Passenger Facility Charges and Rates & Charges Workshops
October 14-16, 2025 | Denver, CO
Presented in Partnership with
Thank You to Our Airport Sponsors
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About the Workshops
How will the influx of infrastructure funding, rising inflation, increasing construction costs, and workforce challenges impact airport funding and financing? What are the fundamentals of setting airline rates and charges? How do I set goals and objectives for key concession programs in this evolving environment? What strategies should I employ to effectively use Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) revenue for our capital programs?
Join your peers and industry experts from October 14-16, at the AAAE/Unison Consulting PFC & Rates and Charges Workshops to discuss these and other hot topics related to airport business and financial matters. Attendees will be eligible to receive Continuing Education Credits (CECs) by participating in these two highly anticipated workshops.
The PFC Workshop (October 14) will provide helpful overviews of the PFC program, from application planning through project closeout. Experienced airport consultants will provide updates on the PFC program and share insights on how to integrate PFC revenue with your capital planning. They will also update attendees on how the FAA reauthorization bill, which Congress passed earlier this year, will change the PFC program and impact the application process.
The Rates and Charges Workshop (October 15-16) will offer sessions on establishing and refining your rates and charges model in this rapidly changing financial environment. Other topics will include the legal and regulatory framework guiding the creation and implementation of airline rate setting, as well as the sources and uses of non-airline revenues. Industry experts will also be on hand to discuss current trends and opportunities for generating optimal levels of these sources of airport revenue.
2025 Conference Agenda
The 2025 draft agendas are now available and subject to change.
PFC Workshop Agenda - October 14
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Registration and Continental Breakfast
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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Welcome Remarks
9 - 9:15 a.m.
Speakers:
Brian Drake, Assistant Vice President, Unison ConsultingBrad Van Dam, Senior Vice President for Federal Affairs, AAAE
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What is the PFC program?
9:15- 10:15 a.m.
Whether you're new to airport finance or looking for a timely refresher, this foundational session will set the stage for the workshop by breaking down the fundamentals of the Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) Program. Experts will walk through the history, purpose, and regulatory framework of the program, providing clarity on how PFCs support critical airport infrastructure projects across the country. Attendees will gain an understanding of eligibility requirements, application basics, and the overall role of PFCs in the airport funding landscape. This session is ideal for first-time attendees or anyone seeking a clear, comprehensive overview of the PFC Program before diving into more advanced topics.
Speakers:
Barry Molar, Director, Finance, Unison Consulting, Inc.Ja'Monta Smith, Director, Unison Consulting, Inc.
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Completing a PFC application (including calculations)
10:15 - 11 a.m
Building on the program fundamentals, this session takes a practical dive into the PFC application process. Attendees will learn how to navigate each section of the application, from identifying eligible projects to preparing required justifications and supporting documentation. Special emphasis will be placed on the financial components—how to complete the financial section and calculate collection end dates.
Speaker:
Ja'Monta Smith, Director, Unison Consulting, Inc.Ty Bradford, Senior Consultant, Unison Consulting, Inc.
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Refreshment Break
11 - 11:30 a.m.
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PFC Amendments and Closeouts
11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
The life cycle of a PFC project doesn’t end with application approval. This session guides attendees through the essential steps for managing amendments and successfully closing out PFC projects in compliance with FAA requirements. Presenters will explain when and how to submit amendments—whether adjusting project scope, extending implementation periods, or updating financials—as well as best practices for compiling a complete closeout package.
Speakers:
Barry Molar, Director, Finance, Unison Consulting, Inc. -
Lunch
12:15 - 1:15 p.m.
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Federal Updates and FAA’s Best Practices
1:15 - 2:15 p.m.
