Senator Dan Laughlin introduced Senate Bill 1365, known as the Pennsylvania AIR Act, on June 2. The legislation aims to modernize aviation funding and provide long-term support for airports throughout the state.
The bill proposes the creation of a dedicated Aviation Trust Fund designed to ensure stable and predictable funding for airport improvements, workforce development, air service expansion, and emerging aviation technologies. It expands support for airport development projects, public airport property tax reimbursement, workforce training initiatives, and economic development related to aviation.
Laughlin said the purpose of the legislation is to keep Pennsylvania’s airports competitive. “Airports are economic engines for communities across Pennsylvania,” Laughlin said. “This legislation is about making sure they have the resources needed to grow, compete and serve the public for generations to come.”
Derek Martin, executive director of Erie International Airport, addressed competition with neighboring states. “The AIR Act is landmark legislation that will take the commonwealth into a new era, competing against West Virginia, Ohio and New York,” Martin said.
Business leaders also highlighted sustained investment needs. Brandon Mendoza, CEO of Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership, said: “Air service is an economic imperative for communities across the commonwealth. In Erie, our business community has rallied to support our airport, and we’ve seen a resurgence in flight access. But to secure long-term sustainability, a true public-private partnership is needed. The commonwealth needs to help Pennsylvania airports level the playing field with neighboring states.”
BJ Teichman, president of Aviation Council of Pennsylvania, said: “The AIR Act is a transformational investment that modernizes how Pennsylvania supports aviation and the communities that depend on it. This legislation strengthens aviation safety, infrastructure, workforce development, economic development and emerging aviation technology while ensuring aviation-generated dollars are reinvested back into aviation. The AIR Act positions Pennsylvania to remain competitive and prepared for the future of flight.”
The bill has been introduced in the Senate and awaits consideration by the Transportation Committee.
Laughlin represented nearly all of Erie County as senator from District 49; he served as chair of the Senate Law and Justice Committee; focused on employment generation policies; maintained offices in Harrisburg and Erie; secured investments such as $3 million in state tax credits for local organizations; $10 million for water infrastructure improvements; $13.4 million in federal broadband funding; grew up in Erie as son of a World War II veteran; built his career as a small business owner, according to the official website.
