On August 20, 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced a transformative wave of Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants, empowering airports nationwide to enhance their infrastructure. Marting Design Group (MDG) congratulates all recipients on receipt of this critical funding. As detailed on the FAA’s 2025 AIP grants page, these funds—part of a $4 billion allocation for Fiscal Year 2025—are fueling critical projects like runway repairs, taxiway expansions, advanced lighting, and sustainable initiatives such as zero-emission vehicle programs. These investments, bolstered by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, are not just about upgrading facilities; they’re about driving economic growth and connecting communities. At MDG, we’re here to help airports turn these grants into reality. (https://www.faa.gov/airports/aip/2025_aip_grants)
Airport infrastructure is a cornerstone of a robust economy. Modernized airports enhance safety, increase operational efficiency, and improve the fiscal condition of these general aviation airports. This directly stimulates local and regional economies. The FAA notes that airports generate significant economic activity by supporting jobs—both during construction and through long-term roles in aviation, hospitality, and logistics. For instance, upgraded runways and terminals attract more flights and passengers, boosting nearby businesses like hotels and restaurants. Smaller airports, vital to rural communities, benefit from nonprimary entitlement funds, ensuring connectivity that drives tourism and small business commerce. It is not readily apparent, but significant benefits to local economies occur through crop spraying, shuttle services between manufacturing facilities, or relocating professional services staff from a single location near their homes. The FAA’s 2025 grants, those announced in July, fund projects that create good-paying jobs while adhering to labor standards, aligning with Executive Order 14025. This ripple effect strengthens communities, making airports key players in economic resilience. (https://aaae.org/uscta-alerts/faa-releases-397.6-million-in-fy25-aip-grants-for-projects-at-248-airports)
Marting Design Group, based in Minnesota, is uniquely positioned to help airports maximize their 2025 AIP grants. Our civil engineering and project management expertise ensures projects meet FAA standards while staying on time and within budget. We guide airports through the complex AIP process, from crafting proposed project worksheets, completing final design activities, and submitting final grant applications to the federal and state partners. Our services include designing durable runways, taxiways, and safety enhancements, as well as navigating compliance requirements.
MDG’s collaborative approach sets us apart. We work closely with airport sponsors, state DOTs, and FAA regional offices to align projects with AIP priorities, such as safety and sustainability. Our experience with the Airport Capital Improvement Plan (ACIP) process helps airports secure both entitlement and discretionary funds under AIP or the $15 billion in Airport Infrastructure Grants. Whether it’s a major hub or a small general aviation airport, MDG tailors solutions to fit each client’s needs, ensuring grant funds translate into projects that enhance safety, efficiency, and economic impact. Visit mdgengineer.com to explore how we can support your airport’s vision. (https://www.faa.gov/airports/aip)
To all 2025 AIP grant recipients, congratulations on this opportunity to transform your facilities and communities! With over $762 million already awarded this year, and more to come, now is the time to act. Partner with Marting Design Group to navigate the AIP process, meet critical deadlines like the April 1, 2025, notice of intent, and build infrastructure that powers economic growth. Let’s create safer, more sustainable airports that drive prosperity for years to come.