A key Federal Aviation Administration official and other panelists will update attendees on recent changes to the Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) and Airport Improvement Programs; the status of Fiscal Year 2025 airport infrastructure grants; and the benefits of the airport TIFIA program. Panelists will also discuss the impacts of the government shutdown and provide an outlook for the Fiscal Year 2026 transportation appropriations process and efforts to raise the PFC cap.Speakers:
Jesse Carriger, Acting Director, Planning and Programming, APP-1, Office of Airports, Federal Aviation AdministrationLaurie K. Cullan, A.A.E., Airport Program Lead, Jaedicke Consulting, LLC, Build America Bureau, Department of Transportation
Brad Van Dam, Senior Vice President for Federal Affairs, AAAE
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Airport Experience (Roundtable)
2:15 - 3:30 p.m.
Join your peers for an interactive roundtable discussion where airport representatives of all sizes share real-world experiences managing their PFC programs. This session offers a candid look at what’s working—and what’s not—when it comes to navigating the complexities of PFC applications, amendments, and closeouts. Panelists will discuss lessons learned, innovative practices, and the challenges they’ve faced along the way.
Moderators:
Greg Chappell, Principal, Unison Consulting, Inc.
Dan Horn, Senior Director of Financial Planning, Denver International Airport
Antonio Strong, Deputy Director, St. Louis Lambert International Airport -
Refreshment Break
3:30- 4 p.m.
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Beyond PFCs: Introduction to Other Capital Funding
4 - 4:50 p.m.
While PFCs play a critical role in airport development, they’re just one piece of the capital funding puzzle. This session explores the broader landscape of airport funding sources, including Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants, bond financing, Customer Facility Charges (CFCs), state and local funding programs, and public-private partnerships. Industry experts will compare the advantages, limitations, and strategic uses of each funding mechanism, helping attendees understand how to build a diversified and resilient capital funding strategy. Whether you're planning a major terminal project or routine infrastructure improvements, this session offers valuable insights into maximizing your airport’s funding potential.
Speakers:
Brian Drake, Assistant Vice President, Unison Consulting, Inc.John Gillen, Director, Unison Consulting, Inc.
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Closing Remarks
4:50 - 5 p.m.
Speakers:
Brian Drake, Assistant Vice President, Unison Consulting, Inc.Brad Van Dam, Senior Vice President for Federal Affairs, AAAE
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Welcome Reception
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Sponsored by: Denver International Airport
Rates & Charges Workshop Day 1 - October 15
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Registration and Continental Breakfast
8 - 9 a.m.
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Welcome Remarks
9 - 9:10 a.m.
Speakers:
Brian Drake, Assistant Vice President, Unison Consulting, Inc.Brad Van Dam, Senior Vice President for Federal Affairs, AAAE
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Understanding the Legal and Regulatory Framework of Airline Rates and Charges
9:10 - 10 a.m.
Kick off the workshop with a deep dive into the legal and regulatory foundation that governs how airports set and implement airline rates and charges. In this session, two seasoned aviation attorneys will break down the federal statutes, FAA policies, and key court decisions that shape the financial relationship between airports and airlines. Topics will include the FAA’s Rates and Charges Policy, grant assurances, revenue use restrictions, and legal considerations in developing compensatory, residual, and hybrid rate-setting methodologies. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the legal boundaries and strategic opportunities airports must navigate when establishing fair, reasonable, and nondiscriminatory rates.
Moderator:
Barry Molar, Director, Finance, Unison Consulting, Inc.Speaker:
Sarah Wilbanks, Associate, Kaplan Kirsch -
Rates and Charges: Inputs and Methodologies
10 - 11:15 a.m.
This foundational session will walk attendees through the key components that drive airline rates and charges at airports. Presenters will explain the critical inputs—such as operating and maintenance expenses, capital costs, debt service, and traffic activity—and how these figures are used to develop airfield, terminal, and other facility charges. The session will also cover the primary rate-setting methodologies: compensatory, residual, and hybrid models. Using real-world examples, speakers will compare the pros and cons of each approach and how they align with airport financial goals, airline relationships, and risk allocation.
Speakers:
Carter Berens, Financial Analyst, Unison Consulting, Inc.John Gillen, Director, Unison Consulting, Inc.
