05.07.24

Durbin Files Bipartisan Amendment to FAA Reauthorization in Support of Local Airports

The amendment would require DOT and FAA to study ways to improve existing federal programs to help local airports maintain sufficient flight service

CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today filed a bipartisan amendment to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill that was released earlier this week.  The proposed amendment would support nonhub airports in smaller communities by requiring the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and FAA to conduct a study to review options to improve existing federal programs, in addition to considering new ones, to help local airports secure and maintain sufficient flight service, with schedules that reflect local demand.  U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) is a cosponsor of the amendment. 

Specifically, the amendment would support communities that are not a part of DOT’s Essential Air Service (EAS) program, including Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport in Springfield, Illinois.  The amendment was prompted by concerns from Springfield constituents that the only flights offered to Chicago are at inconvenient times that do not reflect local demand or need.  In February, Durbin joined his colleagues in sending a letter to American Airlines leadership expressing their frustration about the ill-timed flight schedule at Springfield’s airport and urging them to change available times for flights from Springfield to Chicago.

“As a frequent flyer who relies on the service at Springfield’s airport, I know that maintaining adequate service at our state’s smaller regional airports is critical,” said Durbin.  “This bipartisan amendment to the FAA reauthorization bill, with Senator Grassley, would help ensure that regional airports are not left behind.  I hope to see the final version of this legislation include serious support for local airports and the Illinoisans who rely on their flight service for work or leisure.”

“Reliable air service keeps Iowa vibrant and prosperous,” Grassley said. “Unfortunately, some communities have lost their regularly scheduled air services. I’m proud to support this effort to help secure and retain sufficient flight services for Iowans.” 

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