DOT officials, who released specifics of their aviation bill Feb. 14, say it aims to more closely match fees big airlines, general aviation flyers and others pay with the costs they impose on the system.

It would end the 7.5% passenger ticket tax, raise or impose other charges and revamp airport grant allotments. It also would boost passenger facility charges, which fund construction. General aviation interests, whose fuel tax would more than triple under the plan, have blasted it; other groups call it a good beginning.