How do airport landing fees work?

Airport landing fees are one of the many ways through which the FAA is able to sustain the aviation industry.

While the United States aviation system is heavily subsidized through federal tax dollars, airport landing fees help to provide funding to sustain the industry and keep it financially solvent.

Landing fees help pay for keeping the airport running smoothly. Some examples of the ways landing fees are allocated include: runway maintenance and repair, airport lighting, the cost of fuel, tower, hangar, and FBO facility maintenance, aircraft maintenance fees, and even the salaries of the airport staff.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding airport landing fees is crucial for managing aircraft operation costs.
• Fees are based on various factors including aircraft weight and type of operation.
• Landing fees vary widely but typically range from $2 to $50 for small aircraft¹.
• Additional fees such as parking, handling, and deicing can significantly impact costs¹.
• Fuel service fees range from $4 to $15, adding to the overall expense of aircraft operation¹.

Do all airports charge landing fees?

Each airport is free to set its own landing fees, or to decide not to charge landing fees at all. There is no federal mandate nor is there any universal standard fee / rate structure. Each airport must decide the fee structure.

How Much Are Landing Fees?

If you’re parking a small plane overnight, you might pay anywhere between $10 and $25, depending on the airport¹. For services like helping with your plane or making sure it’s free of ice, you could be charged between $5 to $20¹. And if your plane needs deicing, this might cost you between $20 to $60¹. Keep in mind, you’ll also pay for the fuel you use, which can add another $4 to $15 to your bill¹.

How Are Landing Fees Determined?

Airport landing fees are vital in covering airport costs. They vary by size, location, and rules. Each landing by an airplane gets charged a fee.

Lately, more planes have been landing in the U.S., over 25% increase in 12 years². This means more fees for airlines and pilots to pay. The charges can add up for airlines, affecting their costs.

It’s important to know how these fees help pay for airport services. In 2007, delays in flight arrivals totaled 4.3 million hours². These delays can raise costs for pilots and airlines. It shows why good airport management benefits everyone.

Airports use different ways to set and calculate landing fees. Some airports charge $7.29 per thousand pounds for certain types of landings. Others charge $9.11 per thousand pounds for different types of flights³. Landings in certain places may have much higher fees, with a minimum cost of $491 for some planes³.

In 2008, the FAA made changes to help with airport congestion. They let busy airports use landing fees to encourage airlines to fly at less busy times. The goal is to reduce airport congestion and flight delays⁴.

The Department of Transportation works to ensure fair and non-discriminatory landing fees, as required by law². Thanks to their oversight, the aviation sector maintains fair and safe practices. This benefits everyone involved, supporting a safer and more efficient sky.

What Are Airport Fees?

Airport fees cover many charges for using an airport. These include fees for things such as:

• landing
• staying in hangars
• tie-downs
• handling your plane
• refueling

All these fees help airports with the costs of running and improving their services.

Landing fees can vary based on the characteristics of the airplane. They’re based on factors such as:

• how heavy the plane is
• how many seats it has
• time of day / day of week that it lands

The Paso Robles Municipal Airport, for example, sets their landing fees using the plane’s FAA weight limit. Fees start at $15 for planes under 20,000 lbs and go up to $250 for planes between 155,001 and 220,000 lbs, with some exceptions⁵. Also, planes over 80,000 lbs need special permission to land there⁵.

But at the Allegheny County Airport, small planes under 5,000 lbs don’t pay landing fees. Bigger planes do, at a rate of $1.40 for every 1,000 lbs. Helicopters, on the other hand, pay a flat fee of $7.00⁶. Companies like Altaport and Vector Airport Systems help with payments. They charge a small 3% fee for using credit cards⁵⁶.

The money from landing fees goes back into airport upkeep and growth. It helps pay for gates, check-ins, and more⁷. Each airport might use fees in different ways, sometimes combining several services into one fee or lowering landing fees but adding more fees for other things⁷. This can make it tricky to compare prices between airports.

