Under what conditions might airports be eligible for federal funds in the NPIAS?

Airports may be eligible for federal funds in the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS) under various conditions, and one of the key factors is their role in providing essential services, such as serving as a base for the National Guard or having contracts with the United States Postal Service (USPS). These circumstances reflect the strategic importance of certain airports in supporting federal initiatives and national defense requirements.

When an airport has a USPS contract, it emphasizes its role in facilitating mail and package delivery, which is vital for communication and commerce. Similarly, an airport that serves as a National Guard base supports military operations and readiness. Federally funded airports often play crucial roles in emergency response, logistics, and community support, thereby meeting the criteria set forth for funding eligibility under NPIAS.

The other options do not inherently provide the same level of justification for funding eligibility. For instance, while a runway longer than 10,000 feet might indicate capacity, it is not a requirement for federal funding. Similarly, conducting cargo operations alone can be insufficient unless augmented by other qualifying factors. Finally, charging fees for private jet landings does not directly tie to eligibility for federal funds under the guidelines established by the NPIAS.