The department may enter into any contracts necessary to the execution of its powers under this part. All contracts made by the department, either as the agent of the state or as the agent of any political subdivision, shall be made pursuant to the laws of the state governing the making of like contracts. Where the planning, acquisition, construction, improvement, maintenance, or operation of any airport or air navigation facility is financed wholly or partially with federal money the department, as agent of the state or of any political subdivision, may let contracts in the manner prescribed by the federal authorities acting under the laws of the United States and any rules made thereunder.