During a recent city council meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding proposed landing fees at Kissimmee Gateway Airport, with multiple stakeholders arguing that the fees could negatively impact safety and operational efficiency for pilots and flight schools.

Sam Divna, a local pilot, highlighted the potential safety risks associated with the new fee structure, noting that it could deter pilots from using the airport. He pointed out that many pilots, particularly those flying for leisure, would avoid airports with high fees, leading to inefficiencies in their flying experience. Divna emphasized that the proposed fees could burden flight schools, which rely on frequent landings for training purposes. He argued that the financial implications of the fees could ultimately harm the local aviation community.

Bob Brown from DeLand Aviation echoed these sentiments, comparing the impact of small airplanes on airport infrastructure to bicycles on roadways, asserting that they do not cause significant wear and tear. He urged the council to reconsider the rationale behind the fees.

Robert Rakamaka from the Flight School Association raised concerns about the financial strain on students, suggesting that the fees could lead to a perception that the airport is targeting aspiring pilots for revenue generation. He called for the establishment of an airport advisory committee to better address the needs of the aviation community and to explore alternative revenue sources that do not rely on student pilots.

The council members acknowledged the need for further discussion and education on the matter. A motion was passed to hold a workshop aimed at gathering more information and perspectives on the proposed landing fees and the overall management of the airport. This workshop is intended to facilitate a deeper understanding of the issues at hand and to explore potential solutions that would benefit both the airport and the local aviation community.

In addition to the airport discussions, the council also decided to postpone a vote on social service and quality of life funding awards until the next meeting, allowing for further review and input from all commissioners.