PSP secures $5.5 million FAA grant for baggage system

PALM SPRINGS, CA (KESQ)- Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) has secured a $5.5 million FAA grant for its new outbound baggage handling system, bringing total federal funding for the approximately $93.6 million project to more than $66.5 million.

The $5,501,525 Airport Infrastructure Grant will fund the project’s final phase, including software integration, testing, commissioning, construction administration and project management.

Federal funding now covers more than 70% of the project’s total cost. The remaining funding includes $14.4 million in Passenger Facility Charge revenue and $12.6 million in airport funds. PSP said no city general fund or local taxpayer dollars are being used.

The new baggage system will expand PSP’s outbound baggage area, improve processing capacity and meet current TSA security standards. It is designed to accommodate projected passenger growth over the next 15 years.

“This investment is ultimately about making the travel experience at PSP better for our passengers,” said Victoria Carpenter, C.M., Interim Director of Aviation. “Modernizing this critical infrastructure will allow us to move checked bags faster, more accurately and more reliably.”

Construction is already underway while the airport continues operating its existing baggage system. The project is expected to be completed in late 2028.

The baggage system is part of Progress PSP, the airport’s broader initiative to modernize infrastructure and prepare for future growth.