Mayor: Monroe airport needs fee for improvements MONROE, LA. (AP) (wrkf) - Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo says $4.50 passenger facility charge approved by the Federal Aviation Administration "is how airports get built."

The mayor said he does not expect the extra $4.50 charge will discourage passengers using the services of Monroe Regional Airport.

Mayo announced Tuesday FAA officials with the southwest regional office approved the city's application for a passenger facility charge that is expected to generate more than $16 million over the next 27 years.

Mayor says approximately $8 million of the funds collected will go toward the construction of a new terminal. The balance will go towards debt service on the bonds for the terminal project.

Airport director Cleve Norrell said the charge is not subject to sales tax because it is basically a tax in itself. © Copyright 2009, wrkf