The FAA awarded $1.776 billion in new grants on 2 July 2026 to upgrade airport infrastructure across 46 states, a figure deliberately chosen to align with 1776 and celebrate America’s Semiquincentennial. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the allocation under the Airport Infrastructure Grants program, part of the $14.5 billion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Major awards include $88.8 million for Denver International Airport pavement projects, $74 million for Boise Air Terminal runway rehabilitation, and $62.4 million for Baltimore/Washington International runway and lighting work. This fresh allocation brings total FY26 AIP grants awarded to over $1 billion, supporting runway/taxiway construction, terminal improvements, lighting projects, and safety upgrades essential for operational efficiency and passenger safety.