In May 2000, the FAA issued a final rule updating the Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) program, allowing airports to increase per-passenger fees from a maximum of $3 to up to $4.50, as authorized by the Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century (AIR 21). The updated rules set eligibility requirements for projects funded at the higher fee levels, including a requirement that projects at medium and large hub airports make a significant contribution to goals such as reducing aviation noise impacts on nearby communities. Airports seeking the higher PFC levels must also demonstrate that proposed projects cannot be adequately funded through the existing Airport Improvement Program.Open full document
Notes
This FAA final rule amends 14 CFR Part 158 to incorporate administrative and statutory changes to the Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) program, including provisions from the Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century (AIR 21). Key changes include authorizing PFC levels of $4 and $4.50, adding new definitions, expanding project eligibility criteria, and introducing competition plan requirements for covered airports. The rule was issued without prior public notice and comment as the changes are required by statute and deemed necessary for public safety.