Trump administration threatens deep cuts to program that funds air travel in rural Alaska

Aleutian Airways receives over $8 million to serve the St. Paul community through the Essential Air Service program. (Aleutian Airways)
The Trump Administration is again threatening cuts to the federal Essential Air Service program, which provides funding for flights to and from rural Alaska.
The proposal – included in the White House’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2027 – calls spending for Essential Air Service “out of control” and suggests changing eligibility