FAA issues “Finding of No Significant Impact and Record of Decision,” advancing Avports’ project to expand commercial passenger service in the Washington region.
Manassas, Va. — Today, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that the formal review for the environmental assessment of Avports’ project at Washington Manassas Airport (HEF) is complete. The announcement marks a key step toward advancing the airport project and launching the Washington, D.C. region’s newest commercial-service airport. Avports will now move into the next phase of the project by seeking the required state and local approvals.
The decision comes in the form of a “Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) and Record of Decision (ROD).” The FONSI is the FAA’s formal determination under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) that the proposed project at Washington Manassas Airport will not result in significant environmental impacts. The decision follows a review process that included detailed technical analysis and opportunities for public input, marking one of the final federal milestones in the launch of commercial service at Washington Manassas Airport. Before any construction can begin, the project remains subject to additional permitting and public review.
Avports and the City of Manassas, which owns and operates the airport, are partnering to add commercial service to Washington Manassas Airport, giving travelers across Northern Virginia and the Washington, D.C. region a convenient, affordable fourth airport option.
“This milestone reflects years of work between our partners at Washington Manassas Airport, the Avports team, the dedication of the FAA, and the planning, technical analysis, and public engagement that shaped this project from the start,” said Marc Ricks, CEO of Avports. “Washington Manassas will give travelers across the region a faster, simpler way to fly. One step remains in the FAA process: Part 139 certification. That will mark the beginning of a new era here. Standby.”
“We are thrilled by the FAA’s decision, which marks an important step forward for Washington Manassas Airport and the City of Manassas,” said Michelle Davis, Mayor of Manassas. “We look forward to continuing our work with Avports, the Airport Commission and the community to expand travel options, support economic growth and create a regional asset that will serve Northern Virginia for years to come.”
“This is a major milestone for Washington Manassas Airport,” said Roderick D. Hall, Chairman of the Washington Manassas Airport Commission. “We appreciate the FAA’s thorough review and its Finding of No Significant Impact, which reflects years of careful analysis and public engagement. This decision moves us one step closer to expanding commercial air service and providing the region with greater travel options.”
“Receiving the FAA’s Finding of No Significant Impact and Record of Decision is a significant achievement in the Airport’s transition to commercial air service. This accomplishment reflects the strong partnership and collaboration among the FAA, Avports, our consultants, and Airport Staff over the past two years. We appreciate everyone’s commitment and look forward to completing the remaining certification requirements and welcoming commercial airline service to the Washington Manassas Airport” said Juan Rivera, Airport Director.
Avports and the City of Manassas will continue advancing preparations for commercial service, working closely with local and regional governments, the FAA, and its airline and community partners. The project plans to feature an efficient terminal and lower operating costs for airlines, making it possible for carriers to offer more affordable flights, expanding access to air travel for communities across the region.
Washington Manassas Airport will deliver a convenient, cost-effective, and passenger-friendly travel experience that supports regional economic growth and expanded connectivity for Northern Virginia and the greater Washington region.
The FONSI/ROD from the FAA and the final Environmental Assessment can be viewed here.
This Environmental Assessment meets the requirements of NEPA and is required for all such projects by the FAA. It outlines the purpose and need for the project, analyzing alternatives and potential impacts, and demonstrates compliance with federal, state, and local environmental laws, and requires public participation. This EA process began in early 2024 and has included extensive research and information from a variety of sources, including: scientific studies, community input, and collaboration with numerous local, state, and federal agencies. Participating agencies included the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, Virginia Department of Aviation, City of Manassas, Prince William County, and many other partner agencies.
