The CARES Act coronavirus rescue package will provide $4.6 million in aid to the Central Illinois Regional Airport in Bloomington.
Central Illinois Regional Airport saw a 46% decline in passengers last month compared to March 2019. Across the nation, airports that are usually always packed are seeing deserted concourses and closed runways. CIRA spokesperson Fran Strebing said the first half of March was strong but the second half fell quickly.
The CARES Act, passed by Congress and signed by President Donald Trump on March 27, provides $10 billion for airports that have been affected by the coronavirus-related economic slowdown.
The Federal Aviation Administration said the funds can be used "to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the impacts of the COVID-19 public health emergency.” According to U.S. Sen. Rodney Davis, funds can be used for capital expenditures, operating expenses including payroll and utilities and debt payment, reported WGIT. He said the grants will allow the airports to continue operating and supplement the lost revenue from fewer passengers.
"We are still waiting for guidance from the FAA on how this funding will be programmed and implemented. Once we have more information, we will determine the appropriate use for the funds," Strebing told WGIT.
"Like so many, airports have been hard hit by the slowing of our economy due to coronavirus and this funding will help them get through this difficult time," Davis said in a statement obtained by WGIT. "It will ensure they can still operate when necessary and continue to pay their employees."
The General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport will receive $6.1 million. The airport processed nearly 300,000 more passengers than CIRA in 2019.
Struggling airlines have reached an agreement with the Trump administration to receive part of the $25 billion in coronavirus relief. American, United, Delta, Southwest, Jet Blue, Frontier and Alaska have agreed to the terms. Other airlines are still in negotiations.
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