The Port of Seattle submitted comments to the FAA in April 2023 regarding proposed rules for airport air carrier incentive programs, arguing that airports should have broad flexibility to design their own incentive programs rather than follow a rigid list of prohibited practices. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), which has run a New Air Service Incentive Program for over 15 years, raised concerns about a blanket ban on transferring funds to carriers, arguing that reimbursing carriers for pre-approved marketing activities should not be considered a prohibited subsidy. The Port also sought clarification on eligibility rules for competitive services and the 30-day public notice requirement for incentive agreements.Open full document
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The Port of Seattle submits formal comments on the FAA’s Draft Policy Regarding Air Carrier Incentive Program, supporting a principles-based approach over prescriptive rules. The letter raises three specific concerns: opposing blanket prohibition on reimbursing carriers for pre-approved marketing activities, seeking clarification on the definition of ‘New Entrant Carrier’ and eligibility of competitive services, and addressing transparency requirements including the 30-day public notice provision.