Discretionary grants are funds awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to airports for specific projects or initiatives that contribute to the safety, efficiency, and capacity of the national air transportation system. Unlike entitlement grants, which are allocated based on predetermined criteria, discretionary grants are competitively awarded based on merit and priority criteria established by the FAA. Airports must submit grant applications outlining their project proposals and demonstrating the potential benefits to the air transportation system. Discretionary grants support a wide range of projects, including runway rehabilitation, terminal expansions, air traffic control enhancements, and environmental mitigation efforts. The FAA evaluates grant applications and selects projects that best align with national priorities and funding availability.
*AIP includes both types of grants, it's important to note that the specific type of grant within the AIP can vary depending on the project and the airport's eligibility criteria.