New York State has allocated $25 million in funding to support modernization and safety upgrades at 16 public-use airports across the state. The grants, distributed through the AIR NY Aviation Capital Grant Program, are intended to improve airport operations, increase safety, and enhance economic competitiveness in local communities.
The funding will be used for projects such as hangar replacements, security improvements, and the purchase of new snow removal equipment. The program is part of a broader effort by Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration to invest in aviation infrastructure and stimulate regional economic growth.
“Thanks to our historic investments, New York’s airports are soaring to new heights and invigorating their local communities with new opportunities for economic growth and tourism,” Governor Hochul said. “This new funding available from New York State DOT’s AIR NY program will keep that momentum going and help our local airports provide more efficient and convenient travel experiences for residents and visitors alike.”
New York State Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez stated: “Governor Hochul understands that investments in our airports are investments in the economic well-being of our entire state, making it easier for people to live, work and do business here. These AIR NY investments will help ensure that our local communities are able to make important improvements in the safety, security and resilience of their airports so that in turn, they can serve as modern gateways, welcoming new businesses and opportunities that will enhance the long-term economic prosperity of each community.”
Administered by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), the AIR NY program supports projects focused on improving public and employee safety, increasing sustainability and resilience within transportation systems, advancing innovation, and strengthening local economies. In previous years—including 2023—the program provided approximately $49 million for infrastructure enhancements at 36 public-use airports statewide.
Major recipients this year include Syracuse Hancock International Airport ($2.5 million for a snow control center), Buffalo Niagara International Airport ($2.5 million for a deicing fluid treatment system), Griffiss International Airport ($2.3 million for sand/salt storage), Finger Lakes Regional Airport ($1.6 million for an equipment building), and Plattsburgh International Airport (about $753,000 for security upgrades).
Eligible projects under this grant must align with criteria such as promoting economic benefits to surrounding areas, supporting airport development plans, enhancing operational efficiency or energy use, improving safety measures or reducing emissions.
Other funded projects include electric ground service equipment at Adirondack Regional Airport; hangar construction with solar features at Akron Airport/Jesson Field; geothermal heating installation at Ithaca Tompkins International Airport; utility upgrades at LeRoy Airport; T-Hangar construction at Malone Dufort Airport; water utility connection at Ogdensburg International Airport; maintenance facilities at Orange County Airport; snow removal equipment replacement at Republic Airport; community building construction at South Albany Airport; fuel truck purchases at Watertown International Airport; among others.
The NYSDOT states its mission is to provide safe and reliable transportation while connecting communities across New York.
