APPLICATION UNDER

SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

DOCKET DOT-OST-2014-0133 

SUMMARY INFORMATION1

All applicants must submit this Summary Information schedule, as the application 

coversheet, a completed standard form SF424 and the full application proposal on 

www.grants.gov. 

For your preparation convenience, this Summary Information schedule is located at 

http://www.dot.gov/policy/aviation-policy/small-community-rural-air-service/SCASDP

A. PROVIDE THE LEGAL SPONSOR AND ITS DUN AND BRADSTREET (D&B) DATA UNIVERSAL 

NUMBERING SYSTEM (DUNS) NUMBER, INCLUDING +4, EMPLOYEE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER 

(EIN) OR TAX ID.

Legal Sponsor Name: 

Name of Signatory Party for Legal Sponsor:

DUNS Number:

EIN/Tax ID:

B. LIST THE NAME OF THE COMMUNITY OR CONSORTIUM OF COMMUNITIES APPLYING: 

1.____________________________________________________ 

2.____________________________________________________ 

3.____________________________________________________ 

4.____________________________________________________ 

C. PROVIDE THE FULL AIRPORT NAME AND 3-LETTER IATA AIRPORT CODE FOR THE 

APPLICANT(S) AIRPORT(S) (ONLY PROVIDE CODES FOR THE AIRPORT(S) THAT ARE ACTUALLY 

SEEKING SERVICE).

1. 2.

3. 4.

 

1 Note that the Summary Information does not count against the 20-page limit of the SCASDP application.
DOES THE AIRPORT SEEKING SERVICE HOLD AN AIRPORT OPERATING CERTIFICATE ISSUED BY 

THE FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION UNDER 14 CFR PART 139? (IF “NO”, PLEASE 

EXPLAIN WHETHER THE AIRPORT INTENDS TO APPLY FOR A CERTIFICATE OR WHETHER AN 

APPLICATION UNDER PART 139 IS PENDING.) 

Yes No (explain)

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________ 

D. LIST THE 2-DIGIT CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT CODE APPLICABLE TO THE SPONSORING 

ORGANIZATION, AND IF A CONSORTIUM, TO EACH PARTICIPATING COMMUNITY.

1. 2.

3. 4.

E. APPLICANT INFORMATION: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) 

Not a Consortium Interstate Consortium Intrastate Consortium

Community currently receives subsidized Essential Air Service

Community (or Consortium member) previously received a Small Community Air 

Service Development Program Grant

If previous recipient: Provide year of grant(s):_______________________________; and, 

the text of the grant agreement section(s) setting forth the scope of the grant project:

_________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________ 

F. PUBLIC/PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS: (LIST ORGANIZATION NAMES) 

PUBLIC PRIVATE

1. 1.

2. 2.

3. 3.

4. 4.

5. 5.
G. PROJECT PROPOSAL:

 1. GRANT GOALS: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) 

Launch New Carrier Secure Additional Service Upgrade Aircraft

First Service New Route Service Restoration

Regional Service Surface Transportation Professional Services2

Other (explain below)

2. FINANCIAL TOOLS TO BE USED: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) 

Marketing (including Advertising): promotion of the air service to the public 

Start-up Cost Offset: offsetting expenses to assist an air service provider in setting up a 

new station and starting new service (for example, ticket counter reconfiguration)

Revenue Guarantee: an agreement with an air service provider setting forth a minimum 

guaranteed profit margin, a portion of which is eligible for reimbursement by the 

community 

Recruitment of Air Carrier: air service development activities to recruit new air service, 

including expenses for airport marketers to meet with air service providers to make the 

case for new air service

Fee Waivers: waiver of airport fees, such as landing fees, to encourage new air service; 

counted as in-kind contributions only 

Ground Handling Fee: reimbursement of expenses for passenger, cabin, and ramp (below 

wing) services provided by third party ground handlers 

Travel Bank: travel pledges, or deposited monetary funds, from participating parties for 

the purchase of air travel on an air carrier, with defined procedures for the subsequent use 

of the pledges or the deposited funds; counted as in-kind contributions only 

 

2 “Professional Services” involve a community contracting with a firm to produce a product such as a marketing 

plan, study, air carrier proposal, etc.
Other (explain below) 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

H. EXISTING LANDING AIDS AT LOCAL AIRPORT: 

Full ILS Outer/Middle Marker Published Instrument Approach 

Localizer Other (specify)

