Proposed federal laws could increase airport fees
The Washington-based National Association of Counties (NACo) is keeping a close eye on legislation in Congress that may lead to higher airport taxes and fees. A bill in the House would increase the general aviation jet fuel tax from 21.8 cents a gallon to 30.7 cents a gallon, and a Senate bill would charge a $25-per-flight surcharge on all planes using controlled airspace.
Counties own or participate in airport authorities that govern one-third of the nation’s airports, according to NACo. NACo supports an increase in the passenger facility charge (PFC) used by many airports to fund improvements, and the House bill would increase the PFC cap from $4.50 to $7.
NACo also is lobbying for increased or continued funding for three programs: the Airport Improvement Program, Essential Air Services and Small Community Air Service Development Program. More information is available at www.naco.org
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