Airports across Western Australia will receive $8.4 million through the Regional Airports Development Scheme (RADS).

Infrastructure upgrades and maintenance programs will be provided to 29 regional airports to improve access, provide safer emergency evacuations and ensure tourism income.

Transport Minister Troy Buswell said the RADS funding comprises of $6.4 million from the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program and $2 million from the Department of Transport.

Regional Development and Lands Minister Brendon Grylls said Royalties for Regions provided RADS with a “significant boost”, enabling a wider scope of projects.

“The funding will ensure our airports continue to play a vital part in supporting communities, business and tourism across the state,” Mr Grylls said.

Submissions were called for regional government funding in February where local governments and other airport operators were invited to apply for a share of up to $7.46 million in state government funding.

Shire of Esperence received $1.28 million through the RADS scheme to improve Esperence Airport’s apron extension and upgrade its security scanning and screening.

The City of Albany received $1.25 million for a review of the airport master plan and building passenger security screening facilities.