I. PROJECT COST: DO NOT ENTER TEXT IN SHADED AREA

LINE DESCRIPTION SUB TOTAL TOTAL AMOUNT

1 Federal amount requested

2 State cash financial contribution

Local cash financial contribution

3a Airport cash funds

3b Non-airport cash funds

3 Total local cash funds (3a + 3b)

4 TOTAL CASH FUNDING (1+2+3)

In-Kind contribution

5a Airport In-Kind contribution**

5b Other In-Kind contribution**

5 TOTAL IN-KIND CONTRIBUTION 

(5a + 5b) 

6 TOTAL PROJECT COST (4+5)

J. IN-KIND CONTRIBUTIONS**

For funds in lines 5a (Airport In-Kind contribution) and 5b (Other In-Kind contribution), please 

describe the source(s) of fund(s) and the value ($) of each.
K. IS THIS APPLICATION SUBJECT TO REVIEW BY AN AFFECTED STATE UNDER EXECUTIVE 

ORDER 12372 PROCESS? 

a. This application was made available to the State under the Executive Order 12372 

Process for review on (date) _____________. 

b. Program is subject to E.O. 12372, but has not been selected by the State for review.

c. Program is not covered by E.O. 12372. 

L. IS THE LEAD APPLICANT OR ANY CO-APPLICANTS DELINQUENT ON ANY FEDERAL DEBT?

(IF “YES”, PROVIDE EXPLANATION) 

No Yes (explain)

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________ 

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

INCLUDED? ITEM

For Immediate Action

Determine Eligibility

New Grants.gov users must register with www.grants.gov.

Existing Grants.gov users must verify existing www.grants.gov account has not expired 

and the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) is current.

For Submission by 5:00 PM EDT on July 31, 2014

Communities with active SCASDP grants: notify DOT/X50 of intent to terminate 

existing grant in order to be eligible for selection in FY2014 

Complete Application for Federal Domestic Assistance (SF424) via www.grants.gov

Summary Information schedule complete and used as cover sheet (see Appendix B)

Application of up to 20 one-sided pages (excluding any letters from the 

community or an air carrier showing support for the application), to include:

• A description of the community’s air service needs or deficiencies.

• A strategic plan for meeting those needs under the Small Community Program.

• A detailed description of the funding necessary for implementation of the 

community's project. 

• An explanation of how the proposed project differs from any previous projects 

for which the community received SCASDP funds (if applicable). 

• Designation of a legal sponsor responsible for administering the program.

• A motion for confidential treatment (if applicable) – see Appendix D below.
Proposal for the Small 

Community Air Service 

Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Legal Sponsor:

Niagara County Department of 

Economic Development

DUNS Number:

0675238860000

EIN#:

16-6002564

Congressional District Code:

26 and 27

July 31, 2014 
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 2

Table of Contents

Executive Summary 3

Niagara Falls International Airport Project Proposal

A. Description of the Community’s Existing Air Service 4

B. Synopsis of the Community’s Historical Service 8

C. Community’s Air Service Development Efforts Over the Past Five Years 9

D. Description of the Community’s Air Service Needs and Deficiencies 10

E. Strategic Plan for Meeting Needs Under the Small Community Air Program 11

F. Description of Public/Private Entity 14

G. Description of Funding Necessary for Implementation of the Project 15

H. How Community will Ensure its Own Funding Contributions Spent per Proposal 17

I. How Community will Monitor Progress of the Grant Project 17

J. Community Plans to Continue Project if not Self-sustaining After Grant Expires 18

K. Legal Sponsor Responsibility for Administering the Program 18

L. Conclusion 19
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 3

Executive Summary

The City of Niagara Falls, located in the Northwestern corner of New York State, sits on the

banks of the Niagara River. It is home to one of the world's most famous natural wonders, 

Niagara Falls, which attracts more than 10 million visitors annually. 

The Niagara Falls International Airport (NFIA) (IATA: IAG), is a joint civil-military public-use 

airport, located four miles east of the central business district of Niagara Falls. NFIA, owned 

and operated by the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA), shares its runways with 

the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station. The NFTA is the public agency responsible for commercial 

transportation oversight in both Niagara and Erie counties. 

 

There are approximately 100 million people within a day's driving distance of the Niagara Falls 

area. This geographic population involves the eastern and Midwestern corridors of the United 

States and southern Canadian markets.

In September 2009, the NFTA completed construction of the new NFIA terminal, enhancing 

existing air service. This initiative bolstered regional, domestic, and international passenger 

service. In October 2010, Spirit Airlines announced service to Fort Lauderdale, FL and Myrtle 

Beach, SC. In the summer of 2011, Allegiant Travel announced service to Tampa/St. Petersburg, 

which began in December of 2011. Allegiant added service to Sanford, FL (Orlando) in February 

2012, and to Punta Gorda, Fla in July 2012.

