Federal Airport Money in Jeopardy

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — A nationwide pilot shortage is affecting Great Lakes Aviation's ability to serve several Wyoming airports, reducing flights, passengers and possibly federal money for capital projects.

Sheridan is one of three Wyoming airports that boarded fewer than 10,000 passengers last year. That may trigger a cut from $1 million to $150,000 in federal funding for capital projects unless Congress intervenes.

Funds for Riverton and Cheyenne regional airports are also on the chopping block.

Wyoming lawmakers are considering coming to the rescue for some projects.

Sen. Mike Enzi introduced a bill last month seeking to use 2012 passenger boarding numbers to calculate federal money through 2017. A similar bill is being considered in the House.