Washington Manassas Airport (HEF) Earns FAA Part 139 Certification, Paving the Way for Commercial Service

Airport Operating Certificate marks the final FAA milestone as plans advance to bring commercial passenger service to Washington Manassas Airport

Manassas, Va. — Today, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a Part 139 Airport Operating Certificate to the Washington Manassas Airport (HEF), clearing the final federal milestone required before the airport can begin commercial passenger service which is expected to launch by the end of 2027.

It is the first new Airport Operating Certificate issued to a Virginia airport in 53 years. The certification confirms HEF meets the FAA’s rigorous safety and operational standards for airports that serve scheduled air carriers, and represents a major step toward expanding commercial air travel options for Northern Virginia and the greater Washington, D.C. region.

“Commercial flights coming into Manassas will provide more economic growth within the community and create another commercial airport to service the Washington D.C. area,” said FAA Associate Administrator for Airports Dan Edwards. “As the first airport in Virginia to receive an operating certificate in 53 years, this highlights our commitment to strengthening the National Airspace System and expanding communities access to safe, efficient airports.”

The achievement reflects extensive work led by the airport team. Coming on the heels of the agency’s recent Finding of No Significant Impact and Record of Decision, Part 139 certification completes the project’s federal approval process and builds momentum toward bringing expanded commercial service to the region.

“Achieving Part 139 certification reflects years of detailed preparation to ensure Washington Manassas Airport meets the FAA’s rigorous safety and operational requirements,” said Airport Director Juan Rivera. “The certification validates the work our team has done across every aspect of the airport’s operations and confirms our readiness to safely support scheduled commercial service. We’re proud to have reached this important milestone and remain focused on the operational work ahead as we prepare for commercial passengers.”

Owned and operated by the City of Manassas, the Washington Manassas Airport is a significant economic engine for Northern Virginia. According to City of Manassas Mayor Michelle Davis, this milestone is a moment the entire community should be proud of.

“Commercial passenger service has the potential to be transformative for Manassas, bringing new visitors and economic activity, creating opportunities for local businesses and giving residents a more convenient way to travel, “Mayor Davis said. “The airport team’s achievement brings that future closer to reality while building on Washington Manassas Airport’s longstanding role as an economic engine for the region.”

Contributing more than $517 million to the regional economy and supporting more than 2,300 jobs. The addition of commercial passenger service is expected to build on that impact by providing access for up to three million passengers.

Additional recognition was given to the Washington Manassas Airport Commission for its dedication in advising airport management and providing oversight of airport operations, finances, infrastructure projects, safety and the transition to commercial service.

“This certification represents an extraordinary amount of work by the airport team and is a testament to their commitment to safety and operational excellence,” said Chairman Roderick D. Hall, of the airport commission. “We look forward to building on this achievement as the airport takes the next steps toward bringing commercial passenger service to the region.”

Airport partner Avports has been an integral part of the commercialization process. Working as the City’s private-sector partner they have been responsible for investing in and developing passenger facilities, operating and maintaining the commercial terminal, parking and ramp areas, as well as, will be a key part in recruiting future airline services.

“The Washington Manassas Airport team has done exceptional work to reach this milestone, and we’re incredibly proud to be their partner in building what comes next,” said CEO Marc Ricks of Avports. “Together, we’re creating a faster, simpler and more affordable way to fly for travelers across the region.”

Issued under 14 CFR Part 139, an Airport Operating Certificate is the FAA’s formal authorization for an airport to serve scheduled passenger operations by air carriers. Certification requires airports to meet comprehensive federal safety and operational requirements, including standards for aircraft rescue and firefighting, airfield signs, lighting and markings, runway safety, aircraft fueling safety, wildlife hazard management and safety management systems.