Aside from landing, airports have other charges too, like for fuel, for staying in hangars, and for managing the plane. These extra fees help airports make enough money to keep running and to plan for the future. It’s really important for plane operators to know about and handle these costs well to keep the airport running smoothly.

Why Do Airports Charge Landing Fees?

Airports need to manage costs for things like runway upkeep and Air Traffic Control. These landing fees are vital for safe and effective operations. They help cover the expensive upkeep of aviation.

Landing costs differ greatly across airports, with busy ones charging the most because of high demand⁷. Yet, some airports, mainly those for general aviation, don’t have these fees. This is due to help from groups like the FAA in the United States⁷. Over 12 years, the U.S. saw a 25% rise in flights, from 8.2 million to 10.3 million per year².

As of 2007, congestion caused flight delays totaling 4.3 million hours². Landing fees are set based on several factors. Airports in the U.S., for instance, charge based on aircraft weight, with a range of about USD $20 to $40⁸. Some airports up these fees at busy times to deter smaller plane landings⁷.

A big plane like a Boeing 747 might have to pay thousands at places like Tokyo Narita or Toronto Pearson⁸. This shows how important landing fees are for airline budgeting and choosing routes. Although, some airports might drop these fees if you buy fuel or stay for a short while⁸. These costs are key for keeping flying safe and reliable.

Types of Airport Fees

Knowing about different airport fees is key for proper financial prep in flying. These charges include everything from landing costs to extra services, making sure airports run well and are safe.

Landing Fees	Planes pay to land at airports, and the cost changes based on size and needs. At Concord-Padgett, landing prices vary from $12.00 to $115.00 per touchdown, with special deals for buying enough fuel and aircraft dimensions9. Meanwhile, Paso Robles’ charges shift by the aircraft’s weight, from $15 to $2505.
Hangar and Tie-down Fees	For keeping aircraft safe at the airport, owners pay to park. At Concord-Padgett, rates for parking outside go from $80.00 to $300.00 monthly, while inside parking can be $35.00 to $175.00 a night9. Renting hangar space for helicopters is between $300.00 and $375.00, depending on the type9.
Fuel Service Fees	Filling up on gas means factoring in service fees. It’s not just the cost per gallon; there are added costs like surcharges and taxes. Some places ask for $15.00 to start engines with an extra $10.00 every 15 minutes9. These fees really add up for flyers.
Handling Fees	Getting help with luggage and more at the airport comes with its own bill. For instance, helping out planes at Concord-Padgett can run from $1000.00 to $2000.00 per plane9. The fee for each passenger’s bags is usually $4.00, but there’s a minimum fee of $200.009.
Overnight Fees	Staying overnight in the airport’s parking area costs planes money. Depending on the size and type, these charges at Concord-Padgett range from $15.00 to $175.009. It’s crucial to know these costs for parking plans. Concord-Padgett accommodates a wide range of needs9.
Other Fees	There are also more specific costs for things like bathroom services, charged at $65.00 each, and parking for helicopters at $75.00 monthly or $10.00 a day9. Depending on where you fly, special fees may crop up. Deicing might be needed in bad weather, adding to the bill.

How Are Landing Fees Calculated?

Landing fees are calculated based on several factors. They figure out what each plane should pay to land. The main points are the plane’s weight, the time it lands, what services your airplane might need upon landing, and the type of flight operation you are engaging in.

Factors Influencing Fees

Many things affect how much a landing will cost. For instance, at Paso Robles Municipal Airport, planes over 6,000 lbs pay different amounts from September 1, 2023. The cost is between $15 and $250, depending on how heavy the plane is⁵. Flying in without permission gets costly, especially for planes over 80,000 lbs. It could be more than $155⁵. And landing without OK can cost between $100 and $600 based on weight, starting from less than 12,500 lbs up to over 100,000 lbs¹⁰.

