Airport Improvement Program
Forecasted
The Airport Improvement Program supports Wisconsin public-use airport owners with runway, land, navigation and lighting improvements that enhance safety and keep airports operational.
Funder: Wisconsin Department of Transportation
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2028 (Statement of Project Intentions)
Funding Amounts: Federal aid generally covers 90% of eligible costs; state-only aid normally covers 80% of eligible development costs
Summary: Supports improvements to Wisconsin public-use airports using federal, state and local resources.
Key Information: Airport owners must commit their share of project funds before state and federal funds can be secured.
Description
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Aeronautics coordinates improvements at more than 100 public-use airports across Wisconsin. The program combines federal, state and local resources for work such as runway construction and reconstruction, land acquisition, navigational aids and lighting. It serves airports primarily owned by counties, cities, towns and villages.
Airport owners initiate projects, while the bureau guides planning and prioritization and, through an agency agreement, oversees project development and financial transactions. Funding decisions draw on state and federal airport system plans and give priority to work that enhances safety or keeps an airport operational. Inclusion in an improvement plan does not guarantee funding or the proposed schedule.
