When Congress passed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, it delivered five years of record infrastructure funding through 2028. Airports now have predictable capital to plan long-term, modernize aging systems and build for future demand. But across the country, airports are adjusting to new statutory requirements while the FAA’s Office of Airports faces retirements, staffing shortages and a widening portfolio of responsibilities. The gap between legislative intent and on-the-ground execution could impact projects, create inconsistencies across regional offices and strain already thin timelines.

Peter Kirsch has co-authored this January 25, 2026 article in Aviation Pros. Please click here to read the full article, which can also be found on the Aviation Pros website.