Ty Bradford, Director, Unison Consulting, Inc.
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Refreshment Break
11:15 - 11:30 a.m.
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Common Use and Other Airline Charges
11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Airline rates and charges are just one piece of the revenue equation. This session explores the broader landscape of airport fees, with a focus on common use charges and other non-airline-specific user fees. Speakers will explain how airports assess and allocate costs for shared-use resources such as ticket counters, gates, baggage systems, and other terminal infrastructure. The session will also cover ground transportation fees, fuel flowage charges, security fees, and other revenue-generating mechanisms. Attendees will gain insight into best practices for calculating, justifying, and implementing these charges in a way that aligns with FAA guidelines and supports operational efficiency and financial sustainability.
Speakers:
John Gillen, Director, Unison Consulting, Inc.Ty Bradford, Director, Unison Consulting, Inc.
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Lunch
12:15 - 1:15 p.m.
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Airport Discussion - Rate-Setting Methodologies
1:15 - 2:15 p.m.
In this candid panel discussion, airport finance leaders will share real-world insights into how their chosen rate-setting methodologies—compensatory, residual, hybrid, or variations thereof—work in practice. Panelists will discuss why their airport adopted a particular approach, how it has impacted financial performance and airline relationships, and the trade-offs they've encountered along the way. From stability and flexibility to risk-sharing and transparency, this session offers a balanced look at the practical realities of different rate models.Moderator:
Brian Drake, Assistant Vice President, Unison Consulting, Inc.Speakers:
Todd Quann, Director, Finance and Administration, Lehigh Valley International Airport
Honglinh Truong, Aviation Finance Administrator, Dallas Love Field -
Airline Roundtable – What Air Carriers Want from Lease Agreements
2:15 - 3:15 p.m.
Get a direct look into the airline perspective in this roundtable discussion featuring representatives from a legacy carrier and an ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC). The panel will explore what airlines prioritize in airport lease agreements—from rate methodology and term length to flexibility, facility access, and capital planning transparency. Speakers will also share how they prefer to be involved in the financial decision-making process and rate-setting discussions, and where they see opportunities for improved collaboration with airports.
Moderator:
Greg Chappell, Principal, Unison Consulting, Inc.Speakers:
Kenneth Gregg, Airport Affairs - Regional Leader, Southwest Airlines
Garry Jones, Director, Airport Affairs, Spirit Airlines
Cynthia Van Epps, Alaska Airlines + Hawaiian Airlines -
Refreshment Break
3:15 - 3:45 p.m.
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Capital Impact on Rates and Charges
3:45 - 4:45 p.m.
Major capital improvement programs can reshape an airport’s financial landscape—and often require a fresh look at rate-setting strategies. In this session, airport finance professionals will discuss how large-scale capital investments have influenced their rate methodologies, financial planning, and airline negotiations. Topics will include how airports have adapted compensatory or residual models to account for new debt service, facility expansions, and long-term cost recovery. Attendees will gain insight into balancing capital investment with airline affordability, maintaining flexibility in long-term agreements, and aligning funding strategies with rate structures.
Moderator:
Ja'Monta Smith, Director, Unison Consulting, Inc.Speakers:
Toni Broom, C.M., Chief Financial Officer, Rapid City Regional AirportMichael Biel, Chief Financial Officer, Denver International Airport
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Evening Reception
5:30-7 p.m.
Location: Bezel
1550 Court Place, Denver
Hosted by Kaplan Kirsch LLP
Rates & Charges Workshop Day 2 - October 16
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Continental Breakfast
8 - 9 a.m.
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Economic and Air Traffic Update and Data Analytics Related to the CATs Database
9 - 9:50 a.m.
This session will provide an overview of national economic indicators, passenger and cargo traffic projections, airline capacity trends, and factors influencing demand at airports of all sizes. Experts will discuss how inflation, labor markets, fuel prices, and global economic conditions are impacting airline operations and airport planning. Attendees will gain valuable context to support financial forecasting, capital planning, and rate-setting decisions in today’s dynamic environment.
