he VALE program is available to commercial service airports located in compromised air quality areas of the country as designated by the Environmental Protection Agency. Airports can obtain VALE funding for cleaner technology that the FAA deems cost effective. VALE projects also receive emission reduction credits from State governments, which the airports can use to meet future environmental obligations under the Clean Air Act.
VALE allows airport sponsors to take proactive steps to improve air quality at their facilities. Projects can range from the purchase of low-emission vehicles to major infrastructure improvements. Examples of eligible projects include: preconditioned air units, chargers for electric ground support equipment like bag tugs and belt loaders; natural gas refueling stations for airport buses and shuttles; and electric gates at the terminal.
Through VALE, airports are reducing ozone emissions by approximately 466 tons per year, which is equivalent to removing 26,000 cars and trucks off the road annually.
In fiscal year 2013, FAA issued VALE grants for eight projects at eight airports for $17 million. Since 2005, the FAA has funded 66 VALE projects at 34 airports, which represents a total investment of $167 million in clean airport technology. That amount includes $133 million in federal grants and $34 million in local airport matching funds.
AIP provides $3 billion in annual funding for projects that 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.
For information about the program including a list of eligible airports and projects, go to the VALE web site: www.faa.gov/airports/environmental/vale