 Peru Gazette File Photo While Plattsburgh International Airport qualifies as a port of entry under CBP’s criteria, it has not received this designation, which has resulted in increased costs for the airport and travelers flying in and out.
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik reintroduced the bipartisan Border Airport Fairness Act to designate Plattsburgh International Airport as a Port of Entry (POE), saving the airport around $800,000 per year.
“The Border Airport Fairness Act will save Plattsburgh International Airport hundreds of thousands of dollars in costs by ensuring that it receives the designation it deserves. My legislation makes certain that Plattsburgh International Airport is equipped with the resources it needs to continue meeting the transportation needs of Upstate New York and North Country families and continue to provide access for tourists visiting our region,” said Congresswoman Elise Stefanik.
“I’m proud to work alongside Congresswoman Elise Stefanik on this bipartisan legislation to save South Texans and travelers from duplicative costs,” said Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX). “As our region continues to rapidly grow, it’s essential that our airports and transportation infrastructure not only keep up with increased demand for commercial travel but also continue to support critical federal operations. This legislation is an investment in our future.”
“This bill is great news for our airport and the people who rely on it. Removing the user-fee burden will help us put those dollars back into operations, maintenance, and future improvements,” said Robert Hall, Plattsburgh International Airport Committee Chairperson (D-Area 10, Plattsburgh). “We appreciate Congresswoman Stefanik’s continued support for keeping our airport strong and sustainable.”
“Plattsburgh International Airport is one of our region’s most significant economic drivers, and this legislation addresses a longstanding barrier to its continued growth. Eliminating the financial strain of user-fee status will allow for smarter reinvestment in infrastructure and services. I commend Congresswoman Stefanik for her leadership in advancing a solution that enhances regional competitiveness and long-term sustainability,” said Mark Henry, Clinton County Legislative Chairperson (R-Area 3, Chazy).
“This bill is only fair, treating Plattsburgh International the same as so many other airports,” said Garry Douglas, President of the North Country Chamber of Commerce. “Its adoption would secure our airport Customs operation permanently and thereby support the development of new international air activities here. And it would free valuable resources for airport marketing, air service development and other improvements. We thank Congresswoman Stefanik for being our champion in the House and will continue to support her efforts on our behalf. Onward and upward!”
Plattsburgh International Airport is one of only two primary commercial service airports in close proximity to the Northern or Southern Border designated as user-fee airports. This means the airports must pay out of pocket for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) services such as security screenings, cargo security and examinations, and immigration inspections.
|
