The Federal Aviation Administration has completed its environmental review of plans to bring commercial passenger service to Washington Manassas Airport (HEF), clearing a key federal hurdle in the airport’s transition from general aviation to scheduled airline service.

The FAA issued a Finding of No Significant Impact and Record of Decision for the project, determining that the proposed development would not result in significant environmental impacts under the National Environmental Policy Act.

The decision allows airport operator Avports and the City of Manassas to move forward with the next phase of the project, including obtaining required state and local approvals. Additional permitting and public review will be required before construction can begin.

Avports and the City of Manassas are partnering to introduce commercial passenger service at HEF, which would give travelers in Northern Virginia and the greater Washington, D.C., region a fourth commercial 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.”

Part 139 certification establishes FAA safety and operational requirements for airports serving scheduled air carrier operations.

“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.”

The environmental assessment process began in early 2024 and included technical studies, public participation and coordination with federal, state and local agencies. Among the participating agencies were 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 and Prince William County.

Avports and the City of Manassas will now continue preparations for commercial service while working with government agencies, airlines and community partners. Plans call for an efficient passenger terminal and an operating model intended to offer airlines lower costs and support more affordable passenger service.

Washington Manassas Airport is the busiest general aviation airport in Virginia, handling more than 100,000 aircraft operations annually and serving more than 400 based aircraft. The airport estimates it contributes more than $517 million to the regional economy and supports more than 2,300 jobs.