FAA Opposes Mesa’s Proposed $20 Landing Fee at Falcon Field
A growing dispute over landing fees at Falcon Field Airport (KFFZ) in Mesa, Arizona has reached the federal level. The FAA has officially intervened, urging the city to postpone the controversial fee program. This action could potentially set a national standard for general aviation airports across the United States.
On March 23, the Mesa City Council approved a fee schedule. This schedule would charge based fixed-wing aircraft under 6,000 pounds $20.35 per landing (after 10 free monthly landings) and $24.35 per landing for itinerant aircraft in the same category. The city estimates the program will generate approximately $2.6 million annually for airport operations. The full activation of the billing system is scheduled for August 1, 2026.
Two flight schools, CAE Aviation Academy and Thrust Flight Properties, have jointly filed a federal lawsuit. They argue the fees could cost their students nearly $4 million per year. Thrust Flight alone anticipates fees exceeding $500,000 in the first year. Michael Helvey, the FAA’s Director of Office of Airport Compliance, cautioned in a formal letter that the fee structure “may be inconsistent with the city’s federal obligations” and could “unreasonably interfere with legitimate aeronautical activities.”
Despite the federal opposition, Mesa officials remain resolute. They argue the lawsuit “lacks legal merit” and they plan to move forward. Fernando Campoamor, AOPA’s General Counsel, noted the decision “will certainly have a national impact” on how federally funded airports impose fees in the future.
Source: General Aviation News – FAA Challenges KFFZ Landing Fees at Falcon Field