§47145 Pilot Program for Airport Accessibility

Summary

The Department of Transportation will run a pilot grant program to help airport sponsors pay for capital projects that make commercial service airports more accessible. Grants can pay to repair, change, or move airport infrastructure to improve access, or to make plans and accessibility assessments done with disability groups. The program gives priority to airports that are not currently accessible or that want to reach Airports Council International accessibility accreditation using universal design. The federal share of project costs is whatever is set in section 47109. For each of fiscal years 2025, 2026, 2027, and 2028, up to $20,000,000 per year may be used from the discretionary fund under section 47115 for this pilot. Grant recipients must adopt a plan to improve passenger experience and accessibility. Examples include upgraded restrooms and counters, better audio/visual information, more accessible seating and power outlets for medical devices, improved websites, more elevators (including ones that move power wheelchairs to aircraft), better operations and services, and staff and tech to help passengers identify when they need assistance. Small, medium, and large hub airports must create a disability advisory committee. The Secretary must encourage work with disability advocacy groups and state protection and advocacy systems, and use assessments as needed. Definitions (short): center for independent living — a local program that helps people with disabilities live independently; disability advisory committee — a group that advises airports on accessibility; protection and advocacy system — a state system that protects rights of people with disabilities.