Nov. 26, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) – The Nebraska Aeronautics Commission, working alongside the
Nebraska Department of Transportation-Division of Aeronautics, approved state-funded federal
matching grants and state aid only grants of over $4.5 million on October 18. The federal matching
grants support projects totaling over $93 million.
This record-setting funding is a direct result of the passage of LB 727 and LB 138 by the Nebraska
Legislature during the 2023 regular session. These bills were supported by the Nebraska Department
of Transportation, the Nebraska Association of Airport Officials and the Nebraska Aviation Council and
will enhance Nebraska’s airports statewide, supporting the vitality of communities of all sizes.
“The work that the Aeronautics Commission has done continues to advance the vision of One
Nebraska, where our neighbors, friends and family have access to safe and reliable travel,” said
Governor Pillen. “This funding helps sustain our communities with economic development, access to
medical care and agricultural uses. This is just a small example of what state funds can do to support
our communities. By covering all 6 regions of the state we move forward together, because our state is
better together.
The Commission approved funding for commercial service airports, including Eppley Airfield in Omaha
and Central Nebraska Regional in Grand Island along with general aviation airports like, Crete
Municipal Airport, Pender Municipal and Thomas County Airport in Thedford. The historic funding is
being used for airports to update both infrastructure and planning documents and expand regional
airports. A few examples of the 36 projects funded include:
