Recognizing the critical importance of air service to the success of the entire Las Vegas community, the Clark County Department of Aviation is committed to fostering a competitive and robust air service environment. In support of this goal, we offer the International Air Service Incentive Program (IASIP).
This program is designed to encourage both new and incumbent airlines to expand their international air service offerings at LAS. By providing targeted incentives, the IASIP aims to enhance the airport's connectivity to global destinations, thereby supporting the growth and diversification of Las Vegas' tourism and business sectors.
Key features of the IASIP include:
Objective: To increase competition and enhance international air service at LAS by encouraging both new and incumbent airlines to introduce or expand their international routes.
Eligibility: The program is open to both new airlines considering entry into the Las Vegas market and incumbent airlines seeking to expand their existing international services at LAS.
Incentives: The IASIP offers a range of financial incentives — including marketing support and fee waivers — to airlines that commit to launching or expanding international routes. These incentives are designed to offset some of the initial costs associated with establishing new air services.
No Additional Charges: The cost of providing the incentives under the IASIP is not included in any rates, fees, or charges assessed on any airline or other airport user that chooses not to participate in, or is ineligible for, the incentives under this program. This ensures that non-participating airlines and users are not financially impacted by the incentives offered to program participants.
The IASIP underscores Harry Reid International Airport's commitment to fostering a dynamic and competitive air service market, ultimately benefiting the entire Las Vegas community.
Contact the Aviation Affairs Division for more details and to determine eligibility.
Key Information
Effective Dates: July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2029
Eligibility: Open to new airlines entering the Las Vegas market and existing carriers expanding international routes.
Funding: A maximum of $3 million per fiscal year is allocated for fee abatements.
Application Deadline: At least 60 days before service launch. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Program Limitations: No single airline can receive more than 40% of the annual program budget.
Qualifying Service
A route qualifies for incentives if it meets the following criteria:
New, nonstop passenger service between LAS and an international market.
The airline has not provided the proposed service on a scheduled basis within the past 13 months.
Increases in service (frequency or aircraft size) qualify if they result in at least a 20% net increase in annual seat capacity.
Service must be scheduled for at least four consecutive months (seasonal service less than four months does not qualify).
Market Classifications
Unserved Market: No nonstop service from LAS in the last 13 months.
Underserved Market: Previously had nonstop service but does not qualify as a Served Market.
Served Market: Has existing year-round nonstop service at least 3 days per week by at least one airline
Fee Abatement for Qualifying Service
Markets in Mexico & Canada
Unserved Markets: 50% fee abatement for 12 months.
Served & Underserved Markets: No fee abatement.
Excluded Markets: Cancun, Tulum, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco, Cozumel, and Mazatlán.
Service Requirement: At least 3 flights per week.
Other International Markets (Outside Mexico & Canada)
Unserved Markets:
100% fee abatement for 24 months (year-round service).
100% fee abatement for 36 months (seasonal service for 7 months or less per calendar year).
Underserved Markets: 100% fee abatement for 12 months.
Served Markets: 100% fee abatement for 6 months.
Service Requirement: At least 2 flights per week.
Additional Incentives
CBP Fee Waiver: If flights arrive outside U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operating hours, LAS will waive up to $500,000 in CBP-imposed fees for 12 months.
Operational Commitment: Airlines must make commercially reasonable efforts to maintain service for the entire incentive period.
Application Process & Agreement
Airlines must submit an application at least 60 days before starting Qualifying Service. Applications are first-come, first-served, with priority based on public ticket sales.
Airlines must execute an IASIP Agreement committing to:
Operate at least 80% of scheduled flights during the incentive period.
Repay any received incentives if service is suspended for more than two weeks for reasons within the airline’s control.
Program Modifications & Compliance
The program is subject to FAA regulations and existing federal funding agreements.
The Director of Aviation may modify or discontinue the program at any time.
Incentives are contingent on available funding, and awards may be adjusted proportionally if demand exceeds budget.
Get More Information
To learn more about the International Air Service Incentive Program (IASIP) and determine eligibility, contact the Aviation Affairs Division.
Phillip Detmer Airport Manager, Commercial Business & Development phillipd@lasairport.com (702) 261-4224
Marketing
Partnership with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) The LVCVA is a key partner in promoting new air services to Las Vegas. As the organization responsible for marketing Southern Nevada as a premier travel destination, the LVCVA offers extensive resources and expertise to support airline partners. This collaboration provides a robust platform for marketing new routes to a global audience.
Co-Operative Marketing Campaigns LAS and LVCVA offer co-operative marketing campaigns tailored to the needs of new airline partners. These campaigns can include digital marketing, social media promotions, email marketing, and traditional advertising. By leveraging the combined marketing power of LAS and LVCVA, airlines can effectively reach potential passengers and build brand awareness.
Destination Promotion Promotional efforts will highlight the unique attractions and experiences that make Las Vegas a world-renowned destination. Marketing materials and campaigns will showcase the city's entertainment, dining, shopping, and convention offerings, appealing to both leisure and business travelers.
Media and Public Relations Support New air services will benefit from media and public relations support, including press releases, media events, and influencer partnerships. LAS and LVCVA will work together to generate positive media coverage and buzz around the launch of new routes.
Social Media Engagement LAS and LVCVA have strong social media presences with engaged audiences. Through coordinated social media campaigns, new air services can gain exposure and engage with potential passengers. This includes content creation, targeted ads, and social media takeovers.
In-Airport Advertising To further support new air services, LAS offers in-airport advertising opportunities. This includes digital displays, banners, and promotional materials strategically placed throughout the airport. These advertisements target travelers already within the airport, increasing awareness and interest in new routes.
Collaborative Events and Promotions LAS and LVCVA can organize collaborative events and promotions to celebrate the launch of new air services. These events may include inaugural flight ceremonies, promotional giveaways, and partnership announcements, providing additional visibility and excitement for new routes.
Data and Market Insights Both LAS and LVCVA provide access to valuable data and market insights to help airlines understand the passenger market and tailor their marketing strategies. This includes information on travel trends, passenger demographics, and competitive analysis.
By partnering with Harry Reid International Airport and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, airlines launching new services to Las Vegas can take advantage of a comprehensive suite of marketing opportunities. This collaborative approach ensures that new routes receive the support needed for a successful launch and sustained growth, ultimately benefiting airlines, passengers, and the vibrant Las Vegas community.