In his new economic package, President Obama has proposed that the Aviation Passenger Security Fee which is now $2.50 per enplanement be raised to $5 for each one way ticket regardless of the number of segments.
Starting in 2013, the fee would be raised by 50 cents per year until 2017 when it reaches a peak of $7.50.
The White House estimates the increase in fees will pay for 43% of the cost of TSA.
The President also proposed a fee of $100 per flight for most private and commerial aircraft. This fee would be payable directly to the FAA to help support that agency. Only military aircraft, public aircraft (police, fire, medical) and recreational aircraft (meaning those not needing any help from Air Traffic Control) will be exempt.
As expected, all aviation industry groups are against this plan.
Similar types of fees on aircraft have been brought up before and have always been denied by Congress.
(Frank II)