WASHINGTON, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A 30-year-old U.S. government subsidy program that helps provide commercial air service to smaller communities grows despite criticism in Washington.
Critics, such as the U.S. Department of Transportation, said the subsidy -- which can underwrite up to 93 percent of a flight's cost -- is essentially luxury travel for people within driving distance of a larger airport, USA Today reported Monday. The subsidies expanded in recent years, thanks, in part, to support from the U.S. Congress, airlines and airports.