Pensacola International Airport has been awarded $1.8 million in discretionary funding through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program to support the rehabilitation of Taxiway A South, one of the airport’s primary taxiways.
Total project costs will approach $10.8 million, of which $9.7 million will be federally funded. The remaining balance will be divided equally between the Florida Department of Transportation and the Airport’s capital improvement funds.
The federal award will help fund a comprehensive rehabilitation of the southern half of Taxiway A, extending to the end of Runway 35. The project will include milling and resurfacing the existing asphalt pavement, installing new LED taxiway edge lights and associated electrical infrastructure, replacing airfield signage, applying new pavement markings, and completing grading and drainage improvements.
Taxiway A’s pavement has been in service for approximately 20 years and is nearing the end of its useful life. The rehabilitation will preserve the pavement and improve the safety and reliability of one of the airport’s essential airfield surfaces.
“While passengers may not see airfield infrastructure in the same way they see improvements inside the terminal, projects like this are fundamental to the safe and reliable operation of Pensacola International Airport,” Airport Executive Director Matt Coughlin said. “This investment will allow us to renew critical pavement, modernize our lighting and electrical systems, and ensure our airfield is prepared to support the continued growth for years to come.”
Construction is anticipated to begin in early 2027, with substantial completion expected in September 2027. The work will be coordinated to maintain safe and efficient airport operations throughout construction.
Coughlin extended appreciation to U.S. Senators Ashley Moody and Rick Scott and U.S. Rep. Jimmy Patronis for their continued support of federal investment in Northwest Florida’s aviation infrastructure.
“As a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I’m fighting to make sure Northwest Florida has the infrastructure to keep up with our growing community,” Congressman Patronis said. “This investment of more than $1.8 million to improve Taxiway A South at Pensacola International Airport will make travel safer and keep people and businesses moving.”
The funding reflects continued coordination among local, state and federal partners to address PNS’s critical infrastructure needs as the airport and the Northwest Florida region continue to grow.
“This award represents another important investment in the infrastructure that keeps our airport, and our region, moving forward,” Coughlin said. “We are grateful to the FAA, FDOT and our federal delegation for recognizing the importance of maintaining a safe, modern and resilient airport for the passengers, airlines, and communities we serve.”
For more information, visit FlyPensacola.com.