Aircraft Weight	The weight of the plane really matters. At Paso Robles Municipal Airport, planes’ landing fees can reach $250. This is based on their maximum takeoff weight (MTOW)5. Flying in without permission could cost more than $155 for planes over 80,000 lbs5. Unauthorized landing fees go up as the plane gets heavier, from $100 to $600, depending on the weight brackets10.
Time of Day	The time you land can affect how much you pay. Some places charge more at busy times or during big events. At Harry Reid International Airport, fees hit $3,500 to $7,700 during the F1 race weekend11. Other spots like Henderson Executive Airport and North Las Vegas Airport see fees go up by $3,00011.
Type of Operation	Whether you’re flying for business or as a private plane changes your landing fees. Commercial flights might pay or be charged differently than private ones. There are exceptions at Paso Robles Municipal Airport for things like government flights or air ambulances. This shows how the type of flight affects what you pay5. During special events, like the F1 race weekend, airports increase fees to match the high demand. This shows how event types can change the fee rules11.

Standard Rates for Landing Fees

Knowing landing fee rates is key to managing aviation costs. Fees are based on the aircraft’s weight and type. For instance, signatory and general aviation types pay $1.20 per 1,000 lbs. MGLW. But, non-signatory carriers pay more, at $1.80 per 1,000 lbs. MGLW¹².

Take Dallas Love Field (DAL) as an example. Part 91 general aviation planes pay a $5.15 fee per 1,000 pounds of max weight¹³. On the other hand, non-signatory types, like Part 135, only pay $3.14 per 1,000 pounds. This shows how fees differ for each type of operation¹³.

Parking fees change based on carrier type and passenger number. For instance, signatory carriers with 1-69 passengers pay a $35 fee. However, non-signatory carriers pay more, at $53. This illustrates why carrier distinctions are important¹².

Changing aircraft size, type, and the carrier’s status all affect costs. This includes both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. It’s crucial to understand these different categories and weights to get fair prices.

How to Check Airport Fees

Unfortunately, airport landing fees are not transparently published in the Airport Facilities Directory. Your best bet is to pick up the phone and call the Fixed Base Operator (FBO) at the airport and ask them directly, prior to your flight. Or you may email them as well.

Having said that, there have been attempts made to compile this information.

Airport Websites

Visiting an airport’s official website may or provide direct access to fee information. You may be able to find details on landing fees, parking costs, and more. If an airport charges for landings, it will be marked as “Fee” in the AF/D guide. Typically, the landing fee is about $7.50 for small planes and $10.00 for bigger ones¹⁴. In a cool exception, Denver International Airport doesn’t charge for touch-and-go landings by small planes¹⁴.

Online Resources

There are also great online tools for checking airport fees.

AOPA’s website look up tool can provide information about airport landing fees:

https://www.aopa.org/destinations

The “RampFee.me” website is a crowd-sourced tool where pilots can voluntarily input landing fee information based on their personal experience:

https://rampfee.me/airport/KALB#Light_Piston_Single

Another good website that may provide some airport fee information is AirNav:

https://www.airnav.com

Contacting the Airport

For the latest fee info, reaching out to the airport is best. Places like Allegheny County Airport share their fees if you ask⁶. Vector Airport Systems lets you pay fees online and see the structures yourself⁶. When you call or email, you can learn about any recent fee changes. This keeps you in the loop.

1. Official Airport Websites
2. Online Databases
3. Direct Contact with the Airport

Using these methods, you can easily check airport fees before your trip. That way, you avoid any surprises and make your journey smoother.

Understanding Hangar and Tie-down Fees

Hangar and tie-down fees are key parts of the cost of parking your plane. They provide different levels of protection for your aircraft. These fees are major factors in how much aircraft owners spend. The price changes depending on where the airport is and the size of your plane.

Aircraft parking costs cover charges for outdoor areas and indoor hangars. Tie-down fees are for securing planes with ropes or chains. On the other hand, hangar fees provide full coverage from the weather. In 2018, the cost for parking and storage for air carriers, per hour, hit about $8,916¹⁵.

The cost of parking also includes ramp fees. These fees can change a lot. For example, Republic Airport’s charges start at $2.50 for planes up to 5,000 pounds. The price goes up with heavier planes¹⁶. This shows how where you land and your plane’s weight affect the fees.