The NFIA Stakeholders Group (NFIASG), lead by the Niagara County Department of Economic 

Development (NCDED), consists of members from the public and private sectors located in both 

Erie and Niagara Counties. Realizing the need for a unified partnership, the Stakeholders Group

further supports the air service development efforts of the NFTA and its promotion of the NFIA. 

It should be understood that the Stakeholders Group operates independently from the NFTA 

and its incentive program. The NCDED presents itself as the legal sponsor for this US 

Department of Transportation (DOT) – Small Community Air Service Development Program 

Grant (SCASDP). As assigned, the Project Director will spearhead strategic planning, implement 

program management, invoice and report to the community regarding the use of federal and 

non-federal funds. 

The mission of the Stakeholders Group is to increase air service development at NFIA. This 

campaign encompasses a variety of activities with the ultimate goal of retaining existing air 

services and ideally, the bottom line becomes additional and improved air access and capacity 

in order to develop the economy of the community and region. 
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 4

The NFIA Stakeholders Group is seeking a $500,000 grant from the USDOT to:

1. Broaden community awareness of the economic and social benefits of the NFIA, and

marketing the NFIA for new air carrier service with non-competing routes. 

2. Augment costs supporting the NFTA’s financial incentives for air carrier services as revenue 

guarantees. The community and Stakeholders Group will continue to support marketing 

incentives provided by the NFTA.

The NCDED understands the payment reimbursement guidelines of this SCASDP Grant and its 

subsequent obligations. 

The NCDED and Stakeholders Group believe additional air service will benefit leisure travelers, 

the regional business community and residents within the region. Additional flight services 

allowing non-stop destinations and domestic and international itineraries provide additional 

travel options to millions of potential travelers. These air services will promote this region’s

tourism industry during both the peak and off-peak seasons. The resulting bottom line benefits

the business community and overall tourist network expanding the tax base and strengthening 

the region’s overall economy. 

A. Description of the Community’s Existing Air Service

Commercial Airlines 

NFIA currently has two airlines in operation -- Spirit Airlines and Allegiant Travel. In December

2009, a new state-of-the-art, 69,430 sq. ft. terminal complex opened to better service existing 

air carriers, and provide an incentive to return scheduled regional, domestic and international 

passenger service to the airport. 

Terminal

The NFIA is located in Western New York State, and borders the Niagara Peninsula of Ontario, 

Canada. Served by four international bridges and two train crossings between the U.S. and 

Canada, this air service complex becomes a logical “hub” for air trafficking in the region. 

The NFIA terminal contains facilities to service domestic and international operations as well as 

scheduled air carrier and charter flights. The 69,430 square foot terminal contains:

 Passenger loading bridge designed to handle a Boeing 747

 Ability to turn around a B-747 International Flight in 90 minutes

 Eight check-in counters, plus electronic check-in positions and curbside check-in 

facilities

 Security lands with fully functional TSA facilities

 Expedited processing for both international and domestic flights
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 5

 State-of-the-art Customs & Immigration facilities 

 Approximately 1,800 parking spots 

 Free Wi-Fi 

Hangars

NFIA encompasses a general aviation itinerant apron, west of the terminal building, a Fixed 

Based Operator building and hangar, airport administration building and service vehicle garage. 

The second general aviation venue is located west of the main terminal. This area contains 

hangars and tie downs for based aircraft and aviation organizations. There are eight 

conventional hangers, 14 “nested” T-hangers, 60 tie downs and 17 conventional hangar 

buildings of various sizes on site. Aircraft hangars are privately owned and constructed over a

paved apron area. Above ground storage holds 30,000 gallon of jet fuel and 10,000 AVGAS. 

Runway

NFIA airfield system consists of three runways, 10L/28R (9,829 long by 150 ft wide), 06/24 and 

10R/28L, and 13 associated taxiways. The maximum take off distance for 10L/28R is 10,829 ft.

