Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has reportedly lost over $37 million in federal grant funding after refusing to agree to new requirements tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. FOX 5 Atlanta
The funds in question were part of a larger $57 million FAA grant package meant for projects such as restroom upgrades, taxiway maintenance, and sustainability improvements. FOX 5 Atlanta
Why the Funding Was Forfeited
Earlier this year, new language was introduced into Department of Transportation grants requiring recipients to certify they do not run DEI programs that might conflict with federal non-discrimination rules. FOX 5 Atlanta
Atlanta attempted to remove or revise that DEI clause in the grant agreements, but the FAA rejected those edits. The deadline to comply was August 1, and by July 29, the airport notified the agency it could not accept the terms. FOX 5 Atlanta
Because of that refusal, the FAA withheld the funding, making this year’s allocation unavailable to Atlanta. FOX 5 Atlanta
Financial Context & Response
City officials emphasize that federal contributions represent less than 10% of the airport’s six-year, $10 billion capital plan. FOX 5 Atlanta
They also argue the airport will find alternative financing to proceed with its planned upgrades—without disrupting passenger service or airport operations. FOX 5 Atlanta
The city stated it is evaluating all available options to reconcile its existing DEI policies, municipal rules, and compliance with federal law. FOX 5 Atlanta
What’s At Stake & What’s Next
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The airport might still be eligible for future grant funding if it agrees to the federal terms. FOX 5 Atlanta
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Officials have not disclosed whether Atlanta will challenge the decision in court. FOX 5 Atlanta
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Major projects such as expansions or infrastructure upgrades may be affected if alternative financing cannot be secured. FOX 5 Atlanta
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It’s unclear if other U.S. airports have similarly forfeited FAA grants over the DEI requirements. FOX 5 Atlanta
(Photo by Jan Woitas/picture alliance via Getty Images)
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