Speakers:
Sharon Sarmiento Ph.D., Principal, Unison Consulting, Inc.Brian Drake, Assistant Vice President, Unison Consulting, Inc.
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Refreshment Break
9:50 - 11:10 a.m.
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Non-Airline Revenue Opportunities and How They Impact Rates and Charges
10:10 - 11:10 a.m.
In this session, airport representatives will showcase creative and effective non-airline revenue strategies that are helping to strengthen financial sustainability and reduce airline cost burdens. From real estate development and renewable energy projects to concessions innovation and new commercial ventures, panelists will highlight how these revenue streams are structured, implemented, and integrated into the airport’s financial model. The discussion will also examine how non-airline revenues factor into annual rate-setting and how they can be leveraged to support capital programs, maintain competitive airline rates, and enhance overall airport value.
Moderator:
Greg Chappell, Principal, Unison Consulting, Inc.Speakers:
Brian Butler, A.A.E., Chief Financial Officer, Salt Lake City International Airport
Michael Garnier, C.M., Assistant Director - Finance and Administration, San Antonio International Airport -
Bond Market and Credit Rating Updates
11:10 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.
Gain timely insights into the current state of the municipal bond market and how credit rating agencies are viewing the airport sector. In this session, an experienced investment banker and an airport financial manager will provide updates on interest rate trends, investor sentiment, and recent airport bond issuances. They will also discuss key factors influencing airport credit ratings, including debt levels, enplanement recovery, non-airline revenue diversification, and financial resiliency. Attendees will come away with a clearer understanding of how capital market dynamics are affecting airport borrowing strategies, cost of capital, and long-term financial planning.
Moderator:
Brian Drake, Assistant Vice President, Unison Consulting, Inc.Speakers:
Collin De La Bruere, Senior Vice President, Bank of America
Matt Townsend, Director, Frasca and Associates -
Closing Remarks
12:10 - 12:20 p.m.
Speakers:
Yovette Drake, President, Unison Consulting, Inc.Brad Van Dam, Senior Vice President, AAAE
Registration Fees and Deadlines
You acknowledge that in registering for and attending this AAAE event, you agree to adhere to the cancellation policy noted below, AAAE Duty of Care, and AAAE's Code of Conduct and Terms and Conditions.
If you are not seeing the correct pricing appear for your member type, please contact member.services@aaae.org to complete your registration for this event.
2025 PFC WORKSHOP
REGISTRATION FEES
| On/Before August 29, 2025 |
After August 29, 2025 |
|
|---|---|---|
| AAAE Member | $605 | $665 |
| Non-Member | $725 | $765 |
| Federal Government | $500 | $500 |
2025 RATES AND CHARGES WORKSHOP REGISTRATION FEES
| On/Before August 29, 2025 |
After August 29, 2025 |
|
|---|---|---|
| AAAE Member | $710 | $760 |
| Non-Member | $810 | $860 |
| Federal Government | $500 | $500 |
Double Your Education and Save!
Attendees of both workshops receive a $50 registration fee discount ($25 off each workshop). To receive the discounted rates, use coupon code PFCRATES2025 at checkout for each workshop. You must be registering for both workshops to qualify for the discount.
| On/Before August 29, 2025 |
After August 29, 2025 |
|
|---|---|---|
| AAAE Member attending both PFC & Rates and Charges Workshops | $1,265 | $1,375 |
| Non-Member attending both PFC & Rates and Charges Workshops | $1,485 | $1,575 |
AAAE accepts registration regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, sex, physical disability, and national or ethnic origin. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, and educational services. If you require any special assistance to participate or have special dietary requirements, contact aaaemeetings@aaae.org.
