The Iowa Transportation Commission approved $9.6 million for the Fiscal Year 2026 State Aviation Program, which includes several subprograms detailed below.
The Airport Improvement Program (AIP) will fund $6.7 million for a variety of aviation safety initiatives, system planning, and air service development activities. It will also provide funding for airport development projects at 25 airports in Iowa. Eligible AIP projects include runway, taxiway, and apron development; fuel systems; navigational aids; maintenance of aviation weather systems; runway marking; windsocks; emergency operational repairs; land-use planning; air service initiatives; and the mitigation of obstruction and wildlife hazards at airports. The AIP program is funded through the State Aviation Fund using revenues from aircraft registration fees and aviation fuel taxes.
Aviation vertical infrastructure programs will provide $2.9 million for projects at four general aviation airports and eight commercial service airports throughout Iowa. These programs provide funding for the maintenance and development of airport facilities such as terminal buildings, maintenance facilities, and aircraft hangars. Vertical infrastructure programs are funded from Rebuild Iowa Infrastructure Fund appropriations.
Iowa DOT Aviation Director Tim McClung notes the FY 2026 program prioritizes airport safety initiatives and development supporting Iowa’s economy. “It’s essential that airports have clear runway approaches and that other facilities are maintained with a forward-looking vision. This program builds a strong aviation system while leveraging federal, local, and private investment.”
Details on State Aviation Program Funding can be viewed online. Additional information regarding aviation in Iowa is available at Iowa Aviation.
