While small and medium commercial airports vary widely in size, facilities, and operational needs, they share a common set of funding sources and revenue streams that support their operations and growth within their communities. These airports also face similar opportunities and challenges as industry and market conditions continue to evolve. A critical question, therefore, is how small and medium airports can strengthen their revenue generation and financial practices to better navigate the changing aviation funding and market environment.
ACRP Research Report 285: Revenue and Financing Alternatives for Medium and Small U.S. Airports in an Evolving Landscape, produced by TRB’s Airport Cooperative Research Program, explores effective revenue-generation and financing practices to support sustainable airport growth. The report examines the financial framework of the airport business model; reviews strategies used by airports to optimize revenue, manage costs, and leverage financing; and presents practical approaches and best practices to address capital, operational, and service-related needs.
Please note that this report does not incorporate the elements or implications of the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act, as interpretation and implementation of the legislation were ongoing at the time of publication.
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2026. Revenue and Financing Alternatives for Medium and Small U.S. Airports in an Evolving Landscape. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press.
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