New York moves to ban ADS-B landing fees

Another state has joined the chorus against ADS-B landing fees. A new bill has been introduced to the New York State Senate and Assembly that would prohibit the use of ADS-B data to charge fees.
The proposed bill states that no government or private entity can use automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast systems as a means for calculating, generating and collecting fees while in the state. It would apply to Part 91 aircraft weighing 12,500 pounds or less. It was introduced by Sen. John C. Liu, D-16, on May 15 and will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.
“As we continue to build a strong safety culture in general aviation, EAA opposes any attempt to financially disincentivize proficiency and good decision-making,” said EAA about the bill. “A fee that directly taxes the act of landing at a particular airport is flagrantly contrary to the best interests of aviation safety. Approaches, landings, and takeoffs are perishable skills, and pilots must practice them often to maintain proficiency—not only at their home airport, but at unfamiliar airports as well.”
The Federal Government gets involved
A few states have already passed laws that ban the use of ADS-B data to collect fees. Montana was the first state to ban the collection of ADS-B-based fees from most general aviation pilots in May 2025. Florida followed soon afterward. Other states have seen legal battles over the fees, like in Arizona. Those who support the bans claim that the fees hurt flight schools and discourage the use of general aviation aircraft. The opposition states that ADS-B billing is often used to fund airports and could affect airport fee collection and investigations.
The issue has even reached Congress with the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act. It states that no one may use data to identify an aircraft for profit without the owner’s or operator’s permission. Air traffic controllers would only be allowed to use ADS-B for tracking aircraft and improving air traffic safety and efficiency, unless given public notice by the Secretary of Transportation to do otherwise. It was highlighted by Rep. Bob Onder (R-Mo.) and Reliable Robotics CEO Robert Rose on Dec. 3, 2025 during a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing on Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).
The Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation had a hearing on May 19 on ADS-B fees. During the hearing, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford stated that it was meant to be a safety and situational awareness tool and that the FAA was against using ADS-B for revenue collection at airports.
Dynamic situation on landing fees
ADS-B landing fees are another variable cost for aircraft owners to consider. It is a legitimate cost-of-ownership factor for buyers in states without bans. As more states act to either ban or permit the use of ADS-B fees, pilots, owners and those looking to buy an aircraft should keep an eye open for their own state and airports’ policies to know what they may be charged for landing.RELATED STORIES:Florida lawmakers supports removal of ADS-B billingSenate Aviation Subcommittee holds hearing on using ADS-B data to charge feesFalcon Field Airport introduces landing fees, flight schools sue city