AOPA calls for DOT rule to include FBO transparency

In the NPRM, the Transportation Department proposes to require airline companies and ticket agents to clearly disclose specific baggage, change, and cancellation fees to consumers whenever fare and schedule information is provided to consumers for flights in the United States.

In the comments, AOPA stated, “We applaud the efforts of the Biden Administration to enhance transparency in the aviation industry and we strongly request that the proposed rule be expanded to include transparency of all general aviation parking fees and location of parking aprons at airports. Pilots of the 211,000 general aviation … aircraft in the United States have a right to know the true price of the parking fees they will be charged at chain FBOs when they arrive. They also have a right to know what aircraft parking options exist at these airports.”

The two largest chain FBO companies, Atlantic Aviation and Signature Aviation, are fully compliant with making their fees and prices for all aircraft types accessible and online for pilots. However, several other chain FBOs have not fully embraced the idea of making their fees transparent.

“For pilots, this is all about doing the right thing and helping create competition at our airports where it is needed. Pricing transparency should be required for every consumer good, and we are appreciative of those in the FBO industry that have voluntarily complied with making their fees and prices transparent for pilots, but unfortunately, several chain FBOs continue not to do so. Hopefully, this proposed rulemaking can help address this important issue,” said AOPA President Mark Baker.