The cost for a hangar or tie-down includes more than just a spot to park. In 2018, cargo plane’s costs for materials each hour were about $4,905¹⁵. A big part of this money goes to keep up and store the planes. So, the fee for parking or storing planes is a big deal in the total cost of running one.

Knowing how hangar and tie-down fees work is really important. According to FAR 91.501(d), you can use these fees for getting money back. This rule lets you include hangar and tie-down fees among other necessary costs. By understanding all these costs, plane owners can make better plans for handling airport expenses.

Fuel Service Fees Explained

Knowing about fuel service fees is key for those in the aviation world. These fees have several parts. They include the fuel’s cost per gallon, service charges, and extra taxes and fees. Together, these expenses add up, making up a big part of operating an aircraft’s total cost.

Cost Per Gallon

The cost of each gallon of aviation fuel changes a lot from one airport to another. This is because of different locations and sizes of the airports. For example, at the six MAC reliever airports, fuel flowage fees are seen as fair. They match prices in the market¹⁷. This helps make sure pilots pay a fair price for fuel. Also, prices for 100LL/Avgas are usually higher because there’s less being pumped into the airplanes¹⁷. Watching fuel prices at different spots can make your refueling budget more accurate.

Service Charges

Service charges are for the refueling work itself. They might be between $4 and $15 for each refuel for small planes, based on the airport’s pricing¹. At airports with lots of general aviation traffic, these charges might be more. That’s due to the bigger need and more complicated operations. These steady service fees make prices the same across various refueling spots. This helps both private and business plane operators.

Fuel Surcharges and Taxes

More expenses sometimes include fuel surcharges and taxes, which change by the area and airport. Sometimes these extra fees are already part of the per gallon price. This simplifies the billing. For example, at airports like St. Paul Downtown, Flying Cloud, and Anoka County-Blaine, landing fees consider the cost of Jet fuel. This makes sure plane operators know about all costs beforehand¹⁷. Knowing these details can improve your money management and the handling of refueling costs.

Handling Fees at Larger Airports

At big airports, handling fees can really bump up costs for both private and commercial flights. It’s not just landing fees; the total includes ramp and overnight fees too. These all make flying from big airports more expensive¹⁸.

These fees cover things like handling baggage and certain charges for passengers. They show how the small costs of handling baggage can pile up. For flights, the fees are based on the airplane’s type and how heavy it is, not exactly each plane¹⁸. And at these big airports, handling fees vary based on what kind of plane it is. They consider if it’s a single-engine, multi-engine, or even a jet¹⁸.

Let’s look at some common expenses at busy airports:

Landing fees	$2 – $50
Parking/Overnight	$10 – $25
Handling fees	$5 – $20
Deicing	$20 – $60
Fuel service	$4 – $15

Big airline companies face high bills, often paying $171 for each hour they fly. This includes landing costs. These costs show why it’s vital to do baggage handling and passenger services well to keep spending under control at large airports.

Also, the need for flights to be on time adds to these costs. Prompt operations are very important in the world of flying¹⁸.

Dealing with these fees smartly at bigger airports is key for those involved, like airline companies and airport staff. Knowing how these fees work helps control expenses. This means running things more efficiently and giving passengers better service. Being ready and informed makes the financial side of flying much smoother.

Overnight Parking Fees

When an aircraft stays at an airport overnight, it incurs parking charges. Each airport has its own set of fees. These differ based on the airport’s size, how busy it is, and the facilities it offers. For example, at Palo Alto Airport, parking fees for certain spaces range from $176.00 to $257.50. If you need to park in a different area, it might cost between $219.00 and $402.00¹⁹. Larger airports with more traffic tend to charge higher fees.

At Scottsdale Airport, overnight parking charges are based on the aircraft’s weight. For planes with a certain weight threshold or more, the landing fee is $1.50 per 1,000 pounds²⁰. This shows why costs for parking can vary so much.

