The proposed bill aims to establish the West Virginia Aviation Access and Tourism Growth Act, which seeks to enhance air service throughout the state by improving regional airport infrastructure, increasing tourism accessibility, and supporting workforce development in aviation. The bill includes the creation of the "West Virginia Air Service Development and Airport Modernization Fund," which will provide matching grants to regional airports, offer revenue guarantees for new commercial air routes, finance terminal upgrades, and support capital investments in general aviation airports. An initial appropriation of $15 million is proposed for the fiscal year 2026, with additional funding subject to annual legislative review.

Additionally, the bill outlines the establishment of an Air and Tourism Marketing Partnership Program to promote flight routes and tourism campaigns, prioritizes investment in key aviation assets near major tourism sites, and mandates the Community and Technical College System to expand aviation workforce programs. Tax incentives for aviation-related businesses are also included, along with the formation of the West Virginia Aviation and Access Task Force to develop a 10-year statewide aviation and tourism access plan. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5B-2-22