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Congressman Cohen Announces $64.6 Million in Memphis International Airport Grants

September 1, 2020

Funding for ongoing de-icing and terminal improvement projects over three years

MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, today announced $64.6 million in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grants to Memphis International Airport. The funding is for Phase 2 construction of an ongoing de-icing project and for improvements to jet bridges over three years beginning October 1. More than $2.3 million of the de-icing funding comes from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act that became law in March. That funding is intended to help airports affected by steep declines in air travel due to the ongoing pandemic.

Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

"These projects are important investments for the Memphis airport, assuring the safety of the flying public, particularly during periods of inclement weather. The CARES Act funding will help the airport meet its obligations during the sharp decline in air travel which has resulted in revenue losses during the ongoing pandemic. These grants are good for air travelers and for Memphis."

Memphis International Airport is entering the second construction phase of 12 de-icing pads. Snow and ice on aircraft wings can affect airflow during takeoff so it must be removed. The centralized de-icing facility will eventually replace de-icing done at various locations on the airport property. It will also segregate de-icing-affected water from the storm drainage system.