TagFederal Register(18)

The FAA issued an updated policy statement in December 2023 governing Air Carrier Incentive Programs (ACIPs), which are programs used by airports to attract new airline service through fee waivers, reduced landing fees, and marketing support. The policy replaces a 2010 guidebook and establishes clearer rules to ensure incentive programs comply with federal grant requirements, including prohibitions on using airport revenue to directly subsidize airlines and requirements for public transparency. While focused on commercial airports nationwide, the policy is relevant to any airport operator seeking to understand the boundaries of legally permissible incentives for attracting or retaining air service.

The U.S. Department of Transportation is seeking public input to help develop a national strategy for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), which includes electric and hybrid-electric aircraft capable of vertical or short takeoff and landing. The strategy aims to address safety, infrastructure, community impacts, and regulatory frameworks for these emerging aircraft technologies. While this notice does not specifically address Sea-Tac Airport or local noise policy, noise reduction compared to traditional aviation is cited as one potential benefit of AAM operations.

The Federal Aviation Administration announces its approval of the noise compatibility program for John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), effective March 14, 2023. The program contains 22 recommended measures including noise abatement, land use, and program management measures to reduce aviation noise impacts.

Federal Register containing two notices: USTR’s determination to extend 352 reinstated Chinese trade exclusions through September 2023, and FAA’s approval of LaGuardia Airport’s noise compatibility program with 23 proposed measures including noise abatement and land use measures.

The FAA announced a Notice of Funding Opportunity for an Airport Environmental Mitigation Pilot Program, authorized under Section 190 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, which provides grants of up to $2.5 million per project to help public-use airports measurably reduce aviation impacts on noise, air quality, or water quality within five miles of the airport. Up to six projects may be funded, with costs split 50/50 between federal and airport matching funds, and projects must be carried out by an eligible consortium of businesses, educational or research organizations, government entities, or federal laboratories. Pre-applications were due by July 9, 2021, and priority was given to projects achieving the greatest reductions in aircraft noise, emissions, or water quality impacts.