Land Use Planning
- What is an Airport Master Plan?
- Land Use Compatibility
- Which Regulation Guides Planning for Noise Compatible Land Uses?
An Airport Master Plan:
- Shows the developmental needs of the airport
- Takes land use compatibility issues into account
- Is approved and published through a process that encourages public participation
Airport sponsors and government agencies develop Airport Master Plans. These agencies work together to establish a comprehensive land use plan for the airport and surrounding areas.
However, not all airports, including the large commercial service airports, prepare Master Plans. All airports that receive Airport Improvement Program (AIP) or Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) funding develop Master Plans and are also required to have an Airport Layout Plan (ALP).
The AIP Handbook provides FAA staff with guidance about the administration of the AIP. The Passenger Facility Charge Program allows the collection of PFC fees up to $4.50 for every enplaned passenger at commercial airports controlled by public agencies. Airports use the PFC fees to fund FAA-approved projects. The projects that are funded enhance safety, security, or capacity; reduce noise; or increase air carrier competition.
All development must be in accordance with that FAA approved ALP. The ALP is a by-product of the master plan, but it does not take a master plan to produce an ALP.
Videos
Click here to see an example of an airport master plan from the Hong Kong International Airport. This video provides interesting educational information about noise as well as how a plan is developed.
Examples of Airport Master Plans include:
- Portland International Airport
- Kent State University Airport
- Deer Valley Airport
- Oakland International Airport
- Philadelphia International Airport
Photo Credit: Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, 2005 Aerial Photograph, Philadelphia International Airport.