Commission delays Van Nuys Airport landing fee vote

The decision comes on the heels of advocacy efforts led by the California Pilots Association, a statewide volunteer advocacy organization, in coordination with AOPA, the National Business Aviation Association, NATA (formerly the National Air Transportation Association), the Van Nuys Airport Association, and other aviation industry stakeholders.

In discussions with LAWA, the coalition highlighted concerns about the proposal’s methodology, the lack of financial transparency, its potential conflicts with FAA grant requirements, and the burden these landing fees could have on general aviation. The proposal would have imposed a landing fee of $9.65 per 1,000 pounds, potentially making it the highest GA landing fee in the United States.

Located in Southern California’s San Fernando Valley, the Van Nuys Airport was built in 1928 and is home to over 200 aviation-related businesses. Classified as one of the nation’s busiest GA airports, Van Nuys saw over 330,000 operations in 2024.

CalPilots Vice President for the Los Angeles Region Eve Lopez said, “We appreciate the Commission’s recognition that the proposal lacks sufficient financial transparency and is committed to engage with those most affected by the proposed fees. While this is not yet a final outcome, the deferral signals a willingness to return to the table with pilots, operators, and community stakeholders, a critical step toward a fair and data-driven process.”

AOPA is committed to its continued collaboration with CalPilots, NBAA, NATA, VNAA, and local industry stakeholders as LAWA continues to develop a mutually beneficial fee structure that is transparent and compliant with FAA guidance.