Parking

Parking on site at the NFIA is easily accessible and a short convenient walking distance to the 

terminal. Parking rates are $10 per day with a maximum weekly rate of $50. There are also 

designated parking spaces, allowing for up to two hours of free parking to accommodate "meet 

and greet" patrons.
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 6

The Niagara Region includes the major metropolitan areas of New York and Central Ontario
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 7

NFIA provides airlines with an unconstrained and uncongested 

operating environment:

• Full capability runways

• 9,825 foot main (10L – 28R) (10,895 foot takeoff length)

• 5,188 foot crosswind (6 – 24)

• 3,973 foot general aviation parallel (10R – 28L)

• ATC Tower (0700 – 2300)(BUF tower controls other times)

• Cleveland ATC is uncongested (not New York City or Toronto ATC)

• No noise restrictions or curfews

• Ample aircraft parking, loading and unloading areas

• Full service 24-hour FBO

• U.S. Customs 24-hour service (on call from U.S. – Canada border three miles away)

• Warehouse facilities on site

• Foreign Trade Zone #34 (183 acres adjacent to IAG, with two 50,000 sq. ft. buildings)

Ultimately, the NFIA replicates the larger airport service experience by penetrating the Niagara 

Region market with long haul – leisure services. 

Airline landing fees at NFIA (IGA) are fractional when compared with 

other North East Commercial Airports

Airport Rate per

000 lbs. MTOW B 737-800 B 767-300ER A330-200

155,500 MTOW 380,000 MTOW 513,700 MTOW

IAG $ .90 $ 140 $ 342 $462
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 8

NFIA (IGA) charges and fees are simple, limited and very low

Fee/Charge NFIA (IGA)

Landing Fee $1.35 per 000 lbs MGLW

Passenger Screening Fee $1 .00 per pax 

$ 75 per flight minimum

Terminal Rent (Optional) $ 10 per sq ft

B. NFIA Historical Services

Niagara Falls bodes a proud aviation history, dating to 1928. The creation of the city-owned 

Niagara Falls International Airport anchored by four crushed stone runways, paved a place for 

airport operations. When the first terminal opened in 1935, shortly after, Bell Aircraft 

Corporation opened its manufacturing facility adjacent to the airport property, where it 

developed the world’s first commercial helicopter and supersonic aircraft.

With World War II, the NFIA moved into an active military phase. The United States Army Air 

Force established a base, operating the facility throughout the war. The military added and 

extended runways, constructed a control tower, added high intensity lights, and an instrument 

landing system. The base eventually converted to an Air Reserve Base becoming home to the 

upstate New York Air National Guard. The establishment of the U.S. Air Force in 1947, brought 

about the location of a U.S. Air Force Reserve Unit at the Niagara Falls complex. In 1959, the 

main runway was extended, to 9,000 feet, to accommodate the increased demands of military 

aircraft.

In 1965 U.S. Customs approved the Niagara Falls Airport for international flights. In 1970 the 

City of Niagara Falls sold the airport to its current owner, the Niagara Frontier Transportation 

Authority. The NFTA lengthened the runway to 2,994 meters (9,825 feet, a maximum take off 

distance available of 10,825 feet) in 2003, enabling the NFIA to accommodate the largest 

aircraft flying. 
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 9

C. Community’s Air Service Development Efforts Over the Past Five 

Years

The NFTA continues to promote and market the NFIA. The Stakeholders Group looks to 

develop the means and resources to assist with marketing of the NFIA terminal. Detailing its

amenities to prospective airlines, together with inventorying available properties adjacent to 

the terminal paints the “big picture” for potential developers. 

The state-of-the-art $31.5 million terminal at the NFIA, a major component of an overall $42.5 

million airport improvement project, opened for business in December 2009. Over the past few 

decades, the NFIA had been hamstringed by a lack of passenger boarding bridges and adequate 

terminal facilities. This 69,430 sq. ft. facility tripled the size of the terminal area. A second 

story includes two large gates with passenger boarding bridges. Two gates remain on ground 

level, designed for street level loading operations.

The new terminal clearly puts the NFTA in a more enviable position to attract both scheduled 

and charter air traffic. The first 12 months of new terminal operation brought about an 

expanded flight schedule. The NFIA serves both seasonal and year-round flights to key leisure 

destinations including Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Punta Gorda, Fort Lauderdale, West 

Palm Beach, Melbourne, Destin, and Lakeland, Florida. The estimated annual economic activity 

directly related to the NFIA was well over $150 million in 2013. Construction impact of the new 

terminal project exceeded $90 million.

NFIA has undergone major infrastructure improvements. The improvements are a joint effort 

between the Air Force, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the New York State 

Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), and the NFTA. In the past decade, the length of the 

airport’s main runway (28R/10L) was extended to more than 10,000 feet, accommodating any 

size military or commercial aircraft. In summer 2011, the airport’s largest secondary runway 

(6/24) underwent significant improvements related to the runway’s Safety Area. In summer 

2012, the airport’s main runway (28R/10L) was milled and overlayed.

