Schumer and Gillibrand announce more than twenty one million dollars in federal support to upgrade infrastructure at sixteen airports across New York

Albany, New York – In a major push to modernize and strengthen critical airport infrastructure across New York State, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced on Friday that more than $21 million in federal funding will be distributed to 16 airports throughout the state. The funding, awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP), will support safety enhancements, equipment replacements, and terminal modernization projects.

A total of $21,155,843 is being invested in airports that serve a wide range of communities — from urban hubs like Buffalo and Rochester to smaller, rural airfields in the Southern Tier and the North Country. According to the senators, this federal support will help ensure that airports across the state can meet growing safety demands, prepare for increased travel, and provide a better experience for passengers.

“Keeping our airports in top-notch state is crucial for traveler safety and attracting business and tourism across New York State. Our regional airports are a gateway for commerce, tourism and are vital connectors for residents and visitors. This $21+ million in federal funding will help airports from Long Island to Buffalo reach new heights,” said Senator Schumer. “As Americans across the country have grown more concerned about aviation safety, I’ve fought hard to boost the Airport Improvement Program so our local airports in NY have the resources they need to maintain the highest safety standards. This significant federal investment will help make much-needed improvements so our local economies take off.”

The funding will be used for a broad variety of projects, from snow removal equipment replacements and runway resurfacing to wildlife hazard assessments and terminal reconstructions.

“From big cities to rural communities, New York’s airports are gateways for commerce, tourism, and travel. It’s vital that every airport has the resources it needs to provide a safe and comfortable experience for anyone who travels through our state,” Senator Gillibrand added. “That’s why I’m proud to announce more than $21 million for airport projects that will deliver critical safety and infrastructure upgrades while enhancing reliability and comfort. I look forward to seeing the impact these improvements will have and will continue fighting for more federal funding to support the upgrades that airports across the country desperately need.”

Breaking Down the Funding

Among the largest recipients is Republic Airport on Long Island, which will receive $6.5 million to reconstruct an existing gate and rehabilitate a runway. Meanwhile, Buffalo Niagara International Airport, a key hub in Western New York, will get $5.68 million for major upgrades to taxiway pavement and lighting systems.

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In the Finger Lakes region, several airports are set to benefit. Ithaca Tompkins International Airport will receive over $1.2 million to acquire new aircraft rescue and firefighting equipment, as well as snow removal machinery. Nearby, Penn Yan Airport has been awarded nearly $780,000 to rehabilitate a 3,561-foot runway and replace outdated snow removal vehicles. The Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport is set to receive just under $1 million to upgrade its firefighting building and remove trees deemed hazardous by FAA standards.

Smaller airports in rural areas are not being left out. Le Roy Airport, also in the Finger Lakes region, will receive $469,225 for obstruction removal and safety lighting installations. Akron Jesson Field, located in Western New York, will use its $394,724 grant to conduct an initial pavement survey and establish a pavement management plan.

North Country Investments

In the North Country, airports from Lake Placid to Ogdensburg are getting much-needed infrastructure support. Lake Placid Airport will receive a combined total of $426,191 for pavement rehabilitation and snow equipment upgrades. At Ogdensburg International Airport, nearly $660,000 will be used for a terminal expansion and wildlife hazard planning. Massena and Plattsburgh International Airports are each receiving over $250,000 and $1.1 million, respectively, primarily to upgrade their snow removal capabilities.

Southern Tier and Western New York

In the Southern Tier, Greater Binghamton Airport is receiving $1.3 million to reconstruct part of its terminal building and overhaul its electrical systems. Corning–Painted Post Airport will rehabilitate over 3,200 feet of runway with its $731,951 grant. Meanwhile, Jamestown Airport in Western New York has been awarded just over $200,000 to upgrade terminal lighting and pavement.

A Statewide Effort

This latest round of federal support reflects a statewide commitment to bolstering airport infrastructure, ensuring these facilities are safe, efficient, and prepared for future demands.

The investments arrive at a time when air travel is rebounding and airports are under increased pressure to maintain high safety standards, modernize aging facilities, and improve passenger experience. The wide range of project types — from tree clearing and wildlife assessments to full terminal renovations — shows that each airport faces unique challenges and opportunities.

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Senators Schumer and Gillibrand have long advocated for greater investment in New York’s transportation infrastructure. This announcement underscores their continued efforts to bring federal dollars home to support both local economies and essential public facilities.

For many of the airports listed, these improvements could be transformative. Beyond just safety and comfort, the upgrades also hold potential to boost local economic development, expand business opportunities, and improve the quality of life for residents and travelers alike.

As the work begins at these 16 airports, local officials, aviation crews, and community leaders are hopeful that these federal dollars will not only enhance operations today but also pave the way for a more connected and resilient future for air travel in New York.