Naples City Council vs. Naples Airport: A Growing Rift

Introduction

Naples Municipal Airport (APF) is more than a transportation hub—it’s a major economic engine for Collier County. Yet, recent efforts by Naples City Council to assert greater control over airport development have ignited a heated debate about governance, noise, and the future of aviation in Naples.

A Brief History of Naples Airport

• 1942–1943: Built during World War II as Naples Army Airfield for military training.
• 1948: Returned to local control after the war.
• 1958: City of Naples purchased Collier County’s share, becoming sole owner.
• 1969: Florida Legislature created the Naples Airport Authority (NAA), leasing the airport to the Authority for 99 years (until 2068). This gave NAA operational independence while the city retained land ownership.
• Today: The airport serves general aviation, charter flights, flight schools, and emergency services. It operates without local tax dollars, funding itself through fuel sales, user fees, and grants.

Current Conflict: Oversight vs. Independence

In mid-2025, Naples City Council passed a resolution requiring the Airport Authority to submit annual development plans and seek council approval for major projects. The council argued that, as the airport sits on city-owned land, it should have a say in expansions like runway extensions.

Airport advocates, including Friends of Naples Airport, countered that this violates state law and undermines the Authority’s independence. Legal threats followed, citing Senate Bill 180, which limits local interference in airport operations. Facing litigation, the council rescinded the resolution in October 2025 but hinted at revisiting the issue.

Economic Impact: A Regional Powerhouse

Naples Airport is a significant contributor to the local economy:

• $781 million annual economic impact (Florida DOT estimate for 2024).
• 5,454 jobs supported, including aviation professionals, hospitality workers, and indirect employment.
• $261 million in payroll and $427 million in value added to the regional economy.
• 123,171 aircraft operations in 2024, serving about 200,000 passengers.
• Operates on a $62 million annual budget without local tax dollars.

Beyond aviation, the airport supports critical services like medical flights, mosquito control, and disaster relief. It also hosts major philanthropic events, such as the Naples Winter Wine Festival, which has raised over $240 million for local charities.

Underlying Issues

• Noise Complaints: Upscale neighborhoods near the airport have long voiced concerns about jet noise. The council has considered stricter curfews and limiting certain aircraft types.
• Economic vs. Quality of Life: Advocates warn that restricting airport growth could harm tourism and local businesses.
• Governance Debate: State lawmakers are weighing changes to the Airport Authority board structure, potentially reducing city influence.

Possible Solutions

1. Joint Advisory Committee
   Create a formal advisory board with representatives from the City Council, Airport Authority, and community groups to review major projects and noise mitigation strategies without violating state law.
2. Noise Mitigation Programs
   Expand voluntary curfews, invest in quieter aircraft incentives, and implement advanced noise-monitoring technology to address resident concerns.
3. Community Benefit Agreements
   Negotiate agreements where airport growth includes funding for local infrastructure, green spaces, or noise insulation for affected homes.
4. Transparent Development Planning
   Require the Airport Authority to publish annual development plans and host public forums, ensuring transparency without granting veto power to the city.
5. Legislative Clarification
   Work with state lawmakers to clarify governance roles, preventing future legal disputes while preserving operational efficiency.

What’s Next?

The battle over Naples Airport is far from settled. With noise studies underway, legislative changes looming, and residents divided, the airport’s future—and its role in Naples’ prosperity—remains a pressing issue.