WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced a $12.2 million Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant to expand the terminal apron area at Charleston International Airport.

"This funding will help improve Charleston's infrastructure and will keep aircraft moving efficiently through South Carolina," U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. "Investing in our nation's airports promotes economic growth."

The FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant will pay for expanding the terminal apron and associated connecting taxiways. Construction, which will add 12.5 acres of pavement, is scheduled to begin in October 2012 and is expected to take 10 months to complete.

"This grant will ensure the airport will continue to operate efficiently following an upcoming terminal concourse expansion," said Acting FAA Administrator Michael Huerta. "The additional boarding gates will require a larger apron area."

AIP provides $3.35 billion in annual funding for airport improvement projects. These projects are vital to maintaining the safety, capacity, and environmental stewardship of our nation's airports. More than 3,300 airports are eligible for AIP grants benefiting commercial passengers, cargo operations, and general aviation activities throughout the nation.

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