(WJET/WFXP)– One Pennsylvania state senator has introduced a piece of legislation that would create a trust fund for airports in the commonwealth to provide funding for improvements and other expansions.
Senator Dan Laughlin introduced the Pennsylvania AIR Act this week, aimed at modernizing funding for aviation while making sure they stay competitive and modernize how they’re funded.
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“Airports are economic engines for communities across Pennsylvania,” Laughlin said. “This legislation is about making sure they have the resources needed to grow, compete, and serve the public for generations to come.”
To go with the trust fund, Laughlin said the legislation would also expand support for development projects at Pennsylvania airports, public airport property tax reimbursement, workforce training, and other economic development projects related to aviation.
Money for the new trust fund would come from the following:
A portion of state sales and use tax revenue
Increased aviation fuel taxes (1.5¢ → 24¢ per gallon) and jet fuel taxes (1.1¢ → 8¢ per gallon)
Taxes on emerging aviation fuels, including hydrogen and electricity used for aircraft propulsion
Updated aircraft registration fees
Modernized licensing and inspection fees for certain aviation facilities
Federal aviation funding and related revenues
The bill now heads to the Transportation Committee for consideration.
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