The costs of overnight parking cover several details of the aircraft’s stay. For example, at Palo Alto Airport, costs for charter and air taxi flights differ based on the aircraft’s weight, with fees from $21.50 to $81.50¹⁹. Also, replacing a fire extinguisher can cost $185.00¹⁹. These fees are necessary to maintain high-quality and safe services for aviation customers.

Certain regulations come into play at Scottsdale Airport for heavier planes. Aircraft weighing more than 75,000 pounds but less than 100,000 pounds need prior approval and must follow specific rules. This airport also offers US Customs services daily, with a fee to be paid online in advance, from 1600Z to 0200Z²⁰. The rules about heavy aircraft and customs services affect the costs of parking at this airport.

Monthly parking fees for aircraft can greatly differ from one airport to another. For instance, one airport might charge $2,000 per month. This demonstrates why it’s crucial to know the parking rates and rules of each airport for effective planning of your costs²¹.

In conclusion, overnight parking fees differ significantly due to various aircraft and airport factors. Here’s a brief look at the various parking fees:

Airport	Parking Type	Fee Range
Palo Alto	Tail-in Open Tie-Down (Improved Pavement)	$176.00 – $257.50
Palo Alto	Taxi-in Open Tie-Down (Improved Pavement)	$219.00 – $402.00
Palo Alto	Charter & Air Taxi Flight Operations Fee	$21.50 – $81.50
Scottsdale	Transient Aircraft Parking (over 12,500 lbs)	N/A
Scottsdale	Landing Fee per 1,000 lbs	$1.50
Example Airport	Monthly Overnight Parking Fee	$2,000/month

Additional Fees to Consider

Let’s talk about extra charges you might face in aviation. It’s important to know the different airport costs. For example, landing fees depend on your plane’s weight. Bigger planes pay more¹. These fees are a big part of flying costs.

Also, you need to think about handling fees. These are common at big airports. They help with things like moving luggage¹. Plus, overnight fees vary a lot. Sometimes they’re free, but at busy airports, they can be high¹.

Don’t forget about fuel fees. You pay for the gas and a refueling charge¹. In winter, de-icing costs extra. It can be $20 to $60, depending on your needs¹.

If you fly in from abroad, there’s a $5 fee per passenger²². This doesn’t apply from Canada, Mexico, and some nearby places. Also, breaking health rules can mean big fines or even jail. So, follow the rules carefully²².

Knowing about these fees is key to avoiding surprise costs. The government makes sure airport fees are fair. This helps pilots budget better².

Fixed Base Operators (FBO) and Their Role

Fixed Base Operators, often known as FBOs, are key in helping general aviation operations. They provide a range of services for private aviation facilities. This ensures a smooth and comfortable travel experience for people who own or fly on private jets.

FBO Services

FBOs offer many important services for flying. They take care of aircraft maintenance, storage, and fuel sales. Also, they provide things like passenger comforts and special aerial services²³.

Across the globe, there are about 4,500 FBOs. This shows how vital they are for private aviation²³. In the U.S., there were 3,138 businesses qualified as FBOs by April 2009²⁴.

FBO Fees

The fees FBOs charge vary based on the services they offer. They could be categorized into Tiers based on their yearly earnings. These are: Tier Three (under $10 million), Tier Two ($10 million to $25 million), and Tier One (over $25 million)²³.

It’s important to remember that the cost reflects the level of service. The number of FBOs in the U.S. dropped from 3,346 in 2006 to 3,138 in 2009. This shows the changing face of this sector²⁴.

Distinguishing FBO Fees from Airport Fees

Knowing the difference between FBO and airport fees is crucial for pilots. Airport fees are for general services like maintaining runways. FBO fees, however, pay for specific services like refueling and parking²³²⁵. FBOs also provide necessary services for charter pilots²³²⁵.

At times, an airport may only allow one FBO due to space or other limitations. This highlights how FBO services are tailored to specific needs²⁵. FBOs offer a high level of privacy and personalized service, making them crucial for those in private aviation²³.

Typical Cost of Airport Fees

Airport fees change a lot. They depend on the plane’s size and the charges for using the airport. For example, Springfield charges commercial airlines $1.18 for every 1,000 pounds the plane weighs when landing²⁶.

