RALEIGH, N.C. — The Federal Aviation Administration has approved an application by the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority to collect a $3 passenger facility charge to fund major capital improvement projects.

Known as the PFC, the passenger facility charge will be charged to the airline ticket of passengers departing RDU beginning April 1, 2003.

The PFC will generate $70 million over the next six years. In 2008, the airport will have the option of renewing the PFC application.

The funds generated by the PFC will pave the way for airport projects, including additional taxiways and expansion of the apron area at Terminal C - a major component of the airport's Terminal C redevelopment and renovation plan.

The Airport Authority originally planned to begin collecting the PFC in April of 2002. But it temporarily deferred the application in light of the events of Sept. 11, 2001, and the impact on the airline industry.

Of the 429 airports nationwide, nearly 300 collect a passenger facility charge, which is used to fund FAA-approved airport improvement projects. PFCs across the country range from $1 to $4.50.

While many airports collect PFCs, no more than two can be imposed on any one-way ticket and no more than four on any round trip.