The U.S. Department of Transportation is directing nearly $1 billion in federal funds toward projects aimed at making airports more accessible and convenient for families, under an initiative led by Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy.
The funding, drawn from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act’s Airport Terminal Program, is being distributed through competitive grants managed by the Federal Aviation Administration. According to the department, 133 airports across 45 states have received awards for family-focused upgrades.
Eligible projects include creating children’s play or exercise areas, adding mothers’ rooms and nursing pods, reconfiguring security checkpoints to add dedicated family screening lanes, and building sensory rooms for children with special needs. Airports may also pursue other terminal redesigns that enhance the overall family travel experience.
In addition to physical terminal improvements, the administration has signaled interest in working with airports and private partners to expand access to healthier, less processed food options for travelers. The “Make Travel Family Friendly Again” campaign, announced in coordination with the new grants, is intended to shift airport design and services toward the needs of families with young children and travelers requiring additional support.
Airports seeking funding were instructed to apply by January 15, 2026, under a Notice of Funding Opportunity that outlines project criteria and evaluation standards.