Maintain Funding for Rural Communities through Essential Air Service Program

Action Needed

Urge your members of Congress to preserve funding for the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations to preserve commercial air service between small, rural communities and major hub airports.

Background

Counties play a vital role in sustaining the nation’s air transportation network and supporting economic development in local communities. Annually, counties invest over $5 billion in air transportation, directly supporting 34 percent of the nation’s public airports and employing nearly 12,000 individuals across the country. These investments are especially critical in rural and remote areas, where commercial air service provides essential connectivity for residents and businesses alike.

After airline deregulation in the 1970s, it became difficult for rural communities to provide the passenger base—and thus profit motive—needed to retain commercial air service. In response to this, Congress created the Essential Air Service (EAS) program to provide direct financial subsidies to airlines that offered service to rural areas.

EAS currently serves more than 170 communities across 35 states and territories, offering a critical transportation lifeline to areas that otherwise could not sustain regular airline service. The program supports local economies by attracting and retaining businesses, creating jobs, maintaining tourism and providing access to critical services.

On May 16, 2024, President Biden signed the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act (P.L. 118-63) into law. Among other things, this legislation reauthorized the Essential Air Service (EAS) program and increased its authorization levels, reflecting long-standing Congressional support for the program.

While political leaders of both parties have been consistent supporters of the EAS program, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s FY 2026 budget request would cut over $300 million from current EAS discretionary funding, marking a significant setback for rural mobility and economic development. These potential cuts come at a time when counties already face mounting challenges in maintaining infrastructure.

Key Talking Points

• Counties urge Congress to continue Essential Air Service (EAS) subsidies for carriers serving small communities and to fully fund this lifeline program for rural and isolated areas.
• More than 170 small and rural communities across 35 states and territories rely on the Essential Air Service (EAS) program to maintain access to commercial air travel, which is critical for economic development, healthcare access and community connectivity.
• With nearly 70 percent of U.S. counties classified as rural—home to around 60 million residents—counties support continued federal investments in rural connectivity and infrastructure.
• County officials call on Congress and the administration to maintain full funding for the EAS program as well as support for complementary initiatives, like the Small Community Airport Service Development Program.