President signs COVID-19 relief bill, provides support to aviation

As part of the $900 billion COVID-19 relief package that was passed by the House and Senate, airports are slated to receive $2 billion, of which $45 million is designated for general aviation airports. Much of the relief for GA airports will address the needs of smaller aviation-related businesses, individuals, and families. Eligible purposes of the relief funds include costs related to operations, personnel, cleaning, sanitization, janitorial services, combating the spread of pathogens in airport facilities, and debt service payments. 

AOPA has worked diligently to ensure GA airports were included in the recent stimulus package to maintain the community airports that provide a great deal of value, services, access, and economic development to cities and towns across the nation.

“While I have been bullish on general aviation throughout this challenging year, developments like relief and the new COVID vaccines make me even more optimistic about 2021,” said AOPA President Mark Baker. “I’m looking forward to a bright year for GA.”

Commercial airlines, which have been one of the most affected industries of the COVID-19 pandemic, received $15 billion that will go toward airline payroll support and $1 billion for airline contract workers.

As part of the $1.4 trillion to fund the government through September 30, the FAA will receive $18 billion, $347 million above the 2020 funding level. The Airport Improvement Program will receive $3.35 billion, as well as an additional $400 million in discretionary funding.