Thoughtful airport governance practices are key to sound airport operations and an airport sponsor’s ongoing legal compliance obligations. Kaplan Kirsch regularly helps sponsors manage and review governance matters. We also develop policies that ensure reasonable, non-discriminatory treatment of airport users.
Our work centers on advising the airport sponsor’s staff, in-house or outside counsel, and the governing body on legal issues and potential resolutions. We regularly appear before airport commissions, city councils, and other local elected or appointed governing bodies, both virtually and in-person. Our attorneys communicate on behalf of clients with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and state aviation authorities. Kaplan Kirsch brings in-house experience and an understanding of the legal, political, policy, and financial pressures municipalities and airports face nationwide. At the same time, we work to understand each airport’s unique conditions, pressures, and economic factors.
At airports of all sizes, Kaplan Kirsch works with local staff to update airport rules, regulations, leasing policies, and minimum standards governing airport users. We help manage stakeholder input, a key part of adopting these documents. Our attorneys also secure required reviews and approvals, and bring contracts, agreements, and leases into compliance with revised policies. As clients pursue a fair, competitive economic environment, Kaplan Kirsch counsels them on protecting service providers’ equitably. We also advise on how to remain consistent with industry trends and FAA guidance. The Firm represents airports in FAA compliance matters, including notices of investigation and Parts 13 and 16 proceedings. This experience shapes how we counsel clients on crafting airport policies that avoid future disputes
The Firm also advises on airport ownership, operating models, and related transactions, including the sale, transfer, and leasing of entire airports. We regularly represent clients on the relative benefits and drawbacks of specific operating structures (e.g., authority versus other municipalities versus private sector) and the creation and interpretation of bylaws, internal policies, and other procedures.