Just because you’re at a conference doesn’t mean the world stops. Centerlines LIVE will continue providing the latest industry news while Centerlines Today is on hiatus. This section will feature the latest industry news so you don’t miss a beat while networking with old friends and new connections.

>> U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao announces $205 million in funding for airport infrastructure
This week, U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has awarded $205 million in supplemental funding for infrastructure grants to small airports in 34 states.

>> San Diego International Airport recognized as sustainability leader
San Diego International has been certified at “Level 3,” one of 17 airports in North America to earn that title from the Airports Council International’s Airport Carbon Accreditation program, according to SAN spokesman Jonathan Heller. 

>> Top minimum wage in U.S., $19, approved for New York’s airport workers
The pay increase, which was approved unanimously by the commissioners of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, will raise the wages of tens of thousands of workers over the next five years.

>> FAA bill would open door for airports to act on toxic foams
The House passed a five-year Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill on Sept. 26, including an amendment that would exempt airports from military specifications (MilSpec) that mandate the use of fluorine-based, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS in foams.

>> Sky Harbor offers tablets for travelers with hearing, speech disabilities
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has installed new video relay service tablets in Terminal 4 that will help travelers who are hard of hearing, deaf or have speech disabilities. 

>> Busy agenda awaits Massport’s next CEO
As the Massachusetts Port Authority searches for a new leader, its board must decide whether to hire a stellar coach or a superstar athlete, a conductor or a soloist. Think Bill Belichick vs. Tom Brady – or the management analogy that departing CEO Tom Glynn likes to use, Keith Lockhart vs. Yo-Yo Ma. 

>> JetBlue joins airlines selling basic economy tickets
JetBlue Airways Corp. is introducing bare-bones economy fares to keep up with competition from discount air carriers and drum up sales as it faces rising labor and fuel costs.

>> Thousands of travelers affected in Europe by Ryanair strike
Thousands of travelers in Europe saw their plans disrupted Friday after airline Ryanair canceled more than 200 flights because of strikes by cabin crews in Spain, Belgium, Holland, Portugal, Italy and Germany.