What does the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS) identify?

The National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS) is a crucial document that identifies and outlines the needs of over 3,300 existing airports across the United States, which are deemed essential for the nation's air transportation system. This plan categorizes airports based on their roles in the air transportation network and helps prioritize funding for improvements and expansions.

The designation of "more than 3,300 existing airports" signifies that the NPIAS includes a comprehensive range of facilities, focusing on those that affect regional and national access to air travel. By highlighting this specific number, the NPIAS ensures that stakeholders can effectively plan for future investments and improvements, reflecting both current operational requirements and future growth potential within the aviation sector.

Other options may present figures or scopes that do not accurately align with the NPIAS's intent or content, making them less relevant when discussing its core purpose and content. Understanding this distinction is vital for those involved in airport planning and management as it relates to federal funding and resources.