FAA Grant Compliance Review: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport Report

The FAA conducted a compliance review of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), managed by the Port of Seattle, to assess whether airport revenues were being used in accordance with federal law and FAA policies. The review found several violations, including the use of airport funds for familiarization tours promoting tourism and existing airline routes, which are prohibited forms of general economic development. The FAA ordered reimbursement of over $354,000 in improper marketing expenses and required the Port to immediately stop using airport revenue for non-compliant marketing activities.

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FAA Airport Compliance Division (ACO-1) compliance review report on Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), managed by the Port Of Seattle, evaluating adherence to Federal statutes, Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant assurances, and FAA Policy Concerning the Use of Airport Revenue. Report covers areas including Form 126 & 127 reporting, financial transactions, Port Jobs, Noise Land, Fleet Services, Police, Firefighting, Uses of Airport Property, Marketing/Air Carrier Incentives, Cost Allocations, and North SeaTac Park. FAA found $354,769 in unallowable FAM tour marketing costs and $500,938 in unallowable direct airline payments for existing service promotion (2009–2015). FAA requested reimbursement for FAM tour costs and immediate cessation of existing-service marketing using airport revenue. Corrective action plan period: January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2014. Also reviews Office of Social Responsibility activities and Grant Assurance 22 Economic Non-Discrimination concerns.

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