DOT Proposes Shifting Basis Of Landing Fees From Weight To Timing

The U.S. Department of Transportation today issued a proposal that would allow airports to charge landing fees based on the time of day and traffic volumes, as opposed to the current policy, which bases fees on aircraft weight.

Transportation Secretary Mary Peters today said the proposed rulemaking would encourage airports to add capacity and relieve congestion by "encouraging airlines to spread their flights more evenly throughout the day."

The change also allows airports "to include the cost of projects designed to expand capacity in the new landing fees."

"All told, these new market-based measures will help reduce congestion and increase airport investments," Peters said. DOT said the proposed change is open to public comment for 45 days before regulators finalize the rule.