Each passenger that gets on a plane pays an extra fee. Springfield’s fee is $4.77. This is less than the national average of $6.25²⁶. San Francisco and Pittsburgh, however, charge more than $13 per passenger²⁶. This shows how costs can differ from one airport to another.

Airlines also pay rent for their own spaces at airports. At Springfield, the rent for spaces like offices is $40.69 for every square foot²⁶. This rent affects how much money airlines spend on running their operations.

FBO fees can vary widely as well. According to the AOPA Airport Directory, there are many different fees for services at different airports. They have tried to simplify by grouping 120 various fees into 36 standard types²⁷.

Special events cost more. During the F1 race at Las Vegas, prices at FBOs are higher. For example, Atlantic Aviation FBO can charge up to $3,500, and Signature FBO, up to $7,700¹¹. Clark County airports add a $3,000 fee for these events¹¹.

Special events bring in a lot of money. Clark County made over $1.5 million during the F1 weekend from these extra fees¹¹. This shows how these special charges add to the total cost of using the airport.

Category	Typical Cost
Landing Fees	$1.18 per 1,000 pounds (Springfield Airport)
Enplanement Cost	$4.77 per passenger (Springfield Airport)
Exclusive-Use Space Rent	$40.69 per sq ft (Springfield Airport)
Special Event Fees (F1 Weekend)	$3,500 – $7,700 (Harry Reid International Airport)
Clark County Event Fees	$3,000 + Parking and Overnight Fees

Knowing about airport fees is key for keeping costs down. This is important for both choosing flight routes and budgeting for expenses because there are many different fees to consider.

How to Pay Your Airport Fees

Paying for airport fees can usually be done at the airport’s Fixed Base Operator (FBO). Here, you can find out all the fees you need to pay for things like landing, hangar use, and fuel service. You can pay with major credit cards like American Express, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and AvCard. But, keep in mind that a 3% service fee might be added on top²⁸. You can also pay with checks sent to the address on the invoice or through ACH/Wire Payments by emailing for banking instructions²⁸.

Private aircraft are charged a $25 airport fee once a year²². For people flying commercial airlines, there’s a $5 fee per passenger coming from most foreign places, except Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean spots²². Vector Airport Systems will soon handle bills and payments for Oakland County International Airport starting in 2024²⁸.

At smaller airports, paying airport fees might be a bit different. You might have to go to various places or businesses to pay your charges. These fees vary by the aircraft’s weight, like from $30 for planes between 12,501 and 30,000 lbs, to $210 for those over 100,000 lbs²⁸. You can sometimes pay in cash or by check, but it depends on the location.

Some big airports have extra charges for their services. For small planes, the landing fees can be anywhere from $2 to $50¹. The cost for fuel services, based on how much fuel you get at the airport, varies from $4 to $15 per gallon¹. At bigger airports, you might avoid handling fees if you buy a certain amount of fuel¹.

To make paying your airport fees easier, know what payment methods are accepted and if there are extra fees. This will make sorting out your aviation costs a lot more straightforward.

Tips for Managing Airport Fee Costs

Airport fees can put a big strain on your budget. But, with smart planning, you can cut down on these costs. Here are some tips to help you save money:

Planning Ahead

It pays to think ahead when it comes to airport fees. Airport charges, like landing fees, are mostly set and not very flexible²⁹. By looking into your airport options early, you might find some great deals. And if you’re okay with fewer services for a lower price, you can try to negotiate³⁰.

Choosing the Right Airports

Picking the right airport is key to saving on fees. Doing a bit of research on landing fees at different spots can save you money³⁰. Remember, airport fees are based on your plane’s weight. So, choosing airports that fit your needs can help lower your costs²⁹. It’s also good to know about spots that don’t have extra fees, which can cut your costs even more²⁹.

Utilizing Online Tools

Online tools can be a game-changer in planning your airport visits. They give you up-to-date info on fees, making it easier to compare prices³⁰. Having this data at your fingertips can prevent any surprises in your costs. It ensures you stay on budget.

