Grant & Loan Programs: AIRGeorgia
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is AIRGeorgia?
A: AIRGeorgia is a fund designed to spur economic development in rural Georgia by providing grants, loans and grant/loan combinations to rural airports in critical need of infrastructure improvements.
Q: What is the goal of the AIRGeorgia program?
A: The goal of AIRGeorgia is to provide rural Georgia with adequate airport facilities so they have the necessary infrastructure to compete for industry. Industry travels by air, and Georgia must have an adequate system of airports to accommodate them. The program will put a 5,000’ or longer runway, capable of accommodating 85% of the corporate fleet, within a 30 minute drive of 99% of Georgia’s population.
Q: Who can apply for AIRGeorgia funding?
A: Local governments and authorities as well as multiple-county development authorities in designated rural counties. Eligible applicants should also be recognized as an official Airport Sponsor by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and/or Federal Aviation Administration.
Q: What are some of the eligible activities allowed?
A: Funding priorities include runway extensions, installation of navigational aids, automated weather stations and acquisition of real property for expansion. There is some limited funding available for planning activities, environmental studies and other technical assistance.
Q: What activity would require a loan instead of a grant?
A: Loan funds are used to finance facilities for use by private sector for-profit businesses. Loans require financial underwriting of the private sector partner and are only available where the private sector market does not offer sufficient financing to meet the company’s needs.
Q: How much money can we get for our airport improvements?
A: The awards amounts are not limited; however, the award funds will generally be limited to a maximum of 75% of the eligible project cost with matching local investment of 25% required.