Kaplan Kirsch & Rockwell represents some of the largest airports in the world in comprehensive master planning for long-term capital improvements. We counsel airports on the environmental, noise, and land use issues associated with major facility expansions, runway extensions, and collateral development projects. Our work is not limited to ambitious billion-dollar projects: we also provide comprehensive counsel for commercial, primary hub airports and general aviation airports in the planning, approval, and implementation of development and infrastructure projects.
We have been actively involved in the planning for the majority of the new commercial service airports built in the United States in the last generation. This work has called upon our expertise not only in airport planning and in compliance with federal law, but also our in-depth knowledge of intergovernmental agreements, land use planning, state and local environmental regulations, public finance, and contract negotiation—all of which enables us to help our clients navigate the myriad legal hurdles that face complex public-sector projects.
A large portion of Kaplan Kirsch & Rockwell’s airports practice concerns the legal requirements for airport development projects and implementation of master plans. We frequently provide counsel to airport sponsors early in the planning process to ensure that both planning and implementation comply with the web of FAA requirements (grant assurances, regulations, policies, and statutory requirements); federal, state, and local environmental requirements; financial best practices; and unique local or state laws.
When airport proprietors seek to realign or close facilities, our attorneys provide expert counsel regarding the complex regulatory processes for decommissioning airport facilities or for airport closure.