Ontario International Airport Receives $10.81 Million from FAA for Crucial Upgrades

Ontario International Airport Receives $10.81 Million FAA Grant

Ontario International Airport (ONT) has secured a significant funding boost of $10.81 million from the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP) to facilitate essential infrastructure upgrades. This investment aims to improve the safety, efficiency, and capacity of one of the fastest-growing airports in the United States.

The FAA's Airport Improvement Program is designed to allocate financial resources to numerous airports across the nation, enabling them to undertake various planning and development projects aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability. For Ontario International Airport, the newly awarded funds will be instrumental in reconstructing over 5,400 feet of paved taxiway located at the airport's south end. Additionally, the project will involve the installation of 24 low-emission energy units, allowing aircraft to be powered while they remain on the ground, contributing to a greener operational approach.

The announcement of the grant came from California's U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff. Senator Padilla expressed gratitude towards the FAA and acknowledged the airport's role in the regional and national aviation landscape, stating, "With this new funding, Ontario International Airport will continue growing into a premier travel hub, connecting millions of Californians and visitors alike..." This emphasis on connecting communities further underscores the importance of the infrastructure improvements being undertaken.

Alan D. Wapner, president of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners, expressed how vital this grant would be for ongoing improvements at the airport. He stated, "This grant will allow us to build on our recent infrastructure improvements, maintain the highest levels of safety and efficiency, and prepare ONT for continued growth in passenger and cargo traffic."

California Senator Adam Schiff remarked on the significant economic impact these federal funds would bring, noting, "This federal funding will bring critical investments to Ontario International Airport, improving the safety of the airport and creating more jobs." His comments reflected a collective effort from the California delegation to strengthen transportation infrastructure across the state.

This recent grant follows a series of substantial projects completed at Ontario International Airport in recent years. Notably, a $90 million runway rehabilitation project completed in 2024 marked the largest investment of its kind in the airport's history. Additionally, in 2024, more than $7 million was received in federal funding for various security and terminal upgrades, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to modernizing the facilities.

As the Inland Empire continues to flourish as a vibrant economic and population center in the United States, Ontario International Airport is enhancing its capabilities to meet growing demand. According to the latest J.D. Power Airport Satisfaction Study, ONT ranks as the second most popular mid-sized airport in North America. Located approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, ONT serves as a full-service airport, providing nonstop commercial jet service to major airports throughout the U.S., Mexico, Central America, and Taiwan.

Ontario International Airport Authority

The Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) was established in August 2012 through a Joint Powers Agreement between the City of Ontario and the County of San Bernardino. Its primary goal is to manage and promote ONT, ensuring it meets the needs of passengers and locals while supporting the broader Southern California economy. OIAA leaders include notable figures such as Ontario Mayor pro Tem Alan D. Wapner, emphasizing the commitment to developing local transportation infrastructure.

For more information about Ontario International Airport, visit www.flyontario.com and follow them on social platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.