aviation infrastructure will put people to work, help local communities, and encourage more economic investment,” said AOPA President Craig Fuller.

The two bills now go to a conference committee to work out the differences. While President Barack Obama wants to sign an economic stimulus bill on President’s Day, some members of Congress predict it won’t be ready until later next week.