Hartford (AP) - Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has signed a law creating a new agency to run Connecticut's airports, a move intended to boost economic development.

Malloy on Thursday signed the law establishing the quasi-public Connecticut Airport Authority to run Bradley International Airport and the state's general aviation airports. The governor and others say an independent authority is needed to reduce bureaucratic red tape and respond more quickly to market changes in the aviation industry.

Supporters of the new law also say the agency will work to make the airport more attractive to new routes, airlines and improve the state's economy.

Management and operation of Bradley and the five other regional airports will be transferred from the Department of Transportation. In addition to the DOT, other agencies and various boards previously oversaw operation of the airports.