$41 million will temporarily sustain the Essential Air Service program amid federal budget uncertainty.
The U.S. Department of Transportation announced it has obtained $41 million in supplemental funding to maintain the Essential Air Service (EAS) program through early November. The program, which provides subsidies to airlines serving rural and remote communities, had faced the risk of suspension during the ongoing federal funding standstill. EAS supports commercial connections between smaller airports and major hubs—giving rural residents continued access to employment, healthcare, and commerce.
The department previously warned that if funding lapsed, EAS contracts and reimbursements under the Alternate Essential Air Service (AEAS) grants would be temporarily halted. The newly secured funds are expected to keep the program operating while broader budget negotiations continue.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said that the minority party in Congress is “putting their wish list for illegal immigrants over the needs of smaller, American communities relying on services like EAS to connect their rural neighborhoods with vital services and opportunities.” He called on them to “reopen the government to ensure these necessary programs don’t lapse.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Duffy as he seeks to ensure safety in the air travel industry during the government shutdown.
- For members of the Senate as they deliberate over the continuing resolution that would reopen federal agencies.
Sources: Department of Transportation