How Do Airports Spend Their Money?

The FAA maintains a Certification Activity Tracking System which allows you to gain some insight into the financials of each airport.

How To Avoid Paying Landing Fees

Learning about different aviation landing tactics is key to skipping landing fees. At certain airports, you can skip these charges with the right moves.

No Landing Fees For Touch-and-Gos

Doing touch-and-goes is a smart way to avoid paying landing fees at various places. Essentially, you briefly touch the runway and take off again. Since you don’t fully stop, you skip the landing fees. This method works well for those in training or needing to practice their landings. It’s important to note that this only works for smaller planes and policies may differ from airport to airport.

No Landing Fees If You Spend Money on Fuel

Buying fuel at certain airports can also waive your landing fees. In New Mexico, some publicly funded airports do this. If you buy enough fuel during your stop, you won’t have to pay for landing. Not only does this save you money, but it also helps these airports stay operative and maintain services. New Mexico’s Aviation Division supports this initiative with grants, making things easier for pilots and improving airport conditions³⁴.

To cut costs on your flights, using touch-and-gos and strategically buying fuel is a great idea. Being aware of these options can make your journey more budget-friendly.

FAQ

How do airport landing fees work?

Airport landing fees are charges pilots face for using an airport’s services. These fees help keep the airport running smoothly. They pay for things like runway upkeep and Air Traffic Control (ATC).

What are the different types of airport fees?

Airports charge various fees, such as for landing, hangars, and fuel services. Other fees include handling, overnight stays, and more. These charges support airport services for all types of flights.

Why do airports charge landing fees?

Airports charge for landings to help with their running costs. They cover runway and ATC upkeep. These charges are vital for the airport’s safe operation and to manage aviation’s big expenses.

How are landing fees calculated?

Landing fees depend on aircraft weight, time of day, and operation type. They’re also based on minimum charges and rates per thousand pounds.

How can I check airport fees?

Find airport fee info on the airport’s website or using online tools like AirNav. Calling or emailing the airport directly is another way to get the latest fees.

What are hangar and tie-down fees?

Airports charge for parking aircraft, from simple tie-downs to covered hangars. This cost is also called ramp or parking fees.

What are fuel service fees?

Fuel service fees include the cost of fuel and refueling services. They might have surcharges and taxes. For private flights, the fuel price already covers these fees.

What are handling fees at larger airports?

Large airports charge handling fees for commercial flights. These cover baggage and passenger assistance. Fees for small planes may be waived if they buy enough fuel.

What are overnight parking fees?

Leaving an aircraft at an airport overnight incurs parking fees. Costs can change a lot between airports.

What additional fees should I consider?

Watch out for fees for using ground vehicles, special services, and terminal spaces. These charges can stack up, especially at big airports or busy times.

What is the role of Fixed Base Operators (FBOs)?

Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) offer private services like fueling and parking. They have additional fees on top of airport charges for these extra services.

What are typical costs of airport fees?

Airport fees vary by airport and aircraft. They can go from small amounts to large costs. Sometimes you can avoid or reduce them with fuel purchases or other deals.

How do I pay my airport fees?

Handle airport fees at the FBO office with credit or debit cards. They usually accept cash and checks too. The FBO explains your fees when you pay.

How can I manage airport fee costs?

To save on airport fees, plan ahead and pick airports with good fuel prices. Look for discounts and programs to lower your costs.

How can I avoid paying landing fees?

Avoid landing fees by doing touch-and-gos or spending a minimum on fuel. Knowing these saving opportunities helps cut your expenses.

