After being stuck on Capitol Hill for more than four years, a long-term aviation bill at last has been cleared for takeoff. The measure authorizes a total of $63.6 billion over four years for Federal Aviation Administration programs. That figure includes $13.4 billion for the agency's Airport Improvement Program. AIP helps to finance runway, taxiway, apron and other infrastructure projects.
Final congressional approval came on Feb. 6, when the Senate passed the bill on a 75-20 vote. The House had approved it three days earlier. The legislation next goes to the White House for President Obama's expected signature.