The NCDED continues its campaign with the assistance from local public and private 

stakeholders to promote the newly enhanced passenger terminal. Among local stakeholders 

associated with this NFIA marketing initiative we find:

 Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (Advisory Role Only)

 Niagara County

 City of Niagara Falls

 Niagara USA Chamber

 Niagara County Industrial Development Agency

 Niagara Tourism and Convention Corporation
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 10

 Hotel/Motel Association

 Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel

 Fashion Outlets – Niagara USA and representatives from the Small Business community

 New York State Senate and Assembly

 Niagara Falls Bridge Commission

 Empire State Development Corporation 

 Buffalo Niagara Enterprise

The mission statement of the NFIA Stakeholder Group is:

To unite stakeholders from the business, government, hospitality, tourism and other 

interested parties to explore, devise and develop processes and procedures that will 

support and advance the development of air services at the Niagara Falls International 

Airport.

In addition to securing funding for the promotion of the commercial traffic at the NFIA, during 

the construction of the main terminal, the NCDED obtained funding from the local New York 

State Legislative delegation for adjacent landscape improvements and security upgrades. 

Additional State funding was secured for updated existing air cargo ramp infrastructure by 

adding a surface consistent with the industry norm for U.S. air cargo operations. These 

renovations enable cargo aircraft at NFIA to land and taxi to adjacent air industry cargo 

warehouse areas for loading and unloading. 

The Niagara Tourism and Convention Corporation has conducted specific study in collaboration 

with the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority and Niagara University. The compiled data 

helped influence the design and application of marketing methods particular to the NFIA.

The Stakeholders Group, a 501-c(6) not-for-profit, works to advance initiatives of the 

Stakeholders Group members and the overall community. These major initiatives include:

 Developing incentive packages to expedite the attraction of new airline service

 Providing supplemental community incentives and financial resources to airlines in 

order to mitigate air carrier costs

 Presenting incentives which help offset costs associated with recruitment of additional 

full service fixed based operators

D. Community’s Air Service Needs and Deficiencies

Realizing the NFIA involves one of the most frequented tourist destinations in the world, 

experiencing more than ten million visitors annually, the Niagara Region has become a market 

of millions of U.S., Canadian and non-American consumers. U.S.-based air services consistently 

work to penetrate the Canadian market. 
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 11

The Stakeholders Group consistently works to gain a share of the airline market, but is hindered 

by its close proximity to the Buffalo International Airport and other larger international airports, 

including Toronto Pearson Airport (Canada). The NFIA has been able to add more direct flights, 

including international destinations, with assistance of supplementary funding. The “Group” 

continues to reach out to air carriers considering operations at NFIA. The NFIA, like other 

smaller airports, continues searching for community marketing dollars to offer potential air 

carriers, mitigating their operating costs. Accepting that incoming carriers need assurance their 

operation can become cost effective, the Stakeholders Group remains committed to securing 

ancillary funding.

The Stakeholders Group believes strongly additional resources in the form of grant funding and 

community donations (including in-kind) must be dedicated towards marketing and revenue 

guarantees. The Stakeholders Group brings together a diversified panel of community partners 

to assist the NFTA and provide community based incentives. This “coming-together” 

demonstrates the community’s dedication to attracting new air carriers to the “Niagara” and 

Western New York Region. The Stakeholders Group remains poised to grow the market and 

provide services to both airlines and tourists who visit the Niagara Falls Region. This growth can 

only come about with the financial commitments to effectively market and financially entice 

airlines to operate out of the NFIA.

Our area encompasses North America’s 2nd largest wine region, world renowned and historic 

architecture, spectacular natural venues and a national center for the Performing Arts 

(Broadway musicals, theatre, and Philharmonic Orchestra). Combine these resources with our 

major league sports teams, the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres, world-class golf courses, Las 

Vegas-style gaming and entertainment, and an established network of world prominent higher 

educational and medical institutions. The product...destination, destination, destination.

Funding through the USDOT-SCASDP would provide additional resources to support to 

underwrite the NFTA’s dedicated marketing/promotion strategy. The collateral benefit creates 

an increased awareness of the NFIA, inspiring business opportunities with increased 

passenger/visitors to the region. In addition to the NFTA’s existing incentive program, created 

to promote public and industry awareness of the NFIA facilities, assistance from the USDOTSCASDP will further ensure the “checkbook” necessary to increase air travel through potential 

marketing and support incentives.