Cancellation Policy:
Registrations and cancellations must be submitted in writing. Cancellation requests received before Friday, September 26, 2025, are subject to a $125 processing fee and will be processed after the meeting takes place. There will be no refunds after this date. Substitutions will be accepted without penalties and no-shows will be billed. For all inquiries regarding cancellations and refunds, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at 703.824.0500 or email aaaemeetings@aaae.org. By submitting a completed registration form, you acknowledge that you have read and understand the cancellation policy.
NOTE: AAAE reserves the right to postpone or cancel an event if the number of registrants is insufficient; due to acts of God; or any other reason beyond AAAE’s control. In this event, we will notify all registrants and credit the full registration fee towards another AAAE meeting, product or service. However, any costs incurred by the registrant, such as hotel cancellation or airline penalties, are the responsibility of the registrant. Confirmation letters will be emailed to attendees within two weeks of receipt of registration. However, if you have not received a confirmation email two business days prior to the meeting, and you enrolled at least two weeks prior to the meeting, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at 703.824.0500 or AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. Please note failure to receive a confirmation letter before an event will not be grounds for a refund.
Media Access Policy
AAAE reserves the right to grant at its sole discretion access to TV, radio and print media organizations or individuals that have registered and received prior authorization from AAAE at least 72 hours prior to an AAAE event they wish to cover. Due to the sensitive nature of some discussions, not all sessions at some AAAE events will be open to media. AAAE retains the sole right to grant or refuse media access for any event or section of an event it operates.
Hotel & Travel
Hotel Accommodations
All conference sessions will be held at the Grand Hyatt Denver, located at 1750 Welton Street, Denver, CO. For your convenience, a block of rooms has been made available and all attendees will receive a rate of $290 per night (single/double). The last day to receive this discounted rate is Friday, September 19, 2025. Rooms may sell out before this date, be sure to make your reservation today! Reservations made after this date only can be honored on a space available basis at the hotel’s prevailing rates. To book your room, please use the online reservation link or call the hotel directly at 303.295.1234 and reference the AAAE group to make a reservation.
Transportation
The Grandy Hyatt Denver is located approximately 25 miles from Denver International Airport and the ride takes approximately 45 minutes, depending heavily on traffic. Alternatively, Transportation Network Companies (TNC) such as Uber and Lyft do operate at the airport. Get more information on ground transportation at DEN..
Air Travel
United Airlines and Delta Air Lines have been selected as the official air carriers for this meeting.
United Airlines has been selected as one of the official air carriers for this meeting. You may book online via www.united.com and enter the Offer Code ZQ59414458 in the Offer Code box or call United Reservations Meetings Desk at 800.426.1122 and provide the Z Code ZQ59 and Agreement Code 414458. For all tickets issued through United Meetings Reservations Desk, there will be a $25 per ticket service fee collected. This fee is subject to change without notice. Such service fee is nonrefundable and applies to all itineraries, one-way or round-trip. Black-out dates apply.
Delta Air Lines is pleased to offer special discounts for American Association of Airport Executives. Please click here to book your flights. You may also call Delta Meeting Network® at 1.800.328.1111* Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. (CT) and refer to Meeting Event Code NNY3L2.
*Please note there is not a service fee for reservations booked and ticketed via our reservation 800 number.
CPE Information
AAAE is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: nasbaregistry.org. For additional information, contact Holly Ackerman with AAAE. Delivery method is group live, recommended field of study is business management and organization. Program level is basic, no advance preparation is required, and there are no prerequisites. Program content is current as of the start date of the course.
The PFC Workshop will provide training equivalent to 7 hours of CPE credits. The Rates and Charges Workshop will provide training equivalent to 11 hours of CPE credits.
Record Retention:
AAAE retains records for 5 years for these workshops. These records include: Program outline/materials, records of participation, date and location of presentations, number of credits earned by participants, results of program evaluation, instructors, discussion leaders' or program authors' names and credentials.
Contact Information
Questions? Contact Us!
Program Info
Brad van Dam
703.797.2534
Registration & Hotel/Travel Info
Dan Reilly
703.797.2526
Press & Media Inquiries
Brian Kalish
703.575.2461
