HAHN URGES EFFORT FOR AIRPORT FUNDS.

Byline: Rick Orlov Staff Writer

Reversing his predecessor's policy, Los Angeles Mayor James Hahn on Thursday directed the city airports department to apply for federal funds to cover security costs incurred since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

``Los Angeles International Airport deserves to be among the first in line,'' Hahn said in a letter to the city Airport Commission, which faces a deadline today to apply for the funds.

``These grants and reimbursements will provide a crucial boost to the bottom line and are part of our overall strategy to help our airports get back on their feet.

``(The airport) will be in a better position to continue its efforts to stimulate economic activity, provide better customer service and support worker relief measures.''

Former Mayor Richard Riordan put a halt to accepting federal airport grants as he attempted to use money generated from the city's airports to help out the city's general fund.

That practice came under criticism after the terrorist attacks because of the costs the city had suffered - estimated at $11 million since mid-September - and the city's need to upgrade security facilities.

Hahn estimated the city could be eligible for a major share of the $175 million the federal government is making available.

Hahn spokeswoman Julie Wong said the mayor also wants to allow the airport to accept other federal grants that could be available for aviation purposes.

Among those funds are $43 million for a taxiway inside the airport, and other entitlements of up to $12 million. In addition, Hahn said the city could be eligible for up to $35 million in federal grants to cover debts for this year.