Landing Fee Calculator
How It Works
This landing fee calculator uses established formulas to provide accurate results.
The basic rule:
- Landing Fee = Aircraft Weight x Per-Pound Rate (varies by airport class)
- Ramp Fee = Fixed FBO facility fee (often waived with fuel purchase)
- Parking = Per-Night Rate x Nights (higher for hangar vs tie-down)
- Many FBOs waive ramp fees with minimum fuel purchase (20-50 gallons)
Results are estimates. Consult a professional for critical decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do small airports charge landing fees?
Most small, untowered airports do not charge landing fees for general aviation aircraft. Towered GA airports typically do not charge landing fees for aircraft under 12,500 lbs. Landing fees are most common at regional and commercial airports, typically $5-$25 for light GA aircraft and increasing by weight. Major airports like JFK, LAX, or ORD charge landing fees based on weight, often $0.005-$0.01 per pound, which makes them very expensive for small aircraft with minimal benefit.
What is a ramp fee and can I avoid it?
A ramp fee (also called a facility fee or handling fee) is charged by FBOs for using their ramp, facilities, and services. Typical ramp fees are $25-$75 for light aircraft at standard FBOs and $75-$500+ at premium FBOs in major cities. Most FBOs waive the ramp fee if you purchase fuel — usually a minimum of 10-30 gallons. Always ask about the fuel minimum to waive the ramp fee before landing. Some pilots plan fuel stops at FBOs with reasonable waiver minimums.
How much does overnight aircraft parking cost?
Overnight tie-down on the ramp costs $10-$25/night at most GA airports and $25-$75 at larger or premium airports. Hangar storage runs $35-$100/night for single-engine aircraft and $100-$300/night for twins and turboprops. At major city airports (Teterboro, Van Nuys, Centennial), hangar rates can exceed $200-$500/night. Some FBOs include one night of parking with a fuel purchase. Long-term parking at your home airport typically runs $200-$500/month for tie-down.
How do I find the cheapest airport to fly into?
Use AirNav.com or ForeFlight to compare FBO prices at nearby airports. Look for: non-towered airports near your destination (no landing fees), FBOs with low fuel minimums for ramp fee waivers, self-serve fuel (typically $0.50-$1.50/gallon cheaper), and courtesy cars (free transportation instead of expensive rental cars). Flying into a small airport 20-30 miles from a major city often saves $100-$300 compared to the major metro airport, even after accounting for ground transportation.