From appropriations or other money made available for the purpose, the department, on behalf of and in the name of the state, may plan, establish, construct, enlarge, improve, maintain, equip, operate, regulate, and protect airports and air navigation facilities, either within or without the state, including the construction, installation, equipment, maintenance, and operation at the airports of buildings and other facilities for the servicing of aircraft or for the comfort and accommodation of air travelers.

(Amended by Stats. 1969, Ch. 138.)