Source Links

1. The Ultimate Guide to Airport Fees – Pilot Institute – https://pilotinstitute.com/airport-fees/
2. U.S. Court of Appeals Decision on Airport Rates and Charges, ATA versus DOT, July 13, 2010 – https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/airports/airport_compliance/compliance_guidance/uscourtappeals-airports-rates-charges-jul2010.pdf
3. Microsoft Word – SFO Summary of Charges FY20-21_FINAL – https://www.flysfo.com/sites/default/files/assets/investor/FY20-21_Summary_of_Airport_Charges.pdf
4. Policy Regarding Airport Rates and Charges – https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2013/09/10/2013-21905/policy-regarding-airport-rates-and-charges
5. Landing Fees | Paso Robles, CA – https://www.prcity.com/1187/Landing-Fees
6. AGC Landing Fees and Payments – https://flypittsburgh.com/allegheny-county-airport/landing-fees/
7. Landing fee – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Landing_fee
8. Is There A Fee At Airports To Land And Takeoff – https://www.airliners.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425719
9. Concord-Padgett Regional Airport > General Aviation / FBO > Aviation Fees – https://www.concordairportnc.com/General-Aviation-FBO/Aviation-Fees
10. 32 CFR § 766.11 – Fees for landing, parking and storage. – https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/32/766.11
11. AOPA fights price gouging at Las Vegas valley airports – https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2023/november/09/pilots-subjected-to-egregious-fees-in-las-vegas
12. Aircraft Landing Fee – https://www.gatewayairport.com/documents/documentlibrary/wgaa organizational documents/airport rates charges – effective march 1, 2017.pdf
13. Dallas Love Landing Fees in Effect for GA, Certain Operations Exempt – https://nbaa.org/aircraft-operations/airports/dallas-love-landing-fees-effect-ga-certain-operations-exempt/
14. Airport Landing Fees Information – Airliners.net – https://www.airliners.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=738075
15. Economic Values for Investment and Regulatory Decisions – https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/policy_guidance/benefit_cost/econ-value-section-4-op-costs.pdf
16. Frequently Asked Questions – Republic Airport – http://republicairport.net/?page_id=1709
17. Airport Business Solutions – https://metroairports.org/documents/mac-reliever-fuel-flowage-fees/direct
18. What fees are involved in using an airport? – https://discussions.flightaware.com/t/what-fees-are-involved-in-using-an-airport/2716
19. FY 21 Fees and Charges .xlsx – https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/public-works/palo-alto-airport/fy-21-fees-and-charges.pdf
20. City of Scottsdale – Pilot Information – https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/airport/pilot-information
21. PDF – https://peninsulaairportcommission.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/FY22-Rates-Charges.pdf
22. GEN 4.1 Fees and Charges – https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aip_html/part1_gen_section_4.1.html
23. The Definitive Guide to Fixed Base Operators – Republic Jet Center – https://republicjetcenter.com/the-definitive-guide-to-fixed-base-operators/
24. Fixed-base operator – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fixed-base_operator
25. __________Advisory – https://www.faa.gov/documentlibrary/media/advisory_circular/150-5190-5-change1.pdf
26. Airlines set ticket prices, not airports – https://www.flyspringfield.com/blog/misperception-2-airports-control-set-ticket-prices
27. FBO fees published in AOPA Airport Directory – https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2019/june/20/fbo-fees-published-in-aopa-airport-directory
28. Landing Fees | Oakland County, MI – https://www.oakgov.com/community/airports/pilots/landing-fees
29. Do Airport Landing Fees Distort the Price Mechanism? – https://rationalreasoning.substack.com/p/do-airport-landing-fees-distort-the
30. FBO And Landing Fees – Aviation Safety – https://www.aviationsafetymagazine.com/reality_check/fbo-and-landing-fees/
31. AWP RNO Transmittal Report. 2024-06-17 – https://www.faa.gov/airports/airport_compliance/compliance_reviews/AWP-RNO-Audit-Report-Final-2024-06-17
32. Airport Pricing of Aircraft Takeoff and Landing Slots: An Economic Critique of Federal Regulatory Policy – https://lawcat.berkeley.edu/record/1117699/files/fulltext.pdf
33. Transient Landing Fee System | Cottonwood, AZ – https://cottonwoodaz.gov/844/Transient-Landing-Fee-System
34. Landing Fees – https://www.pilotsofamerica.com/community/threads/landing-fees.105152/