The Port Authority could underwrite construction through a minimal passenger fee.

The company says the passenger fees are gravy.

Thus, the total passenger fees probably amounted to $38,500.

Airports say the money from a passenger fee would help them keep pace with the huge growth in the number of air travelers.

Representative Gephardt is planning to bring together legislators to begin studying the issue of airport financing, including passenger fees.

With the rest of those funds locked up, airports claim that passenger fees are the only alternative that protects the public.

A Port Authority spokesman said the agency estimated the passenger fees would amount to $10,750 a month.

It collected $2.1 million in passenger fees, The rest comes from federal and state grants, and contributions from two cities.

Ryanair has scrapped dozens of flights in rows over airport expansion and passenger fees.

A $2.50 passenger fee on each flight will pay for the upgraded protection.