NH Delegation Announces Nearly $10 Million for Manchester & Lebanon Airports to Support Pandemic Operations

(Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) announced $9,786,943 in federal funds for Manchester-Boston Regional Airport and Lebanon Municipal Airport. This funding comes from Airport Rescue Grants funded under the American Rescue Plan Act to help airports prevent, prepare for and respond to the COVID-19 crisis. Specifically, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport will receive $8,735,862 and Lebanon Municipal Airport will receive $1,051,081. 

“I’m thrilled to welcome nearly $10 million to the Manchester and Lebanon airports to ensure they can adjust and maintain operations during the pandemic. This funding comes at a pivotal time right before the holidays, with a busy travel season on the horizon and supply chain issues impacting travel and commerce. I’ll continue working to ensure resources from the American Rescue Plan are delivered to airports across New Hampshire as swiftly as possible as we grapple with the lasting consequences of the pandemic,” said Senator Shaheen.  

“More support for Manchester’s and Lebanon’s airports means a smoother trip for everyone - Granite Staters and visitors alike,” said Senator Hassan. “Our airports play a key role in spurring travel, tourism, and economic growth. I’ll continue pushing for funding like this to invest in our airports and in turn strengthen our economy.” 

“The Manchester and Lebanon airports are critical to our New Hampshire economy, and I’m thrilled they will be receiving almost $10 million in federal support to help continue serving travelers during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Representative Annie Kuster. “As our airports prepare for the busy holiday season, these federal dollars will help travelers coming to New Hampshire stay safe and enjoy all the Granite State has to offer.” 

“The COVID-19 pandemic required us to refrain from traveling and take new precautions when using mass transportation, including airplanes. Our regional airports, which are a critical piece of our state and local economies, were severely impacted by these changes,” said Representative Chris Pappas. “I’m excited Manchester Airport will receive these funds to ensure they can continue to respond to and recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.” 

The funding announcements for Manchester and Lebanon are available here and here. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also announced its intent to fund grants to 12 other airports in New Hampshire, which is available here. More details are pending.