WASHINGTON—The U.S. Transportation Department said it was offering $482.3 million in aviation manufacturing assistance to 313 businesses, including up to $75.5 million to Spirit AeroSystems. Congress earlier this year created a $3 billion aviation manufacturing payroll subsidy program that will cover up to half of eligible companies’ compensation costs for as long as six months. Ohio-based Parker-Hannifin Corp. was offered up to $39.7 million, Connecticut-based Hexcel Corp. offered $20.9 million and Astronics Corp. $14.7 million. The companies did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Of the 313 companies receiving funds, 188 of them—60 percent—had fewer than 100 employees at the end of calendar year 2020. The funds will help support as many as 22,500 jobs nationwide. U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican, said 31 Kansas companies will receive $104 million in payroll grants including Kansas-based Spirit AeroSystems. Senate Commerce Committee chair Maria Cantwell said $41 million will go …https://www.theepochtimes.com/c-us-politics