(ANCHORAGE, Alaska) – Alaska, Hawaii, and US territories will now have additional opportunities to make safety improvements and upgrades to their airports due to new eligibilities and flexibilities allowed in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) updates to Airport Improvement Program (AIP). In the 2025, FAA Reauthorization Program Guidance Letter (R-PGL) 25-08, these enhancements, mandated by the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, recognize the distinct geographic, climatic, and operational challenges faced by aviation systems in these regions.

Among the provisions is the implementation of the Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative (DYAASI). This initiative allows the use of AIP funding for the installation of automated weather systems, weather cameras, and ADS-B ground stations at "covered airports"— at any facility listed in the most recent National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS), including those in Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories. These safety systems are now eligible without the traditional benefit-cost analyses, allowing for more rapid implementation in high-need locations.

The guidance also introduces transformative changes to runway project eligibility in Alaska. Full-length rehabilitation or reconstruction of existing runways is now permitted based on community-specific needs—such as fuel delivery, cargo transport, and medevac access—without regard to critical aircraft dimensions. Runway expansions for economic development are also eligible when supported by based on needs for specific locations.

Additional policy enhancements better align AIP funding with the realities of aviation in Alaska and similar regions, promoting safer, more resilient, and more functional air transportation infrastructure. Recognizing the remoteness, high costs of maintaining airports in Alaska, and the need for operational efficiencies, the new Alaska-specific eligibilities include:

AIP eligibility for snow removal equipment (SRE) fuel infrastructure, which will reduce challenges maintaining operations during long, harsh winters where fueling access is often limited.

Expanded site preparation options for airport lease lots, supporting economic development and long-term planning in areas with difficult terrain and high construction costs.

Authorization of expanded snow removal equipment buildings (SREBs), for storage and maintenance of equipment needed for snow removal in remote locations.

Eligibility for dozers and graders, These machines are critical for maintaining gravel runways, managing erosion, and ensuring safe, year-round airport access—especially in rural regions.

Inclusion of pavement markings, a need in many rural airports where harsh conditions require remarking of pavement frequently.

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The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities oversees 237 airports, 9 ferries serving 35 communities along 3,500 marine miles, over 5,600 miles of highway and 839 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to “Keep Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure.”

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