E. Plan for Meeting Needs Under the Small Community Air Program

Specific Project Goals

The Stakeholders Group recognizes most airlines who invest within an airport and its 

surrounding community, have resulting expectations that communities will provide incentives
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 12

to help facilitate their operations. The Stakeholders Group understands when a commercial 

airline commits to a market, it faces a financial risks. The Stakeholders Group works to provide 

additional revenues to support ongoing marketing initiatives at the NFIA. These “new monies” 

lessen financial risks and accelerate marketing tools. In place, this assistance increases 

community and business awareness and fosters direct support of air service development and 

collaborative marketing efforts. 

Marketing the NFIA is vital to the expansion of our community and the region. The 

Stakeholders Group recognizes the potential of the NFIA to enhance the region’s tourism 

market. The Stakeholders Group will utilize the resources of the Niagara Tourism and 

Convention Corporation (NTCC) and the Business Marketing Department of the NFTA. The 

“Group” will continue to play off the success of its current marketing plan. This plan identifies 

and lists specific marketing events, FAM tours, press events, open houses, press releases, direct 

mailings and website initiatives. The Stakeholders Group will further continue to capitalize on 

its community characteristics and resources and its strategic geographic proximity to the north 

eastern United States and Canada.

Some of the NFIA’s greatest marketing assets remain its low airport cost to carriers, low taxes 

and below market fees on travel and parking for passengers. Taking into account these 

benefits, the Stakeholders Group will allocate any awarded funds to further leverage air 

development services and collaborate with the NFTA’s marketing incentives. The “Group’s” 

campaign will continue dialogue with community members to identify which marketing 

strategies have proven successful. 

Measuring Goals

The Stakeholders Group will measure the effectiveness of its marketing plan. With the 

assistance of the NFTA, NTCC and other tourism-based entities, evaluating existing data 

research methods and statistical analysis seems “doable”. Monitoring of passengers and 

surveys feedback, will be reviewed to determine the effectiveness of the direct marketing 

strategies. Examination of the local and regional media coverage, as it relates to the Airport’s 

ongoing efforts, the Stakeholders Group will additionally monitor general trade publications, 

network news stories and electronic media and coverage of airport-related operations.

The financial and statistical feedback from the airport management will be an accurate measure 

of the project’s effectiveness. The most-telling performance measures remain flights to and 

from existing destinations. The number of enplanements, expansion of operations or new 

destinations from existing carriers are true measures of what is going on. The Stakeholders 

Group will measure the number of increased flights by existing carriers, a carrier’s willingness to 

expand trial runs and the number of increased flights. Another major indicator used will be the 

overall sentiment within established community participation.
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 13

Revenue guarantees are another incentive the Stakeholders Group will put on the table for 

potential air services. These “draws” will be both cash and in-kind appropriations from 

stakeholders and the local business community. The Stakeholders Group will collaborate with 

the local business community to generate revenue and in-kind contributions from corporations, 

tourism organizations and various government entities. 

Considerable in-kind contributions have and will continue to be provided under the 

Stakeholders Group’s mission. In-house staff and local professional organizations have applied 

existing funding towards marketing and studying the needs to grow financially. The resulted 

data would hopefully secure additional funding for revenue-bearing campaigns. 

Determined to be Efficient

The NFTA and community are aware of the risk mitigating factors associated with attracting 

additional services to the NFIA. The NCDED and Stakeholders Group will continue its work with 

the professional tourism, marketing and transportations services to promote and leverage 

additional air carrier services. These advancements benefit not only air passengers but the 

business community and the region at large.

Timeline Activity

12/2009 to present New terminal at NFIA opens, and service begins to Myrtle Beach,

SC, and other vacation destinations in Florida.

7/2014 - Apply for USDOT Federal funding 

9/2014 - Stakeholders Group identifies community-marketing initiatives 

and interacts with NTCC and NFTA regarding NFIA marketing 

1/2015 - Receive SCASDP funding – continue support of NFIA marketing

and increase Stakeholders Group commitment through

community awareness and marketing.

2/2015 - Apply mechanisms to support the NTCC and NFTA’s promotion of 

NFIA through community marketing initiatives and provide 

additional funding tools for the NFTA to assist in securing 

additional carrier services.

11/2016 - Legal Sponsor submits invoices to USDOT for SCASDP grant.

1/2017 - Project close out
Proposal For the Small Community

Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113

Niagara County Department of Economic Development Page 14

F. Description of Public/Private Entity

The Stakeholders Group will support the NFTA’s mission to successfully market the airport 

throughout the region and to air carrier services. The Stakeholders Group has declared its full 

support for a public/private partnership in support of the NFTA’s endeavors.

