Glossary
Landing Fee
A landing fee is a charge by an airport for using its runway, typically scaled to the aircraft's weight and the airport's pricing.
Why it matters
Why landing fee matters
Landing fees are part of the airport costs that sit on top of the hourly aircraft cost, and they help explain why the same route can cost different amounts at different airports.
Cost
How it affects cost
Heavier aircraft and busier or premium airports carry higher landing fees. A small turboprop at a quiet regional field pays little, while a heavy jet at a major airport pays considerably more.
Example
A quick example
Flying a heavy jet into a busy primary airport incurs a higher landing fee than using a quieter reliever airport nearby, which is one reason operators sometimes suggest an alternate field.
Related terms
Other terms to know
Common questions
Who charges the landing fee?
The airport itself, for the use of its runway. It is separate from the FBO handling fee, which the private terminal charges.
Why does the landing fee vary?
It scales with aircraft weight and the airport's pricing, so larger jets and busier or premium airports cost more.
Guides that explain this
- Private Jet Airport FeesThe airport related fees on a private charter, including FBO handling, landing and ramp fees, overnight parking, and why they vary so much by location.
- Why Private Jet Quotes VaryThe reasons two charter quotes for the same trip differ, including aircraft availability, positioning, dates, airports, and what each operator includes.
Calculators that use this
Last reviewed June 2026. Estimates use planning assumptions that we revisit periodically.