The state will receive $16.8 million in federal funds for the construction of an aircraft rescue and firefighting building at Hilo International Airport. This funding will be used to help the airport meet federal safety requirements and extend the life of firefighting equipment by protecting it from adverse weather conditions.
The state will receive $16.8 million in federal funds for the construction of an aircraft rescue and firefighting building at Hilo International Airport. This funding will be used to help the airport meet federal safety requirements and extend the life of firefighting equipment by protecting it from adverse weather conditions.
“Hawaii’s people and businesses rely on safe, efficient air transportation and today’s announcement from the Federal Aviation Administration furthers this important objective,” said U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono in a written statement. “The federal resources announced today are a significant investment in improving emergency preparedness and response capabilities at Hilo International Airport and will also help ensure that Hawaii’s aviation professionals have the most up to date systems in place to share information, reduce risk, and promote safety.”
The funding will be distributed over the next two years, with approximately $5.6 million this year and the remaining approximately $11.2 next year. Additionally, funds were released to the state for the development of safety management system implementation plans at each of Hawaii’s airports, including $100,000 for Hilo’s airport.