The Stakeholders Group consists of members from the public and private community located in 

Niagara and Erie Counties, New York. Realizing the need for a unified partnership to 

accomplish the goals of growing the airport through community involvement, the Stakeholders 

Group created a 501-c-(6) not-for-profit entity charged with identifying and establishing funding 

sources for the required marketing of the NFIA. The established 501-C-3 provides financial and 

operational oversight of the project’s mission and work in a legal capacity, advancing the 

initiatives previously established by the Stakeholders. 

This entity, in part, has been created to leverage charitable donations, corporate and 

government funding to advance the mission of the Stakeholders Group. This entity has a Board 

of Directors consisting of elected and appointed government officials, lodging, tourism 

operators, marketing officials, transportation authorities (government), transportation 

operators (private businesses), economic development agencies, and non-profit 

representatives. The efforts to effect this organization’s activities is spearheaded by the 

Niagara County Center for Economic Development. 

How Partnerships Will Actively Participate in Implementation of the 

NFIA Project: 

Public Partnerships

Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority 

(Advisory Role Only)

Owner/Operator of NFIA

Niagara County Provide funding opportunities, gather 

community & political support

NY State Senate & Assembly Provide funding opportunities, gather 

community & political support

Niagara County Department of Economic 

Development

Legal sponsor of the SCASDP Grant, facilitate 

monthly NFIA Stakeholders Group Marketing 

Committee meetings, provide potential

funding opportunities

Empire State Development Corporation Assist with identifying funding opportunities, 

expedite NY State economic Development 

Resources to include marketing

City of Niagara Falls Provide anticipated funding for project, 

provide resources to overall mission
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Niagara County Industrial Development 

Agency

Provide potential funding resources, tax 

incentives for potential airport businesses 

Private Partnerships

Niagara USA Chamber Provide community outreach, marketing 

resources and networking

Niagara Tourism and Convention Corporation Official marketing entity for Niagara 

Falls/Niagara County, NY – provide in-kind 

marketing services and assist with overall 

marketing agenda of NFIA

Hotel/Motel Association Promote tourism season, provide viable 

special packages for air passenger travelers

Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel Provide potential financial in-kind or cash 

contributions, offer discounts through 

marketing campaigns of Casino & Hotel

Fashion Outlets – Niagara USA and 

representatives from the Small Business 

community

Provide data from customers and offer to 

support marketing campaign via in-kind 

contributions

Niagara Falls Bridge Commission Provide support and resources for overall 

project campaign

Buffalo Niagara Enterprise Provide in-kind regional marketing resources 

G. Funding Necessary for Implementation of the Project

Federal Funding Required 

The NCDED, legal sponsor of the Stakeholders Group, is requesting a one-time grant of 

$500,000 to be utilized over a two-year period, from 2015 - 2016. The funds will supplement 

the NFTA’s goals which concentrate on the marketing and revenue guarantees portion of the 

NFIA Project as follows:

USDOT – SCASDP Grant Fund Uses 2015 2015/2016

Marketing $75,000 $75,000

Minimum Revenue Guarantees $175,000 $175,000

Total Contribution from Federal Grant $250,000* $250,000*

*Depending on the project’s current status and unforeseen circumstances, if the allocated 

portion of funds towards either marketing or revenue guarantee is less than estimated, the 
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NCDED or 501-C(6) would seek an amendment to shift the unexpended funds to the portion of 

the project lacking adequate revenues. Flexibility in shifting funds between the two initiatives 

would afford the project the “creativity” to proportionately satisfy the missions’ ultimate 

objective. 

Project’s Funding Sources and Uses

Project Funding Sources Amount

NY State Assembly Grant (Committed) $75,000

City of Niagara Falls Grant (Potential) $50,000

USDOT – SCASDP Grant (Requested) $500,000

Stakeholder In-Kind Contributions $150,000

Project Funding Sources Total $775,000

Project Funding Uses Amount

Marketing $225,000

Minimum Revenue Guarantees $550,000

Project Funding Uses Total $775,000

State Funding

The New York State Assembly has secured funding to enhance the marketing opportunities of 

the NFIA. The NCDED continually seeks ongoing funding appropriations from the New York

State Legislature. Previously, disbursements have been reimbursable. State appropriations 

mandate a final report and detailed description as to how the funds have actually been spent. 

