What funding source did the FAA historically use for building airport capacity?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) historically relied on Trust Fund revenues for building airport capacity. The Airport and Airway Trust Fund was established in the early 1980s to finance airport improvements across the United States. Funding collected through various aviation-related taxes, primarily the federal excise tax on airline tickets and fuel, is deposited into this trust fund.

These funds are then allocated to support airport infrastructure projects, including runway expansions, terminal enhancements, and other capacity-building initiatives at airports. This funding mechanism has significantly contributed to the development and modernization of airport facilities, allowing for improved safety, efficiency, and capacity in air travel.

Other funding sources, while important for airport operations and projects, do not play the same historical role in financing large-scale airport capacity enhancements as Trust Fund revenues. Operating revenue, passenger taxes, and state and local government funds often supplement airport financing but are not the primary source for the build-out of airport infrastructure like the Trust Fund has been.