Two airports in the Finger Lakes region are getting a boost from Washington as part of a $66 million federal investment in aviation infrastructure across New York State.
Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced this week that Penn Yan Airport and Finger Lakes Regional Airport will receive nearly $621,500 combined through the FAA’s Airport Improvement and Infrastructure Grant programs.
Penn Yan Airport will use its $37,525 award to renovate runway lighting—an upgrade expected to improve safety for pilots flying into and out of Yates County. Meanwhile, Finger Lakes Regional Airport in Seneca County will receive $583,930 for apron reconstruction, helping to maintain critical aircraft parking and maneuvering space at the facility.
Small airports, big impact
“These projects may seem small on paper, but they’re a big deal for rural airports like Penn Yan and Finger Lakes Regional,” said Senator Schumer in a release. “They support tourism, connect communities, and drive local economies.”
Senator Gillibrand called the funding “a major win” for upstate aviation. “I’ll keep fighting to bring home the resources our airports need to operate safely and efficiently.”
Both awards are part of a larger infrastructure push funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The package covers 22 airports across the state, with projects ranging from runway expansions to firefighting equipment upgrades.
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