Airports have access to a wide range of funding options—but navigating these opportunities can be complex. Hoyle Tanner helps airports strategically plan, prioritize, and secure the funding they need to keep their infrastructure safe, modern, and efficient from project conception through application submission and approval.
We work closely with airports to identify and pursue funding opportunities across all major sources—federal, state, local, and user-based. Whether it’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding, Discretionary or Supplemental AIP funds, or even emergency relief programs like the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)—we help you stay ahead of deadlines, understand eligibility, and craft competitive applications.
In addition to public funding, we support airports in leveraging their own revenue streams—like terminal rents, concessions, parking, and business park income—to help finance projects. We also assist with Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) strategies to ensure each traveler contributes to ongoing improvements, one passenger at a time.
What is a Passenger Facility Charge (PFC)?
As a former Airport Manager at Cape Cod Gateway Airport in Hyannis, I experienced firsthand how powerful the Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) program can be in moving airport projects forward. Having a strong, well-planned PFC in place allowed us to fund critical infrastructure improvements that would have been difficult to complete through traditional funding alone.
Our team understands how important it is for airports to make every funding source count—and PFCs are often one of the most flexible and effective tools available. PFCs are fees that airports can charge each enplaned passenger—up to $4.50 per ticket—with FAA approval. These funds can be used in a number of impactful ways: to match federal grants, support projects that fall outside AIP eligibility, or to pay debt on major capital improvements.
What many people don’t realize is that Hoyle Tanner doesn’t just design airport projects—we help airports plan strategically, including identifying and securing the right funding mix. We know how overwhelming it can be to balance operations while keeping long-term development on track. Through assistance with PFC planning and applications, we can ensure airports maximize their ability to reinvest in their infrastructure.
Hoyle Tanner Selected to Support Bangor International Airport’s Next PFC Application
Recently, Hoyle Tanner was selected by Bangor International Airport to lead the preparation of the airport’s seventh PFC application, and to assist in the amendment and closeout of PFC Applications 5 and 6.
The PFC application process involves a detailed and structured review by FAA. As part of this process, the FAA Airports Office evaluates the proposed application to ensure that all requested uses of PFC revenue align with federal regulatory criteria outlined in 14 CFR Part 158 and FAA Order 5500.1.
Hoyle Tanner will prepare PFC Application 7 in full compliance with these requirements, ensuring all documentation, justifications, and application components are properly completed to support a positive FAA decision.
To support the application process, Hoyle Tanner will assist the airport by:
Our collaborative, detail-oriented approach streamlines the review process and helps increase the likelihood of timely FAA approval.
How Do Airport’s Apply for PFC Funding?
Airports must apply to FAA for approval to collect PFCs at their facility; however, approval is contingent upon the proposed project meeting FAA eligibility criteria. To be eligible, a project must meet at least one of the following objectives:
- Preserve or enhance the safety, security, or capacity of the national air transportation system;
- Reduce noise or mitigate noise impacts resulting from airport operations;
- Provide opportunities for enhanced competition between or among air carriers; and
- Be adequately justified in terms of need and benefit.
Most projects that are eligible for funding under the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) are also eligible for PFC funding.
Helping Airport’s Find Alternative Funding – One Passenger at a Time
With growing demands on airport infrastructure and limited traditional funding, alternative revenue sources like the Passenger Facility Charge have become increasingly important for sustainable airport development. Our team understands the nuances of FAA expectations, application timelines, and documentation requirements, and we provide strategic support throughout every phase of the application process. With over dozens of applications throughout New England, we have become well-versed in the process, and combine deep regulatory knowledge, technical expertise, and a hands-on, collaborative approach to help airports make the most of PFCs—ensuring critical projects move forward with confidence. Contact me to learn how we can help your airport navigate the PFC process and unlock valuable funding.
