Lawmaker Challenges FAA on Funding Cuts for Airport Solar Project

Rep. Andre Carson recently questioned the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) about cuts to aviation grants, specifically targeting the termination of funds for a solar farm upgrade at Indianapolis International Airport. He argued that these cuts, made under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), are shortsighted and could impact airport operations and safety. During a subcommittee hearing, Carson highlighted that DOGE was established to reduce waste and fraud. However, he believes the department's actions have instead targeted essential staffing and grant funding. He pointed out that improving airport operations directly enhances aviation safety, a point he believes everyone can agree on.Carson mentioned the canceled grant for the Indianapolis International Airport's solar farm as a prime example of these shortsighted cuts. He described the solar facility as the largest of its kind, noting that it has received bipartisan support since its inception. The project improves the efficiency of the airport's electrical grid and lowers operating costs, benefiting both passengers and the aviation industry. The Indiana Democrat asked the FAA administrator to provide more transparency around the funding decisions. He requested a full list of terminated or undispersed FAA grants and the rationale behind these decisions. He also inquired if these decisions could be reviewed for potential restoration of funding in the future. In response, the FAA administrator explained that the grant decisions stemmed from a broader review typically conducted during a change in administrations. He noted that the current administration has a different view on solar, wind, and other alternative energy projects, which likely affected the Indianapolis program.