Longview, TX — Gregg County commissioners on Monday began a process to increase passenger fees at East Texas Regional Airport by $1.50 per person in 2013.

For almost 10 years, passengers using the airport have paid a $3 fee, with the money going to the local match required for Federal Aviation Authority grants. The FAA traditionally funds 95 percent of projects, such as a recently completed parking lot upgrade and a coming terminal renovation. The county pitches in 5 percent.

“It looks like the federal government is getting ready to up the matching funds from 5 percent to 10 percent,” County Judge Bill Stoudt said. “So all the airports are changing the fee.”

Stoudt and Airport Manager Rick Davis said the fee, called a Passenger Facility Charge, would not change until the court conducts a public hearing and votes on a resolution to raise it.

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