Rep. Gabe Vasquez Introduces Expanding Regional Airports Act to Support Rural Communities

WASHINGTON, DC – On Tuesday, April 29, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the bipartisan Expanding Regional Airports Act alongside Rep. Tracey Mann (R-KS-01). The bill aims to increase funding for regional airports, such as Las Cruces International Airport, to conduct critical upgrades of security systems, runway and hangar infrastructure, and passenger facilities.

“In a state as large as New Mexico, regional airports are a way to ensure our state is fully connected,” said Vasquez. “However, without dedicated funding, these airports can’t expand to serve the needs of our growing communities. That’s why I am introducing the Expanding Regional Airports bill to promote expanded tourism and business travel to Las Cruces and other similar communities, improving the entire economy.”

“Rural communities like those in the Big First District depend on regional airports to connect them with the rest of the world,” said Rep. Mann. “The Expanding Regional Airports Act provides necessary updates to strengthen the reliability regional airports offer their communities, drive economic growth, and equip these airports to maintain the livelihoods of small communities and their surrounding areas. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance our bill and give our regional airports the resources they deserve.”

“Airports like Las Cruces International Airport often lack the funding to make critical upgrades to security infrastructure, runways, and hangars,” said Las Cruces Airport Director Andy Hume. “This bill would allow for more flights directly into Las Cruces, boosting our local economy and creating a better and safer passenger experience.”

The Expanding Regional Airports Act builds on Rep. Vasquez’s commitment to expanding local economies through funding for air travel. Last Congress, he fought to preserve the Essential Air Service program, through which Cavern City Air Terminal receives $3,425,385 and Grant County Airport gets $4,830,725. He also successfully passed an amendment to begin the process of restoring commercial air service to Alamogordo-White Sands Regional Airport.

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