Airport authorities press for increased facility charges

Published 21 May 2007

Airports Council International says airports must invest $87.4 billion over the next five years; FAA has capped passsenger fees at $4.50 since 2000

Runaway costs on the runway? The trade association representing airport authorities in the United States and Canada reported this week that airports must invest $87.4 billion over the next five years on new airport infrastructure, such as new runways, terminals, and gates in order to keep pace with projected passenger and air cargo demand. “By prudently raising and investing money in the short term, we have the opportunity to help future travelers avoid delayed flights and inconvenience,” siad Greg Prinipato, president of the Airports Council International - North America (ACI-NA). And how does he propose to pay for it? By lobbying to increase passenger facility charges (PFCs), which has been capped at $4.50 per passenger since 2000. The organization even has a name for the initiative: the Passengers First Commitment campaign. “An increased PFC is the only long-term solution for passengers who are frustrated by the current direction of air travel,” said Principato.