President Donald Trump’s 2026 budget proposal aims to slash funding for Alaska’s Essential Air Service program by over 50%. On May 2, White House Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought announced the proposal, which reduces Essential Air Service funding by $308 million.
The administration argued the program wastes taxpayer dollars by subsidizing half-empty flights between airports located within easy commuting distances. Congress created Essential Air Service in 1978 to ensure rural communities retained air access after airline deregulation, fearing carriers would prioritize profitable urban routes.
Alaska’s participation has steadily declined from 184 communities to 65, with Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau removed from eligibility over time. The program currently supports 177 communities nationwide with $591.7 million, including $41.7 million for Alaska’s rural air routes.
About 15 airlines fly EAS routes across Alaska, with Grant Aviation operating 21 and several carriers operating only one route. According to interim city administrator Michele Greenamyre, Interior Alaska’s McGrath community heavily depends on Essential Air Service for basic needs and medical access.
Greenamyre said the flights connect McGarth’s 300 residents to supplies, school needs, and critical services unavailable locally. Adak City Manager Breck Craig warned that cutting EAS flights threatens residents and military operations in the Aleutian Islands.
Adak’s airport supports Alaska Airlines’ twice-weekly passenger flights and monthly cargo deliveries on Boeing 737s, which are vital for seasonal workers and military contractors. Craig emphasized that contractor travel would face serious challenges without the reversal of Alaska’s Essential Air Service cuts.
The Trump administration defended the budget cuts due to rising program costs, which increased over 50% since 2021, due to fuel, wages, and maintenance. Alaska’s congressional delegation has historically defended the program despite repeated attempts to reduce funding, calling it a vital rural lifeline.