Local Funding

The City of Niagara Falls dedicated $50,000 towards NFIA marketing in 2012. Potential for an 

additional $50,000 for continued marketing efforts.
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In-Kind Contributions from Community

All public entities and private companies that will support the NFTA’s marketing plan will be 

recruited for specific assistance. The contributions become a key component in getting a 

reciprocal commitment from existing airlines to expand their inbound/outbound destinations. 

H. How Community will Ensure its Own Funding Contributions 

Spent per Proposal

A Program Director (Member of the NFIA Stakeholders Group and/or NCDED Staff) will have 

responsibility for financial oversight and management of funding contributions. As a follow-up, 

this individual will be responsible for reporting and invoicing to the USDOT-SCASDP, including

the preparation of required quarterly reports. 

The Stakeholders Group meets regularly to discuss ongoing operations and initiatives. Part of 

its agenda will examine procedures to guarantee existing funds and future funding both public 

and private are spent as intended. 

Marketing Use of Funding Contributions

The Stakeholders Group, local business community and marketing professionals will provide 

marketing resources in respect to the project’s timeline and funding guidelines. Contractual 

agreements as required will be forwarded to the USDOT, supplemented by quarterly reports. 

Accountability

Members of the Stakeholders Group will be closely involved in the sales and marketing efforts. 

The NCDED, NTCC and Stakeholders Group will oversee the marketing plans to ensure funds are 

spent as intended in the project outline. The Program Director will invoice USDOT for its prorata share of eligible costs, incurred as marketing expenses under the USDOT-SCASDP grant. 

I. How Community will Monitor Progress of the Grant Project

NFIA’s measure for success looks for continued marketing funds for air carrier services, in order 

to provide realistic revenue guarantee packages. The NCDED and Stakeholders Group have 

developed an overall objective and project timeline outlining intended accomplishments. 

As mentioned previously, the Program Director bears the responsibility for the overall project 

plan implementation to ensure timelines are met. The NCDED and the NTCC share the 

responsibility for marketing activities and coordinating project specifics with existing air carrier 

services. 

The NFTA’s success of the marketing project will be measured by the addition of air carrier 

services, by existing carriers listing added domestic and international routes, increased 

revenues and newly assigned financial contributions and incentives.
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Critical Milestones During the Life of the Grant:

1. Receive USDOT-SCASDP Grant funding – secure additional State/Local/Private Business 

Funding Sources

2. File Quarterly financial statements

3. Public Presentation and Stakeholders Group meetings to provide updates

4. Inventory project sources and uses

5. Final report to USDOT-SCASDP

6. Submission to USDOT-SCASDP for grant reimbursement

J. Community Plans to Continue Project if not Self-sustaining After 

Grant Expires

Prior to any notice of federal funding opportunities, the NFTA remained committed to market 

and promote the airport to existing airlines and travelers. The Stakeholders Group will 

continue to research additional in-kind contributions and available funding awards to 

supplement the NFTA’s promotion of the Niagara Falls International Airport. Additional public 

and private funding will be sought to further support the mission of incentivizing air service 

development at the NFIA.

K. Legal Sponsor Responsibility for Administering the Program

Niagara County Department of Economic Development (NCDED)

The Niagara County Department of Economic Development provides needed professional 

planning services to the municipalities, citizens and organizations within Niagara County. The 

Department promotes orderly growth and development through the dissemination of 

information, preparation of plans, projects and programs and provision of technical services.

The NCDED promotes sustainable economic development in harmony with the natural 

environment, creating and retaining jobs, expanding the tax base and improving the quality of 

life for Niagara County residents under the direction of the Niagara County Manager and 

policies and programs of the Niagara County Legislature.
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L. Conclusion

Significant developments have taken place at the NFIA over the past several years because the 

community understands the magnitude of having a fully operational international airport 

located within such close proximity of their residence, business or institution. 

The NCDED and the Stakeholders Group understand the significance of securing additional

funding to support the NFTA in their marketing agenda for the NFIA. NFIA remains an attractive 

alternative to the currently congested major North American international airports. The NFIA is

ideally suited and strategically located to accommodate various types of air services, and is a

community treasure waiting to be cultivated.

The close proximity of the airport to the Canadian-USA border, its location adjacent to a major 

highway system, and its placement amid a massive Canadian and U.S. population base, offer 

vast operational advantages. While the community and region support the NFTA’s marketing 

mission, additional funding sources are needed to maximize support and promotion of the 

NFIA. With the financial assistance of an USDOT-SCASDP award, the Stakeholders can further 

augment costs and provide the funding sources necessary to continue the Stakeholders Group 

mission of growing the NFIA into an expansive regional and community asset, with a significant 

positive economic impact on the Greater Niagara Region.