President Donald Trump’s proposed budget trims billions of dollars from several high-profile programs and agencies, and big chunks of money from many more that most Americans have never heard of. One of the lesser-known domestic line items due for elimination is the $175 million Essential Air Services program that provides federal subsidies for commercial air service at rural airports.
White House Budget Calls for Elimination of Essential Air Services Subsidies
Key Takeaways:
- President Trump's proposed budget aims to eliminate the $175 million Essential Air Services (EAS) program.
- The EAS program subsidizes commercial air service to rural airports, but faces criticism for rarely full flights, high per-passenger costs, and the proximity of some served airports to larger hubs.
- While targeted for elimination, EAS provides the only commercial air transportation for 175 communities across the U.S. and its removal would negatively impact several commuter airlines.
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