Santa Fe Regional Airport, Rates and Charges Study for Airline and Non-Aeronautical Fees

An Airport Rates and Fee Study is essential to ensure that the airport's financial structure remains equitable, transparent, legally defensible, and aligned with industry best practices. As operating costs, capital improvement requirements, regulatory obligations, and market conditions continue to evolve, periodic evaluation of airline and non-aeronautical rates and charges is necessary to maintain the airport's long-term financial sustainability while supporting operational excellence and economic competitiveness.

The study will provide a comprehensive analysis of the airport's existing rate-setting methodologies for both aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenue sources. Aeronautical fees—including landing fees, terminal rentals, apron charges, fuel flowage fees, aircraft parking, and other airline-related charges—must accurately recover allowable costs while remaining consistent with applicable grant assurances, lease agreements, and accepted airport financial management principles. The analysis will evaluate cost allocation methodologies, identify opportunities to improve cost recovery, and ensure that rates are reasonable, equitable, and non-discriminatory.

In addition, the study will evaluate non-aeronautical revenue opportunities, including commercial leases, rental car concessions, parking, advertising, ground transportation permits, fixed-base operator (FBO) agreements, hangar rentals, land leases, utilities, and other commercial activities. These revenue streams play an increasingly important role in diversifying airport income, reducing reliance on airline fees, and strengthening the airport's overall financial position. The assessment will compare existing fees with regional and national airport benchmarks to determine whether current charges reflect prevailing market conditions and maximize revenue potential without discouraging commercial activity.

The study will also assess the financial impacts of current and projected capital improvement programs, debt service obligations, operating expenses, passenger activity, aircraft operations, and future development plans. By developing financial forecasts and alternative rate scenarios, the airport will be better positioned to support informed decision-making, negotiate future airline agreements, establish sustainable user fees, and maintain compliance with federal requirements and accepted aviation industry practices.

Ultimately, completion of a comprehensive Rates and Fee Study will provide airport management and governing authorities with a data-driven framework for establishing fair, transparent, and financially sustainable rates and charges. The resulting recommendations will enhance fiscal responsibility, improve revenue stability, support long-term strategic planning, and ensure the airport remains competitive while continuing to provide safe, efficient, and high-quality facilities and services for airlines, tenants, passengers, and the surrounding community.