House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA-23) has announced that the Department of Transportation has approved an $8 million grant for the Mojave Air and Space Port through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). Last year, McCarthy sent a letter to the Federal Aviation Administration in support of Mojave’s grant application. Here is a portion of McCarthy’s remarks:
“From Stratolaunch to Virgin Orbit, Mojave Air and Space Port is leading the way in civilian aeronautics and commercial spaceflight,” McCarthy said. “But in order to continue to take the next steps towards even greater innovation in the industry, it is vital that Mojave Air and Space Port’s infrastructure is revitalized. This AIP grant will help make much needed repairs to existing infrastructure issues – like pavement cracks – to enhance airport safety. I thank Secretary Chao, the Department of Transportation, and the Federal Aviation Administration for recognizing the importance of this project. This grant will undoubtedly help ensure the longevity of this facility for years to come.”
The renovation of the Mojave Space Port’s Taxiway C includes an area 7,200 ft. long and 60 ft. wide. The project will also include an analysis of the airfield’s electrical system.
