Kelly Endorses Bipartisan Bill Boosting Aviation Infrastructure

The Facts -

• • Governor Laura Kelly signed House Bill 2498, a bipartisan bill increasing investment in Kansas' public airports.

• • The bill increases annual funding for the Kansas Airport Improvement Program (KAIP) from $5 million to $15 million.

• • Additional resources will support initiatives such as pavement improvement, safety enhancements, and automated weather observation systems.

TOPEKA— Governor Laura Kelly signs bipartisan legislation, HB 2498, to boost Kansas airports

Governor Laura Kelly inked House Bill 2498 into law today, a bipartisan act that hikes up Kansas public airports' investments, thereby enhancing airport safety and accessibility.

Governor Kelly stated, “This bill is a pivotal investment in our state’s aviation sector, ensuring our public-use general aviation airports' growth by providing the necessary resources.”

Increased funding for improved infrastructure

HB 2498 escalates yearly funding for the Kansas Airport Improvement Program (KAIP) from $5 million to $15 million. This increased funding will aid public airports across the state in modernizing infrastructure.

Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary, Calvin Reed, emphasized the significance of this collaboration with the Kansas Association of Airports and other partners. He noted, “These airports generate over $9 billion in annual economic output. The KAIP program helps this crucial industry remain a vital part of the Kansas economy, translating into jobs and quality of life for Kansas residents.”

The additional funding will facilitate essential projects such as pavement improvement, safety enhancements, and automated weather observation systems, crucial for rural air ambulance services.

Improved travel experience and economic boost

Kansas State Senator Mike Petersen, District 28, stated, “The additional funding will help maintain the pavement conditions of our state’s general aviation airports which are crucial for our economy and air ambulance access to trauma centers for our rural citizens.”

“Increasing funding for airport improvement projects will enhance travel experience, stimulate local economies with good-paying jobs, and increase passenger safety,” added Kansas State Senator Ethan Corson, District 7. “This bill will allow our airports to meet the growing demand for air travel and better connect Kansans to communities of all sizes.”

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