U.S. Transportation Department Announces $89 Million In Capacity Improvements At NY Airports

October 9, 2008 1:16 p.m. EST

Washington, D.C. (AHN) - The federal government will spend $89 million over the next eight years to expand capacity at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

United States Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters made the announcement of the capacity improvements to JFK International Airport on Thursday.

At the same time, Peters also revealed new that should lower fares, increase consumer choices and improve service for air travelers using JFK, Newark and LaGuardia airports.

"The best way to cut record airline delays nationwide is to expand the limited capacity at New York's airport," Peters said in an emailed statement. "Building new taxiways or adding new runways takes time, though, which is why we're also putting in place measures to cut delays and keep service vibrant over the short term."

Taxiway improvements include building two new taxiways, extending or improving six others and creating new high-speed exit taxiways to make it easier for aircraft to maneuver between gates and the airport's runways, which should cut travel time and limit delays, Peters said.

The high-speed exit taxiways will actually reduce delays for inbound aircraft arriving at JFK, Peters said.

Work should begin in 2009 and be completed by 2014.

Peters also announced the final rules for "slot auctions" for a limited number of new take off and landing slots designed to encourage competition and keep flights to New York affordable.

Observers are applauding the plans as needed to relieve congestion and bring order to the skies.