Wilmington International Airport receives $3 million FAA grant for expansion

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Wilmington International Airport is receiving a $3 million federal grant to support an aircraft apron expansion as part of a broader terminal expansion project.

Rep. David Rouzer announced the Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement Program grant, which will fund the first phase of the airport’s planned expansion.

According to Rouzer’s office, the apron expansion is intended to improve aircraft parking and maneuvering. The broader terminal project is expected to eventually add additional gates as the airport works to accommodate passenger and airline growth.

“Southeastern North Carolina relies on Wilmington International Airport to connect our community and support our growing economy,” Rouzer said. “This investment is a major step toward ensuring ILM can accommodate continued growth and better serve our community for years to come. I’ll keep working to enhance ILM’s advancement as well as our other infrastructure needs.”

ILM Airport Director Jeffrey Bourk said the funding will help the airport keep up with the region’s growth.

“Our airport has grown tremendously in recent years, and the work ahead will allow us to keep pace with the region,” Bourk said. “We thank Congressman Rouzer for his continued advocacy and support for ILM. With this funding, we can modernize our infrastructure to provide the safe, efficient service our community and passengers expect.”

The FAA’s Airport Improvement Program provides funding for airport infrastructure projects, including runways, taxiways, lighting, signage and other improvements.