FAA Weighs In on Falcon Field Landing Fees

# CPA News Synopsis

The FAA has issued a warning to Mesa, Arizona regarding landing fees scheduled to take effect July 30 at Falcon Field (KFFZ), citing potential violations of federal grant assurances and safety concerns. Unlike typical airport fee structures that exempt smaller aircraft, Falcon Field’s new fees will charge all aircraft after 10 free monthly landings, which flight schools and operators argue will significantly increase training costs and may violate federal obligations. This case is relevant to Colorado pilots as it sets a precedent for how regional airports can implement user fees and demonstrates the FAA’s scrutiny of policies that could restrict aeronautical activities.