Rural airports across the United States benefit from federal funding that ensures commercial air service. Currently, more than 180 airports utilize this funding, primarily through the Essential Air Service (EAS) program. Proposed cuts from the Trump administration threaten to reduce this funding by half, fueling concerns among rural residents who rely on subsidized air travel for access to larger cities. EAS was established to prevent rural communities from losing air connectivity that would have resulted from airline deregulation in the 1970s. The success of this initiative is evident in various small airports across the country, enabling residents to travel affordably and efficiently.
More than 180 airports in rural areas in the U.S. rely on federal funding for commercial air service, which may be cut by half due to administration decisions.
The Essential Air Service program was created in the 1970s to support rural air travel by providing subsidies to airlines operating in underserved regions.
Airports like Plattsburgh benefit from EAS, allowing residents easier access to major cities at affordable prices—making a significant impact on local economies.
The Ogdensburg airport received $8.8 million in subsidies last year, highlighting the critical nature of these funds for maintaining essential air services.
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