Rounds Issues Statement on Final Passage of the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) issued the following statement after the United States Senate passed legislation to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the next five years. The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 passed the Senate by a vote of 88 to 4. Rounds supported this legislation which includes several provisions to benefit South Dakota airports and airline customers.

“This year’s FAA reauthorization includes several important provisions that are beneficial for both South Dakotans and our airports,” said Rounds. “The Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant limits are increased, from $20 million to $30 million, for non-hub and small hub airports like Sioux Falls and Rapid City. This creates additional opportunities for South Dakota airports to expand and accommodate those traveling both to and from our great state. The reauthorization also includes provisions to increase air traffic controller hiring and improve pilot training, which are critical to aviation safety. In addition, it supports airline customers by requiring cash refunds for certain airline delays and cancellations. This legislation makes certain that travelers in South Dakota and across the country will have access to safe, reliable air service. This year’s FAA reauthorization has wins all across the board, and I am pleased that it has passed the Senate in a strong bipartisan manner.”

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